Texas Senate Bill SB806

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 1/16/25

Caption

Relating to enrolling a public school student in a virtual education program as an alternative to expulsion.

Impact

The implementation of SB806 is set to begin with the 2025-2026 school year. This bill reflects a growing trend in education policy, which recognizes the importance of keeping students engaged in learning, even when they encounter disciplinary issues. By integrating a virtual education option, the bill aims to reduce the number of students who are expelled and therefore disconnected from formal education, which often leads to negative long-term outcomes for those individuals.

Summary

SB806 proposes to amend the Texas Education Code by introducing an alternative to expulsion for public school students. Under the bill, before expelling a student, school districts, and open-enrollment charter schools must consider enrolling the student in a full-time virtual education program. This new provision seeks to provide educational continuity for students who might otherwise face the severe consequence of expulsion, allowing them to continue their education in a different format.

Contention

One potential point of contention surrounding SB806 could be the effectiveness and accessibility of virtual education programs. Critics may argue that not all students are suited for virtual learning, and that some may benefit more from in-person educational interventions. Additionally, there may be concerns related to the resource allocation necessary for schools to effectively implement and support these virtual programs, particularly in districts with limited funding.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 37. Discipline; Law And Order
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 30. State And Regional Programs And Services
  • Section: New Section