Texas House Bill HB3013

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the suspension or expulsion of a student by an open-enrollment charter school.

Impact

The passing of HB3013 is expected to have a significant impact on the way disciplinary actions are enforced in charter schools across Texas. By restricting the grounds for suspension and expulsion, the bill aims to create a more equitable educational environment that considers the circumstances surrounding each student's situation. Furthermore, the bill establishes a definitive maximum duration for suspensions and clarifies that students under 10 years of age cannot be expelled for more than one school year. This could lead to a reduction in the number of students removed from educational settings, fostering greater inclusivity.

Summary

House Bill 3013 aims to establish clearer guidelines regarding the suspension and expulsion of students in open-enrollment charter schools in Texas. The bill seeks to limit the reasons for which a student can be suspended or expelled by mandating that such actions be consistent with the school's code of conduct and applicable state regulations. Notably, the bill prohibits charter schools from expelling students based on attendance, academic performance, or the actions of their parents, thereby ensuring that disciplinary measures are fair and just.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB3013 appears supportive, particularly among advocates for students' rights and educational reform. Supporters argue that the bill promotes fairness and protects vulnerable student populations from being disproportionately affected by harsh disciplinary policies. However, there may be concerns among some stakeholders regarding the adequacy of disciplinary measures for ensuring a conducive learning environment. Balancing the need for accountability with the protection of student rights is a prevalent theme in the discussions about this legislation.

Contention

One key area of contention related to this bill is the extent of authority granted to charter schools in managing student discipline. Critics may argue that limiting expulsion reasons could hinder schools' ability to maintain discipline and safety within the educational environment. Additionally, there might be discussions about how this bill aligns with broader educational policies and practices, especially concerning accountability and the responsibilities of parents and guardians in supporting student behavior.