Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1734

Caption

Relating to full-time online programs provided through the state virtual school network.

Impact

The adjustments proposed in SB1734 aim to facilitate access to online education by exempting certain full-time programs from restrictions that typically cap the number of electronic courses funded by the school district. This is particularly significant as it allows schools to maintain flexibility in offering varied and extensive online course selections, acknowledging the increasing reliance on digital education resources among students. Consequently, this bill could potentially lead to a rise in enrollment in online programs, expanding educational opportunities across the state.

Summary

SB1734 focuses on modifying provisions related to full-time online programs offered through the state virtual school network. Specifically, it amends sections of the Texas Education Code to limit school districts and charter schools regarding payment for students taking more than three yearlong electronic courses in a school year. If students are enrolled in full-time online programs that were operational before January 1, 2013, or those benefiting students within their district, these limitations do not apply, encouraging the expansion of full-time online education options for eligible students.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1734 stem from the implications of limiting funding for electronic courses. Critics argue it might undermine the quality of online education by imposing financial constraints on students wishing to pursue more than three courses, thereby limiting their educational outcomes. Supporters, on the other hand, may emphasize the importance of promoting full-time online education, arguing that the amendments will allow for more tailored educational experiences for each student without overburdening school resources.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1068

Relating to the removal of restrictions on funding and payment of costs for certain full-time online educational programs; authorizing a fee.

TX HB710

Relating to the removal of restrictions on funding and payment of costs for certain full-time online educational programs; authorizing a fee.

TX HB681

Relating to the provision of virtual education in public schools and to certain waivers and modifications by the commissioner of education to the method of calculating average daily attendance in an emergency or crisis for purposes of preserving school district funding entitlements under the Foundation School Program during that emergency or crisis; authorizing a fee.

TX SB1861

Relating to the provision of virtual education in public schools and to certain waivers and modifications by the commissioner of education to the method of calculating average daily attendance in an emergency or crisis for purposes of preserving school district funding entitlements under the Foundation School Program during that emergency or crisis; authorizing a fee.

TX HB3141

Relating to the provision of virtual education in public schools and to certain waivers and modifications by the commissioner of education to the method of calculating average daily attendance in an emergency or crisis for purposes of preserving school district funding entitlements under the Foundation School Program during that emergency or crisis; authorizing a fee.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX SB1474

Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach or provide services related to special education.

TX HB3781

Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach special education.

TX HB100

Relating to public education and public school finance, including the rights, certification, and compensation of public school educators, contributions by a public school to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, and an education savings account program for certain children.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.