Senate Ed Holds Bill Seeking to Untether Student Discipline Data from School Star Ratings
The Senate Education and Youth Committee discussed SB 42 by Senate Rules Committee Jeff Mullis (R-Rock Spring) at length today before ultimately holding the bill for more work. The legislation would untether school discipline data from Georgia’s School Climate Star Rating system.
When presenting the bill in committee, Mullis reported that because student discipline data negatively impacts school star ratings as part of Georgia’s College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI), some school administrators may be reluctant to fully address student discipline referrals by teachers. Committee members engaged in discussion regarding student equity, the best interest of children, school leadership, and the need for transparent reporting of discipline issues. Former Senate Education and Youth Committee Chair Lindsey Tippins (R-Marietta) suggested the bill be amended to make clear where student discipline data can be transparently reported, should Sen. Mullis’ plan to discontinue the integration of the data into the star system progress. The committee voted unanimously to table the bill.
SB 20 sponsored by Senate Education and Youth Committee Chair Chuck Payne (R-Dalton) on behalf of Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan seeks to expand Georgia’s Child Advocate Advisory Committee by three members, including a foster parent, a former foster child, and a court-appointed special advocate (CASA). The legislation passed unanimously and is on its way to Senate Rules which will decide when, or if, to schedule the bill for a floor vote.
Virtual PAGE Day on Capitol Hill Registration
PAGE Day on Capitol Hill 2021 will be held virtually this year, due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Virtual attendees will hear from Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, who has confirmed his participation, along with other key state legislators regarding their 2021 education priorities. As part of this informative event, PAGE will provide an update on major education legislation and share tips on effective advocacy during a unique legislative session.
CLICK HERE to register for PAGE Day on Capitol Hill.