Texas House Bill HB3509

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to providing public access to information regarding district of innovation exemptions from educator certification or school district teaching permit requirements.

Impact

The passage of HB3509 promotes a clearer understanding of the exemptions available to Districts of Innovation, thereby aligning with efforts to enhance accountability and transparency within the education system. By mandating that the Commissioner make this information publicly available, the bill is intended to empower parents, educators, and the general public to better understand how local district policies may differ regarding certification and permit requirements for educators. This could ultimately foster a more informed dialogue among stakeholders about educational policies and standards across Texas schools.

Summary

House Bill 3509 focuses on increasing transparency in the education sector by providing public access to information regarding exemptions from educator certification or school district teaching permit requirements for Districts of Innovation. The bill amends Section 12A.004 of the Education Code to require that the Commissioner of Education maintain a comprehensive list of these exemptions and notify the legislature of each provision from which districts with a majority of students enrolled in Texas are exempt. This is aimed at ensuring that stakeholders have access to essential information regarding educational standards and requirements, particularly as they pertain to teacher qualifications.

Contention

While the bill aims to increase transparency, there may be concerns regarding the implications of exempting certain requirements for educators in these Districts of Innovation. Critics might argue that such exemptions could dilute educational standards and the qualifications of educators, potentially impacting the quality of education received by students. Ensuring that the public has access to this information can aid in addressing these concerns by allowing for greater scrutiny of the certifications that educators in these districts hold and the overall impact on educational quality.