Relating to eliminating the requirement for character traits and personal skills instruction in public schools.
Impact
If enacted, HB3714 will have implications for the public school curriculum in Texas starting with the 2025-2026 school year. By allowing schools to potentially omit character traits and personal skills education, the bill could alter the social development framework within the educational system. Critics might contend that this approach diminishes the importance of teaching students essential social skills and personal development aspects, which are integral to holistic education.
Summary
House Bill 3714 proposes the elimination of the requirement for character traits and personal skills instruction in public schools across Texas. This legislation seeks to repeal the relevant section of the Texas Education Code that mandates such instruction, effectively removing it from the standard curriculum. Supporters of the bill may argue that it allows for greater flexibility in educational content and enables schools to focus on core academic subjects, moving away from perceived mandates around non-academic instruction.
Contention
The removal of character education has sparked discussions among educators, parents, and legislators. Proponents argue that educational resources should be directed towards academic excellence rather than character instruction, asserting that schools should focus on subjects like STEM and literacy. In contrast, opponents express concerns that neglecting character and personal skills education could result in students lacking critical interpersonal skills and values necessary for functioning in society, potentially impacting their overall development and future success.
Relating to certain public school instructional requirements and prohibitions and the incorporation of certain instructional activities as part of student coursework.
Relating to a notification requirement if a public school, including an open-enrollment charter school, does not have a nurse assigned to the school during all instructional hours.
Relating to a notification requirement if a public school, including an open-enrollment charter school, does not have a nurse assigned to the school during all instructional hours.
Relating to a notification requirement if a public school, including an open-enrollment charter school, does not have a nurse assigned to the school during all instructional hours.
Relating to a notification requirement if a public school, including an open-enrollment charter school, does not have a nurse assigned to the school during all instructional hours.
Relating to instructional material and technology, the adoption of essential knowledge and skills for certain public school foundation curriculum subjects, and the extension of additional state aid to school districts for the provision of certain instructional materials; authorizing a fee.