Truancy; prohibiting detention for failure to attend school; waiver of certain fines; requiring written notice for certain absences; requiring school districts to create and adopt progressive truancy intervention plans; prohibiting suspension; permitting report of absences to court under certain circumstances; effective date; emergency.
Impact
The proposed legislation aims to revamp how truancy is addressed in Oklahoma, fostering an environment that prioritizes student well-being over punitive actions. Specifically, the bill calls for the elimination of suspensions as part of truancy interventions and encourages local school districts to develop tailored progressive plans. This approach seeks to utilize restorative methods and support mechanisms to engage families and improve student attendance, aligning educational practices with the needs of students and their families.
Summary
House Bill 1109, introduced by Pogemiller, seeks to amend existing truancy laws in Oklahoma. It prohibits the detention of students solely for failing to attend school, reflecting a shift towards more supportive interventions rather than punitive measures. The bill mandates that after five unexcused absences, parents must receive written notice, and schools are to implement progressive truancy intervention plans to aid students in returning to regular attendance. These plans consist of several tiers of intervention, escalating based on a student's compliance and circumstances.
Contention
Notably, there is contention around the balance between enforcing school attendance and protecting students' rights. Critics may argue that while the intent to support families is commendable, there might be instances where stricter measures could be warranted if the interventions fail. Furthermore, concerns about the effectiveness of the proposed tiered plan and whether it will adequately address chronic absenteeism persist, as some feel the plan might not cater to all underlying issues behind truancy.
Carry Over
Truancy; prohibiting detention for failure to attend school; waiver of certain fines; requiring written notice for certain absences; requiring school districts to create and adopt progressive truancy intervention plans; prohibiting suspension; permitting report of absences to court under certain circumstances; effective date; emergency.
Truancy; prohibiting detention for failure to attend school; waiver of certain fines; requiring written notice for certain absences; requiring school districts to create and adopt progressive truancy intervention plans; prohibiting suspension; permitting report of absences to court under certain circumstances; effective date; emergency.
Schools; requiring district policies prohibiting student cell phone and personal electronic device use under certain circumstances; effective date; emergency.
Pharmacy benefit managers; modifying definitions; prohibiting certain circumstances; requiring nonpayment under providing venue for certain court proceeding; allowing Attorney General to obtain certain information. Effective date.
Schools; departure of certain students; reporting; requiring State Department of Education to creating a reporting portal; dropout reports; excluding certain students; effective date; emergency.
School employees; prohibiting school districts from requiring employees to participate in certain activities or distribute certain informational materials. Effective date. Emergency.