The bill amends the Education Code to expand the participation of certain juvenile justice entities in the Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) Grant Program. Specifically, it adds the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, juvenile boards, and juvenile probation departments to the list of eligible entities that can apply for grants aimed at developing new career and technical education programs. The bill also modifies the criteria for awarding grants, emphasizing the importance of economic returns and the availability of educational opportunities for students in juvenile justice facilities.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that grants can be awarded to independent school districts, open-enrollment charter schools, and the newly included juvenile justice entities if they partner with public junior colleges, technical institutes, or state colleges. The amendments aim to enhance educational resources and opportunities for youth involved in the juvenile justice system, thereby promoting their career readiness and integration into the workforce.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 134.004, Education Code 134.006, Education Code 134.007 (Education Code 134)