Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB235

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

Caption

Relating to a public school campus's election under a campus turnaround plan to operate as a community school.

Impact

The bill stipulates that a school must establish a partnership with a lead organization experienced in managing community schools and create a dedicated school community partnership team. These structures are aimed at promoting collaboration between various stakeholders, including educators, families, and community members. By doing so, the legislation positions schools to develop tailored approaches that meet both academic and non-academic needs, ultimately fostering a more supportive environment for students. Moreover, the bill allows campuses two years to implement these turnaround plans before any closure decisions are made by the commissioner.

Overall

In summary, SB235 reflects a shift towards community involvement in public education reform while addressing performance issues in struggling schools. Its introduction signifies a recognition of the multifaceted challenges that schools face and the need for integrated solutions that go beyond traditional academic metrics. If successful, this legislation could redefine local educational frameworks and improve outcomes for students, though its execution will require careful attention to resource allocation and community engagement.

Summary

SB235 proposes amendments to the Education Code to allow public school campuses to operate under a community school model as part of a campus turnaround plan. This bill is designed to address schools that have been rated unacceptable for performance over a span of five years. It seeks to provide alternative frameworks for these campuses to improve by emphasizing integrated services such as academic, social, and health supports. The legislation permits campuses to coordinate with community partners and engage families more directly in the educational process, thus aiming to eradicate barriers to learning.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB235 include concerns about the adequacy of resources and support necessary for effective implementation of community school strategies. Critics argue that the dependence on local partnerships may lead to disparities in service availability, particularly in underfunded areas. Furthermore, questions arise regarding the method by which stakeholders' consent will be measured—specifically the requirement for 75% approval from both faculty and parents, which may pose challenges in achieving consensus.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

  • Chapter 39. Public School System Accountability
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX HB2195

Identical Relating to a public school campus's election under a campus turnaround plan to operate as a community school.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4812

Relating to permissible accountability interventions for certain school districts with low-performing campuses.

TX HB4058

Relating to the use of opioid antagonists on the campuses of public and private schools and institutions of higher education and at or in transit to or from off-campus school events.

TX HB3735

Relating to the administration of opioid antagonists by a school nurse at public school campuses.

TX HB2891

Relating to the use of glucagon medication on certain public and private school campuses.

TX SB822

Relating to the establishment of a grant program for school districts or open-enrollment charter school campuses that are designated as full-service community schools.

TX SB54

Relating to the establishment of a grant program for school districts or open-enrollment charter school campuses that are designated as full-service community schools.

TX SB15

Relating to the establishment of a grant program for school districts or open-enrollment charter school campuses that are designated as full-service community schools.

TX SB475

Relating to the inclusion of a school safety domain for evaluating districts and campuses under the public school accountability system.

TX HB2106

Relating to the implementation of student and family engagement plans by school districts.

TX HB920

Relating to the use of medication designated for treatment of respiratory distress on public and private school campuses.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.