Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HB797

Introduced
1/21/11  

Impact

If passed, HB 797 would significantly alter the existing educational framework by mandating that school districts engage with parents in curriculum decisions. This could lead to a more tailored educational experience for students as parents advocate for particular subjects or teaching methodologies. Furthermore, the bill proposes revisions to funding structures that prioritize allocations based on parental preferences, which could transform how resources are distributed among schools, potentially benefiting some at the expense of others.

Summary

House Bill 797 primarily aims to enhance parental control over educational content and the allocation of school funding across the state. The bill introduces measures designed to ensure that parents have increased oversight regarding the curricula taught in schools and how state funds are utilized in education. This legislation has sparked a considerable debate within legislative circles, especially regarding the balance between state education mandates and parental input in their children's educational experiences.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 797 appears to be deeply polarized. Proponents argue that the bill empowers parents and aligns with the growing trend of school choice by allowing them to advocate for their children’s education actively. They view this increased involvement as essential for ensuring that educational content meets community values and standards. Conversely, opponents express concerns about the potential for increased fragmentation of educational standards and the risk of undermining professional educators' autonomy to make sound pedagogical choices.

Contention

Key points of contention regarding HB 797 include concerns over the implications for educational equity and the risk of resource disparities among schools. Critics warn that giving parents the authority to influence funding allocations could disadvantage schools in underserved areas. Additionally, there are fears that the bill might open the door for curriculum changes based on political or ideological agendas rather than educational best practices. This has led to debates about the role of public education in society and the importance of maintaining standards that apply uniformly across all school districts.

Companion Bills

TX SB230

Relating to the venue for the filing of certain applications by a pregnant minor with respect to an abortion.

Previously Filed As

TX HB828

Relating to the age of criminal responsibility and to certain substantive and procedural matters related to that age.

TX HB3588

Relating to an exemption from abortion restrictions for unemancipated minors and the repeal of provisions regarding notice and consent to those abortions.

TX HB3474

Relating to the operation and administration of and practices and procedures regarding proceedings in the judicial branch of state government, including the service of process and delivery of documents related to the proceedings, the administration of oaths, and the management of the Texas Indigent Defense Commission, and the composition of certain juvenile boards; establishing a civil penalty; increasing certain court costs; authorizing fees.

TX HB2538

Relating to the repeal of provisions related to notice and consent to an abortion on a minor.

TX HB501

Relating to the age of criminal responsibility and to certain substantive and procedural matters related to that age.

TX HB1520

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX SB1727

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, and the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.

TX HB4559

Relating to the application of statutes that classify political subdivisions according to population.

TX HB4504

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of certain provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure, including conforming amendments.

TX HB3186

Relating to youth diversion strategies and procedures for children accused of certain fine-only offenses in municipal and justice courts and related criminal justice matters; authorizing fees.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.