Texas Senate Bill SB870

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/23/11
• Refer: 3/1/11

Caption

Relating to notifying parents of changes to school district policy.

Impact

The impact of SB870 on state laws will be seen in the Texas Education Code, where new sections 11.1514 and 11.1515 will be added. Under these provisions, school districts are required to ensure that their policies, including the student handbook, are readily accessible at both the central administration and public libraries. Furthermore, when any changes are made to these policies, the districts must notify the relevant parents or guardians within a specific timeframe and in a clear manner that highlights the specific changes. This enhances accountability and is expected to foster a stronger partnership between educators and parents.

Summary

SB870 is a bill filed with the intent to enhance transparency within school districts in Texas by mandating that changes to district policies be communicated effectively to parents or guardians of students. The bill proposes that each school district must maintain an updated public access file of its policies and provide clear and comprehensive notifications upon any alterations. This is aimed at ensuring that parents are kept informed about the rules and regulations that affect their children’s education and wellbeing within educational institutions.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding SB870 appears to be supportive of its aims, particularly from advocates for parental rights and transparency in education. Proponents argue that the bill will significantly bolster parental involvement and awareness, which is essential for a child's educational success. However, there may be concerns related to the feasibility of compliance for smaller school districts that might have limited resources to implement the required notifications and updates effectively.

Contention

Notable points of contention might arise concerning the requirements for notification and the potential administrative burden on school districts, especially smaller ones. Critics could argue that while transparency is important, the mandates could create additional bureaucratic hurdles that distract from educational priorities. The discussion around the balance between necessary oversight and the operational freedom of school districts is likely to be a key point in debates over this legislation.