Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2843

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

Caption

Relating to requiring certain school districts to offer district-funded or tuition-supported prekindergarten.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2843 would significantly impact state educational policy by formalizing the requirement for school districts to provide additional prekindergarten options. This aligns with nationwide trends that emphasize the importance of early childhood education as a foundation for future academic success. The requirement to notify families will also help ensure that more children are aware of and can participate in prekindergarten programs, ultimately aiming to increase enrollment and participation rates across the state.

Summary

House Bill 2843 aims to enhance early childhood education by requiring certain school districts in Texas to either fund or offer tuition-supported prekindergarten programs. It amends Section 29.1531 of the Education Code, mandating districts with existing prekindergarten classes to develop a system for notifying families with prekindergarten-age children about available options. The bill focuses on providing half-day or full-day classes based on the district's current offerings, thus expanding access to educational resources for children who may not qualify under existing eligibility criteria.

Contention

Throughout discussions surrounding HB 2843, points of contention have emerged regarding the funding mechanisms for the proposed prekindergarten programs. Supporters argue that such initiatives are crucial for fostering educational equity and improving long-term learning outcomes for children in underserved communities. In contrast, opponents raise concerns over the financial implications for districts already facing budget constraints, questioning the sustainability of additional programs without guaranteed state funding. The balance between enhancing educational access and managing fiscal responsibilities remains a central theme in conversations about the potential passage of this bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB53

Relating to providing free full-day prekindergarten for certain children.

TX HB342

Relating to providing free full-day prekindergarten for certain children.

TX SB38

Relating to providing free full-day prekindergarten for certain children.

TX HB4323

Relating to providing free full-day prekindergarten for certain children.

TX HB4112

Relating to the availability of free prekindergarten programs in public schools.

TX HB4469

Relating to prekindergarten programs provided by public schools, including through partnerships with certain community-based child-care providers.

TX HB2923

Relating to the operation of free prekindergarten programs by certain school districts and to the early education allotment under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB4515

Relating to an alternative qualified early learning grant program administered by the commissioner of education and funding for prekindergarten and kindergarten programs under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB44

Relating to a grant program to provide free public school prekindergarten programs to certain children who are eligible for the subsidized child-care program administered by the Texas Workforce Commission.

TX HB1614

Relating to a grant program to provide free public school prekindergarten programs to certain children who are eligible for the subsidized child-care program administered by the Texas Workforce Commission.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.