Relating to a school district's purchase of instructional materials using funds allotted under the instructional materials and technology allotment.
Impact
The amendment made by HB 1444 broadens the scope of how school districts can allocate their allotted funds under the educational budget. By allowing expenditures on technological infrastructure necessary for internet connectivity and effectiveness of instructional materials, it aims to improve the overall learning experience. The bill applies starting from the 2025-2026 school year, establishing a timeline for districts to adapt their budgets and spending practices accordingly.
Summary
House Bill 1444 modifies the provisions regarding the purchase of instructional materials by school districts in Texas. The bill allows school districts to utilize funds allocated under the instructional materials and technology allotment for a broader range of purchases. This includes not only traditional instructional materials but also consumable materials, technological equipment, and resources necessary for distance learning, as well as software for inventory management. The intent is to enhance educational resources available to students and educators.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise regarding the increased flexibility for school districts to spend on various materials and technologies. While proponents argue that this bill promotes more effective use of funds by addressing specific educational needs and technological advancements, opponents might raise concerns over the management of those funds and the risk of unequal access to resources across districts. The ability of districts to leverage these funds for diverse expenditures could lead to disparities in educational quality, particularly in underfunded districts.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Education Code
Chapter 31. Instructional Materials And Technology
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.
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.
Relating to the acceptable uses of the instructional materials and technology fund and the review of certain instructional materials by the State Board of Education.
Relating to a parent-directed supplemental services and instructional materials program for public school students; establishing an allotment under the Foundation School Program; authorizing a fee.
Relating to parental access to records regarding library materials checked out from public school libraries and instructional materials used in public schools.
Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools.
Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools.
Relating to the instructional materials and technology allotment, open education resource instructional materials, and the State Board of Education long-range technology plan.
Relating to the instructional materials and technology allotment, open education resource instructional materials, and the State Board of Education long-range technology plan.
Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools; providing penalties.