Texas Senate Bill SB1770

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

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 bill amends multiple sections of the Education Code, facilitating changes in how financial aid is administered for those involved in competency-based programs. By prioritizing applicants displaying the most significant financial needs, it aims to ensure that economically disadvantaged students have equal access to educational opportunities. The program also provides specific guidelines and regulations on grant administration, which will be overseen by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, ensuring continuity and support for participating institutions.

Summary

SB1770 establishes the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program aimed at supporting students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs at eligible institutions. The bill delineates how academic credit is awarded based solely on mastery of competencies, a shift intended to enhance access to higher education. Under this program, financial assistance will be provided to eligible students, allowing for greater flexibility in their educational pursuits and potentially increasing enrollment in these innovative learning modalities.

Contention

One notable aspect of SB1770 is its provision to not penalize students who drop or repeat courses within competency-based programs, which traditionally carry heavier restrictions. It modifies existing funding formulations to include funding for semester credit hours earned by students enrolled in these programs without the previous limitations tied to course repetition. While proponents argue that this flexibility is essential for student success, there may be concerns among traditionalist educators about maintaining academic standards and the quality of educational outcomes.