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.

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 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.

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 SB34

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.

TX HB4330

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

TX HB4448

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

TX SB35

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

TX HB2407

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Promise Grant Program for certain students at two-year public institutions of higher education.

TX HB4363

Relating to the establishment of the Future Texas Teachers Scholarship Program for certain students at public institutions of higher education.

TX HB3486

Relating to higher education curricula, including course enrollment and credit and degree and certificate programs.

TX SB2225

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Students with Disabilities Scholarship Program for certain students 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 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 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 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 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 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.