Texas Senate Bill SB880

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to authorizing a dropout recovery competency-based educational pilot program provided through a campus or campus program charter or open-enrollment charter school.

Impact

This legislation is poised to directly impact the state's approach to dropout prevention and recovery. It calls for the integration of a competency-based model that allows for personalized learning paces and recognizes individual student progress, which contrasts with the traditional time-based school systems. The pilot program will also facilitate the creation of a more inclusive educational environment that is responsive to the diverse needs of at-risk youth, including those who are previously expelled, homeless, or involved with the juvenile justice system.

Summary

SB880 proposes the establishment of a dropout recovery competency-based educational pilot program in Texas. The bill authorizes the Texas Commissioner of Education to grant charters to qualifying entities that aim to develop and operate programs geared towards at-risk students aged 14 to 26. The goal is to provide an alternative pathway for students who have historically dropped out or are at risk of dropping out, helping them earn high school course credits and diplomas through tailored, flexible educational frameworks.

Contention

Despite its promising intentions, SB880 has generated discussion regarding its implementation and funding. Opponents raise concerns about the potential for inequitable distribution of educational resources, questioning whether the program could sufficiently sustain itself or adequately meet the needs of its targeted demographic without overwhelming state funding. Additionally, there are apprehensions around accountability measures and the potential impact on traditional educational frameworks, particularly in how schools might prioritize or divert resources towards these pilot programs at the expense of broader educational needs.