Texas Senate Bill SB2087

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to sanctions available for certain academically unacceptable campuses.

Impact

The implementation of SB2087 may alter the existing procedures concerning how schools are restructured or supported when deemed academically unacceptable. By prohibiting the name change of campuses during a reconstitution, it seeks to preserve the identity of schools while undergoing changes. Additionally, the bill emphasizes thorough evaluations prior to imposing sanctions, which could protect struggling schools and provide them a better chance for improvement before severe interventions are enacted.

Summary

SB2087 addresses the framework for sanctions applicable to academically unacceptable campuses in Texas. The bill amends the Education Code to specify that the commissioner of education cannot impose additional sanctions on a campus that has been assigned a campus intervention team until a comprehensive evaluation and needs assessment have been performed. Furthermore, campuses must be allowed two full school years to implement a school improvement plan after receiving necessary assistance before facing further sanctions.

Contention

Debate regarding SB2087 centers on the balance between accountability and support for failing schools. Proponents argue that the bill provides necessary safeguards that allow schools the time and resources to implement effective improvement strategies without the immediate threat of additional sanctions. Detractors, however, may express concerns that delaying sanctions could enable chronic underperformance to persist, adversely affecting students' educational prospects and the overall accountability measures in place for schools.