Revises provisions relating to education. (BDR 34-837)
Impact
AB335 mandates that all licensed teachers receive training in English language acquisition, ensuring that they are equipped to address the diverse needs of English learners effectively. This training is essential for teachers' continued employment post-2030, highlighting the bill's long-term focus on integrating English lessons in mainstream education. The bill also requires the Department of Education to provide guidance on the training, thus standardizing the approach across school districts. Furthermore, the bill introduces the need for disaggregated data related to English learners to monitor progress and the performance ratings of schools, school districts, and educators, ensuring accountability.
Summary
Assembly Bill No. 335 (AB335) focuses on enhancing educational outcomes for pupils enrolled in public schools, specifically addressing the needs of students who are English learners. The bill stipulates that every school district superintendent must appoint an administrator dedicated to supporting English learners. Additionally, school principals are required to develop plans that target achievement gaps between English learners and proficient English speakers. A significant provision of the bill is that if English learners comprise at least 10 percent of a school’s enrollment, closing achievement gaps will become the primary focus of their academic improvement plans.
Contention
One contentious point in the bill is the repeal of existing laws that required schools demonstrating low achievement among English learners to create corrective action plans. Critics argue that removing these requirements could diminish accountability for underperforming schools. Additionally, while supporters of AB335 stress the importance of these improvements in education policy, there are concerns about the implementation and effectiveness of the new measures, particularly regarding the state's capacity to support the increased training requirements and oversee new administrative roles effectively.
Relating to the authority of the Wood County Central Hospital District of Wood County, Texas, to provide brain and memory care services to residents of the hospital district through the creation and operation of brain and memory health care services districts.