Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HB3173

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the required public notice of the names of a certain number of finalists for the position of superintendent of a public school district.

Impact

The enforcement of HB 3173 would modify the existing regulations related to school district governance by placing greater emphasis on public awareness and participation in the superintendent hiring process. By requiring that finalists are disclosed ahead of time, the legislation seeks to empower communities and ensure the boards of trustees operate with greater transparency. The change is likely to foster communication between parents, educators, and the school administration, contributing to a more engaged stakeholder environment.

Summary

House Bill 3173 focuses on increasing transparency in the hiring process for superintendents of public school districts in Texas. It mandates that school boards must publicly notify the names of a minimum of three finalists for the superintendent position at least 21 days before a final vote occurs on their employment. This provision aims to provide parents, teachers, and community members with adequate notice and the opportunity to engage in the selection process, thereby enhancing accountability within educational leadership.

Sentiment

The sentiment around this bill appears to be generally positive, especially among advocates of transparency in education. Supporters argue that the legislation will positively transform how school districts engage with their communities during the superintendent selection process. Nevertheless, there may be concerns from some board members regarding the potential for increased scrutiny or controversy surrounding the selection of finalists, particularly if the community has strong opinions about the candidates.

Contention

While the bill's intent is to promote transparency, some critics might argue that it adds an unnecessary layer of bureaucracy to school district operations. There could be concerns about the effectiveness of public input and how it might complicate the hiring process for districts, particularly small ones with fewer candidates. Furthermore, the requirement for a public notice could potentially deter high-quality candidates from applying, knowing they will be named and scrutinized early in the hiring process.

Companion Bills

TX SB550

Identical Relating to the required public notice of the names of a certain number of finalists for the position of superintendent of a public school district.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1662

Relating to certain requirements and procedures regarding the posting of a school district's employment policy.

TX SB449

Relating to training requirements for public school board of trustees members and superintendents regarding the adoption of a trauma-informed school standard.

TX HB3

Relating to measures for ensuring public school safety, including the development and implementation of purchases relating to and funding for public school safety and security requirements and the provision of safety-related resources.

TX SB11

Relating to measures for ensuring safety and security in public schools, including measures related to the health and safety of public school students and active shooter training for certain peace officers.

TX HB11

Relating to the rights and certification of public school educators, including financial and other assistance and waivers provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators, methods of instruction provided in public schools, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB3844

Relating to certain procedural requirements for public improvement districts and transfers of property located in public improvement districts.

TX SB1958

Relating to certain procedural requirements for public improvement districts and transfers of property located in public improvement districts.

TX SB9

Relating to the rights and certification of public school educators, including financial and other assistance and waivers provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators, methods of instruction provided in public schools, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB3052

Relating to the publication of a line-item budget by school districts and municipalities.

TX SB2321

Relating to requiring the board of trustees of each school district to create a nonvoting student trustee position on the board.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.