Amid ongoing concerns about school safety and academic achievement, the Texas Legislature recently passed a series of new laws aimed at addressing these issues. The laws focus on strengthening security measures in schools, providing academic support to students, and promoting parental involvement. Here is an overview of some of the key laws that have been implemented.
Enhancing School Safety
The Texas Legislature passed House Bill 3, which requires every public school in Texas to have an armed officer and offer mental health training for staff members who interact with children. School districts that cannot comply can apply for an exception but must find an alternative plan to ensure student safety. The law also grants the Texas Education Agency more authority to enforce active-shooter protocols and provides funding for safety-related upgrades and grants.
Supporting Academic Achievement
House Bill 4545 mandates that schools offer targeted tutoring to students based on the subjects they failed in the STAAR test. House Bill 1416 reduces the targeted STAAR instruction to 15 hours and allows teachers to tutor students in groups of four. House Bill 1605 allocates nearly $800 million for investments in high-quality instructional materials.
Promoting Parental Involvement
House Bill 900 allows parents to request local bans on books they find inappropriate for their children. House Bill 18 requires digital service providers to obtain parental consent before providing services to minors.
These new laws aim to enhance school safety, support academic achievement, and promote parental involvement. While there may be criticisms of the legislation, these measures provide a foundation for stronger security protocols, academic support, and increased parental control. Families should stay informed about how these laws will be implemented in their local school districts to ensure compliance and maximize their benefits.
Overall, the implementation of these new laws sets the stage for a safer and more productive learning environment in Texas schools. Students, parents, and educators should work together to make the most of these changes and create a positive educational experience for all.
