Texas Senate Bill SB1984

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to alternative public school accountability interventions.

Impact

If enacted, SB1984 would modify existing regulations surrounding school accountability. The bill introduces an alternative to closing unsatisfactory schools or appointing a board of managers, engaging regional education service centers instead. This shift towards regional intervention is designed to provide a more supportive environment, focusing on improving school performance through shared resources and expertise, ultimately benefiting students and communities. The bill applies to schools and districts that are evaluated after its effective date, continuing to hold prior cases to existing laws.

Summary

SB1984 proposes significant changes to the public school accountability system in Texas by establishing an alternative intervention program through regional education service centers. The bill allows these centers to form intervention teams composed of the executive director and six superintendents from high-performing districts in the region. This collaborative approach aims to create tailored intervention strategies for lower-performing schools and districts that are subject to oversight under the Education Code. The proposed program emphasizes localized support and intervention rather than immediate punitive measures such as school closures or the appointment of a board of managers.

Contention

Notable points of contention around SB1984 might include concerns about the effectiveness of intervention teams and whether this approach can adequately address systemic issues in struggling schools. Critics may argue that reliance on regional teams could lead to uneven resource distribution, where better-performing districts may not be as invested in the success of poorly performing ones. Additionally, there could be skepticism about the ability of these teams to enact meaningful change before more severe actions—such as closures—become necessary, particularly if repeat performance failures occur.