Texas House Bill HB139

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a new open-enrollment charter school or campus.

Impact

The changes enacted by HB 139 will significantly affect how new charter schools are integrated into existing educational frameworks. By mandating early notification, the bill seeks to create a more organized approach to charter school planning and expansion, ensuring that local educational entities are adequately prepared for any enrollment fluctuations. This proactive communication is intended to foster cooperation between traditional public schools and charter schools, ultimately aiming for a more harmonious educational environment for all students.

Summary

House Bill 139 proposes important amendments to the Texas Education Code, specifically regarding the establishment of new open-enrollment charter schools and campuses. The bill aims to improve procedural transparency by ensuring that appropriate stakeholders, including school district boards and local legislators, are notified when a charter application is received or a new campus is planned. This notification must occur no later than 18 months before the anticipated opening date of the charter school or campus, providing sufficient details to allow affected school districts to anticipate changes in student enrollment.

Contention

There may be notable points of contention surrounding the implementation of this bill. Advocates for traditional public schools might argue that while the bill promotes transparency, it could also present challenges for local school districts that are concerned about competition for students and resources. Conversely, supporters of charter schools might view the notification process as essential for garnering community support and preparing for the realities of launching a new educational institution. Balancing these perspectives will be critical as the bill is implemented across the state.