Texas House Bill HB379

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

• Filed: 11/25/14

Caption

Relating to the failure to attend school for part of a day.

Impact

If enacted, HB 379 would modify Sections of the Texas Education Code and Family Code relating to school attendance. By clearly setting the threshold for absence at 15 percent, the bill seeks to enhance consistency across school districts in Texas. This adjustment may lead to discussions about the implications for student performance and educational outcomes, as it could affect how schools monitor and address absenteeism issues among students.

Summary

House Bill 379 aims to amend existing laws related to school attendance by defining what constitutes a failure to attend school for part of a day. Specifically, the bill stipulates that an individual is considered absent only if they miss more than 15 percent of an instructional day or class period. This change is intended to provide clarity and uniformity in the application of truancy laws within the state's educational system, simplifying the interpretation for both educators and guardians regarding attendance accountability.

Contention

One point of contention surrounding HB 379 is the potential impact on students who might already be struggling with attendance due to various personal or family circumstances. Critics may argue that a strict percentage criterion could inadvertently penalize students who face challenges that contribute to their inability to remain in class for the full duration. Furthermore, there could be discussions about whether setting a higher threshold truly addresses the root causes of absenteeism or merely shifts the focus to punitive measures against students. Stakeholders including educators, parents, and policy advocates may engage in debates regarding the adequacy of this approach to promoting student engagement and success.