Schools; hearing screening; notification; State Board of Health; rules; statewide registry; hearing examination; written report; school districts; State Board of Education; annual report; effective date.
Impact
One significant aspect of HB 2188 is the establishment of a statewide registry that lists approved hearing screening providers, including licensed audiologists. This registry is intended to ensure that screenings are conducted by qualified personnel, promoting accurate and consistent assessments across schools. School districts will be responsible for notifying parents or guardians of students regarding these requirements and can provide exemptions for those who have recently undergone screenings.
Summary
House Bill 2188 aims to implement mandatory hearing screenings for students in specific grades within Oklahoma's public schools. The bill outlines requirements for screening procedures, personnel qualifications, and reporting mechanisms. It proposes that the State Department of Health coordinate with the State Department of Education to conduct these screenings for pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, first, second, third, fifth, seventh, and eleventh-grade students. The primary goal is to identify hearing issues in children that could impact their ability to learn effectively.
Contention
Points of contention surrounding HB 2188 include potential concerns related to the implementation of these screenings and the burden they may place on families and resources within schools. Some stakeholders might view mandatory screenings as an overreach of state authority, arguing that it could infringe on parental rights and responsibilities. Additionally, there could be debates over the adequacy of resources and training available for school personnel tasked with carrying out the screenings effectively.
Carry Over
Schools; hearing screening; notification; State Board of Health; rules; statewide registry; hearing examination; written report; school districts; State Board of Education; annual report; effective date.
Schools; hearing screening; notification; State Board of Health; rules; statewide registry; hearing examination; written report; school districts; State Board of Education; annual report; effective date.
School accreditation; allowing a school district to request a due process hearing prior to the State Board of Education taking certain action. Effective date. Emergency.
Schools; directing the State Board of Education to issue a request for proposals for a statewide student information system. Effective date. Emergency.
Schools; departure of certain students; reporting; requiring State Department of Education to creating a reporting portal; dropout reports; excluding certain students; effective date; emergency.
Alternative education; directing the statewide system of alternative education to include designated charter schools and virtual charter schools. Effective date. Emergency.