Texas House Bill HB310

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

• Filed: 11/14/16

Caption

Relating to the use of the compensatory education allotment for a school district's school guidance and counseling program.

Impact

The legislation will allow school districts to allocate compensatory education funds towards improving their guidance and counseling services, which may positively affect student outcomes, especially for those who require additional support due to socio-economic disadvantages. By authorizing the use of these funds in guidance and counseling, HB310 seeks to ensure that schools can better support at-risk students, leading to potential improvements in academic performance and overall well-being within the student population.

Summary

House Bill 310 focuses on the appropriate allocation of the compensatory education allotment in Texas school districts concerning school guidance and counseling programs. The bill amends Section 42.152 of the Education Code to specifically allow school districts to utilize these funds for their guidance and counseling programs, effectively broadening the range of acceptable uses for this particular funding stream. This is designed to enhance the support available for students' social and emotional development, as well as academic guidance.

Sentiment

Generally, the sentiment surrounding HB310 appears positive among educational stakeholders who believe that enhancing counseling services is crucial for supporting students' diverse needs. Administrators and advocates for student welfare likely view this bill as a step toward providing better resources for mental health and academic success. However, there could be concerns regarding the allocation and management of funds, ensuring that these resources are used effectively and do not detract from other essential educational services.

Contention

While the bill supports the expansion of funding use, some legislators may express concerns about budget implications and the prioritization of resources within school districts. The potential challenge of ensuring these funds are adequately monitored and utilized specifically for counseling purposes could also be a point of discussion, balancing the incorporation of counseling with other pressing educational needs.