Texas House Bill HB4111

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 5/1/09

Caption

Relating to public notice requirements and other provisions applicable to the board of trustees of a school district proposing to close a district campus.

Impact

The implication of HB4111 is significant as it aims to enhance transparency and accountability in the decision-making processes of school districts. By requiring advance notice and public meetings, the bill empowers parents and community members to participate in discussions about potential closures. This is particularly crucial given the educational implications that campus closures can have on students, including changes in their learning environment and safety. The requirement for a written closure plan that outlines the educational impacts and safety considerations further strengthens the bill's focus on student welfare.

Summary

House Bill 4111 amends the Texas Education Code to mandate public notice requirements regarding the closure of school district campuses. The bill stipulates that if a school board proposes to close a campus, it must provide written notice to the parents of all children who would attend that campus during the first year of closure. This notice must be sent at least 90 days prior to the proposed closure, allowing ample time for public comment and engagement from the community. The district must also make associated documents public via the internet and hold public meetings to discuss the proposed closure.

Contention

Potential points of contention surrounding HB4111 may arise regarding the balance between necessary administrative decisions by school boards and local governance. While proponents argue that these requirements enhance local oversight and protect students' interests, there may be concerns that overly stringent notice requirements could hinder the boards’ ability to make timely decisions, especially in emergency situations. Additionally, some members of the community might feel that they are not adequately represented at public meetings, raising questions about the effectiveness of the public comment period in truly influencing school board decisions.