Texas Senate Bill SB2249

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 5/1/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/7/09

Caption

Relating to a certification program for teachers of students with visual impairments.

Impact

The legislation aims to enhance educational support for visually impaired students by ensuring that their teachers are adequately trained and certified to address their unique learning needs. By providing a system that grants special supplemental allowances to school districts for students with visual impairments, the bill underscores the state’s commitment to funding educational services tailored to these students' needs. This financial support can be crucial for enhancing educational infrastructures and providing essential resources that these students require.

Summary

Senate Bill 2249 establishes a certification program for teachers who work with students with visual impairments in Texas. The bill mandates that educators aspiring to teach this specialized group must complete a state-sponsored educator preparation program and pass necessary certification examinations in both braille and visual impairment methods. Additionally, out-of-state teachers must comply with Texas requirements to gain certification, ensuring consistency in teaching standards across state lines.

Contention

While the bill is largely supported for its intent to improve educational outcomes for visually impaired students, some concerns may arise regarding the implications of the certification requirements for current educators. Critics may argue that the newly imposed certification standards could create challenges for existing teachers, particularly those who have been informally providing services to students with visual impairments but lack formal qualifications. Ensuring that all teachers meet the new standards without generating a shortage of qualified instructors may be a significant point of discussion as the bill progresses.