S.B. No. 2619 introduces several amendments to the Texas Education Code aimed at enhancing accountability and transparency in public schools and charter schools. A key provision is the addition of Section 11.0585, which mandates that trustees of school districts receiving an overall performance rating of "F" for two consecutive years will have their terms expire one year after notification from the commissioner, with vacancies filled through elections. Additionally, Section 11.15125 requires school boards to review the academic performance history of superintendent applicants before making hiring decisions, ensuring that this information is publicly available during the selection process.
The bill also includes provisions for improved transparency regarding school board members' information, requiring districts to submit details about trustees to the Texas Education Agency annually and upon any changes in membership. Furthermore, it establishes a new Section 39.060, which mandates the annual publication of relative performance percentile rankings for school districts and charter schools. The bill emphasizes the need for the Texas Education Agency to approve training for board members and prohibits training providers from engaging in political advocacy. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Education Code 11.1518, Education Code 11.159 (Education Code 11)
Senate Committee Report: Education Code 11.1518, Education Code 11.159 (Education Code 11)
Engrossed: Education Code 11.1518, Education Code 11.159 (Education Code 11)