Texas Senate Bill SB2051

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the study of public education performance.

Impact

The establishment of the Center for Performance Information is intended to provide a systematic approach to assessing and improving the effectiveness of the state's public education system. With this bill, Texas aims to foster an environment where educational performance is constantly evaluated, thereby equipping school districts with the necessary data and strategies to enhance learning outcomes. The bill recognizes the increasing need to compete educationally with other states and even globally, positioning Texas as a proactive player in education reform.

Summary

Senate Bill 2051, authored by Bettencourt, establishes the Center for Performance Information for Public Education in Texas. This institution is designed to enhance the performance of public education by evaluating and ranking school districts and campuses, aiming to promote successful educational methods. The center will collaborate with various state officials, including the governor and legislative leaders, to provide insights and recommendations on improving public education performance. Notably, it requires the issuance of annual reports detailing the progress of schools and recommendations for legislative improvements.

Contention

While the bill's objective to enhance public education through systematic evaluation is well-received, concerns have been raised regarding the implementation details and potential bureaucratic implications. Critics argue that the creation of a new performance center could lead to over-centralization, potentially undermining local control over education policies. Additionally, there are questions about how the center will maintain transparency and accountability, especially regarding its interactions with educational institutions and the funding aspects that may be entangled with external stakeholders.