Texas Senate Bill SB2079

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to a requirement that a student's postsecondary transcript include the average or median grade awarded in each class.

Impact

The introduction of SB2079 is expected to enhance transparency in educational records by allowing students, educational institutions, and employers to better interpret the significance of a student's grades. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board is tasked with creating rules for the implementation of this requirement, which reflects a commitment to providing a clearer picture of student's academic performance beyond standard letter grades. This change will first apply to classes offered starting in the Fall 2022 semester.

Summary

Senate Bill 2079 mandates that postsecondary institutions, including general academic teaching institutions and public junior colleges in Texas, must include the average or median grade awarded in each course on a student's transcript. This requirement aims to standardize how grades are represented on transcripts, fostering greater transparency in the grading process. By providing additional context regarding the performance in each class, the bill seeks to assist students when they apply for further studies or employment, as potential institutions and employers will have a clearer understanding of the grading landscape in various courses.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB2079 has been largely supportive among educational stakeholders who believe that increased transparency in grading will benefit students. It is viewed favorably as it can help level the playing field and provide students with more relevant information about their academic achievements. However, there may be concerns about the potential administrative burden this new requirement places on institutions, particularly regarding the potential for variations in grading practices across different institutions.

Contention

One point of contention among opponents may arise from concerns regarding privacy and the potential interpretation of a grade's average or median. Some educators fear that this could lead to unintended consequences, like grade inflation, if institutions feel pressured to ensure their averages appear favorable in comparison to others. Additionally, there may be apprehensions about how detailed grading information may affect students’ chances of admission to competitive programs, as it could overly emphasize average grades instead of individual performance.