Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Texas education policy'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 29th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • whose members are elected by the Texas voters from single-member districts to lend their educational
  • I've learned more about the Texas Education Code than

  • Families have moved across Texas and the globe to have their children educated here.
  • Board of Education in the state of Texas.
  • The proposal represents a major shift in Texas public education funding, yet it wasn't taken.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on House Bill 5089, concerning the creation of new school districts through detachment of existing territories. During the discussions, multiple committee members expressed significant concerns about the implications of the bill, emphasizing the need for community involvement and public voting whenever major district changes are proposed. Witnesses from the Keller Independent School District testified against the bill, highlighting the potential for confusion and the erosion of local control if school boards could make such determinations without voter approval. The testimonies painted a picture of a heated community reaction regarding the handling of the detachment process and underscored a general agreement that any significant changes should require a public vote to ensure accountability and transparency.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It's an immense privilege to work with students, families, and educators across the state of Texas and
  • My name is Andrew Hairston, and I direct the Education Justice Project at Texas Appleseed.
  • I hope you stand with Texas educators and vote to move
  • Education Coordinating Board, and the Texas Workforce Commission in achieving that goal.
  • Education and Workforce Policy at Texas 2036.
Summary: The committee meeting was marked by significant discussions surrounding House Bill 4, which aims to reform the Texas public school assessment and accountability system. The bill proposes to eliminate the existing STAAR testing framework and replace it with a nationally norm-referenced assessment that emphasizes growth over year-end testing, promoting a more individualized learning experience for students. This shift was widely supported among educators and stakeholders, with many testifying in favor of creating a system that aligns better with both educational outcomes and community accountability. Notably, there were concerns raised about maintaining adequate oversight and integrity in the assessment process, as well as the timing of implementing these significant changes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 May 20th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • by allowing the Texas Education Agency.
  • In the 1980s, when the Texas Education Agency...
  • and that it was improper for the Texas Education Agency to try and ban it.
  • My name is Maya Volk, and I'm a policy fellow with Disability Rights Texas, testifying for HB...
  • analyst with the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding various bills aimed at improving educational standards and safety in Texas. Notable discussions included House Bill 121, which was proposed to enhance school safety by allowing the Texas Education Agency to commission peace officers for schools, a measure that received both support and opposition regarding the authority of local school district police. Additionally, House Bill 367 addressed the issue of excused absences for students with serious illnesses, emphasizing the need for clear documentation requirements to assist families and educators in managing these situations. The meeting was marked by public testimonies from various stakeholders, including educators and policy advocates, who provided insights and experiences that illustrated the importance of the legislation being considered.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Apr 15th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • supporting the broader public education system in Texas.
  • We are proud to contribute to the strength of public education in Texas, but we cannot continue to serve
  • These policies come with a premium, literally.
  • According to the Texas...
  • Members, this bill relates to the Texas Education Agency database of school district bonds, taxes, and
Summary: The meeting focused on advancing several significant pieces of legislation, particularly those pertaining to education and school finance. Notable discussions included the adoption of committee substitutes for various Senate Bills, such as SB2392, which introduced new reporting requirements for educators regarding misconduct cases. The committee also addressed SB1635, aimed at alleviating the financial burdens of high coastal insurance costs on school districts, which included provisions for credits against required recapture payments. Senator Hinojosa emphasized the urgency of responding to the challenges faced by local districts, underscoring the need for legislative support to ensure fair funding in coastal areas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education Apr 3rd, 2025 at 08:00 am

