Texas House Bill HB2913

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/10/11
• Refer: 3/17/11

Caption

Relating to the operation of dropout recovery programs by certain public junior colleges in partnership with school districts.

Impact

The anticipated impact of HB 2913 is significant, particularly in areas with challenging educational statistics. By fostering partnerships between public junior colleges and school districts, the bill seeks to create tailored programs that address the dropout crisis in specific communities. Funding provisions are included, allowing junior colleges to receive average per-student funding equivalent to what students would have earned in their respective school districts. This funding mechanism not only supports the sustainability of these dropout recovery programs but also integrates students into the broader educational framework of their local districts.

Summary

House Bill 2913 aims to enhance educational opportunities by allowing certain public junior colleges to operate dropout recovery programs in partnership with local school districts. Specifically, the bill targets junior colleges located in counties with populations over 750,000 and where less than 65% of residents aged 25 and older are high school graduates. The objective is to provide support for young adults under 26 who need to complete their high school education or have struggled with standardized assessments. Through this initiative, the bill encourages collaboration between junior colleges and school districts to create curriculum options that not only facilitate graduation but also enhance readiness for post-secondary education through career and technology courses.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HB 2913 has been supportive among education advocates who view it as a progressive step toward addressing educational disparities and boosting graduation rates. Proponents argue that allowing public junior colleges to provide recovery programs can significantly expand access to education and address the immediate needs of students who have fallen behind. However, there may be concerns regarding the implementation and effectiveness of such partnerships, especially regarding resource allocation and administrative cooperation between junior colleges and school districts.

Contention

While the overall sentiment is positive, there are potential points of contention related to the execution of the partnership program. Questions may arise regarding the adequacy of course offerings, the effectiveness of targeting the appropriate population, and the degree of collaboration between junior colleges and local districts. Ensuring that the dropout recovery curriculum adequately prepares students for successful transitions into higher education or the workforce is essential. The bill touches upon broader discussions around educational funding, accountability, and the roles of various educational entities in fostering a supportive environment for students at risk of dropping out.