Texas House Bill HB635

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/21/09
• Voted on by House: 4/29/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/15/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/26/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 6/3/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to the authority of the Texas Education Agency to seek, accept, determine eligibility for, and distribute grants available for the benefit of public education and the establishment of professional development institutes and payment of grants to teachers who complete those institutes.

Impact

If enacted, the bill is expected to have a significant positive impact on public elementary and secondary education in Texas by potentially increasing funding through external grants. This act not only expands the TEA's authority but also allows for a more expansive interpretation of what constitutes a public elementary school for the purpose of receiving federal grants, including the possibility for some Head Start programs to fall under this definition. This could lead to increased funding opportunities for early education programs that are critical for preparing students for their academic futures.

Summary

House Bill 635 proposes an amendment to the Texas Education Code that empowers the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to seek, accept, and distribute grants for the benefit of public elementary and secondary education. This bill allows the TEA to navigate avenues for funding through the federal government or other public and private entities, enhancing the financial resources available to the education sector. It specifically addresses the importance of securing grants which can enhance educational programs, further addressing the funding challenges faced by public educational institutions.

Contention

While the bill seeks to broaden funding avenues, there may be concerns regarding the implications for accountability and oversight in how these grants are utilized once received. Critics might argue that an increase in funding through less regulated federal and private channels could lead to disparities in education quality depending on the success of grant applications. Additionally, the bill lays out that determinations related to the eligibility of Head Start programs for federal grant funds cannot be appealed, which could lead to questions about stakeholder involvement in such decisions.