Relating to the operation of dropout recovery programs by certain public junior colleges in partnership with school districts.
Impact
If enacted, SB975 will amend Chapter 29 of the Texas Education Code, specifically by introducing a new subchapter that outlines the processes and requirements for establishing partnerships between junior colleges and local school districts. These partnerships will focus on developing dropout recovery programs that not only help students meet graduation requirements but also prepare them for postsecondary education. The bill allows junior colleges to design curricula that include career and technology education courses, as well as provide resources and support for students transitioning to collegiate environments.
Summary
Senate Bill 975 aims to facilitate the operation of dropout recovery programs by public junior colleges in partnership with school districts in Texas. The bill specifies that it applies to public junior colleges located in counties with populations exceeding 750,000 and with high school graduation rates below 65%. The intent is to increase educational attainment in areas that face significant dropout rates by allowing junior colleges to provide a structured curriculum aimed at helping individuals under the age of 26 complete their high school diploma requirements.
Contention
While proponents of the bill argue that it will help address the high dropout rates in specific counties, critics may raise concerns regarding funding and resource allocation. The bill outlines a financing mechanism where junior colleges can receive funds from partnering school districts based on student enrollment figures. This could lead to potential disparities in funding based on the successful enrollment of students from areas fitting the bill's criteria, thereby impacting smaller or less-resourced districts differently than larger ones. Additionally, there could be challenges around ensuring the quality and accessibility of education provided through these recovery programs.
Relating to the operation by a school district of a foundation and trade diploma program to provide eligible high school students with educational training under a plan for the issuance of a high school diploma and the application of certain student-based allotments under the public school finance system.
Relating to the administration, coordination, and support of public higher education, including the public junior college state finance program and an Advanced Career and Education (ACE) scholarship program for students enrolled in dual credit courses.
Relating to the administration of certain assessment instruments, the accountability rating system for assessing campus and district performance, public school career and technology education programs, and an extracurricular and cocurricular allotment under the Foundation School Program.
Relating to the inclusion of Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps and Leadership Officer Training Corps programs as public school career and technology education programs and the indicator of achievement for military readiness under the public school accountability system.
Relating to the designation of certain areas as banking or credit union development districts to encourage the establishment of branches of banks or credit unions in those areas.