(The Center Square) – The Texas House overwhelmingly passed a Teacher Bill of Rights bill with bipartisan support that includes enhanced penalties for public school students who commit violence or threats of violence. The Senate already passed its version.
In response to increased incidents of student misconduct, disruptive behavior, acts of violence or threats of violence, and disrespect toward teachers and staff, state Rep. Jeff Leach, R-Plano, filed the bill to revise disciplinary processes and procedures. At a committee hearing held last month on the bill, parents, teachers and school administrators described escalating acts of violence in public school classrooms and the need for reform.
After the bill passed the committee, a committee substitute was filed and passed the House by a vote of 121 to 21…