TX
Texas House Bill HB3657

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3657

Caption

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.

Impact

The implementation of this bill is expected to enhance access to higher education for students who prefer non-traditional learning methods. By offering grants specifically for competency-based programs, the legislation seeks to align funding mechanisms with modern educational practices, acknowledging the diverse learning paths students may take. The coordinating board is tasked with administering the program, prioritizing financial need, and ensuring funds are allocated to eligible institutions accordingly.

Summary

House Bill 3657 establishes the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program, aimed at providing financial assistance for students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs at eligible higher education institutions. The bill defines a competency-based program as one in which students earn credits based on their mastery of competencies rather than traditional course completion timelines. Eligible institutions include public junior colleges, general academic teaching institutions, and other accredited colleges that meet specific criteria.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 3657 may arise regarding the adequacy of funding and the overall inclusiveness of competency-based programs. Critics may express concerns about whether these grants will sufficiently cover all necessary expenses for students since funding is dependent on state appropriations and may not guarantee complete financial support. Additionally, discussions may emerge on the quality and recognition of competency-based education compared to traditional degree pathways, particularly regarding its value in the job market.

Latest HB3657 Activity

Companion Bills

TX SB1770

Same As Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1312

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based online or other distance education baccalaureate degree programs at certain private institutions of higher education.

TX HB3027

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs at certain institutions of higher education.

TX HB4005

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.

TX HB3931

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.

TX SB462

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.

Similar Bills

TX SB2118

Relating to authorization by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board for certain public junior colleges to offer baccalaureate degree programs.

TX HB4092

Relating to authorization by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board for certain public junior colleges to offer baccalaureate degree programs.

TX SB176

Relating to the award of a grant under the Texas Educational Opportunity Grant Program to certain students enrolled in a baccalaureate degree program.

TX SB330

Relating to the award of a grant under the Texas Educational Opportunity Grant Program to certain students enrolled in a baccalaureate degree program.

TX HB3137

Relating to the award of a grant under the Texas Educational Opportunity Grant Program to certain students enrolled in a baccalaureate degree program.

TX HB3931

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.

TX SB1826

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.

TX SB1770

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program for certain students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs and to formula funding and dropped and repeated course restrictions for students enrolled in those degree programs at public institutions of higher education.