Senate Committees announced, 1/30/09

Texas Senate Committee appointments have been made. You can find out who will serve on all the Texas Senate Committees here.

Of particular interest to early education advocates, the Senate Education Committee appointments are as follows:

Senator Florence Shapiro (Chair)
Senator Dan Patrick (Vice Chair)
Senator Kip Averitt
Senator Wendy Davis
Senator Mario Gallegos Jr.
Senator Steve Ogden
Senator Leticia Van de Putte
Senator Royce West
Senator Tommy Williams

HB 130, TECEC PRIORITY BILL, relating to full-day high quality pre-k programs, Co-authors added 1/29/09

Co-authors added to HB 130!

The following Representatives have been added as Co-author's of HB 130:

Rep. Dwayne Bohac
Rep. Lon Burnam
Rep. Veronica Gonzales
Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer
Rep. Paula Pierson
Rep. Inocente Quintanilla
Rep. Patrick Rose
Rep. Michael Villarreal
Rep. Armando Walle


HB 130 is a TECEC PRIORITY BILL: Take Action on this important Legislation

HB 130, authored by Representative Patrick, amends the Texas Education Code and 1) authorizes the operation of half and/or full day prekindergarten program, and 2) establishes criteria for class sizes, staffing, and curriculum, and, 3) authorizes the formation of partnerships between school districts and community providers to provide a percentage of the services offered by the expanded pre K program and establishes exceptions to the community partnerships, and 4) defines criteria for eligibility of community partners, and 5) requires a written contractual agreement between the school district and community providers, and 6) delineates criteria for minimum funding for community providers, and 7) establishes annual reporting standards, and 8) establishes duties of the commissioner and authorizes the commissioner to adopt rules needed to implement the program, and 9) delineates restrictions of funding for the program, and 10) establishes a funded requirement for an annual evaluation of the enhanced pre K program. This bill also amends the Texas Education Code authorizing eligibility of enhanced pre K students for school funding and establishing criteria for calculating funding for eligible students. Companion to SB 21 introduced by Zaffirini, et al.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00130I.htm

HB 130, TECEC PRIORITY BILL, relating to full-day high quality pre-k programs, Joint Authors secured 1/27/09

*repost*
HB 130, TECEC PRIORITY BILL, relating to full-day high quality pre-k programs, Joint Authors secured 1/27/09

The following Representatives have been added as Joint Authors of House Bill 130:

Representative Rob Eissler
Representative Rafael Anchia
Representative Jim Pitts
Representative Senfronia Thompson

HB 130 is a TECEC PRIORITY BILL: Take Action on this important Legislation

HB 130, authored by Representative Patrick, amends the Texas Education Code and 1) authorizes the operation of half and/or full day prekindergarten program, and 2) establishes criteria for class sizes, staffing, and curriculum, and, 3) authorizes the formation of partnerships between school districts and community providers to provide a percentage of the services offered by the expanded pre K program and establishes exceptions to the community partnerships, and 4) defines criteria for eligibility of community partners, and 5) requires a written contractual agreement between the school district and community providers, and 6) delineates criteria for minimum funding for community providers, and 7) establishes annual reporting standards, and 8) establishes duties of the commissioner and authorizes the commissioner to adopt rules needed to implement the program, and 9) delineates restrictions of funding for the program, and 10) establishes a funded requirement for an annual evaluation of the enhanced pre K program. This bill also amends the Texas Education Code authorizing eligibility of enhanced pre K students for school funding and establishing criteria for calculating funding for eligible students. Companion to SB 21 introduced by Zaffirini, et al.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00130I.htm

SB 453, relating to ... grants to fund programs for...students assigned to disciplinary alternative education programs or...suspension, filed 1/12/09

SB 453, authored by Senator Royce West, amends the Texas Education Code to add Section 37.0083 authorizing the commissioner to award grants to school districts for prevention programs targeting high risk students. This section defines criteria for seeking and use of the funding by the districts.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00453I.htm

SB 451, related to staff development requirements in public schools, filed 1/9/09

HB 451, authored by Senator Leticia Van de Putte, amends the Texas Education Code adding sections modifying existing training criteria and adding sections related to school district training requirements related to issues of conflict resolution and discipline of students with disabilities and targeting educators who work outside of the area of Special Education. Companion to HB 511 by Patrick.

