Texas Senate Bill SB294

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the coordination of educational support services for and information regarding students who are currently or were formerly placed in foster care.

Impact

The bill introduces significant changes to the Education Code by requiring the designation of liaison officers at institutions of higher education to assist students who were formerly in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services. These liaisons are intended to provide current and incoming students with essential information regarding available resources and support services, thus enhancing their college readiness and success outcomes. Additionally, a memorandum of understanding between the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Department of Family and Protective Services is mandated, which will support comprehensive data sharing regarding educational outcomes of these students.

Summary

SB294 is a legislative measure aimed at enhancing coordination of educational support services for students who are currently or were formerly placed in foster care. The bill intends to establish a framework that facilitates smoother transitions for these students as they change schools, ensuring that their educational records are transferred timely and that they receive appropriate support during their transition period. It mandates procedures for the recognition of the unique challenges faced by individuals in foster care, such as frequent school changes and the need for academic credits to be recognized more flexibly.

Contention

While the bill is generally supported as a proactive step to address the needs of foster care students, there may be points of contention revolving around the implementation of the proposed changes and resource allocation. Critics may argue about the sufficiency of the resources available to support the designated liaison roles or the feasibility of such coordination at all educational institutions. Additionally, ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness of these support services may be topics for future legislative scrutiny to ensure that the intended benefits are realized for these students.

Future_provisions

The act also emphasizes the importance of data privacy and protection, conforming to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. By enabling educational research centers to utilize the demographic information while ensuring proper oversight, the legislation balances the need for data usage in improving student outcomes with the vital concern for students' privacy rights.