Texas 2021 - 87th 2nd C.S.

Texas House Bill HB30

Caption

Relating to virtual instruction and off-campus electronic instruction at a public school, certain requirements for certification as a teacher for virtual instruction only, and the allotment for special-purpose school districts under the Foundation School Program.

Impact

The bill impacts state education laws by explicitly defining local remote learning programs and the conditions under which they may operate, including eligibility criteria for students and structural requirements for these programs. It endorses a hybrid model of instruction—combining synchronous and asynchronous teaching methods—and emphasizes the importance of maintaining student assessment protocols throughout. Furthermore, it introduces new funding considerations for special-purpose school districts, setting the stage for potential performance-based financing models.

Summary

House Bill 30 aims to address the provision of virtual instruction and off-campus electronic courses in public schools in Texas. It introduces specific regulations for teacher certification concerning virtual instruction, allowing candidates to fulfill requirements through internships related to local remote learning programs. Implementing policies for a local remote learning program, the bill allows districts with satisfactory performance ratings to offer virtual courses outside of the existing state virtual school network, thus providing flexibility for educational institutions in adapting to contemporary learning needs and circumstances.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding HB 30 include concerns about the adequacy of oversight for these new virtual programs and the potential disparities in educational quality experienced by students in varying locales and districts. Critics argue that while enhancing versatility in education is vital, it must be balanced with sufficient regulations to safeguard academic integrity and ensure equitable access to quality education across different socioeconomic contexts. Additionally, the expiration clause set for September 1, 2027, raises questions about the long-term sustainability and legislative support for remote learning initiatives in Texas.

Companion Bills

TX SB15

Similar To Relating to virtual and off-campus electronic instruction at a public school, the satisfaction of teacher certification requirements through an internship teaching certain virtual courses, and the allotment for certain special-purpose school districts under the Foundation School Program.

Previously Filed As

TX HB31

Relating to virtual and off-campus electronic instruction at a public school and the allotment for certain special-purpose school districts under the Foundation School Program.

TX SB2565

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.

TX HB681

Relating to the provision of virtual education in public schools and to certain waivers and modifications by the commissioner of education to the method of calculating average daily attendance in an emergency or crisis for purposes of preserving school district funding entitlements under the Foundation School Program during that emergency or crisis; authorizing a fee.

TX SB1861

Relating to the provision of virtual education in public schools and to certain waivers and modifications by the commissioner of education to the method of calculating average daily attendance in an emergency or crisis for purposes of preserving school district funding entitlements under the Foundation School Program during that emergency or crisis; authorizing a fee.

TX HB4317

Relating to the incentive for public schools that provide additional instructional days for certain students and the early education allotment under the Foundation School Program.

TX HB1605

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.

TX HB3141

Relating to the provision of virtual education in public schools and to certain waivers and modifications by the commissioner of education to the method of calculating average daily attendance in an emergency or crisis for purposes of preserving school district funding entitlements under the Foundation School Program during that emergency or crisis; authorizing a fee.

TX SB9

Relating to the rights and certification of public school educators, including financial and other assistance and waivers provided to public schools by the Texas Education Agency related to public school educators, methods of instruction provided in public schools, and certain allotments under the Foundation School Program.

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.

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