Relating to permissible uses of the instructional materials and technology allotment.
Impact
The bill is set to take effect at the beginning of the 2021-2022 school year and significantly impacts how school districts allocate the funds provided for instructional materials. By allowing more flexibility in the use of these funds, it encourages schools to invest in technology and resources that align with contemporary educational methods, including distance learning. This change is particularly relevant in light of trends towards more digital learning environments, making it crucial for schools to adapt to new teaching methodologies.
Summary
House Bill 1206 aims to amend certain provisions of the Texas Education Code related to the permissible uses of the instructional materials and technology allotment. The core of the bill focuses on expanding the scope of what educational institutions can purchase with these funds. This includes not only traditional instructional materials but also technological equipment, consumable materials, and resources specifically for bilingual education and college preparatory courses. The bill recognizes the increasing role of technology in education and seeks to enhance the resources available to students and educators alike.
Contention
Although the summary does not explicitly mention points of contention, it is reasonable to infer that discussions around funding allocation could arise, especially concerning how schools prioritize technology versus traditional materials. Stakeholders may have differing opinions on the best use of the allotment funds, which could lead to debates on educational policies and priorities in Texas. The bill's implementation could also face scrutiny regarding equitable access to technology across school districts, ensuring that all students benefit from these advancements.
Relating to instructional material and technology, the adoption of essential knowledge and skills for certain public school foundation curriculum subjects, and creating allotments for the procurement of certain instructional materials under the Foundation School Program; authorizing a fee.
Relating to instructional material and technology, the adoption of essential knowledge and skills for certain public school foundation curriculum subjects, and the extension of additional state aid to school districts for the provision of certain instructional materials; authorizing a fee.
Relating to the acceptable uses of the instructional materials and technology fund and the review of certain instructional materials by the State Board of Education.
Relating to a parent-directed supplemental services and instructional materials program for public school students; establishing an allotment under the Foundation School Program; authorizing a fee.
Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools.
Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools.
Relating to the instructional materials and technology allotment, open education resource instructional materials, and the State Board of Education long-range technology plan.
Relating to the instructional materials and technology allotment, open education resource instructional materials, and the State Board of Education long-range technology plan.
Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools; providing penalties.