Texas House Bill HB165

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to providing for endorsements for public high school students enrolled in special education programs.

Impact

By amending the Education Code, specifically Section 28.025, HB 165 facilitates a more tailored educational experience for special education students. The revisions empower the admission, review, and dismissal committee to determine if students need to meet specific end-of-course assessment standards to earn these endorsements. This flexibility is intended to enhance the rigor of modified curricula while ensuring that students receive appropriate acknowledgment for their educational efforts, thus impacting state laws by institutionalizing support for diverse learners.

Summary

House Bill 165 focuses on enhancing the educational framework for public high school students enrolled in special education programs in Texas. The bill allows these students to earn endorsements on their transcripts, recognizing their completion of curriculum requirements laid out by the State Board of Education, with the option of curriculum modifications. This legislative move aims to increase inclusivity and provide special education students with additional recognition of their academic achievements, thereby fostering their preparedness for post-secondary education and the workforce.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB 165 is positive, reflecting a shared belief among legislators, particularly those involved in education, that the bill will serve as a progressive step toward making education more accessible to students with disabilities. Supporters laud the bill for promoting educational equity and helping students achieve greater academic success despite the challenges they may face.

Contention

While there is general support for HB 165, some concerns have been raised about the implementation of endorsements for modified curricula. Critics may worry that these changes could dilute academic standards or lead to inconsistencies in how endorsements are granted. Nonetheless, proponents argue that the focus should remain on helping special education students succeed in a manner that respects their individual learning needs, thus fostering a more inclusive educational environment across Texas.