SRC-TNM S.B. 139 75(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research CenterS.B. 139 By: Bivins Education 2-23-97 As Filed DIGEST Currently, there is some concern about the quality of educational programs targeted to students placed in alternative education programs. Although students enrolled in alternative education or juvenile justice alternative education programs are not intended to meet the same curriculum requirements as for the regular school program, these students are entitled to a sufficient program of education. The goal of S.B. 139 is to provide students in the alternative education program and the juvenile education program with access to sufficient educational materials so that they have the opportunity to meet the requirements for graduation found in the Education Code. PURPOSE As proposed, S.B. 139 outlines provisions for curriculum requirements for alternative education programs and juvenile justice education programs. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY Rulemaking authority is granted to each governing board of an institution of higher education under Section 1 (Sec. 51.941(b), Education Code). SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Section 37.008(a), Education Code, to require each school district to provide an alternative education program that permits students to meet the curriculum requirements for high school graduation determined under Section 28.025(a). Makes a nonsubstantive change. SECTION 2. Amends Section 37.011(d), Education Code, to make a conforming change. SECTION 3. Provides that this Act applies beginning with the 1997-1998 school year. SECTION 4. Emergency clause. Effective date: upon passage.