Relating to the assignment of a public school student to an inexperienced or uncertified teacher.
Impact
If enacted, HB 1373 would amend the Education Code to create more stringent guidelines around teacher assignments, particularly in large school districts. The impact could be significant for schools struggling with staffing shortages, as the bill includes provisions allowing for parental consent to bypass these requirements under certain circumstances. Furthermore, the bill allows the commissioner of education to grant waivers based on extreme circumstances, which introduces flexibility but also raises questions about consistency in applying these standards across districts.
Summary
House Bill 1373 aims to regulate the assignment of students to teachers in Texas public schools, specifically targeting those with less experience or without proper certification. The bill proposes that students in grades one through six cannot be assigned to a teacher for two consecutive school years if that teacher has less than one year of teaching experience or does not hold the requisite certification. This legislation applies only to school districts with an enrollment of 5,000 or more students, establishing a framework intended to enhance educational quality by ensuring more qualified teaching staff for younger students.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 1373 appears to be one of cautious support among legislators focused on educational quality and accountability. Proponents argue that this legislation is essential for maintaining high teaching standards, particularly for younger students who are at a critical stage in their education. However, there are concerns that the bill may unintentionally exacerbate teacher shortages in underfunded districts, as the requirements could limit the availability of teachers willing or able to work in those environments.
Contention
A notable point of contention is the balance between improving teacher quality and accommodating the practical realities of staffing public schools. Critics argue that tightening restrictions could limit the flexibility needed to address staffing shortages in certain districts, especially those that may face challenges in hiring certified teachers. Additionally, there is apprehension over potential disparities in how this law could be implemented in districts with varying resources and needs, possibly leading to inequitable educational opportunities.
Relating to methods for the recovery of system restoration costs incurred by electric utilities following hurricanes, tropical storms, ice or snow storms, floods, and other weather-related events and natural disasters.
Relating to methods for the recovery of system restoration costs incurred by electric utilities following hurricanes, tropical storms, ice or snow storms, floods, and other weather-related events and natural disasters.
Relating to the response and resilience of certain electricity service providers to major weather-related events or other natural disasters; granting authority to issue bonds.