Full Text: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00451I.htm

HB 716, relating to a school choice program for certain students with disabilities, filled 1/22/09

HB 716, authored by Representative Debbie Riddle, amends the Texas Education Code the creation of a scholarship program for students with disabilities. Funding is authorized under Texas Education Code Section 42.151. , HB 716 establishes student eligibility, criteria for school qualification, admissions for students, disbursement procedures, and school accountability.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00716I.htm

HB 635, relating to the authority of the TEA to seek, accept, and distribute grants... for...public elementary and secondary education, filed 1/14/09

HB 635, authored by, Representative Ryan Guillen, amends the Texas Education Code and authorizes the Texas Education Agency to seek funding from a wide range of sources. Further, the commissioner may determine that Head Start programs serve the function of a public elementary school and is therefore similarly eligible to receive seek funding from these sources.

Full Text: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00620I.htm

HB 620, relating to behavioral health services for children and establishment of the Children's Behavioral Health Council, filed 1/14/09

HB 620, authored by Representative John Davis amends the Texas Government Code and recognizes the Children's Behavioral Health Council established under Section 531.425 as the governing body for the Texas Integrated Funding Initiative. Further this bill identifies the duties of this Council.


Full Text: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00620I.htm

HB 615...the right of... a parent of a child... in spec. ed. to take time off... to meet w/...persons affecting the education of the child, filed 1/14

HB 615, relating to the right of an employee who is a parent of a child enrolled in a special education program to time off from work to meet with certain persons affecting the education of the child.

HB 615, authored by Representative Sylvester Turner, amends the Texas Labor Code to establish the rights of a parent guaranteeing leave time when meeting with persons involved in the care and education of a child enrolled in a special education program.

Full Text: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00615I.htm

HB 601, Relating to licensing requirements of DFPS for certain facilities and homes providing child care, filed 1/14/2009

HB 601, Relating to licensing requirements of DFPS for certain facilities and homes providing child care, filed 1/14/2009

HB 601, authored by Representative Michael Villarreal, amends the Texas Human Resources Code adding a definition of before and after school program for children in prekindergarten to sixth grade to the code governing licensing requirements and standards.

Full Text: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00601I.htm

HB 540, relating to bullying as a ground for removing a..student from class and..for... a disciplinary alternative education program, filed 1/12/09

HB 540, authored by Representative Raymond amends the Texas Education Code by adding subsection (p) to Section 37.006 establishing the criteria for removal of a student to a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program for bullying incidents that occur on campus or at school sanctioned activities.

Full Text: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00540I.htm

HB 511, relating to staff development requirements in public schools, filed 1/8/09

HB 511, authored by Representative Diane Patrick, amends the Texas Education Code adding sections modifying existing training criteria and adding sections related to school district training requirements related to issues of conflict resolution and discipline of students with disabilities and targeting educators who work outside of the area of Special Education. Companion to SB 451 by Van de Putte.


Full Text: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00511I.htm

HB 504, ....an offense for a parent's contribution to a child's failure to comply w/ a ... court order on a... disruption of class, filed 1/07/09

HB 504, authored by Representative Lois Kolkorst amends the Texas Education Code to add Section 37.127 creates and describes the criteria for an offense holding the parents of a child accountable for failure to comply with sentencing or court orders related to criminal behaviors by their minor child defined under TEC Sections 37.123, 37.124, and 37.126.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00504I.htm

HB 484, relating to reports of incidents of bulling at public schools and public school activities, filled 1/06/09

HB 484, authored by Representative Veronica Gonzales, amends the Texas Education Code adding section 37.083 establishing mandatory reporting requirements four school districts related to the incidence of bullying activities on school property or at school related activities.

Full Text: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00484I.htm

SB 382, Relating to a competitive grant program to fund promotion of early literacy programs in certain communities..., Co-authored added 1/26/09

Senator Carlos I. Uresti has recently been added as a Co-author of SB 382.

SB 382, authored by Senator Van de Putte, et al amends the Texas Education Code and establishes a competitive grant program administered by the University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston to promote and implement across the state the Reach Out and Read Literacy Program. Further, this bill establishes criteria for awards and reporting requirements by the Health Sciences Center. Companion to HB 429 by King.

