Texas Senate Bill SB2025

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/14/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/20/09

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a prepaid tuition unit reward and incentive program for certain economically disadvantaged students who achieve commended performance levels on standardized assessments.

Impact

The bill outlines a process where the Texas Education Agency will identify eligible seventh-grade students classified as economically disadvantaged, and notify schools about their eligibility for this program. Each identified student will have an access-restricted account created on their behalf where prepaid tuition units will be deposited. This initiative is designed to both reward academic achievement and incentivize participation in higher education programs, ultimately broadening the opportunities available to these students.

Summary

SB2025 establishes a Prepaid Tuition Unit Reward and Incentive Program aimed at economically disadvantaged students in Texas who achieve commendable performance on standardized assessments. This bill proposes to amend the Education Code, highlighting a structured approach to encourage academic excellence among underserved populations by providing financial incentives for higher education. By creating this program, the legislature aims to promote equal access to education and support the academic achievements of those who may face financial barriers to higher education.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention that may arise with SB2025 is its reliance on state funding to provide these incentives. The bill states that if adequate funds are not available, priority will be given to students who have excelled in all assessments. Critics may raise concerns regarding the sustainability and fairness of the funding mechanism, as well as the criteria used to determine which students are rewarded. There may be discussions around whether additional funding should be allocated to ensure the program can aid all eligible students.

Implementation

Moreover, SB2025 mandates that the Prepaid Higher Education Tuition Board collaborate with the Texas Education Agency to implement and oversee the program. The board will be responsible for creating rules surrounding the administration of the program, including how to handle unclaimed tuition units and outreach to beneficiaries. This structured approach is expected to foster transparency and accountability in the program, although it may come under scrutiny as it unfolds.