Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB213

Caption

Relating to the use of individual graduation committees and other alternative methods to satisfy certain public high school graduation requirements.

Impact

The implications of SB213 on state laws are significant, as it revises current educational standards and graduation requirements outlined in the Education Code. The bill's amendments ensure that students who may not excel in standardized testing are not denied their high school diploma, thus aiming to reduce dropout rates and promote educational attainment. By implementing individual graduation committees, educators are given the discretion to evaluate students on a case-by-case basis, allowing for tailored solutions to graduation requirements rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Summary

SB213 aims to provide alternative methods for high school students in Texas to meet graduation requirements through the establishment of individual graduation committees. The bill allows students who have fulfilled the academic curriculum but have not performed satisfactorily on state-mandated assessment tests to still be eligible for a diploma if they meet certain criteria. This legislation was designed to accommodate students who may struggle with traditional assessment formats, thereby providing a pathway for graduation that considers individual circumstances.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB213 appears to be supportive, particularly among educators and those advocating for student-centered approaches in education. Proponents argue that the bill reflects an understanding of diverse learning styles and challenges and aligns with broader educational goals of inclusivity and equity. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the potential for inconsistencies in diploma issuance and the necessity of maintaining rigorous academic standards.

Contention

Despite the overall positive reception, there are notable points of contention surrounding SB213. Critics worry that while individual graduation committees provide necessary flexibility, they could lead to varying standards across schools regarding what constitutes sufficient preparedness for graduation. This fear of inconsistency may spark debates over educational quality and whether the changes adequately prepare students for post-graduation pathways, such as higher education or the workforce.

Companion Bills

TX HB677

Same As Relating to the use of individual graduation committees and other alternative methods to satisfy certain public high school graduation requirements.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4691

Relating to public school accountability, including performance standards and sanctions and public high school graduation requirements.

TX HB337

Relating to eliminating certain state-required end-of-course assessment instruments not required by federal law and eliminating graduation requirements based on satisfactory performance on certain end-of-course assessment instruments.

TX HB58

Relating to eliminating certain state-required end-of-course assessment instruments not required by federal law and eliminating graduation requirements based on satisfactory performance on certain end-of-course assessment instruments.

TX HB4967

Relating to public school accountability, including assessment of academic skills, performance standards and sanctions, and public high school graduation requirements.

TX SB2303

Relating to public school accountability, including assessment of academic skills, performance standards and sanctions, and public high school graduation requirements.

TX HB4402

Relating to the administration of certain assessment instruments, the accountability rating system for assessing campus and district performance, public school career and technology education programs, and an extracurricular and cocurricular allotment under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB1981

Relating to the administration of assessment instruments to public school students.

TX HB1267

Relating to the academic assessment of public school students.

TX HB3011

Relating to the academic assessment of public school students.

TX HB509

Relating to the academic assessment of public school students.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.