The House Education Committee met today to discuss two bills.
Senate Bill 656 relates to Student Data Accessibility, Transparency and Accountability Act.
Jason Webb a representative of the ACT, said the bill would allow another box to be checked that a student’s information may be shared to any college that may want to look at their non-confidential information for scholarship or recruitment purposes. This would be in addition to those whom they would already send it to by the test taker’s request.
There were two amendments by council that were adopted to alter some of the language in the bill.
Delegate Westfall (R-Jackson) moved to amend the bill to make it so that 15 year olds could also receive information by checking the box.
Delegate Higginbotham (R-Putnam) said, “I support the gentleman’s amendment and getting the parent’s permission would be an additional hassle.”
The bill was reported to the full House with the recommendation that it pass.
Senate Bill 630 would establish Accessibility and Equity in Public Education Enhancement Act. The bill would allow for schools to contract with virtual school providers. It allows students an online pathway to get a high school diploma. The students would be counted in enrollment when it comes to receiving state aid. The students would also have to test at the same standards. The students would be allowed to participate in extracurricular activities but have to comply with the activities other eligibility requirements. Students enrolled in these classes would only be allowed to participate in sports from their district. The online teachers are not required to be in the county.
Delegate Moye (D-Raleigh) wanted to be sure that students would have to be enrolled in order to take those classes. He also questioned council confirming the bill could open up curriculums that aren’t currently offered at some schools.
Dr. Ron During, the superintendent of Kanawha County Schools, said the bill would provide that rural counties who may not have access to certain classes can get that online from other counties that would participate.
Delegate Cooper (R-Summers) said, “Not everyone wants to go to college and some students get kicked out. Could those who get kicked out be able to take these classes?”
Dr. During responded that could be a real possibility.
The bill was laid over until the next meeting.
