HARRISBURG –Sen. Greg Rothman (R-34) and Rep. Barb Gleim (R-199) have introduced companion legislation to level the academic playing field for students relocating due to military orders. The bills would provide students from military families with the same Grade Point Average (GPA) consistency afforded to other students within their local school district.
Changes in duty station often require family relocation, which can cause academic disruption and frequent school district moves. At times, course credits and GPA will not transfer with the student, leaving them at a disadvantage compared to their peers. GPA is critical for students in the college admission process; having incomplete data is exceptionally difficult to overcome.
SB 858 and HB 1069 would require school districts receiving students as a result of military relocation orders to accept and incorporate grade points associated with transferred credits into a comprehensive GPA. This GPA can then be used by the student for the purpose of pursuing post-secondary education and/or employment.
“Our military families–and military children, especially–sacrifice a great deal for our nation,” Rothman said. “It’s important that we acknowledge their contributions, express our gratitude, and make sure they have the same opportunities as their peers.”
“This law eliminates obstacles to academic achievement for children of military families caused by frequent relocations and parental deployments,” Gleim stated. “As a recently appointed legislative member of the Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission (MIC3), I’ve listened to numerous military families share the profound impact of these challenges. I’m pleased to have collaborated with Senator Rothman to alleviate one of the many burdens our military families endure while serving.”
The bills have been referred to the Senate Education Committee and House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, respectively, for consideration.
CONTACT: Morgan Wagner