Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB550

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
3/31/11  
Introduced
2/8/11  
Voted on by Senate
4/14/11  
Voted on by House
 
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 implementation of SB550 is expected to reinforce accountability within public school districts. By requiring the disclosure of finalist names and ensuring that the selection process is public, the legislation aims to foster community trust in the school district's decision-making processes. This could lead to more community engagement and oversight in school governance, as constituents will have a clearer view of who is being considered for leadership positions.

Summary

SB550 aims to enhance transparency regarding the selection of superintendents in public school districts. The bill mandates that school boards provide public notice of at least three finalists for the position of superintendent at least 21 days prior to any final action or vote on employment. This move is intended to ensure that the hiring process for such a critical educational role is conducted transparently, allowing the community to be aware of the candidates under consideration.

Conclusion

Overall, SB550 represents a legislative effort to bolster transparency and accountability in the educational system by changing the existing governance structure regarding the hiring of public school superintendents. As the bill proceeds through the legislative process, its reception will likely reflect broader community attitudes toward transparency in public education and the governance of school districts.

Contention

While the bill's intent is largely viewed positively, there may be concerns about the implications for candidate privacy. Critics might argue that requiring public disclosure of finalists could dissuade highly qualified individuals from applying for the position due to potential public scrutiny. Moreover, there may be discussions among various stakeholders about the adequacy of public notice mechanisms and whether this level of transparency is sufficient or requires further measures to ensure community involvement.

Companion Bills

TX HB3173

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 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 HB3052

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

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 HB1662

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

TX SR147

Congratulating Bobby Ott for being named Superintendent of the Year by the Texas Association of School Boards.

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 SB2321

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

TX HB5039

Relating to the governance and number of trustees of certain independent school districts.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.