Texas House Bill HB3449

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to establishment of a pilot program to provide financial incentives to students in academically unacceptable public school campuses.

Impact

The proposed incentives include monetary rewards for academic grades, with students earning $50 for an 'A', $35 for a 'B', and $20 for a 'C'. This approach aims to motivate students to improve their grades, potentially enhancing their overall academic outcomes. The bill also ensures that participating students receive college and career counseling, aiming to better prepare them for higher education and future endeavors. The pilot program is intended to facilitate transitions from high school to post-secondary educational opportunities.

Summary

House Bill 3449 establishes a pilot program aimed at improving academic performance in students enrolled in academically unacceptable public school campuses. The program targets ninth grade students specifically, offering them financial incentives based on their performance in core academic subjects. The bill stipulates that eligible campuses must be designated as academically unacceptable and must apply to participate in this program. The selection of campuses will be conducted through a randomized process to ensure fairness in participation.

Contention

While HB3449 aims to provide necessary financial motivation for students in underperforming schools, it may raise questions regarding the equity of incentivizing education through financial means. Critics might argue that such a system could disproportionately benefit students who are already inclined towards academic success, possibly neglecting those who struggle more significantly. Furthermore, the bill requires schools to manage the financial incentives and counseling services, which may impose additional administrative burdens on already stressed educational institutions.