Texas Senate Bill SB559

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to teacher certification examinations in bilingual target language proficiency and to certification requirements for teachers in bilingual education.

Impact

Under this bill, the Texas Commissioner of Education is tasked with adopting these satisfactory performance levels by January 1, 2022. Such a stipulation impacts how teacher education programs prepare future educators, as they must ensure candidates meet these new performance standards to be eligible for certification. Furthermore, the bill permits teachers who have been certified in bilingual education prior to 2022 to continue teaching at any grade level, thereby creating a transitional provision for existing educators while the new standards are phased in.

Summary

SB559 primarily addresses teacher certification examinations in bilingual target language proficiency and establishes new certification requirements for educators involved in bilingual education programs. The bill modifies existing sections of the Education Code to specify satisfactory performance levels for bilingual proficiency based on the grade level where the language is to be taught. This is crucial for ensuring that teachers have the necessary language skills to effectively teach in dual-language settings, enhancing overall educational outcomes in bilingual education programs.

Contention

While proponents of SB559 argue that it elevates the quality of bilingual education by setting clear standards, critics may raise concerns about the implications for existing teachers and programs. There could be worries about the readiness of current educators to meet these new requirements or the operation of bilingual programs during the transition period. Additionally, there might be discussions related to the resources and support needed for teachers to improve their language proficiency to meet the certification expectations set forth in the bill.