Texas Senate Bill SB2248

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/20/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/30/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/21/09
• Voted on by House: 5/27/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/28/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to public school students placed in substitute care.

Impact

The bill's provisions are designed to mitigate the negative effects that frequent transitions can have on the educational achievement of students in foster care. By establishing a framework for credit transfer and promoting access to extracurricular programs, the bill aims to support the educational trajectory of these vulnerable students. This legislative measure establishes a supportive mechanism within the public education system, which is intended to help these students succeed academically despite their challenging circumstances.

Summary

SB2248 introduces measures aimed at supporting public school students placed in foster care. It recognizes the unique challenges faced by these students, especially when they transition between schools during their high school years. The bill mandates that school districts facilitate the smooth transfer of school records, ensuring that this is completed within 14 days of enrollment at a new institution. This acceleration in the record-keeping process addresses a critical need to minimize disruption in the educational experiences of foster care students.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its good intentions, some stakeholders express concern over the logistics of its implementation. Critics argue that the requirements placed on school districts could lead to additional strains on resources, especially in areas with limited educational support systems. There is worry that without adequate funding or support from the state, the intended benefits may not be fully realized, and schools might struggle to comply with the new mandates, potentially creating new challenges for both educators and foster care students.