Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB5111

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to requirements for the early college education program.

Impact

The bill's provisions are designed to broaden the appeal and accessibility of early college programs, potentially increasing student engagement in higher education. By eliminating specific assessment prerequisites for participation, the bill seeks to attract a more diverse student population, including those who might not have traditionally been considered 'college-ready.' With this approach, the bill aims to address academic disparities and support the educational trajectory of students who face challenges in their learning environments.

Summary

House Bill 5111 aims to amend requirements for the early college education program in Texas, enhancing opportunities for high school students to combine high school and college-level coursework. This program allows students to obtain a high school diploma alongside an associate degree or significant college credit. The bill emphasizes greater flexibility for school districts and the eligibility criteria for students, enabling more access to educational offerings dependent on committees that advocate for the student’s educational progress.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HB 5111 appears to be positive among education advocates, as it supports initiatives to foster early college experiences for students. Proponents believe that by improving access to these programs, the bill will enhance educational equity and provide necessary resources for students to engage with postsecondary education. However, there may also be concerns regarding the adequacy of support and resources for schools tasked with implementing these changes, which could lead to differing opinions among educators and administrators.

Contention

One notable point of contention could arise surrounding the bill's flexibility in eligibility determination, which some may argue could lead to inconsistency in student access across districts. While the intent is to allow local discretion in determining eligibility, opponents may voice concerns that it could potentially dilute standards or administrative oversight, resulting in a patchwork of program implementation throughout Texas. The effective sharing of resources and educational strategies will be crucial in alleviating these concerns.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 29. Educational Programs
    • Section: 908

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1887

Relating to the requirements for the early college education program and the transfer of course credit among public institutions of higher education.

TX SB22

Relating to the establishment of a Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) program and to the repeal of the tech-prep program.

TX HB1237

Relating to the establishment of a Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) program and to the repeal of the tech-prep program.

TX HB1842

Relating to the establishment of a Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH) program and to the repeal of the tech-prep program.

TX HB120

Relating to college, career, and military readiness in public schools, including career and technology education programs, the Financial Aid for Swift Transfer (FAST) program, and the Rural Pathway Excellence Partnership (R-PEP) program, funding for those programs under the Foundation School Program, and workforce reporting to support those programs, to the public school accountability system, and to the new instructional facility allotment and the permissible uses of funding under the Foundation School Program.

TX SB1888

Relating to the establishment of certain programs to facilitate early high school graduation and enrollment at public institutions of higher education and to the repeal of the Early High School Graduation Scholarship program.

TX HB8

Relating to public higher education, including the public junior college state finance program.

TX SB668

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

TX HB3521

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

TX AB2019

Early and middle college high schools and programs.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.