If Texas’ less-than-theatrical 83rd legislative session is remembered at all, it will be known for accords, not discord. Here’s a look at top storylines from this session and what they could portend for the future.
Dan Patrick
Posted in
Public Education
A Possible Deal on Testing, Charter School Bills
After two days of deliberations that culminated Thursday evening with a closed-door meeting with Capitol lobbyists and staff from the governor’s office, it appears leaders in the House and Senate have reached a deal on two high-priority education bills.
Posted in
Public Education
Clock is Ticking as Lawmakers Work on Key Details of Education Bills
The next four days will probably be the most critical period in determining the fate of the session’s major education bills, which address standardized testing and curriculum requirements, as well as charter school expansion.
Posted in
Public Education
CSCOPE to No Longer Offer Lesson Plans to Texas Schools
Senate Education Chairman Dan Patrick announced on Monday that CSCOPE, the state’s curriculum delivery system, would no longer offer lesson plans to Texas school districts.
Posted in
Public Education
Texas House Backs Bill Expanding Charter Schools
UPDATED: A measure targeting a Turkish charter school network was added to major legislation from Senate Education Chairman Dan Patrick that would increase the number of publicly funded, privately operated schools as it passed the Texas House on Thursday, 105-34.
Posted in
Public Education
In Education Reform Debate, One Group Standing Out This Session
Raise Your Hand Texas has been a key player this session, impacting bills like Sen. Dan Patrick’s charter school legislation. The advocacy organization’s influence in policy negotiations has won it both respect and exasperation in education circles.
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Public Education
Senate’s High School Graduation Measure Differs From House Plan
The Senate version of House Bill 5, which it approved Monday, still allows students to complete diplomas in specialized areas, or “endorsements.” But it changes the courses required to graduate under those endorsements.
Posted in
Criminal Justice
AG: Domestic Partner Benefits Violate Texas Constitution
The Texas Constitution prohibits government entities from recognizing domestic partnerships and offering those couples insurance benefits, Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott wrote in an opinion on Monday.
Posted in
State Government
The Love-Hate Relationship With Transparency
One Texan’s transparency is another’s right to privacy, and people in politics generally find it easier to demand openness than to provide it.
Posted in
Public Education
Despite Concerns, TEA Moving Forward on A-F School Ratings Plan
Against the recommendation of school leaders and amid skepticism from some lawmakers, the Texas Education Agency will continue working toward a transition to a public school accountability ratings system with grades of A through F.
