Relating to a school choice program for certain students with disabilities.
Impact
The introduction of SB115 represents significant changes to the educational landscape for students with disabilities in Texas. By allowing parents to choose their child's school, it shifts some control from school districts to individual families, potentially leading to a more tailor-fitted educational experience aligned with the needs of the child. It requires school districts to inform parents about the available options under the program, which could empower families in making informed decisions about their children's education. However, there are concerns regarding the adequacy of services that students may receive at qualifying schools compared to what is mandated under state and federal law for public schools.
Summary
SB115 establishes a school choice program specifically aimed at students with disabilities in Texas. Under this bill, parents of eligible students can opt for their children to attend different public schools or receive scholarships to attend qualifying private or community-based educational establishments. The program is designed to enhance educational opportunities for students who are eligible for special education services. The legislation mandates that a qualified student must be in grades K-12 and must have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) developed for them to participate in this initiative.
Contention
Notably, SB115 has sparked debate regarding its potential impact on public school funding and the standards of education for students with disabilities. Critics argue that this bill could undermine public education by diverting funds from public schools to private enterprises, potentially jeopardizing the quality of education available to students who remain in the public system. Furthermore, there is apprehension that students in qualifying schools might not receive the same level of support as those in public schools, leading to disparities in educational outcomes. Supporters, however, contend that it provides much-needed flexibility and options for families frustrated by public school limitations.
Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach special education.
Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach or provide services related to special education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to dyslexia evaluations and services for public school students, the provision of services for students with dyslexia and related disorders, and certain parental notice regarding the rights of parents of public school students with disabilities.
Relating to establishing a program allowing certain students who are educationally disadvantaged, have a disability, or failed certain assessment instruments to use state money or money the state receives for the purpose from gifts and non-federal grants to pursue certain educational alternatives to public schools.
Relating to the establishment of the Education Savings Account Program to allow certain children to use public money to pursue educational alternatives to public schools and an insurance premium tax credit for contributions made for purposes of that program.
Relating to the establishment of certain programs to facilitate early high school graduation and enrollment at public institutions of higher education and to the repeal of the Early High School Graduation Scholarship program.