PATHS to Tutor Act of 2023 Partnering Aspiring Teachers with High-need Schools to Tutor Act of 2023
Impact
If enacted, SB2428 would significantly influence the educational landscape by prioritizing tutoring support in hard-to-staff and high-need schools, which often face high teacher turnover. It mandates that funds be used to supplement existing educational resources rather than replace them. Priority is given to local consortia that involve postsecondary students in educator preparation programs, particularly from historically Black colleges and universities and minority-serving institutions. The bill emphasizes research-based practices that account for social-emotional learning and cultural responsiveness, thus promoting not only academic success but also the overall well-being of students.
Summary
SB2428, known as the 'Partnering Aspiring Teachers with High-need Schools to Tutor Act of 2023', aims to establish a federal grant program to support partnerships among teacher preparation programs, local educational agencies, and community-based organizations. Its primary focus is to enhance access to high-quality tutoring in schools that struggle with staffing and serve high-needs populations. The bill designates approximately $500 million in funding to directly support tutoring efforts in these schools, emphasizing the importance of well-structured educational support to foster student learning.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding SB2428 may arise regarding the allocation of funds and the effectiveness of community partnerships in educational settings. Critics might argue about the potential inefficiencies in administering such a large grant program and question the capacity of local organizations to implement high-quality tutoring effectively. There is also debate over whether increasing the number of tutors will equate to improved student outcomes, and whether existing teacher staff may feel threatened by the influx of tutoring personnel in schools. The accountability measures in place for the grant usage will also be a focal point of discussion.
Relating to providing high-quality tutoring services to public school students, including the creation of the Texas Tutor Corps program, and the use of the compensatory education allotment for certain tutoring services programs.
Relating to providing high-quality tutoring services to public school students, including the creation of the Texas Tutor Corps program, the establishment of a COVID-19 learning loss and student acceleration pilot program, and the use of the compensatory education allotment for tutoring services programs.