Texas House Bill HB2871

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 2/27/23
• Out of House Committee: 4/17/23
• Voted on by House: 4/26/23

Caption

Relating to the establishment by The University of Texas at Austin of a program to promote computer science education capacity in this state.

Impact

The implementation of HB 2871 would lead to substantial changes in how computer science education is approached in Texas. By prioritizing recruitment and professional development for educators, the program could significantly enhance the quality of computer science teaching. Furthermore, the bill aims to address the needs of underserved communities, ensuring that all students have access to robust computer science education. This could potentially lead to an increase in the number of qualified computer science graduates, contributing to the state's workforce in a vital and growing field.

Summary

House Bill 2871 aims to establish a program at The University of Texas at Austin focused on promoting computer science education capacity throughout Texas. The bill addresses the pressing issue of a shortage of computer science teachers in public schools, which has been identified as a significant barrier to providing quality computer science education. By creating this program, the legislature intends to ensure that future educators are adequately prepared and supported in teaching computer science, thereby helping to bridge the existing gap in education availability across the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 2871 is primarily positive, with broad support expressed by both legislators and educational stakeholders. Advocates argue that this initiative is crucial for preparing students for a future that increasingly relies on technology and digital skills. Those in favor view the bill as a logical step towards enhancing educational infrastructure in Texas. However, some concerns were noted regarding the funding and effectiveness of the implementation process, although these do not seem to have significantly dampened overall enthusiasm for the bill.

Contention

While HB 2871 has garnered widespread support, some members of the legislature have raised questions about the logistics of establishing the program and ensuring it meets the diverse needs of students across the state. Notable discussions have centered around how far the program can effectively reach and the adequacy of resources allocated for both recruitment and professional development. Despite these concerns, the general consensus appears to favor the establishment of the program, emphasizing the importance of strong computer science education for the future workforce.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 67. The University Of Texas At Austin
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