Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1623

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

Caption

Relating to transfer of a student of limited English proficiency out of a public school bilingual education or special language program.

Impact

The implementation of SB1623 is targeted to begin with the 2011-2012 school year. By formalizing the criteria for transferring students from bilingual programs, the bill seeks to ensure that students are adequately prepared for mainstream English instruction. This legislative change will likely impact school districts across Texas, as they will need to adapt their assessment frameworks and possibly their educational resources to comply with the new guidelines.

Summary

Senate Bill 1623 aims to amend the existing Education Code regarding the transfer of students with limited English proficiency out of bilingual education or special language programs. The bill introduces criteria based on agency-approved tests to determine the readiness of a student to transition to an all-English instructional program. The assessment will consider the student's proficiency in both their primary language and English, as well as their performance on relevant reading assessments and other indicators of overall progress.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears generally supportive among educators and policymakers focused on improving the quality of education for students with limited English proficiency. Many advocates argue that clearly defined transfer criteria can enhance students' educational outcomes and better prepare them for success in a predominantly English language environment. However, there may also be concerns regarding the adequacy of the assessments used and whether they truly reflect a student's readiness for transition.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB1623 may include debates over the effectiveness of standardized tests versus individualized assessments in determining a student's capabilities. Critics may argue that reliance on testing alone could overlook important factors such as a student's personal learning journey, cultural background, and the supportive resources available to them. Additionally, discussions could arise around how these changes affect local autonomy in educational programming and support for linguistically diverse student populations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2168

Relating to measures to prepare students to teach bilingual education, English as a second language, or Spanish.

TX HB1267

Relating to the academic assessment of public school students.

TX HB3011

Relating to the academic assessment of public school students.

TX HB509

Relating to the academic assessment of public school students.

TX HB1326

Relating to the academic assessment of public school students.

TX HB2164

Relating to public school bilingual education programs, dual language immersion programs, and special language programs.

TX HB1981

Relating to the administration of assessment instruments to public school students.

TX HB4508

Relating to bilingual education in public schools.

TX HB1069

Relating to establishing the Texas State Seal of Bilingualism and Biliteracy for public high school students.

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.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.