Relating to the members of a school district's local school health advisory council.
Impact
The proposed changes to the local school health advisory councils could lead to a more inclusive approach to school health issues by integrating the perspectives of both parents and students. This could foster a greater awareness of health needs and concerns in schools, allowing for health programs and policies that more accurately reflect the community's needs. By involving high school students in advisory roles, the bill seeks to give students a voice in discussions that directly impact their health and wellbeing.
Summary
SB939 aims to amend the Texas Education Code concerning the composition of local school health advisory councils. The bill stipulates that the school board must appoint at least five members to these councils, ensuring that the majority are parents of students enrolled in the district who are not employed by the district. Additionally, it mandates that at least one member must be a district high school student who has applied for the position. The intent behind this requirement is to enhance student involvement in health-related decisions that affect their educational environment.
Contention
While the bill suggests positive changes in representation and potentially enhances the quality of decisions regarding school health, it could also face some opposition. Critics may argue that the requirement for a student representative, while beneficial, could complicate the appointment process or lead to challenges in ensuring that qualified students are selected to speak on health matters. Questions about the actual effectiveness of student contributions in these councils might arise, sparking discussions on the best methods to engage young voices in governance without diluting the expertise often required in health advisory frameworks.
Relating to a school district's library materials and catalog, the creation of local school library advisory councils, and parental rights regarding public school library catalogs and access by the parent's child to library materials.
Relating to a school district's library materials and catalog, the creation of local school library advisory councils, and parental rights regarding public school library catalogs and access by the parent's child to library materials.
Relating to local school health advisory councils and instruction regarding human sexuality, sexual orientation, and gender identity provided by public schools.
Relating to a school district's library materials and catalog, the creation of local school library advisory councils, and parental rights regarding public school library catalogs and access by the parent's child to library materials and to affirmative defenses to prosecution for certain offenses involving material or conduct that is obscene or otherwise harmful to children.
Relating to the school health and related services program, including parental consent for program services, the establishment of a school health and related services program advisory council, and the publication of the School Health and Related Services (SHARS) Handbook portion of the Texas Medicaid Provider Procedures Manual.