Texas House Bill HB811

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to determining appropriate disciplinary action to be taken against a public school student who is in foster care or who is homeless.

Impact

The passage of HB 811 signifies a responsive legal framework that attempts to protect disadvantaged youth in the education system. By officially recognizing the challenges faced by homeless students and those in foster care, this bill modifies existing discipline structures and practices within schools. It emphasizes the need to provide supportive rather than punitive measures in educational settings, potentially impacting how schools manage student behavior and implement discipline, thereby striving to improve educational outcomes for these students.

Summary

House Bill 811 amends the Texas Education Code to ensure that the unique circumstances of students in foster care and those experiencing homelessness are taken into account when determining disciplinary actions in public schools. The bill mandates that considerations such as a student's status as homeless or in foster care must be factored into decisions involving suspensions, expulsions, or other forms of disciplinary measures. This legislative move aims to align the educational framework with the realities faced by vulnerable student populations, promoting fairness and justice within the school disciplinary process.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 811 appears largely supportive among advocacy groups and educational stakeholders who argue that the bill's provisions are necessary for creating equitable educational opportunities. Stakeholders argue that recognizing the conditions faced by these students can lead to better academic and social outcomes. However, some educators might express concerns regarding the practicality of implementing these changes within existing disciplinary frameworks, fearing it could complicate the enforcement of conduct regulations.

Contention

Although the bill garnered overwhelming support in legislative voting, it may still face practical challenges during implementation. School districts might struggle with adequate training and resources to effectively incorporate the new considerations into their disciplinary policies. Additionally, differing interpretations of what constitutes fair treatment could lead to inconsistencies in how discipline is applied, raising may raise concerns among educators regarding potential misuse or leniency in discipline for certain students.