Texas Senate Bill SB1760

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to creating a special education certification to teach students with disabilities.

Impact

By implementing this special education certification, Texas aims to enhance the quality of education for students with disabilities. The introduction of a rigorous certification process will likely result in a higher caliber of teaching staff dedicated to special education. Additionally, the bill allows for the provision of incentives to encourage more educators to pursue this specialized certification, potentially alleviating any existing shortages of qualified special education teachers. The overall intent is to create a more inclusive learning environment that meets diverse educational needs effectively.

Summary

SB1760 proposes the establishment of a special education certification to ensure that teachers are equipped with the necessary skills to instruct students with disabilities. The bill mandates the State Board for Educator Certification to create a certification process that includes specific coursework in educator preparation programs, as well as competency assessments through examinations. This initiative aims to address the pressing need for qualified educators who can adequately support the unique learning requirements of students with disabilities, aligning educational standards with best practices in special education.

Contention

While the bill generally garners support for its focus on special education, there are elements that may spark debate. Some stakeholders might express concerns about the feasibility of the certification requirements and whether they could inadvertently limit the pool of available educators. Additionally, discussions around resource allocation for training programs and differences in regional educational needs could further illuminate points of contention. The bill's success hinges not only on the establishment of certification but also on how it is implemented across various school districts throughout Texas.