Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1315

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a computer science strategic advisory committee and a grant program for the professional development and training of computer science classroom teachers.

Impact

The implementation of SB1315 is anticipated to foster a more robust computer science curriculum, potentially leading to an increased number of certified teachers and a broader availability of computer science courses in high schools. This could improve student enrollment in these critical areas, thereby addressing the workforce needs of the state. The grant program outlined in the bill also encourages institutions to develop partnerships with industry professionals, which could enhance the quality and relevance of the training provided to educators. Additionally, the bill mandates the advisory committee to submit periodic reports with recommendations for enhancing computer science education, implying a continuous evaluation and improvement process.

Summary

SB1315 aims to establish a computer science strategic advisory committee alongside a grant program designed for the professional development and training of computer science classroom teachers in Texas. This initiative is particularly focused on enhancing teacher qualifications through certification programs and ongoing professional development in areas such as coding, computational thinking, and cybersecurity. By creating this structure, the bill seeks to strengthen the computer science education framework within public schools, responding to the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the technology sector.

Sentiment

Reactions to SB1315 have been generally positive among education advocates and technology industry representatives who view the bill as a necessary step towards modernizing the education system and aligning it with current job market trends. Supporters emphasize the bill's potential to bridge the skills gap in the technology sector, thereby fostering economic growth. However, some skepticism exists regarding the adequacy of funding and resources to effectively implement the proposed initiatives, as these factors will be critical to their success.

Contention

While SB1315 enjoys a significant degree of support, there is concern about the feasibility of achieving the intended outcomes, particularly regarding the capabilities of existing public school systems to meet the demands of the new programs. Critics may worry that without sufficient support and infrastructure, the goals concerning teacher certification and student enrollment in computer science courses may not be met effectively. Additionally, the bill's reliance on grant funding introduces uncertainties, as ongoing financial resources will be essential for sustaining these educational advancements.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 21. Educators
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 28. Courses Of Study; Advancement
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX HB1569

Identical Relating to the establishment of a computer science strategic advisory committee and a grant program for the professional development and training of computer science classroom teachers.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1569

Relating to the establishment of a computer science strategic advisory committee and a grant program for the professional development and training of computer science classroom teachers.

TX HB4322

Relating to the establishment of a STEM and computer science strategic advisory committee.

TX HB3298

Relating to computer science and technology education, training, and curriculum.

TX SB2180

Relating to the essential knowledge and skills of the technology applications curriculum and the establishment of a computer science strategic advisory committee to increase computer science instruction and participation in public schools.

TX HB2984

Relating to the essential knowledge and skills of the technology applications curriculum and the establishment of a computer science strategic advisory committee to increase computer science instruction and participation in public schools.

TX HB244

Relating to the establishment of a grant program for promoting computer science certification and professional development in coding, technology applications, cybersecurity, and computer science for public school teachers.

TX HB3069

Relating to the establishment of a grant program for promoting computer science certification and professional development in coding, technology applications, and computer science for public school teachers.

TX HB588

Relating to the establishment of a grant program for promoting computer science certification and professional development for public school teachers.

TX HB3816

Relating to the establishment of a grant program for promoting computer science certification and professional development for public school teachers.

TX SF757

Computer science education advancement fund establishment and appropriation

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