Texas Senate Bill SB1517

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the designation of a public high school by the Texas Education Agency as an early college high school.

Impact

The enactment of SB 1517 could significantly impact public education in Texas by enhancing access to early college high school opportunities for students from various backgrounds. By removing potential barriers related to student demographics, the bill promotes educational equity and inclusivity, which could lead to increased college readiness and success among students who might otherwise not have access to such programs. This change is particularly relevant in areas where high schools serve a high percentage of disadvantaged students.

Summary

Senate Bill 1517 seeks to amend the Texas Education Code to facilitate the designation of public high schools as early college high schools by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). The bill introduces a provision that prohibits the TEA from denying a high school campus designation based on the percentage of educationally disadvantaged students enrolled at that campus. This legislation aims to encourage more schools to offer early college programs, which allow high school students to earn college credit while still in high school.

Contention

While SB 1517 is primarily focused on increasing access to early college high schools, it may lead to debates regarding the implications of designating schools based on student populations. Supporters of the bill argue that it will help level the playing field for educationally disadvantaged students, whereas opponents may raise concerns about the quality and resource allocation in schools that could be designated as early college high schools without further support or oversight. There is a potential fear that such a move might dilute the effectiveness of these programs if not properly managed.