Texas Senate Bill SB2348

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the award of grants by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board for innovative principal preparation programs.

Impact

The bill introduces a structured approach to training future school principals by emphasizing a competency framework that targets critical skills and knowledge essential for effective school leadership. According to the bill, the Higher Education Coordinating Board is directed to prioritize grants for programs that showcase strategic recruitment methods, rigorous evaluation processes, and a commitment to ongoing support for principals who have completed the program. This approach is expected to yield a higher standard of educational leadership and improve overall student outcomes in Texas schools.

Summary

SB2348 aims to establish a Principal Preparation Grant Program administered by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. The program's purpose is to provide grants to schools of education at institutions of higher education and non-degree granting organizations. These grants are intended to support the development, expansion, and administration of innovative principal preparation programs that could ultimately enhance school leadership standards across Texas. By prioritizing schools and organizations that demonstrate certain competencies, the bill seeks to ensure that new principals are equipped with the necessary skills to drive student achievement effectively.

Contention

While the bill is generally aimed at enhancing principal training, there may be discussions around the specifics of its implementation. Critics could raise concerns about the adequacy of funding, the qualifications of applicants, and whether certain metrics of success are truly reflective of a principal’s performance in diverse educational settings. Additionally, there may be debates on how the grant funds are distributed and the extent to which the board's rules for oversight may impact smaller educational institutions or non-degree granting organizations seeking inclusion in the program.