HB 130, TECEC PRIORITY BILL, relating to full-day high quality pre-k programs, Joint Authors secured 1/27/09

HB 130, TECEC PRIORITY BILL, relating to full-day high quality pre-k programs, Joint Authors secured 1/27/09

The following Representatives have been added as Joint Authors of House Bill 130:

Representative Rob Eissler
Representative Rafael Anchia
Representative Jim Pitts
Representative Senfronia Thompson

HB 130 is a TECEC PRIORITY BILL: Take Action on this important Legislation

HB 130, authored by Representative Patrick, amends the Texas Education Code and 1) authorizes the operation of half and/or full day prekindergarten program, and 2) establishes criteria for class sizes, staffing, and curriculum, and, 3) authorizes the formation of partnerships between school districts and community providers to provide a percentage of the services offered by the expanded pre K program and establishes exceptions to the community partnerships, and 4) defines criteria for eligibility of community partners, and 5) requires a written contractual agreement between the school district and community providers, and 6) delineates criteria for minimum funding for community providers, and 7) establishes annual reporting standards, and 8) establishes duties of the commissioner and authorizes the commissioner to adopt rules needed to implement the program, and 9) delineates restrictions of funding for the program, and 10) establishes a funded requirement for an annual evaluation of the enhanced pre K program. This bill also amends the Texas Education Code authorizing eligibility of enhanced pre K students for school funding and establishing criteria for calculating funding for eligible students. Companion to SB 21 introduced by Zaffirini, et al.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00130I.htm

Volunteer for Pre-k Day at the Capitol February 17, 2009

Volunteer for Pre-k Day at the Capitol February 17, 2009. TECEC needs your help to make this year's Pre-k Day as effective as possible. We need volunteers to help us with everything from media outreach to photography. Volunteer shifts last only three hours. If you plan to attend Pre-k Day and would like to volunteer please visit our volunteer registration page.

SB 21, TECEC PRIORITY BILL, relating to full-day high-quality pre-k programs,Co-authors added, 1/27/09

Senator Kirk Watson and Senator Jeff Wentworth have recently signed on as Co-authors of Senate Bill 21.

SB 21 is a TECEC PRIORITY BILL: Take action to support this important legislation

SB 21, authored by Senator Zaffirini et al, amends the Texas Education Code and 1) authorizes the operation of half and/or full day prekindergarten program, and 2) establishes criteria for class sizes, staffing, and curriculum, and, 3) authorizes the formation of partnerships between school districts and community providers to provide a percentage of the services offered by the expanded pre K program and establishes exceptions to the community partnerships, and 4) defines criteria for eligibility of community partners, and 5) requires a written contractual agreement between the school district and community providers, and 6) delineates criteria for minimum funding for community providers, and 7) establishes annual reporting standards, and 8) establishes duties of the commissioner and authorizes the commissioner to adopt rules needed to implement the program, and 9) delineates restrictions of funding for the program, and 10) establishes a funded requirement for an annual evaluation of the enhanced pre K program. This bill also amends the Texas Education Code authorizing eligibility of enhanced pre K students for school funding and establishing criteria for calculating funding for eligible students. The Companion bill to this bill is HB 130, authored by Representative Diane Patrick.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00021I.htm

SB 21, TECEC PRIORITY BILL, relating to full-day high-quality pre-k programs, filed 11/10/08

TECEC PRIORITY BILL: Take action to support this important legislation

SB 21, authored by Senator Zaffirini et al, amends the Texas Education Code and 1) authorizes the operation of half and/or full day prekindergarten program, and 2) establishes criteria for class sizes, staffing, and curriculum, and, 3) authorizes the formation of partnerships between school districts and community providers to provide a percentage of the services offered by the expanded pre K program and establishes exceptions to the community partnerships, and 4) defines criteria for eligibility of community partners, and 5) requires a written contractual agreement between the school district and community providers, and 6) delineates criteria for minimum funding for community providers, and 7) establishes annual reporting standards, and 8) establishes duties of the commissioner and authorizes the commissioner to adopt rules needed to implement the program, and 9) delineates restrictions of funding for the program, and 10) establishes a funded requirement for an annual evaluation of the enhanced pre K program. This bill also amends the Texas Education Code authorizing eligibility of enhanced pre K students for school funding and establishing criteria for calculating funding for eligible students. The Companion bill to this bill is HB 130, authored by Representative Diane Patrick.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00021I.htm

