KUHF Education Reporter Laura Isensee caught up with our Director of Public Policy and Government Affairs, Mandi Kimball, about her thoughts on the 83rd Legislative Session and legislation around education.
Among the nearly 1,000 education bills filed this past session, there were some standouts for CHILDREN AT RISK. HB 5 by Representative Aycock was a major education bill that addressed several issues including testing, school accountability, and diploma endorsements for high school students. In addition, Senator Dan Patrick authored SB 2 which addressed charter school accountability to help ensure our children receive a quality education.
One piece of legislation that was high on CHILDREN AT RISK’s priority list this session was SB 376 by Senator Lucio. This bill expands the school breakfast program to the entire student body at campuses that have 80% or more economically disadvantaged students. With more than half of Texas public school students classified as economically disadvantaged, this was a major step forward in not only combating child hunger, but also promoting overall academic success.
While there were several “wins” when it came to education this session, there was a major missed opportunity relating to funding for education. Of the historic 5.4 billion cut in education funding in 2011, only 3.9 billion was restored this session. In order to provide our children with the springboard to a successful future, it is absolutely essential that we invest in their education now.
Hear the full interview here.