Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2405

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
5/7/09  
Voted on by Senate
5/12/09  
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to a pilot program to expand access to career and technical education partnerships in rural areas.

Impact

The implementation of SB2405 would enable the Texas Department of Agriculture to award grants for the development of these educational partnerships. It stipulates that up to four grants can be issued every two years, contingent on available funding. This pilot program is expected to not only increase educational access but also motivate students towards pursuing careers in various technical fields, which is essential for the economic vitality of rural areas. Additionally, it allows students to earn college credit while still in high school, facilitating smoother transitions into post-secondary education.

Summary

SB2405 is a legislative proposal aimed at establishing a pilot program to enhance access to career and technical education in rural areas of Texas. This bill seeks to create partnerships between public schools, junior colleges, technical institutes, academic institutions, and local industries to provide high school students with greater opportunities for vocational training and industry certifications. By focusing on rural communities, the bill addresses the educational gaps faced by these areas and aims to improve workforce preparedness among students.

Contention

While supporters of SB2405 advocate for its potential to uplift rural educational standards, there might be concerns regarding the funding mechanisms and the sustainability of the program over time. The bill does not specify funding or appropriations for its initiatives, which could lead to uncertainty in its execution. Moreover, the requirement for matching public or private funds could pose a challenge for some rural areas that may lack the financial resources to meet these criteria. Stakeholders will likely debate the bill's effectiveness in delivering on its promises without adequate funding and resources.

Companion Bills

TX HB4245

Identical Relating to a pilot program to expand access to career and technical education partnerships in rural areas.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4383

Relating to measures to assist small and rural school districts in implementing a collegiate model and expanding broadband access, including the establishment of the Rural Schools and Communities Technical Assistance Center and a grant program.

TX HB3676

Relating to the creation of a rural dual credit pilot program by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

TX HB8

Relating to public higher education, including the public junior college state finance program.

TX SB2539

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.

TX HB2209

Relating to establishing the Rural Pathway Excellence Partnership (R-PEP) program and creating an allotment and outcomes bonus under the Foundation School Program to support the program.

TX SB992

Relating to establishing the Rural Pathway Excellence Partnership (R-PEP) program and creating an allotment and outcomes bonus under the Foundation School Program to support the program.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX HB4402

Relating to the administration of certain assessment instruments, the accountability rating system for assessing campus and district performance, public school career and technology education programs, and an extracurricular and cocurricular allotment under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB3674

Relating to the creation of a rural dual credit grant program by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.