Relating to placement of a student in a disciplinary alternative education program for certain harassing behavior directed at an educator.
Impact
The bill is expected to have significant implications for both school policies and student behavior management. By formalizing the process for placing students into disciplinary alternative education programs for certain harassing acts toward educators, SB183 will likely lead to an increase in the number of students removed from the traditional classroom setting. This move aims to enhance the professional reputation of educators and allow them to perform their duties without the fear of threats or harassment. Consequently, schools may need to develop training and support systems for staff to handle these situations while ensuring compliance with the new law.
Summary
SB183 aims to strengthen the disciplinary measures against students who engage in harassing behavior directed at educators. Specifically, the bill mandates a minimum 60-day removal of a student from class if they threaten an educator, associate them with criminal or hate groups, or publish obscene material. This amendment to the Education Code emphasizes a proactive approach in safeguarding educators and preserving the integrity of the learning environment. By establishing clear consequences for such behaviors, the legislature intends to discourage harassment and promote a safer educational atmosphere.
Sentiment
Sentiment around SB183 appears to be largely supportive, particularly among educators and school administrators who see the necessity for measures that protect them from threats and disruptive behaviors. Proponents argue that such protection is critical for allowing educators to work effectively and maintain a positive learning environment. However, there may be dissent from some advocacy groups who are concerned about the implications of such disciplinary policies on student rights and the potential for disproportionate penalties, particularly among vulnerable student populations.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the potential for misuse of the newly established provisions and whether the 60-day mandatory removal might be a disproportionate response for certain behaviors. Critics argue that strict penalties may not consider the context of individual incidents and could lead to students being placed in educational settings that are less conducive to rehabilitation. The bill brings to the forefront the balancing act between protecting educators and ensuring fair treatment of students, particularly in cases where motivations behind the behaviors may vary significantly.
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.
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 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 the rights and certification of public school educators and assistance provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators and to certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.
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 the rights and certification of public school educators, including financial and other assistance and waivers provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators, methods of instruction provided in public schools, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.
Relating to public education and public school finance, including the rights, certification, and compensation of public school educators, contributions by a public school to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, and an education savings account program for certain children.