Relating to adoption and ownership of mathematics and science textbooks for public school students.
Impact
The bill amends existing statutes in the Education Code, allowing for more flexibility in textbook selection while setting conditions for royalty payments to ensure that state funds are used effectively. By establishing limits on royalties based on subject and grade level, the bill aims to make educational materials more affordable for schools, which can lead to increased access for students. Additionally, the bill ensures that the state retains the rights to print and distribute these textbooks indefinitely, supporting equitable access among all public schools.
Summary
House Bill 2959 focuses on the adoption and ownership of mathematics and science textbooks for public school students in Texas. The bill aims to streamline the process for schools to access low-cost textbooks by allowing contents to be submitted for review and approval by the State Board of Education. It introduces new regulations around textbook content and ownership, particularly emphasizing state control over the materials provided to students.
Contention
There may be some points of contention or concern surrounding the bill, particularly regarding how the royalty limits will be set and enforced. Stakeholders, such as textbook publishers and educational service providers, may have differing opinions on the impact of royalty restrictions on the quality and availability of textbooks. Furthermore, the requirement for textbooks to meet specific content and quality standards may lead to debates on the appropriateness of the materials selected for inclusion on the state's conforming or nonconforming lists.
Relating to instructional material and technology, the adoption of essential knowledge and skills for certain public school foundation curriculum subjects, and the extension of additional state aid to school districts for the provision of certain instructional materials; authorizing a fee.
Relating to instructional material and technology, the adoption of essential knowledge and skills for certain public school foundation curriculum subjects, and creating allotments for the procurement of certain instructional materials under the Foundation School Program; authorizing a fee.
Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools.
Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools.
Relating to transferring to the Texas Education Agency and the commissioner of education the statutorily assigned responsibilities of the State Board of Education concerning textbooks.
Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools; providing penalties.