Texas House Bill HB1462

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 1/19/23

Caption

Relating to a local remote learning program offered by certain school districts or open-enrollment charter schools.

Impact

The bill has implications for how schools handle virtual education, especially regarding funding models. Specifically, it allows for increased accountability by making funding contingent on a student's successful completion of courses in local remote learning programs. This move could enhance the quality of remote education, as schools may be more incentivized to ensure that students not only enroll but also succeed in their studies. The adoption of this bill will benefit educational institutions that adopt remote learning strategies, aligning them more closely with traditional funding structures.

Summary

House Bill 1462 aims to amend provisions related to local remote learning programs offered by school districts and open-enrollment charter schools in Texas. The bill specifies that students enrolled in virtual courses under such programs shall be counted towards a school's average daily attendance, thereby potentially impacting funding. It stipulates that this attendance is to be tracked in a manner defined by the commissioner and outlines the conditions under which funding is provided based on student course completion. The measure is designed to formalize the inclusion of remote learning within the existing educational framework.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 1462 appears to be generally supportive among educational stakeholders who see the potential for improved educational outcomes through better funding structures. However, there may be some concerns regarding the implementation of attendance tracking and the pressure this could place on both students and educators. Supporters argue that it formalizes remote learning in a way that allows for better funding, while critics might express concern over the rigorous standards required to access that funding.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the reliance on successful course completion as a basis for funding. While this could potentially raise educational standards, it may also lead to disparities in support for students who struggle with virtual learning environments. Additionally, there are considerations regarding the adequacy of resources and support available to schools to implement effective remote learning programs. The implementation of this bill could challenge existing practices and prompt a reevaluation of how remote education is integrated into the broader educational landscape.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 29. Educational Programs
  • Section: New Section