Relating to disproportionate discretionary disciplinary action by school districts against students of a particular race or students enrolled in a special education program.
Impact
The impact of SB420 is significant as it seeks to change how disciplinary actions are administered in Texas schools. By implementing this bill, districts may have to revamp their behavior management strategies and focus on minimizing bias in disciplinary decision-making. Given that the bill aims to identify and remediate potential disparities, it stands to improve the educational atmosphere for minority and special education students by reducing unfair disciplinary measures and fostering inclusivity.
Summary
Senate Bill 420 aims to address the issue of disproportionate discretionary disciplinary actions taken by school districts against students based on race or special education status. The bill mandates school districts to report their disciplinary actions and allows the state education agency to evaluate these reports for any disparities. Should the agency find that a particular district is disproportionately disciplining students of a specific race or those enrolled in special education programs, the district must propose a remediation plan to correct these practices. This plan may involve implementing supportive behavioral interventions that promote positive behavior across the school environment.
Sentiment
The sentiment around SB420 is largely supportive among educators and advocates for equity in education. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary to ensure that all students are treated fairly in disciplinary matters, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. However, there may be contention among policymakers regarding the appropriateness of state oversight in local school disciplinary issues, with some viewing it as an infringement on local control. These differing viewpoints contribute to a complex debate about the best ways to address equity in educational discipline.
Contention
Notable points of contention arise primarily from arguments about the balance of power between state mandates and local school district autonomy. Critics may express concern that the bill could lead to additional bureaucratic oversight, potentially delaying the decision-making processes of schools. Moreover, there are discussions about the effectiveness of remediation plans proposed by districts and whether they will adequately address the underlying issues leading to disproportionate disciplinary actions. The successful implementation of this bill would rely heavily on the collaboration between schools and the state education agency.
Relating to requiring a school district or open-enrollment charter school to report data regarding certain disciplinary or law enforcement actions taken against students.
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 primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.
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 positive behavior plans of school districts, development of positive behavior best practices by the Texas Education Agency, and reporting of disproportionate discretionary disciplinary action by school districts.