Texas Senate Bill SB1826

Texas 2021 - 87th 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 implementation of this bill is expected to amend existing provisions within the Texas Education Code, primarily focusing on funding eligibility and course requirements for students in competency-based degree programs. It emphasizes increased prioritization for students demonstrating significant unmet financial need, potentially leading to a more equitable education landscape. Furthermore, it will introduce regulations pertaining to formula funding, dropped, and repeated course restrictions tailored specifically for these degree programs.

Summary

SB1826 proposes the establishment of the Texas Competency-Based Education Grant Program aimed at supporting students enrolled in competency-based baccalaureate degree programs at certain eligible institutions. This initiative seeks to provide financial assistance to students based on their demonstrated financial need, facilitating increased access to higher education in a flexibility-centered format. The program is designed to aid not only general academic teaching institutions but also private higher education institutions and public junior colleges that meet the criteria outlined in the bill.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise surrounding the allocation of grants and the corresponding impact on already established financial aid programs. As grants under this new initiative are prioritized for those with considerable financial need, it is possible that some stakeholders may express concerns about the fairness of distributing state-funded resources among various educational programs. Moreover, modifying regulations for dropped or repeated courses may lead to extensive discussions among educators and financial aid professionals regarding their implementation and oversight.