Texas Senate Bill SB1313

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/16/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/21/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/18/09

Caption

Relating to the quality and accessibility of public school career and technical education programs and to assistance to students concerning postsecondary education and training.

Impact

This legislation could significantly reshape how career and technical education programs are structured. By mandating better alignment between educational offerings and industry expectations, schools are encouraged to adapt their curriculums to meet the needs of high-demand trades and occupations. The establishment of a clearinghouse for best practices is designed to help educators share effective strategies and resources with one another, ultimately aiming to improve student outcomes in terms of employability and readiness for postsecondary training.

Summary

SB1313 focuses on enhancing the quality and accessibility of career and technical education programs within public schools in Texas. It includes provisions for the establishment of an online clearinghouse of best practices in educational systems, aimed at connecting school jobs to postsecondary employment opportunities. The bill emphasizes the importance of preparing students for high-demand positions by providing curriculum aligned with industry needs and integrating college readiness skills into the courses offered. Additionally, the bill supports dual credit arrangements, allowing high school students to earn college credits as they prepare for future careers.

Contention

While SB1313 has garnered support for its focus on enhancing workforce readiness, there are concerns regarding the funding limitations set forth in the bill. The total amount for grants under the legislation is capped at $10 million per biennium, which may not be sufficient to meet demand across educational institutions statewide. Opponents might argue that without adequate funding, the bill's potential impact could be diminished, leaving some schools unable to access the resources necessary to implement the desired changes effectively.