SB 49, relating to certain requirements applicable to the State Center for Early Childhood Development, filed 11/10/08

SB 49, authored by Senator Zaffirini, amends the Texas Education Code and establishes criteria for administrative and financial oversight of the State Center for Early Childhood Development.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00049I.htm

SB 59, relating to training for employees and operators of certain child care facilities, filed 11/10/08

SB 59, authored by Senator Zaffirini, amends the Human Resources Code and establishes standards for credentialing of trainers for employees and operators of child care facilities.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00059I.htm

SB 67 relating to background checks for operators & employees of...facilities…serving children, elderly, or persons who are disabled, filled 11/10/08

SB 67, authored Senator Nelson amends the Human Resources Code regarding requirements for background checks, including fingerprinting, for child care facilities and child placing agencies. Further, the bill amends the Government Code regarding access to criminal history record information by the Department of Aging and Disability Services.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00067I.htm

SB 68, relating to licensing and inspection requirements of the DFPS for... facilities and homes providing child care..., filed 11/10/08

SB 68, authored by Senator Nelson, amends the Texas Human Resources Code regarding criteria for definitions of child care facilities, licensure, exemptions to licensure, minimum standards, inspections, investigations, and revocations.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00068I.htm

SB 81, relating to certain providers of subsidized child care, filed 11/10/08

SB 81, authored by Senator Nelson, amends the Texas Labor Code related to unregulated self arranged child care services and includes definitions, criteria for background investigations, reimbursements, and record keeping. In addition, SB 81 amends the Texas Government Code to authorize TDPS to maintain criminal history records of unregulated self arranged child care providers.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00081I.htm

SB 90, relating to adoption of the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, filed 11/10/2008

SB 90, authored by Senator Van de Putte, amends the Texas Education Code to adopt the provisions of the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children related to enrollment in and removal from school settings, record transfers and protection of students in military families. Companion to HB 174 introduced by King.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00090I.htm

SB 100, relating to professional development..for...teachers and paraprofessionals regarding education of students with disabilities, filed 11/10/08

SB 100, authored by Senator Lucio et al amends the Texas Education Code and authorizes the establishment of a Professional Development Institute for the Education of Students with Disabilities.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00100I.htm

SB 122, relating to the availability of free prekindergarten programs in public schools, filed 11/10/08

SB 122, authored by Senator Ellis, amends the Texas Education Code related to eligibility for enrollment/reenrollment of students and reporting of demographic information to the Public Education Information Management System (PEIMS).

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00122I.htm

SB 156, relating to limits on the size of prekindergarten classes in public schools, filed 11/10/08

SB 156, authored by Senator Ellis, amends the Texas Education Code establishing limits on pre- Kindergarten class sizes at 18 children per classroom.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00156I.htm

SB 183, relating to a school choice program for certain students with disabilities, filed 11/10/08

SB 183, authored by Senator Williams, amends the Texas Education Code and establishes the School Choice Program for Students with Disabilities establishing criteria for selecting schools, funding, assessment of student progress and qualification of participating schools.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00183I.htm

SB 186, Relating to eligible recipients of certain grants awarded by the commissioner of education, filed 11/10/08

SB 186, authored by Senator Watson, amends the Texas Education Code restricting the authority of the Commissioner to award grants for educational programs.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00186I.htm

SB 196, Relating to an allotment under the foundation school program for certain students who are military dependents, referred to Committee, 2/10/09

SB 196 has been referred to the Senate Sub Committee on Base Realign Closure.

SB 196, authored by Senator Shapleigh, amends the Texas Education Code and authorizes an additional funding allotment to school districts for students who are military dependents.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00196I.htm

SB 199, relating to providing training in personal financial literacy instruction for public school teachers, filed 11/10/08

SB 199, authored by Senator Shapleigh amends the Texas Education Code authorizing regional education service centers to offer instruction for personal financial literacy as a core service for purchase by districts and campuses.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00199I.htm

SB 205, Relating to the Texas Partnership for Children in Nature, filed 11/10/08

SB 205, authored by Senator Shapleigh, amends the Texas Education Code to establish the Texas Partnership for Children in Nature with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00205I.htm

SB 270, Relating to the reporting of income-producing contracts or programs entered into or operated by school districts, filed 11/12/08

