TX
Texas Senate Bill SB1318

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1318

Caption

Relating to the authority of the commissioner of education to conduct special accreditation investigations.

Impact

The impact of SB1318 on state laws includes a more rigorous oversight mechanism for school districts, potentially leading to improved educational outcomes. By granting the commissioner broader powers to investigate accreditation issues, the bill aims to proactively address problems within the educational system before they escalate. It introduces specific metrics and scenarios that warrant an investigation, ensuring that the commissioner has a clear framework for action. This could lead to better resource allocation and heightened awareness of performance disparities among students from different demographics.

Summary

SB1318 amends the Education Code to expand the authority of the commissioner of education in Texas to conduct special accreditation investigations within school districts. This bill outlines a comprehensive list of conditions under which the commissioner may initiate these investigations, including excessive student absences, complaints regarding civil rights violations, and significant declines in academic performance. The goal of this legislation is to enhance accountability and ensure that educational standards are upheld across school districts in Texas.

Contention

Notable points of contention around SB1318 include concerns from educators and school administrators regarding the implications of increased oversight. Some stakeholders argue that the expanded powers of the commissioner may result in overreaching investigations that could unfairly target districts without sufficient cause. There are fears that this could foster a punitive rather than supportive environment, which may discourage innovative educational practices. Additionally, questions about the sufficiency of resources for the commissioner’s office to handle the anticipated uptick in investigations may arise, stressing the need for adequate funding and staff to effectively implement these changes.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1862

Relating to the creation of the office of inspector general at the Texas Education Agency to investigate the administration of public education.

TX SB690

Relating to the appointment of an inspector general for education and the creation of a division of inspector general for education in the governor's office to investigate the administration of public education.

TX HB208

Relating to the appointment of an inspector general for education and the creation of a division of inspector general for education in the governor's office to investigate the administration of public education.

TX HB117

Relating to the appointment of an inspector general for education and the creation of a division of inspector general for education in the governor's office to investigate the administration of public education.

TX SB79

Relating to the appointment of an inspector general for education and the creation of a division of inspector general for education in the governor's office to investigate the administration of public education.

TX HB4691

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

TX HB3781

Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach special education.

TX SB1474

Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach or provide services related to special education.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

TX HB1

Relating to primary and secondary education, including the certification, compensation, and health coverage of certain public school employees, the public school finance system, special education in public schools, the establishment of an education savings account program, measures to support the education of public school students that include certain educational grant programs, reading instruction, and early childhood education, the provision of virtual education, and public school accountability.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.