Texas Senate Bill SB2106

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to including referral of a student to a restorative justice or discipline program as part of a school district's system of graduated sanctions for certain school offenses.

Impact

This bill is aimed at reshaping how school discipline is approached across Texas, particularly with respect to handling minor offenses. By incorporating restorative justice practices, the legislation could lead to a significant shift from traditional punitive actions — such as suspensions or expulsions — towards more supportive measures that promote rehabilitation. The impact of this bill may improve student engagement and better address the root causes of behavioral issues, potentially reducing dropout rates and enhancing academic success.

Summary

SB2106 proposes to amend the Education Code of Texas by integrating restorative justice and discipline programs as a part of school districts' systems of graduated sanctions for certain student offenses. The legislation emphasizes a more rehabilitative approach to student discipline, allowing schools to implement referrals to community services and counseling as alternatives to punitive measures. The intent is to encourage accountability while also providing support to address underlying behavioral problems, thus fostering a positive learning environment. Under the proposed changes, schools would be mandated to include multiple graduated sanctions before escalating to formal complaints or criminal charges.

Contention

While proponents argue that SB2106 provides essential tools for correcting behavior and maintaining a focus on student wellbeing, critics may voice concerns about the effectiveness of restorative justice approaches. Some stakeholders worry that the bill could lead to varied implementations across districts, ultimately creating inconsistencies in handling student misconduct. Additionally, as schools adapt to these changes, there might be challenges regarding the availability of sufficient resources and trained personnel to effectively run these programs.