AN ACT TO AMEND SECTION 37-11-54, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REQUIRE THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO DEVELOP THE CURRICULUM AND IMPLEMENT A PROGRAM OF CONFLICT RESOLUTION AND PEER MEDIATION TO BE USED BY LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICTS; TO PROVIDE THAT THE CURRICULUM DEVELOPED FOR USE SHALL BE AGE AND GRADE APPROPRIATE; TO REQUIRE PROGRAMS OF CONFLICT RESOLUTION AND PEER MEDIATION IN FAILING DISTRICTS TO BE SUPERVISED BY THE SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF OTHER DISTRICT PERSONNEL TO COMBAT VIOLENCE AND BULLYING; TO PROVIDE THAT THE PROGRAM OF CONFLICT RESOLUTION SHALL PROVIDE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS WITH ALTERNATIVES TO HANDLING STUDENT DISCIPLINARY MATTERS; TO AMEND SECTION 37-11-53, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, TO REQUIRE SCHOOL DISTRICTS TO ALLOW ANY PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENT WHO HAS NEVER BEEN SUBJECT TO DISCIPLINARY ACTION WHO COMMITS AN ACT OR ENGAGES IN CONDUCT FOR WHICH THE STUDENT OTHERWISE WOULD BE SUSPENDED OR EXPELLED UNDER THE SCHOOL DISTRICT'S DISCIPLINE PLAN, AT THE ELECTION OF THE STUDENT, TO PARTICIPATE IN A COMMUNITY SERVICE PROGRAM AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO SUSPENSION OR EXPULSION; TO PROVIDE THAT WHILE PARTICIPATING IN THE PROGRAM, THE STUDENT SHALL RECEIVE YOUTH PEER COUNSELING DEEMED APPROPRIATE BY THE SCHOOL DISTRICT; TO AMEND SECTIONS 37-3-82 AND 37-3-83, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, IN CONFORMITY TO THE PRECEDING PROVISIONS; TO BRING FORWARD SECTION 37-7-321, MISSISSIPPI CODE OF 1972, FOR THE PURPOSE OF POSSIBLE AMENDMENTS; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.
Impact
The bill emphasizes alternative disciplinary measures to traditional suspensions and expulsions by offering students that have not faced prior disciplinary actions the choice to engage in community service as an alternative. This is expected to provide opportunities for personal growth and learning from their mistakes rather than facing punitive consequences. School Resource Officers will supervise these programs in failing districts, thus reinforcing their roles in both law enforcement and education. Implementing these changes would potentially foster a more positive school climate by reducing instances of violence and bullying.
Summary
House Bill 174 seeks to amend existing educational policies in Mississippi by mandating the development of a comprehensive conflict resolution and peer mediation curriculum by the State Board of Education. This initiative is intended for local school districts to implement, specifically targeting 'D' and 'F' rated districts. The curriculum aims to address issues such as violence, bullying, and cultural diversity among students, while promoting nonviolent methods for handling conflicts. The program is designed to enhance students' decision-making skills and encourage responsible actions in challenging situations.
Contention
There may be contentious points surrounding the funding and resources required to successfully implement this new curriculum. Questions regarding the adequacy of training for school personnel and ensuring that the conflict resolution programs are effective could lead to debate. Moreover, opposition could arise from concerns that these initiatives may overburden school districts already facing financial challenges, especially in areas requiring resources for the supervision and execution of such programs. The balance between adequate enforcement and educational methods may pose challenges as the bill is discussed.