House S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education

Transcript Highlights:
  • Education policy advisor at Texas 2036, and I am here to
  • So we show you a red shirt as Eliza Nisler on behalf of the Texas Association for Bilingual Education
  • Texas Association for Bilingual Education, where I serve as its legislative chair.
  • I've been a leading voice for bilingual education in Texas for over 50 years, advocating for policies
  • Good morning, Justin Porter, Texas Education Agency.
Summary: The meeting focused on several significant bills, notably House Bill 2189, which aims to address healthcare workforce challenges in Texas. Representative Howard presented the bill, emphasizing its components that seek to align educational programs and reduce duplication of efforts for students entering the healthcare field. The discussion included concerns regarding the costs associated with advancements in technology for training programs, with suggestions to share laboratory resources between schools and higher education institutions. Public testimony supported the need for a cohesive strategy to prepare Texas students for careers in healthcare while addressing the shortage of qualified professionals in the state. Another important bill discussed was House Bill 295, aimed at expanding the definition of bullying in school policies to include anti-Semitic actions. Chairman Shaheen highlighted the increase in anti-Semitic incidents and reiterated the importance of creating a safe learning environment. The bill garnered bipartisan support, with testimonies reflecting a deep concern over rising hate incidents. The meeting concluded with a commitment to address the urgency of these legislative issues and ensure quality education and safety for all Texas students.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 15th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Current Texas education code requires every school district to establish a school health advisory council
  • Education Code 28004.
  • I'm speaking for myself but also for Texas Education 9-1-1.
  • I'm testifying for the bill on behalf of myself and Texas Education 9-1-1.
  • So by clarifying the Texas Education Code's minor boundary adjustment wording to specify that contracts
Summary: The meeting of the committee primarily addressed several significant bills, including SB2398 which aims to ensure that students recovering from concussions receive timely accommodations to support their academic, social, and behavioral needs. Senator Campbell presented the bill, emphasizing its importance in preventing long-term setbacks for affected students. The committee heard from various stakeholders, and testimony reflected strong support for the bill's intent, although concerns were raised regarding implementation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Apr 1st, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm an associate professor of education policy in the College of Education at Texas Tech, where I study
  • ...Texas Education Policy Institute fellow and a dedicated
  • My name is Mary Lynn Prenada, and I'm the Director of Education and Workforce Policy at Texas 2036.
  • Texas Education Policy Institute Fellow, a 25-year elementary school educator, and I appreciate the opportunity
  • The outdated language in the Texas Education Code.
Summary: The committee meeting primarily addressed several education-related bills, notably focusing on strengthening teacher certification pathways and accountability measures within the Texas school system. Notable discussions revolved around Senate Bills 2252 and 2253, which aim to enhance early education and teacher preparation programs. Participants included various committee members who debated the merits of each bill and carefully considered public testimony that presented both support and concerns regarding the implications of the proposed legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 1st, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I have 26 years of experience and am a 2023 fellow with the Texas Education Policy Institute.
  • My name is Nikisha Paul, and I am a Texas Education Policy Institute fellow and a dedicated 14-year school
  • and Workforce Policy at Texas 2036.
  • And so I would hope that our education system and our educational leaders in the state of Texas are sophisticated
  • TEPI, Texas Education Policy Institute fellow, a 25-year
Summary: The meeting focused on key legislative measures aimed at enhancing school safety and student communication technology. Senator Nichols discussed SB1262, emphasizing its role as a follow-up cleanup bill on previous measures that improved public school safety through House Bill 3. The committee adopted a committee substitute which includes provisions for the Texas Education Agency to commission peace officers for school safety purposes, thereby enabling better collaboration with local law enforcement in case of emergencies. The discussions were enriched by testimony from resource witnesses, including security professionals from the Texas School Safety Center.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Similar programs offered by Texas institutions of higher education
  • would enable the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, in consultation with the Texas institutions
  • , to adopt minimum standards for Texas institutions of higher education to provide relevant information
  • Recent high-profile incidents, including those at Texas Tech University and the University of Texas at
  • The brain drain is happening in Texas.
Summary: During this meeting of the Senate Education Committee, multiple bills were discussed, focusing on educational policies and procedures. Notably, Senate Bill 1241 was introduced by Senator Middleton, which proposed a committee substitute for establishing standardized college entrance exams accepted by Texas public universities. The committee engaged in significant dialogue about the necessity of addressing concerns surrounding exam equivalency standards, and the need for a data-driven approach to admissions decisions. Various committee members voiced their support for the enhancements proposed in the substitute, leading to its unanimous adoption and favorable recommendation to the full Senate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In our TAB Workforce and Education policies, we specifically support.
  • You are on behalf of the Texas Council of Administrators for Special Education.
  • House Bill 2310 brings together the Texas Education Agency, the Texas Workforce Commission, and the Health
  • Texas Education Agency.
  • Charles Leslie, and I'm representing the Texas Education Policy Institute, or TEPi.
Summary: The committee meeting featured a comprehensive discussion primarily focused on HB1188, which seeks to establish an early connection for families of children diagnosed with intellectual and developmental disabilities to local IDD authorities. Multiple testimonies highlighted the urgent need for such a system, emphasizing how it could transform the experience of families by providing critical information and resources at the moment of diagnosis rather than at a later age. Representative Emanuel passionately presented the bill, underlining its potential to make a significant positive impact in the lives of families across Texas. Additionally, there were discussions regarding other bills related to education and child services, including HB123 and HB2310, with emphasis on the importance of early intervention and support for young children with disabilities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Although certain employees of the Texas Education Agency, the TEA,
  • They deserve the best education our policies can provide.
  • the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • Examine school policies, especially within the Texas

