Relating to the establishment of a technology allotment for public schools.
Note
Overall, SB1140 reflects a growing recognition of the importance of technology in education, but it also highlights ongoing challenges in ensuring equitable access and effective implementation across the state's public schools.
Impact
The bill amends the Education Code to ensure that public school students receive instructional materials and technological resources at no additional cost. By mandating that the allotment for technology be separate from the existing instructional materials fund, SB1140 seeks to provide clarity and increased resources specifically designated for technology use within schools. This legislative move can significantly impact how school districts allocate their budgets, fostering an environment that encourages the adoption of modern teaching tools and methods.
Summary
SB1140 relates to the establishment of a technology allotment for public schools in Texas, aiming to enhance educational resources and support technological integration in classrooms. The bill proposes an allotment of $15 for each student in average daily attendance, which school districts can use to acquire technological equipment and to support the technical personnel necessary for its maintenance and usage in instructional settings. This funding strategy demonstrates an effort to modernize educational infrastructure, thereby improving student learning experiences and outcomes.
Contention
While the bill's intentions are largely seen as positive, debates may arise regarding funding allocations and the reliance on state resources. Concerns may be raised about whether the proposed $15 per student is sufficient to meet the diverse technological needs of schools across varying districts, particularly in less affluent areas. Additionally, arguments may revolve around the potential for misallocation or ineffective use of the tools purchased with the allotment, fueling discussions about accountability in educational spending.
Relating to instructional material and technology, the adoption of essential knowledge and skills for certain public school foundation curriculum subjects, and creating allotments for the procurement of certain instructional materials under the Foundation School Program; authorizing a fee.
Relating to a local optional teacher designation system implemented by a school district, a security officer employed by a school district, the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program; making an appropriation.
Relating to the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, certain allotments under the Foundation School Program, determination of a school district's assets to liabilities ratio under the public school financial accountability rating system, and credit for prepayment of the amount required to be paid by a school district for the purchase of attendance credit under the public school finance system.
Relating to instructional material and technology, the adoption of essential knowledge and skills for certain public school foundation curriculum subjects, and the extension of additional state aid to school districts for the provision of certain instructional materials; authorizing a fee.
Relating to a local optional teacher designation system implemented by a school district, the basic allotment and guaranteed yield under the public school finance system, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program; making an appropriation.
Relating to the school safety allotment under the Foundation School Program and the establishment of a school safety grant program; making an appropriation.
Relating to the rights and certification of public school educators, including financial and other assistance and waivers provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators, methods of instruction provided in public schools, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.
Relating to the instructional materials and technology allotment, open education resource instructional materials, and the State Board of Education long-range technology plan.
Relating to the instructional materials and technology allotment, open education resource instructional materials, and the State Board of Education long-range technology plan.