Relating to the creation of the Texas Future Scholars Pilot Program and the Workforce Shortage Education Loan Repayment Program and to the elimination of certain other student financial assistance programs.
Impact
The bill amends the Education Code by adding Subchapters R and FF, establishing frameworks for both programs. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board will oversee the implementation, which includes eligible criteria for students, such as enrollment in a qualifying middle school and eligibility for federal financial aid. By selecting students based on their academic performance and additional factors such as socio-economic status, the bill aims to foster greater access to higher education for underserved populations.
Summary
SB1797 introduces the Texas Future Scholars Pilot Program and the Workforce Shortage Education Loan Repayment Program. The bill aims to enhance educational opportunities and create financial incentives for students pursuing careers in fields experiencing workforce shortages within Texas. The Future Scholars Pilot Program specifically targets middle school students, focusing on those from schools with low college attendance rates and providing them with prepaid tuition units for their future college education. Students enrolled in qualifying schools will have the opportunity to receive assistance with their higher education costs upon meeting established criteria.
Contention
While SB1797 presents a forward-looking approach to addressing workforce shortages in critical fields, potential points of contention may arise regarding funding. The program relies on state appropriations and the solicitation of private donations, which brings forth questions about sustainability and resource allocation. Additionally, as the bill eliminates certain other financial assistance programs, there may be concerns over how these changes impact existing students and their access to financial aid, especially those who may not directly qualify under the new criteria.
Relating to support for nursing-related postsecondary education, including scholarships to nursing students, loan repayment assistance to nurses and nursing faculty, and grants to nursing education programs.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the administration, coordination, and support of public higher education, including the public junior college state finance program and an Advanced Career and Education (ACE) scholarship program for students enrolled in dual credit courses.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Reskilling and Upskilling through Education (TRUE) Program to support workforce education at two-year public institutions of higher education.
Relating to public school career and technology education program curriculum and funding and to development of a list of high-demand occupations for career and technology education students.
Relating to the establishment of certain programs to support adult and postsecondary education and workforce development in high-demand occupations and green jobs.