Relating to transfer of a student of limited English proficiency out of a public school bilingual education or special language program.
Impact
The impact of HB2759 is significant as it directly influences educational guidelines for students who are non-native English speakers. By establishing clearer benchmarks for assessing whether a student has acquired adequate English language skills, the bill seeks to facilitate smoother transitions for these students into standard classrooms. The legislation is set to apply beginning with the 2009-2010 school year, indicating a proactive approach by the state to address the needs of a growing population of students learning the English language in Texas.
Summary
House Bill 2759 addresses the policies surrounding the transfer of students with limited English proficiency out of bilingual education or special language programs in public schools. The bill amends Section 29.056(g) of the Education Code, specifying the criteria under which a student may be transferred from these programs to all-English instructional programs. This legislation aims to ensure that students can effectively participate in regular educational settings once they reach a sufficient level of language proficiency.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise around the assessment techniques employed to determine a student's readiness for transfer. The bill lists various criteria including agency-approved assessments and subjective evaluations from teachers and parents. There may be discussions regarding the adequacy and fairness of these methods, particularly concerns about potential biases in subjective evaluations. Additionally, some educators and advocacy groups might worry that the pressure to transfer students quickly could overlook individual learning needs and capacity for language development.
Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.