The bill, H.B. No. 3672, proposes the establishment of an extracurricular community education grant program aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for youth outside of regular school hours. It amends Section 29.251 of the Education Code to redefine "community education" and includes new provisions that outline the objectives and eligibility criteria for the grant program. The program is designed to improve student academic performance, reduce truancy, enhance mental health, and foster community partnerships, among other goals.

Additionally, the bill introduces Section 29.258, which details the grant application process for organizations seeking funding to provide extracurricular community education programs. Eligible organizations must submit an application that includes an assessment of community needs, a description of their relationship with public schools, and a plan for implementing educational strategies. The commissioner of education is tasked with establishing the grant program and adopting necessary rules for its administration, ensuring equitable distribution of grants across various geographic areas and student demographics. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 29.251 (Education Code 29)