Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB858

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
4/20/09  
Voted on by Senate
4/24/09  
Out of House Committee
5/11/09  
Voted on by House
5/12/09  
Governor Action
5/23/09  
Bill Becomes Law
 
Enrolled
5/13/09  

Caption

Relating to offering the classroom portion of a driver education course through an alternative method of instruction.

Impact

The implementation of SB858 stands to significantly impact the driver education landscape within Texas. By enabling alternative instructional methods, the bill may lead to a more diverse set of options for students seeking to fulfill their driver education requirements. This change aligns with broader trends in education that increasingly favor remote and hybrid learning formats. Moreover, it could relieve some logistical burdens for traditional driver education schools and enable them to reach a wider audience, especially in rural or underserved regions.

Summary

SB858 introduces provisions for driver education programs in Texas, allowing the classroom portion of these courses to be taught through alternative methods of instruction, subject to the approval of the commissioner of education. This bill aims to accommodate various learning styles and technology advancements by permitting online or remote education methods, rather than strictly in-person classroom attendance. The intention is to enhance accessibility and convenience for learners, which could ultimately lead to increased participation in driver education programs.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as a step towards modernization and flexibility in driver education, it does not come without concerns. Critics may raise issues regarding the accountability and effectiveness of alternative instructional methods, emphasizing the importance of maintaining educational standards. There may also be discussions surrounding the adequacy of testing and security measures required to ensure that the quality of instruction remains consistent, akin to that which would be provided in a physical classroom setting. Balancing innovation with quality assurance is likely to be a point of ongoing dialogue as the bill is put into practice.

Companion Bills

TX HB2399

Identical Relating to offering the classroom portion of a driver education course through an alternative method of instruction.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2304

Relating to the regulation of driver education courses and driving safety courses and the provision of information regarding the Texas Driving with Disability Program to certain public school students.

TX HB97

Relating to certain public school instructional requirements and prohibitions and the incorporation of certain instructional activities as part of student coursework.

TX SB8

Relating to public education, including parental rights and public school responsibilities regarding instructional materials and the establishment of an education savings account program.

TX HB5261

Relating to public education, including parental rights and public school responsibilities regarding instructional materials and the establishment of an education savings account program.

TX SB9

Relating to the rights and certification of public school educators, including financial and other assistance and waivers provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators, methods of instruction provided in public schools, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB2234

Relating to certain policies and procedures for the placement and use of video cameras in certain classrooms, including classrooms that provide special education services.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX SB2083

Relating to a public school student's transition from an alternative education program to a regular classroom and the admission of certain students with a criminal or disciplinary history.

TX HB1605

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.

TX HB11

Relating to the rights and certification of public school educators, including financial and other assistance and waivers provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators, methods of instruction provided in public schools, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.