SB 270, authored by Senator Harris, amends the Texas Education Code and defines the criteria for reporting of income produced through contracts or programs for local school districts.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00270I.htm

SB 300, Relating to eliminating certain mandates on school districts, filed 11/17/2008

SB 300, authored by Senator Dan Patrick, amends the Texas Education Code related to class size, safety drills, and energy consumption.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00300I.htm

SB 308, Relating to the number of charters the State Board of Education may grant for open-enrollment charter schools, filed 11/20/2008

SB 308, authored by Senator Dan Patrick, amends the Texas Education Code related to the number of charters granted by the State Board of Education for open enrollment charter schools.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00308I.htm

SB 382, Relating to a competitive grant program to fund promotion of early literacy programs in certain communities in this state, filed 12/18/08

SB 382, authored by Senator Van de Putte, et al amends the Texas Education Code and establishes a competitive grant program administered by the University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston to promote and implement across the state the Reach Out and Read Literacy Program. Further, this bill establishes criteria for awards and reporting requirements by the Health Sciences Center. Companion to HB 429 by King.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00382I.htm

SB 395, Relating to the creation of the Early Childhood Health and Nutrition Interagency Council, filed 01/05/2009

SB 395, authored by Senator Lucio, amends the Texas Health & Safety Code and authorizes the Department of Agriculture to establish the Early Childhood Health & Nutrition Interagency Council. The Bill authorizes the Council to conduct research on early childhood nutrition and physical activity and develop an early childhood nutrition and activity plan for implementation

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/SB00395I.htm

HB 18, the creation of an anti-bullying hotline, filed 11/10/2008

HB 18, authored by Representative Leibowitz, amends the Texas Human Resources Code to authorize the expansion of the Texas Abuse/Neglect Hotline to include a system for reporting incidents of bullying against primary and secondary school students, initiatives to raise awareness of students and others about bullying, procedures for reporting to school officials and law enforcement (when appropriate).

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00018I.htm

HB 41, relating to the creation of a public education voucher program for certain children, filed 11/10/2008

HB 41, authored by Representative Corte amends the Texas Education Code to authorize the creation of a pilot program public school voucher system for educationally disadvantaged students, the largest districts in the state, pre K, K, 1st grade students. Establishes specific criteria for testing and residency, school accreditation, enrollment/exclusion criteria, tuition and fees and evaluation of the program.

Full Text:
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00041I.htm

HB 53, relating to the equalized wealth level and the guaranteed yield under the school finance system, filed 11/10/2008

HB 53, authored by Representative Branch, modifies the Texas Education Code to establish limits on spending per student and describes calculations for per student funding.

Full Text:
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00053

HB 54, relating to the information required to be provided in or with an ad valorem tax bill for school district taxes, filed 11/10/2008

HB 54, authored by Representative Branch, amends the Texas Tax Code and mandating school districts that exceed the maximum spending limits must notify property owners of the funding disbursement that will be used to equalize spending for education

Full Text:
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00054I.htm

HB 85, relating to the salary paid to certain professional employees of public schools, filed 11/10/2008

HB 85, authored by Representative "Mando" Martinez, amends the Texas Education Code to adjust guidelines that reflect salary changes applicable to the 2009-2010 school year. The bill also establishes criteria for calculating state aid totals and the impact of equalized wealth levels.

Full Text:
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00085I.htm

HB 86, relating to the salary paid to certain professional employees of public schools, filed 11/10/2008

HB 86, authored by Representative "Mando" Martinez, amends the Texas Education Code and authorizes the Commissioner to establish salary scale for professional staff. The bill also establishes criteria for calculating state aid totals and the impact of equalized wealth levels.

Full Text:
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00086I.htm

HB 88, related to the use of revenue from a tax increment fund to acquire, construct, or reconstruct educational facilities, filed 11/10/2008

HB 88, authored by Representative "Mando" Martinez, amends the Texas Tax Code authorizing bodies of government to engage in activities related to the construction of educational facilities. Further, the bill authorizes use of tax revenues from reinvestment zones where educational facilities are located.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00088I.htm

HB 106, related to a minimum salary schedule for certain professional public school employees with more than 20 years of experience, filed 11/10/2008

HB 106, authored by Representative Phillips, amends the Texas Education Code authorizing criteria for calculating salaries to veteran education staff members with more than 20 years of service. The bill also establishes criteria for calculating state aid totals.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00106I.htm

