Relating to readmission of a student to a regular school setting following notice that charges against the student were dismissed.
Impact
The bill modifies Sections 37.006(h) and (i) of the Education Code, establishing clear procedural rules for readmission following incidents that may have led to disciplinary action. One key change is that a student's readmission is contingent upon a review by the superintendent or a designee, which must occur within three class days upon receiving a notice of dismissal from criminal charges. This timeline is critical as it seeks to expedite the process, thereby reducing the time a student may spend away from their regular school setting unnecessarily.
Summary
House Bill 4602 addresses the readmission of students to regular school settings after charges against them are dismissed. According to the provisions in the bill, when a superintendent receives notice regarding the dismissal of charges, it triggers a review of the student's placement in a disciplinary alternative education program (DAEP). The bill aims to ensure that students are provided with a fair opportunity to reintegrate into the standard classroom environment unless there is a legitimate safety concern pertaining to their presence in the classroom.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB 4602 include concerns about the balance between ensuring student safety and honoring the rights of students who have faced charges. Proponents argue that this bill enhances the educational rights of students, allowing them better opportunities for reintegration into their learning environments. However, critics may raise issues regarding the adequacy of the review process, questioning whether it sufficiently safeguards against risks posed by students who may have engaged in serious behavior prior to their readmission.
Relating to a psychological assessment of homicidal risk of a public school student following the student's expulsion or placement in a disciplinary alternative education program for certain conduct.
Relating to a public school student's transition from an alternative education program to a regular classroom and the admission of certain students with a criminal or disciplinary history.
Relating to a public school student's transition from an alternative education program to a regular educational environment, including parental rights related to that transition, and the admission of certain students with a criminal or disciplinary history.
Relating to procedures for the suspension, expulsion, or placement in a disciplinary alternative education program or juvenile justice alternative education program of a public school student enrolled in a school district.