  • School counselors are required by Section 33.005 of the Texas Education Code to provide these services
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Public Education involved significant discussions regarding several bills aimed at improving the functioning and quality of public education in Texas. Notably, Representative Tepper presented HB3627, which seeks to empower the State Board of Education to employ its own personnel to fulfill its responsibilities more effectively. Chairman Kinsey also provided testimony highlighting the continued commitment to enhancing educational materials and instructional quality following the successful passage of HB1605 in the previous session. The committee demonstrated active engagement as members reviewed the implications of these bills on teacher workload and administrative burdens associated with current educational regulations, indicating a desire to enhance the work environment for educators.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • in Texas to adopt policies prohibiting any student or employee on a non-immigrant visa...
  • My name is Daniel Woodward, and I am a policy attorney with the Texas Civil Rights Project.
  • Senate Bill 2058 directs the Texas Higher Education

  • the Texas Board of Nursing Education Task Force.
  • Today, I'm here to speak about the critical importance of Holocaust education and why Texas teachers
Summary: During the committee meeting, key issues surrounding higher education legislation were discussed, focusing on several significant bills. Notably, discussions revolved around SB2233, which mandates public institutions in Texas to prohibit non-immigrant visa holders from supporting terrorist activities. This bill raised concerns regarding free speech and potential overreach in monitoring students and faculty, with various testimonies highlighting its implications for academic freedom. The bill faced opposition from various civil rights organizations and law students who emphasized that such measures could create a chilling effect on political expression and disproportionately affect marginalized communities. In contrast, SB735 on Holocaust education received strong support, aiming to improve educational resources and awareness amid rising anti-Semitism, with calls for comprehensive training for educators. Other bills discussed included SB2683, which restricts institutional benefits from foreign entities considered to pose a national security risk, further emphasizing the tension between security concerns and academic freedom.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Apr 1st, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board has responded to that by setting a goal of 60% of Texans
  • Kate Barley from the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • And Texas Public Policy Foundation, you're for the

  • I'm the Higher Education Policy Analyst at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, and I support House Bill
  • Meeks, Executive Director of Texas Health Education Service, University of Texas system, and you're on
Summary: The committee meeting largely centered around three significant bills: HB3204, HB173, and HB1507. HB3204 aims to address the workforce skills gap in Texas by modernizing vocational training and establishing what is now referred to as the Polytechnic College. Representative Metcalfe emphasized the need for relevant workforce training programs aligned with today's job market, which led to discussions about the new certificate programs that will be introduced. Additionally, public institutions will benefit from enhanced support for those who may not meet traditional entrance requirements.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Coordinating Board to work in consultation with the Texas Education Agency and other institutions of
  • the 207 colleges in Texas, 22 college campuses have policies that are smoke-free or tobacco-free.
  • You represent Texas Public Policy. You're for the bill, is that all correct?
  • Last March, THECB acted to bring Texas higher education in line with the U.S.
  • jewel in Texas education.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on the evaluation of several bills related to higher education funding and performance. Notably, the committee discussed HB1868, which was transformed into a study to analyze funding disparities between community colleges and school districts. Representative Wilson highlighted concerns raised by community colleges regarding funding thresholds and the potential fiscal impact, which is estimated at over $1 billion over the next biennium. The committee also passed HB271 after adopting a committee substitute that addresses success rates for students with disabilities, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity in higher education. Overall, the discussions emphasized the need for equitable funding and data-driven decisions for future legislative sessions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 May 27th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We want it to be on every Texas school.
  • Education Code Interstate Compact on educational opportunity for military children, the Education Compact
  • Texas joined the Education Compact in May of 2009, one of the first states to do so, and it serves as
  • in the state of Texas.
  • My name is Gabe Grantham, and I am the Education Policy Advisor at Texas 23.
Summary: In this committee meeting, various educational bills were discussed, reflecting significant attention on improving public schooling. Notably, the discussion on HB123 focused on foundational literacy and numeracy for public school students, which received widespread support from multiple testimonies emphasizing the need for early intervention in education. Stakeholders highlighted the importance of investing in teacher training to effectively teach critical subjects like math. Additionally, HB1939, aimed at providing financial incentives for school districts to pay recapture payments early, generated a robust discourse around fiscal responsibility and budgeting in education funding. The meeting concluded with all bills being favorably reported to the full Senate for further review.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Mar 31st, 2025 at 02:03 pm

