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.