Texas Senate Bill SB1032

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the right of a parent of a public school student to request that the student receive instruction or an assessment instrument in a printed format.

Impact

If enacted, SB1032 would amend the Education Code by adding a new section that obligates school districts to document requests for printed materials and report them to the Texas Education Agency annually, significantly impacting how public schools manage curriculum delivery. This will require schools to maintain accurate records, potentially affecting administrative processes. The requirement for documentation and reporting encourages greater accountability and transparency regarding parental requests, setting a standard for parental involvement in educational planning.

Summary

Senate Bill 1032 aims to enhance parental rights concerning the education of their children in Texas public schools by allowing parents or legal guardians to request that certain instructional materials and assessment instruments be provided in non-computerized, printed formats. This legislation explicitly states that school districts and open-enrollment charter schools must accommodate such requests unless denied for reasonable grounds, thus emphasizing the importance of traditional instructional methods to some stakeholders. The bill is a response to ongoing discussions about educational methods and accessibility, particularly for students who may benefit from non-digital learning environments.

Contention

While proponents argue that the bill strengthens parents' rights and fosters a more inclusive educational environment, critics may contend that it places an unnecessary burden on public school systems and could delay the implementation of modern educational practices that rely heavily on digital tools. Concerns may arise regarding the feasibility of consistently providing printed materials in an increasingly technology-driven educational landscape, leading to debates about the balance between traditional and contemporary teaching methods.