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • in consultation with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, to create a geothermal energy workforce
  • education and training initiative.
  • In Texas, the ripe areas are the Gulf Coast, Far East Texas, and Far West Texas in the Rio Grande Valley
  • Geothermal Energy Production Policy Council within the Texas Railroad Commission.
  • President of the Texas Independent.
Summary: The meeting of the Energy Resources Committee was marked by extensive discussions on several key legislative bills, particularly those concerning carbon capture, geothermal energy, and oilfield theft. Representative Zwiener laid out HB2612, aimed at creating a carbon dioxide sequestration policy council under the Railroad Commission. The bill's supporters emphasized its potential economic benefits while addressing safety concerns raised by witnesses regarding existing underground injection practices. Notably, there was a strong consensus among proponents that addressing these complex issues proactively is essential for Texas to maintain its leadership in the energy sector. The committee also heard testimony on HB1647, focused on combating petroleum product theft, which remains a growing concern within the state. Witnesses highlighted the pressing need for improved coordination among law enforcement and the establishment of a dedicated task force to tackle this issue effectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education Mar 27th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the Education Policy Advisor at Texas 2036. I'm proud to testify in support of House Bill 2196.
  • There's a completely separate portion of the Texas Education Code.
  • So this would establish Texas Education Code Chapter 30B.
  • Education Agency, and the Texas Workforce Commission.
  • Education, and the Texas Workforce Commission related to early childhood education and care.
Bills: HB117, HB2196, HB2689, HCR64
Summary: The committee meeting focused on the discussion of several educational bills, notably HB2196, which aims to create a comprehensive framework for virtual and hybrid learning in Texas public schools. Chairman Bell and other committee members emphasized the significance of this bill, stating that it aligns with bipartisan recommendations for enhancing access to education. Testimonies from educators and parents were heard, echoing admiration for the potential of virtual learning to provide flexibility to students, especially those with specific educational needs. There were also concerns voiced regarding provisions within the bill that could affect traditional educational frameworks, sparking vigorous discussions among committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Public Education will come to order.

  • And so this is not just an educational issue; it's a fundamental equity issue.
  • More than one-third are considered at risk by the Texas Code of Education.
  • Our optometrists in Texas are really at the forefront of diagnosing and addressing these issues.
  • It's good for parents, it's good for educators, and certainly it's good for society.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on discussions surrounding several bills aimed at improving vision care for students in Texas. Chairman Dutton introduced HB2967, which aims to enhance vision screenings in public and private schools and ensure that students identified with vision problems receive necessary resources like eyeglasses. Testimonies from educators highlighted the connection between vision issues and learning difficulties, emphasizing that many children struggle academically due to unaddressed vision disorders. Public testimony revealed the pressing need for a more robust system to not only identify but also aid students with vision impairments, particularly those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The committee engaged in an in-depth discussion about the importance of timely interventions and adequate support mechanisms to ensure equal educational opportunities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Diagnosing educational and academic issues is essential. Texas Behavioral Executive Committee.
  • Having students involved in governing, with an amendment requiring the State Bar of Texas to educate
  • Educate students regarding each lawyer's obligation to honor the Texas Lawyers' Creed, including but
  • There is integrity in the Texas lawmaking process before education bills are voted on or signed.
  • A 2024 study by the University of Texas College of Education found a startling fact: half of the newly
Summary: The meeting convened with a focus on educational legislation, with discussions spanning several key bills concerning mental health support for students, school safety measures, and the involvement of students in school governance. House Bill 1441, aimed at enhancing training for school resource officers on mental health awareness, received notable attention. Advocates highlighted the importance of equipping officers with the skills to address grief and trauma, thereby fostering a supportive environment for students. The bill was backed by testimonies from stakeholders emphasizing the critical need for proactive measures in schools to prevent crises and support students in need. Another significant piece of legislation was House Bill 3672, introduced by Chairman Ashby, focused on creating grant programs for extracurricular community education, providing essential resources for youth development and engagement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm an IDRA Education Policy Fellow testifying against Senate Bill 1798 on behalf of the Texas Legislative
  • All Texas children deserve access to a quality education.
  • I am a proud product of public education here in Texas, and I'm a proud...
  • Texas has already invested in these students in their K-12 education.
  • Texas invested in our K-12 education.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Education Committee was marked by intense discussions surrounding several key pieces of legislation, particularly focusing on SB1798, which seeks to repeal the Texas DREAM Act. Advocates for the bill argued that it is important to restrict state financial aid to individuals unlawfully present in the United States, asserting that taxpayer resources should primarily benefit legal residents. Conversely, numerous witnesses testified against SB1798, emphasizing the economic contributions of Texas DREAMers and the long-standing positive impacts of the existing DREAM Act on Texas communities and workforce. The heated debate highlighted the stark divisions surrounding immigration policies and their implications on education and opportunity for young Texans who have grown up in the state. The meeting concluded with SB1798 left pending, awaiting further consideration, signifying ongoing concerns and unresolved sentiments among committee members.

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