6 AN ACT TO REQUIRE PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS ASSIGNED AN ACCOUNTABILITY RATING OF "C" TO PROVIDE ONLINE REMEDIAL EDUCATION COURSES FOR EVERY STUDENT ENROLLED; TO SPECIFY THE MINIMUM SUBJECT AREAS THAT SHALL BE INCLUDED IN THOSE COURSES; TO REQUIRE THE COURSES TO BE GRADED AS SEPARATE CLASS GRADES; TO DIRECT THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION TO ISSUE A REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR THE PROCUREMENT OF A REPUTABLE VIRTUAL INSTRUCTION ENTITY TO PROVIDE AND OPERATE THE REQUIRED ONLINE REMEDIATION COURSES; TO REQUIRE THE SELECTED ENTITY TO TRACK STUDENT PROGRESS, ADMINISTER DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATIONS, AND REPORT INDIVIDUAL STUDENT WEAKNESSES TO SCHOOL COUNSELORS AND PARENTS OR LEGAL GUARDIANS; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.
Impact
The bill is expected to significantly influence the operation of public schools in districts rated 'C.' It introduces a structured approach to remedial education, requiring these districts to offer additional resources for students who may be struggling academically. By incorporating these online courses into the regular curriculum and grading them as separate classes, the bill aims to provide a clear pathway for improving student mastery and accountability in educational performance.
Summary
House Bill 84 mandates that public school districts in Mississippi that receive an accountability rating of 'C' provide online remedial education courses for all enrolled students. The bill establishes minimum subject areas that these courses must cover, including vocabulary development, general mathematics, basic geography, and basic science. This legislative requirement aims to enhance educational outcomes and ensure that students meet statewide academic standards, thereby standardizing the educational support offered in underperforming districts.
Contention
While the intent behind HB 84 is to bolster student learning in less successful districts, there may be concerns regarding the execution of the program. Critics may argue about the adequacy of online remedial education in meeting diverse learning needs and whether contracted virtual instruction entities can effectively deliver quality educational content. Additionally, questions may arise about the cost implications for school districts that need to procure these services through the proposed RFP process, potentially diverting resources from other essential areas of educational support.
Relating to the authority of the Wood County Central Hospital District of Wood County, Texas, to provide brain and memory care services to residents of the hospital district through the creation and operation of brain and memory health care services districts.