Texas House Bill HB131

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 11/10/08

Caption

Relating to the treatment of students receiving a high school equivalency certificate in calculating dropout rates in public schools.

Impact

The implications of HB 131 are significant for public school accountability measures. The change ensures that students who achieve a GED are recognized for their accomplishments rather than being penalized in dropout statistics. This could lead to improved performance ratings for schools since fewer students would be classified as dropouts. The bill aims to encourage more students to take the GED path, offering an alternative to those who may struggle in a traditional educational environment.

Summary

House Bill 131 addresses the treatment of students who obtain a high school equivalency certificate (GED) in the calculation of dropout rates within Texas public schools. By amending Section 39.051(d) of the Education Code, the bill specifically states that students who receive a GED will not be considered dropouts or absent for the purpose of performance indicators defined by the commissioner of education. This creates a more favorable view of students who pursue equivalency programs rather than traditional schooling.

Contention

While the bill is largely aimed at improving student outcomes, there may be concerns regarding how this change could impact schools’ accountability metrics. Critics might argue that not counting GED recipients in dropout rates could mask underlying issues in school performance and student retention. Proponents, however, see this as a step toward recognizing diverse educational paths and reducing stigma associated with non-traditional schooling routes.