BILL ANALYSIS
Senate Research Center S.B. 936
AUTHOR'S/SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
Currently, high school transcript formats vary widely from district to district. Furthermore, grade point averages (GPAs) are computed in various ways across the state. Developing a uniform transcript format and standard methodology for calculating GPAs would simplify the admissions process and provide a more meaningful comparison of students' high school performance.
As proposed, S.B. 396 requires each school district to report student academic achievement in a uniform transcript form adopted by the State Board of Education and requires the commissioner of education to develop a standard method of computing a student's GPA, providing appropriate weights for certain courses. Additionally, this bill requires the Texas Education Agency to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of providing an elective class period for the purpose of college preparation.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Section 28.025(e), Education Code, to require each school district to report the academic achievement record of a student in electronic and paper formats, rather than of students who have completed a minimum, recommended, or advanced high school program, on a uniform transcript form, rather than forms, adopted by the State Board of Education (board). Requires the transcript form adopted by the board to perform certain functions. Makes conforming changes.
SECTION 2. Amends Subchapter B, Chapter 28, Education Code, by adding Section 28.0252, as follows:
Sec. 28.0252. COMPUTATION OF HIGH SCHOOL GRADE POINT AVERAGE. (a) Requires the commissioner of education (commissioner) to develop a standard method of computing a student's high school grade point average that provides for additional weight to be given to each honors course, advanced placement course, international baccalaureate course, or dual credit course described by Section 28.025(e)(2)(B) completed by a student.
(b) Authorizes a school district to elect to use the standard method developed under this section.
(c) Authorizes a school district to elect to use the standard method developed under this section to compute the grade point averages only for students entering grade nine during or after the 2006-2007 school year. Provides that this subsection expires September 1, 2009.
SECTION 3. (a) Requires the Texas Education Agency (agency) to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of requiring school districts to provide high school seniors with an elective class period during the school day to enable the student to have certain opportunities.
(b) Requires the agency, in conducting the study required by this section, to survey the current practices of school districts in this state and determine the best practices relating to college application assistance for high school seniors.
(c) Requires the agency, not later than December 1, 2006, to submit a report on the results of the study required by this section to the governor, the lieutenant governor, and the legislature.
SECTION 4. Requires the board to adopt the uniform transcript form required by Section 28.025(e), Education Code, as amended by this Act, as soon as practicable after the effective date of this Act, and not later than January 1, 2006. Requires a school district to use the form beginning with the 2006-2007 school year.
SECTION 5. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2005.