Relating to financial incentives for public school teachers who commit to teach a dual credit course.
Impact
If enacted, HB2850 would amend Chapter 61 of the Texas Education Code, adding a new subchapter that delineates the structure and administration of the proposed financial incentive program. It would stipulate eligibility requirements for teachers, including enrollment in a master's degree program and a commitment to teach dual credit courses for a minimum of five years post-graduation. The program would allow the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to establish the amount of financial assistance provided to each participant.
Summary
House Bill 2850 proposes to establish a financial incentive program aimed at supporting public school teachers who commit to teaching dual credit courses. The bill seeks to facilitate teachers’ pursuit of advanced qualifications by offering tuition assistance for obtaining a master's degree required for this educational role. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance the quality of education and expand the availability of dual credit courses available to high school students across Texas.
Contention
While the intention behind HB2850 is to improve educational outcomes by incentivizing teachers to engage in dual credit education, potential points of contention could arise regarding the adequacy of the funding allocated for tuition assistance. Additionally, the program's requirement for teachers to reimburse any received tuition assistance in the event of non-compliance with the teaching commitment could lead to debates about teacher retention and job satisfaction, especially considering state budget constraints and staffing challenges in public education.
Relating to the administration, coordination, and support of public higher education, including the public junior college state finance program and an Advanced Career and Education (ACE) scholarship program for students enrolled in dual credit courses.
Relating to public education and public school finance, including the rights, certification, and compensation of public school educators, contributions by a public school to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas, and an education savings account program for certain children.
Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach special education.
Relating to special education in public schools, including the special education allotment under the Foundation School Program, an education savings account program for certain children with disabilities, and a grant program to reimburse public schools for the cost of certain employer contributions for retirees of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas employed to teach or provide services related to special education.
Relating to methods for the recovery of system restoration costs incurred by electric utilities following hurricanes, tropical storms, ice or snow storms, floods, and other weather-related events and natural disasters.
Relating to methods for the recovery of system restoration costs incurred by electric utilities following hurricanes, tropical storms, ice or snow storms, floods, and other weather-related events and natural disasters.
Relating to the response and resilience of certain electricity service providers to major weather-related events or other natural disasters; granting authority to issue bonds.