School attendance; require for children unable to score a 21 or higher on ACT until the child reaches 18 years of age.
Impact
The bill amends existing state laws regarding compulsory attendance, specifically Section 37-13-91 of the Mississippi Code. Parents or guardians of children who miss a specified number of consecutive school days, without valid excuses, may face penalties. This integrates the requirement of taking the ACT into the existing framework of compulsory attendance laws, potentially reducing dropout rates and encouraging academic achievement. The enactment of this bill could lead to better educational outcomes for youth by preventing premature exits from the school system.
Summary
House Bill 91 mandates that any child under 18 years of age wishing to drop out of school must first take the ACT assessment. If the child does not achieve a score of 21, or 18 if they previously attended a failing school, they are required to continue their education until they turn 18. This bill aims to address dropout rates by ensuring that students meet a minimum standard before leaving the educational system. The responsibility for implementing this requirement falls to school district attendance officers, ensuring compliance with the new law.
Contention
While the bill has potential positive implications on educational achievement, there are concerns about the fairness and practicality of enforcing such a requirement. Critics may argue that testing pressures could discourage students, particularly those who struggle academically, from viewing school as a viable option. Additionally, the bill brings the issue of parental responsibilities into focus, as penalties are imposed on parents of students who fail to comply with attendance provisions. Questions may arise regarding the appropriateness of penalizing parents for circumstances beyond their control, particularly in cases of children with varying educational needs.