H.B. 2908 78(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


H.B. 2908
By: Eissler
Public Education
Committee Report (Unamended)



BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

In 1995, the required curriculum, which defines what subjects all school
districts must offer, was separated into the foundation and enrichment
curriculums. Foundation subjects are  mathematics, science, English
language arts, and social studies while enrichment subjects are languages
other than English, fine arts, economics, technology applications, health
and physical education, and career and technology education. 

As a condition of accreditation, school districts must utilize the Texas
Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) in delivering instruction in the
foundation subjects. In the enrichment curriculum, however, the TEKS are
only guidelines to be followed.   

The purpose of House Bill 2908 is to mandate that the TEKS must be used as
the basis for writing curriculum and delivering instruction in all
subjects of the required curriculum, not just the foundation subjects of
mathematics, science, English language arts and social studies.  


RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any
additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or
institution. 


ANALYSIS

House Bill 2908 amends Section 28.002 (c),  Education Code,  by replacing
the term "foundation" with the term "required" to describe the curriculum
that all students should be able to demonstrate regarding the essential
knowledge and skills. The bill repeals Section 28.002 (d), Education Code,
relating to the State Board of Education (board) identifying the essential
knowledge and skills of each subject of the enrichment curriculum and that
each district use the essential knowledge and skills identified by the
board as guidelines. 


EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2003.