HB 130, TECEC PRIORITY BILL, relating to full-day high quality pre-k programs, filed 11/10/2008

HB 130, authored by Representative Patrick, amends the Texas Education Code and 1) authorizes the operation of half and/or full day prekindergarten program, and 2) establishes criteria for class sizes, staffing, and curriculum, and, 3) authorizes the formation of partnerships between school districts and community providers to provide a percentage of the services offered by the expanded pre K program and establishes exceptions to the community partnerships, and 4) defines criteria for eligibility of community partners, and 5) requires a written contractual agreement between the school district and community providers, and 6) delineates criteria for minimum funding for community providers, and 7) establishes annual reporting standards, and 8) establishes duties of the commissioner and authorizes the commissioner to adopt rules needed to implement the program, and 9) delineates restrictions of funding for the program, and 10) establishes a funded requirement for an annual evaluation of the enhanced pre K program. This bill also amends the Texas Education Code authorizing eligibility of enhanced pre K students for school funding and establishing criteria for calculating funding for eligible students. Companion to SB 21 introduced by Zaffirini, et al.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00130I.htm

Let's start off the 81st Texas Legislative Session getting the word out early to our elected officials about the importance of high-quality early education in Texas. Our coalition's #1 priority this session is to support full-day high-quality pre-k programs with an emphasis on local, integrated community-based partnerships. Thankfully Senator Judith Zaffirini and Representative Diane Patrick pre-filed Senate Bill 21 and House Bill 130, identical companion bills which would provide state formula funding to allow districts to voluntarily expand pre-k programs to a full-day for currently eligible four-year-old children.

What's more, the bills would require districts to implement the following quality standards: class size limits, staff-to-child ratios, approved curriculum, and school readiness components. These bills would benefit all sectors of the early childhood education landscape in Texas, should they become law because the legislation requires a certain percentage of partnerships between school districts and Head Start or child care programs.

We urge all of our partners to get behind this bi-partisan legislative effort to increase the quality of pre-k in Texas. Please take this opportunity to send your Legislator an email, asking him or her to support Senate Bill 21 and House Bill 130.

HB 136, relating to providing notification to parents of eligible children of the availability of prekindergarten classes, filed 11/10/2008

HB 136, authored by Representative Villareal, amends the Texas Education Code and authorizes the development of strategies to increase awareness of the availability of pre K programs. Further, the bill establishes district reporting requirements that describing the efforts to raise community awareness to the programs. Finally, the bill authorizes a study to establish the effectiveness of the public awareness campaign with a final report due to leaders of the Texas State Legislature and the Lt. Governor for Texas.

Full Text:
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00136I.htm

HB 151, relating to a notification requirement if a nurse is not assigned to a public school campus, filed 11/10/2008

HB 151, authored by Representative Coleman, amends the Texas Education Code and establishes parental notification requirements and standards for public school facilities who are without full time school nursing services in excess of 30 consecutive education days.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00151I.htm

HB 153, relating to the promotion of students to certain grade levels in public schools, filed 11/10/2008

HB 153, authored by Representative Olivio, amends the Texas Education Code and establishes procedures for testing, remedial training, assessment and reporting to parents of 3rd, 5th and 8th grade students who fail to perform satisfactorily on assessment instruments specified by the Texas Education Code. The bill also authorizes formation of committees to independently evaluate the students readiness for promotion with authority to promote despite failures to satisfactorily perform on the assessment instruments.

Full Text:
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00153I.htm

HB 159, relating to unstructured activity requirements for public elementary school students, filed 11/10/2008

HB 159, authored by Representative Deshotel, amends the Texas Education Code and establishes a minimum daily requirement for unstructured play activities by elementary school students.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00159I.htm

HB 160, relating to the creation and administration of a community based at risk youth program, filed 11/10/2008

HB 160, authored by Representative Deshotels, amends the Texas Education Code authorizes the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to create the Education and Self Sufficiency Program.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00160I.htm

HB 171, relating to consideration of mitigating factors in determining the disciplinary action to be taken against a student, filed 11/12/2008

HB 171, authored by Representative Olivo, amends the Texas Education Code Section 37.001 (a) (4) to specifically state that mitigating factors will be considered when suspension, expulsion or assignment to alternative school campus is warranted for violations of the student code of conduct.

