Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HB1705

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to providing a parent of a public school student with notice of student performance in the parent's native language.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1705 is expected to have a significant impact on how public schools communicate with families. By mandating that performance notices be translated into the parent's native language, the bill aims to enhance parental involvement in education, which is crucial for student success. This change could lead to higher engagement from families who previously struggled to understand school communications, thereby fostering a stronger partnership between parents and educators.

Summary

House Bill 1705 requires that public school districts provide notice of student performance to parents in their native language, particularly for those parents of students who are classified as having limited English proficiency or those receiving special education services. This legislative effort aims to facilitate better communication between schools and parents, ensuring that non-English-speaking parents are informed about their child's academic progress in a language they understand. The bill highlights the importance of inclusivity and accessibility in the educational system, responding to the needs of diverse communities within the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1705 appears to be largely positive, with many stakeholders recognizing the necessity of effective communication between schools and families. Supporters, including educational advocacy groups, view this bill as a step toward equity in education, ensuring that all parents, regardless of their language background, have access to vital information about their children's education. However, there may be some concerns regarding the resources required for schools to implement these language requirements effectively, highlighting the potential need for increased funding or support for translation services.

Contention

One point of contention surrounding HB 1705 relates to the logistical aspects of its implementation. Critics might raise concerns about the capacity of school districts to provide timely and accurate translations of performance notices, particularly in areas with high numbers of non-English-speaking families. Additionally, while the bill seeks to bolster parental engagement, the effectiveness of such measures hinges on consistent follow-through by schools and the availability of resources to support translation and communication initiatives.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3928

Relating to dyslexia evaluations and services for public school students, the provision of services for students with dyslexia and related disorders, and certain parental notice regarding the rights of parents of public school students with disabilities.

TX HB4690

Relating to the grievance procedure used by public schools to address complaints by students or parents.

TX HB2479

Relating to parental approval for the participation of certain students in human sexuality instruction in public schools.

TX HB2904

Relating to required notice to high school students and parents or guardians regarding a student's receipt of certain awards, recognitions, and scholarship opportunities.

TX HB1155

Relating to parental rights in public education and prohibiting instruction regarding sexual orientation or gender identity for certain public school students.

TX SB419

Relating to parental access to a public school's library catalog and consent for student access to certain public school library materials.

TX HB3830

Relating to a school district's duty to notify certain parents or guardians of a program providing students with reading disabilities the ability to borrow audiobooks free of charge.

TX SB393

Relating to parental rights in public education and prohibiting instruction regarding sexual orientation or gender identity for public school students; authorizing a civil remedy.

TX HB2031

Relating to the assessment of public school students and the provision of accelerated instruction to students who fail to achieve satisfactory performance on certain assessment instruments.

TX HB1626

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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.