Texas Senate Bill SB850

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 3/14/11
• Introduced: 2/22/11
• Voted on by Senate: 3/24/11
• Refer: 3/1/11
• Out of House Committee: 5/19/11
• Report Pass: 3/14/11
• Engrossed: 3/24/11
• Refer: 4/4/11
• Report Pass: 5/18/11

Caption

Relating to formula funding for certain semester credit hours earned for dual course credit.

Impact

The proposed changes in SB850 aim to clarify and potentially restrict the inclusion of certain dual credit hours in funding considerations for higher education, which may influence how high schools and colleges collaborate on dual credit programs. By focusing funding on core curriculum courses and specific vocational training, the bill encourages schools to align their dual credit offerings with state-defined educational standards, possibly enhancing the quality of education provided to high school students. However, this may limit opportunities for students to receive college credit for a broader range of courses they may choose to take.

Summary

Senate Bill 850 is designed to modify the funding formula applicable to higher education institutions in Texas specifically concerning semester credit hours earned by high school students for dual course credit. The bill stipulates that institutions cannot include these credit hours in their instructional and operations formula funding unless the courses meet certain criteria. These criteria include courses that contribute to the institution's core curriculum, career and technical education courses that are applicable to specific certificates or associate degrees, or foreign language courses. This is intended to encourage a more structured and applicable use of dual credit courses for high school students.

Conclusion

In summary, SB850 represents an effort to refine the funding mechanisms for dual credit courses within Texas's higher education landscape. By establishing specific parameters for what constitutes eligible credit hours, the bill aims to improve the effectiveness and relevance of dual credit programs. Nevertheless, it also raises important discussions about educational equity and the breadth of academic opportunities available to high school students.

Contention

One point of contention surrounding SB850 could be the perceived narrowing of dual credit opportunities for high school students. Stakeholders involved in educational policy, including school districts and higher education institutions, may express concerns that limiting funding to only certain types of courses could restrict student access to a diverse educational experience that could include arts, humanities, or other electives. Critics may argue that this could disadvantage students who do not have the option to participate in the specified programs, ultimately affecting their readiness for college and career paths.