Texas Senate Bill SB1312

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based online or other distance education baccalaureate degree programs at certain private institutions of higher education.

Impact

This bill amends the Education Code, integrating a new framework for financial aid targeting a specific group of students who traditionally may not receive state financial aid due to the nature of their enrollment in online or non-traditional programs. By prioritizing students with financial need, the program is designed to make higher education more accessible, particularly for those who may be excluded from mainstream educational funding mechanisms. This could lead to increased enrollment in competency-based programs, potentially impacting labor market outcomes positively as more graduates enter the workforce.

Summary

SB1312 establishes the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program, which aims to provide financial assistance to students enrolled in competency-based online or distance education baccalaureate degree programs at eligible nonprofit institutions. The bill's primary objective is to alleviate the financial burden on students pursuing these educational paths, thereby encouraging more individuals to complete their degrees in an increasingly flexible learning environment. This initiative aligns with broader goals to enhance access to higher education and support non-traditional learners who may benefit from alternative learning formats.

Contention

While the bill is largely viewed as a positive step towards broadening educational access, there are concerns regarding the granularity of eligible institutions and the distribution of funds. Some stakeholders may worry about the program's impact on traditional grant programs or fear that it may inadvertently favor certain institutions over others. Moreover, there are discussions about whether the evaluation criteria set by the coordinating board will sufficiently capture the diverse needs of all potential applicants, or whether further adjustments are necessary to ensure equitable access.