Full Text:
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00171I.htm

HB 172, relating to the prompt notice of a parent of a public school student of disciplinary action taken against the student, filed 11/12/2008

HB 172, authored by Representative Olivio, amends the Texas Education Code establishing procedures for notification of parents regarding disciplinary actions against a student.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00172I.htm

HB 174, relating to adoption of the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children, filed 11/12/2008

HB 174, authored by Representative Susan King, amends the Texas Education Code and authorizes adoption of the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children which defines criteria for transfer of children of active military personnel between educational institutions and minimizes the disruption experienced by frequent moves between military assignments. Companion to SB 90 introduced by Van de Putte et al.

Full Text:
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00174I.htm

HB 188, relating to the rights of children and the education of parents regarding their duties as parents, filed 11/12/2008

HB 188, authored by Representative Alonzo, amends the Texas Family Code to add a Children's Bill of Rights and implement a statewide public awareness campaign about children's rights. In addition, the bill amends the Texas Education Code and authorizes junior college districts to develop a family education center and appropriate curriculum addressing issues related to family health and stability.

Full Text:
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00188I.htm

HB 201, relating to state financial assistance to school districts that make contributions for social security coverage, filed 11/12/2008

HB 201, authored by Representative Dukes, amends the Government Code continuing school district contributions to the Social Security system for employees enrolled before January 1, 2009.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00201I.htm

HB 202, relating to the guaranteed benefits of a public school educator, filed 11/12/2008

HB 202, authored by Representative Dukes, amends the Texas Education Code to guarantee educator benefits and prevent administrative sanctions against educators who assert their rights to the benefits.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00202I.htm

HB 262, relating to information regarding the citizenship status of students, filed 11/17/2008

HB 262, authored by Representative Berman, amends the Texas Education Code and authorizes the State Board of education to implement a program documenting the nationality of each newly enrolled student, collect and analyze data from the enrollment process and submit an annual report that details the results of the analysis to the Board of Education.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00262I.htm

HB 307, relating to Saturday classes for elementary school students who fail to pass certain assessment instruments, filed 11/19/2008

HB 307, authored by Representative Dutton, amends the Texas Education Code to authorize Saturday classes for elementary school students who fail to perform satisfactorily on assessment instruments. The bill authorizes funding for school districts that offer the Saturday class schedule.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00307I.htm

HB 315, relating to the instruction of American Sign Language in public high schools, filed 11/20/2008

HB 315, authored by Representative Raymond, amends the Texas Education Code to offer sign language as an elective course for public school students.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00315I.htm

HB 316, relating to mandatory kindergarten attendance in public schools, filed 11/20/2008

HB 316, authored by Representative Raymond, amends the Texas Education Code to mandate school attendance for any child over 5 years of age and under 18 years of age or previously enrolled in a pre K or Kindergarten program.

Full Text:
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00316I.htm

HB 326, relating to limits on the size of prekindergarten classes in public schools, filed 11/20/2008

HB 326, authored by Representative Raymond, amends the Texas Education Code and authorizes class sizes at 18 students for pre K programs.

Full Text:
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00326I.htm

HB 327, relating to a grant program for after-school child-care programs provided by school districts, filed 11/20/2008

HB 327, authored by Representative Raymond, amends the Texas Education Code authorizing the commissioner to make grants to school districts for after school programs with an emphasis on counties with a majority population of "low income" residents.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00327I.htm

HB 329, relating to the level of funds for the instructional facilities allotment and the debt allotment in public school finance, filed 11/21/2008

HB 329, authored by Representative Pierson, amends the Texas Education Code relating to the formulas for calculating the instructional facilities allotment and the debt allotment under the public school finance system.

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00329I.htm

HB 368, relating to site-based public school discipline policy committees, filed 12/03/2008

HB 368, authored by Representative Anderson, amends the Texas Education Code authorizing the establishment of site based school discipline policy committees on individual campuses.

Full Text:
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00368I.htm

HB 415, relating to the regulation of employer-based day-care, filed 12/15/2008

HB 415, authored by Representative Villareal, amends the Texas Human Resources Code and changes the criteria defining "small employer".

