Texas Senate Bill SB668

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to data collection, reporting, and notice requirements for certain educational entities.

Impact

The enactment of SB668 is expected to create significant changes in how educational entities operate, particularly concerning data handling about vulnerable student populations. By imposing stricter mandates on data collection, the bill aims to improve educational outcomes for homeless students and ensure they are not overlooked in the admissions process. Additionally, amendments made for charter schools provide them with more flexibility and oversight concerning applications and campus expansions, potentially enhancing their accountability and operational transparency.

Summary

SB668 addresses the data collection and reporting requirements for certain educational entities in Texas. Specifically, the bill aims to enhance the transparency of educational processes related to enrollment and the performance of educator preparation programs. It amends several sections of the Education Code to include detailed definitions and data on students categorized as homeless, along with stipulations for how educational institutions should collect and report information about these students. One of the primary goals is to ensure that students who are homeless receive adequate support and are recognized in educational settings without prejudice regarding their status.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB668 appears to be mainly supportive, particularly among education advocates who recognize the importance of addressing the needs of homeless students. Legislative discussions emphasized the necessity of having more robust data regarding this population to better allocate resources and foster inclusivity within schools. However, there's also a degree of caution expressed by some legislators, who highlight the need for ensuring that increased data collection does not overwhelm educational institutions or lead to privacy concerns.

Contention

One notable point of contention relates to the balance between the rigor of data collection requirements and the administrative burden placed on educational entities, especially smaller or less-resourced charter schools. Critics fear that while the intent of SB668 is noble, the processes it sets in place may lead to complications that detract from the educational missions of these institutions. Additionally, the specific definitions related to homelessness may lead to debates over categorization and the adequacy of support provided to those identified under the new reporting framework.