Relating to a prohibition on public institutions of higher education requiring students to enroll in certain courses to complete a certificate or degree program, using such courses to satisfy general education requirements, funding such courses using state appropriations, or requiring related faculty practices, and to freshman student orientation at those institutions.
Impact
If enacted, SB2714 could lead to a major overhaul in the curriculum of Texas universities, especially regarding how institutions approach subjects considered controversial or politically charged. The bill aims to prevent dependency on state funding for courses that fall under its prohibition, essentially reshaping the financial and academic structure of these institutions. This directive aligns with broader educational policy trends that prioritize certain perspectives over others, potentially stifling diversity in academic discourse within higher education.
Summary
Senate Bill 2714 proposes significant changes to the framework governing public institutions of higher education in Texas. Specifically, the bill prohibits these institutions from requiring students to take certain courses as part of their degree programs, particularly those dealing with topics such as critical theory, systemic racism, anti-racism, and gender identity. The legislation seeks to reshape the landscape of academic offerings by emphasizing a curriculum free from what the bill describes as contentious or ideologically driven content, thus impacting how core curricula are defined and delivered.
Contention
This bill has generated significant debate. Proponents argue that it will create a more neutral educational environment and prevent what they view as indoctrination of students through specific ideological teachings. Conversely, critics contend that the bill undermines academic freedom and limits students' exposure to essential and often challenging topics relevant to contemporary society. The underlying contention centers on the balance between safeguarding educational integrity and fostering an inclusive environment where multiple viewpoints can coexist.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Education Code
Chapter 51. Provisions Generally Applicable To Higher Education
Identical
Relating to a prohibition on public institutions of higher education requiring students to enroll in certain courses to complete a certificate or degree program, using such courses to satisfy general education requirements, funding such courses using state appropriations, or requiring related faculty practices, and to freshman student orientation at those institutions.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the purpose of public institutions of higher education and a prohibition on compelling students enrolled at those institutions to adopt certain beliefs.
Relating to measures to facilitate the successful completion of degree and certificate programs by certain adult learners at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to accountability of institutions of higher education, including educator preparation programs, and online institution resumes for public institutions of higher education.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.
Revises calculation of student financial need and provides circumstances for reduction of financial aid at institutions of higher education and proprietary institutions.