Full Text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00415I.htm

HB 429, relating to a competitive grant program to fund promotion of early literacy programs in certain communities in this state, filed 12/18/2008

HB 429, authored by Representative Susan King, amends the Texas Education Code and establishes a competitive grant program administered by the University of Texas Health Sciences Center at Houston to promote and implement across the state the Reach Out and Read Literacy Program. Further, this bill establishes criteria for awards and reporting requirements by the Health Sciences Center. Companion to SB 382 by Van de Putte and Zaffirini.

Full text: http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/81R/billtext/html/HB00429I.htm

2008 Pre-k Satellite Conference Archive Available

On December 10, 2008 , the annual Pre-k Now National Satellite Conference took place from 12:00 noon – 3:00 PM. The broadcast,“Breaking Down Barriers to Quality Pre-K,” was hosted by Ray Suarez of the PBS News Hour.

The Texas Early Childhood Education Coalition (TECEC) and United Ways of Texas (UWT) joined the signal to host the Texas-Specific Pre-k Conference to discuss the Texas pre-k landscape and to present the TECEC Legislative Agenda to all of our important advocates. We were thrilled to be joined by Former Lt. Governor and Chair of Raise Your Hand Texas, Bill Ratliff, Senator Judith Zaffirini and Senator Leticia Van de Putte. Even more, Representative Diane Patrick joined the conference via phone, as well.

The entire Satellite Conference, including the Texas-specific portion is now available online.

The 2008 Pre-K Now National Satellite Conference brought thousands of local advocates and leaders from all across the country together for a discussion on the importance of early childhood education. Both the national broacast and the Texas-specific broadcast were great successes! This year Texas lead the country with 37 viewing sites!

Support Full-Day Pre-K Programs: Take Action!

TECEC believes 2009 will be a powerful year for high-quality early education. Our expectations rest on the confidence that you will stand up with us in support of young children in Texas. Because so much is on the line, it is essential that we come together as a coalition in a united front.

TAKE ACTION NOW! Support Crucial Pre-K Legislation Senate Bill 21 and House Bill 130 are needed to strengthen the quality of our pre-k programs

The early education movement began six years ago, and as a result of working together, we have seen enhanced public policies for young Texans, and millions of dollars infused into the system. Our 2009 legislative agenda includes priorities that support all sectors of early care and education in Texas, and we believe that with your support we can once again succeed in accomplishing major victories for young children no matter what high-quality programs they participate in.

So let's get started advocating for high-quality early care and education in Texas today! Our number one priority for the session is to support full-day high-quality pre-k programs with an emphasis on local, integrated community-based partnerships. Fortunately, Senator Judith Zaffirini and Representative Diane Patrick have already filed the identical bills, Senate Bill 21 and House Bill 130, which lend crucial support to TECEC's number one priority. Please take a few seconds to let your legislators know you would like them to support this crucial legislation.

To take action on Senate Bill 21 and House Bill 130 visit the TECEC Action Center.

Download the TECEC Legislative Agenda and Talking Points

The Legislative Session has begun! TECEC is very excited about its Legislative Agenda for the 81st Legislative Session.

Our Legislative Agenda includes five items for the 81st Session:

• Support Full-Day High-Quality Pre-Kindergarten Programs with an Emphasis on Local,
  Integrated Community-Based Partnerships
• Increase Reimbursement Rates Paid to Child Care Providers
  
• Support the Development of Early Childhood Professionals
  
• Maintain Support for Existing Quality Programs throughout Texas
• Establish a Pilot Early Childhood Behavioral Consultation Program in Texas
  

You can access in-depth information on our legislative agenda by downloading the Legislative Agenda Talking Points.

February 17, 2009: Pre-k Day at the Capitol

Mark your calendars! Join TECEC on February 17, 2009 at the Texas Capitol in Austin for Pre-k Day. Hundreds of early education advocates will meet at the capitol to let legislators know about the importance of high-quality early education to their communities.

The day will include a press conference on the Capitol steps, a model pre-k classroom setup in the Capitol Rotunda (complete with young learners), and tons of materials for you to share with your legislators on the crucial need for high-quality early education programs in Texas.

Advocates will be treated to a free lunch, and TECEC is currently in the process of securing funding to help advocates with some of their travel expenses. Check in with TECEC soon for more details on the event.

For more information about Pre-k Day and to learn more about planning your trip to Austin contact our communications coordinator, Don Titcombe at Dtitcombe@tecec.org.

See you at the Capitol!