Texas Senate Bill SB833

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the collection of data through the Public Education Information Management System (PEIMS) as to the foster care status of public school students.

Impact

The enactment of SB 833 would have significant ramifications for state educational policy and practice, particularly in relation to students from foster care backgrounds. By integrating foster care data into PEIMS, the state aims to identify the academic performance and needs of these students more accurately. This is anticipated to lead to tailored interventions that improve educational outcomes and help bridge the achievement gap often seen in foster care populations.

Summary

Senate Bill 833 seeks to amend the Education Code by requiring the collection of data regarding the foster care status of public school students through the Public Education Information Management System (PEIMS). The intent of the bill is to enhance the state's understanding and management of the educational needs of students in foster care, ensuring that they receive appropriate support within the public education system. This data is expected to facilitate better resource allocation and policy-making related to the educational experiences of these students.

Contention

While the bill received overwhelming support during voting, with a 134-0 approval on its third reading in the House, there may have been underlying discussions regarding privacy and the ethical implications of data collection. Concerns about how this sensitive information will be handled, shared, and utilized could arise among legislators and advocacy groups. Balancing the need for data to improve educational policies without compromising the privacy of vulnerable students remains a critical point of contention in the discussions surrounding SB 833.