By: Eissler, et al. Senate Sponsor-Shapiro H.B. No. 2237
       (In the Senate - Received from the House May 11, 2007;
May 14, 2007, read first time and referred to Committee on
Education; May 19, 2007, reported adversely, with favorable
Committee Substitute by the following vote:  Yeas 6, Nays 0;
May 19, 2007, sent to printer.)
 
COMMITTEE SUBSTITUTE FOR H.B. No. 2237 By:  Shapiro
 
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to grants and programs for dropout prevention, high school
success, and college and workforce readiness in public schools.
       BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
       SECTION 1.  Sections 7.009(a) and (b), Education Code, are
amended to read as follows:
       (a)  In coordination with the Legislative Budget Board, the
agency shall establish an online clearinghouse of information
relating to best practices of campuses and school districts
regarding instruction, dropout prevention, public school finance,
resource allocation, and business practices. To the extent
practicable, the agency shall ensure that information provided
through the online clearinghouse is specific, actionable
information relating to the best practices of high-performing and
highly efficient campuses and school districts rather than general
guidelines relating to campus and school district operation. The
information must be accessible by campuses, school districts, and
interested members of the public.
       (b)  The agency shall solicit and collect from the
Legislative Budget Board, centers for education research
established under Section 1.005, and exemplary or recognized school
districts, campuses, and open-enrollment charter schools, as rated
under Section 39.072, examples of best practices relating to
instruction, dropout prevention, public school finance, resource
allocation, and business practices, including best practices
relating to curriculum, scope and sequence, compensation and
incentive systems, bilingual education and special language
programs, compensatory education programs, and the effective use of
instructional technology, including online courses.
       SECTION 2.  Subchapter B, Chapter 7, Education Code, is
amended by adding Section 7.031 to read as follows:
       Sec. 7.031.  STUDY OF BEST PRACTICES FOR DROPOUT PREVENTION.
(a) The commissioner shall contract with one or more centers for
education research under Section 1.005 or any other public or
private entity qualified to conduct education research to:
             (1)  study the best practices of campuses and school
districts in this state and other states regarding dropout
prevention programs; and
             (2)  prepare a report regarding the findings of the
study.
       (b)  The report under Subsection (a) must:
             (1)  identify any high-performing and highly efficient
dropout prevention programs;
             (2)  identify the dropout prevention programs under
Subdivision (1) that have the most potential for success in this
state; and
             (3)  recommend legislation or other actions necessary
to implement a dropout prevention program identified under
Subdivision (2).
       (c)  Not later than December 1, 2008, the commissioner shall
deliver the report produced under Subsection (a) to the governor,
the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the house of
representatives, and the presiding officers of the standing
committees of each house of the legislature with primary
jurisdiction over public education.
       (d)  This section expires January 1, 2009.
       SECTION 3.  Subchapter J, Chapter 21, Education Code, is
amended by adding Section 21.4511 to read as follows:
       Sec. 21.4511.  PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES FOR
TEACHERS AND ADMINISTRATORS.  (a)  From funds appropriated for that
purpose, the commissioner may develop and award grants to school
districts, regional education service centers, nonprofit
organizations, and institutions of higher education for
establishing and providing technical assistance and professional
development activities in the staff development training of public
school teachers and administrators.
       (b)  The training under this section shall include training
relating to implementing curriculum and instruction that is aligned
with the foundation curriculum described by Section 28.002(a)(1)
and standards and expectations for college readiness, as determined
by State Board of Education rule under Section 28.008(d).
       (c)  The commissioner may give preference to a school
district, regional education service center, or institution of
higher education conducting professional development activities
under this section that applies for a grant in partnership with a
state or national organization that has demonstrated success in the
development and implementation of high school reform strategies.
       SECTION 4.  Subchapter J, Chapter 21, Education Code, is
amended by adding Section 21.4541 to read as follows:
       Sec. 21.4541.  MATHEMATICS INSTRUCTIONAL COACHES PILOT
PROGRAM. (a) From funds appropriated for that purpose, the
commissioner by rule shall establish a pilot program under which
participating school districts and campuses receive grants to
provide assistance in developing the content knowledge and
instructional expertise of teachers who instruct students in
mathematics at the middle school, junior high school, or high
school level.
       (b)  A school district or campus is eligible to participate
in the pilot program under this section if the district or campus
meets the eligibility criteria established as provided by Section
39.358.
       (c)  A grant awarded under this section may be used to
support intensive instructional coaching and professional
development from a service provider approved by the commissioner.
Approved service providers may include:
             (1)  academies and training centers established in
conjunction with a Texas Science, Technology, Engineering, and
Mathematics (T-STEM) center;
             (2)  regional education service centers;
             (3)  institutions of higher education; and
             (4)  private organizations with significant experience
in providing mathematics instruction, as determined by the
commissioner.
       (d)  An instructional coaching or professional development
program supported by a grant under this section must demonstrate
significant past effectiveness in improving mathematics
instruction in middle schools, junior high schools, and high
schools serving a significant number of students identified as
students at risk of dropping out of school, as described by Section
29.081(d). An instructional coaching or professional development
program may include:
             (1)  providing classes to teachers on effective
mathematics instruction;
             (2)  providing tutoring or mentoring to teachers
regarding effective mathematics instruction;
             (3)  providing incentives to teachers to participate in
the program; or
             (4)  engaging in any other activities determined by the
commissioner as likely to improve the instructional skills of
teachers providing mathematics instruction.
       (e)  The commissioner shall adopt rules necessary to
implement the pilot program.
       SECTION 5.  Subchapter J, Chapter 21, Education Code, is
amended by adding Section 21.462 to read as follows:
       Sec. 21.462.  MATHEMATICS, SCIENCE, AND TECHNOLOGY TEACHER
PREPARATION ACADEMIES. (a) From funds appropriated for that
purpose, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board shall
establish academies at institutions of higher education to improve
the instructional skills of teachers certified under Subchapter B
and train students enrolled in a teacher preparation program to
perform at the highest levels in mathematics, science, and
technology. The coordinating board may adopt rules as necessary to
administer this section.
       (b)  Before an institution of higher education establishes
an academy under this section, the institution must apply through a
competitive process, as determined by the Texas Higher Education
Coordinating Board, and meet any requirements established by the
coordinating board for designation as an academy under this section
and continued funding. The institution of higher education must
have a teacher preparation program approved by the State Board for
Educator Certification or be affiliated with a program approved by
the board.
       (c)  A participant in an academy program must be:
             (1)  an experienced teacher who:
                   (A)  is recommended by a school district; and
                   (B)  has at least five years experience teaching
mathematics, science, or technology in assignments for which the
teacher met all certification requirements; or
             (2)  a teacher preparation program candidate who has or
will graduate with a degree in mathematics, science, or technology.
       (d)  An academy program shall:
             (1)  offer a masters-level degree as part of the
program on a schedule that allows a teacher participant to complete
the program and degree while employed as a teacher;
             (2)  coordinate with the mathematics, science, and
technology departments of the institution of higher education
operating the program to facilitate the ability of:
                   (A)  academy participants to take advanced
courses and qualify for degrees; and
                   (B)  teacher preparation program candidates
pursuing mathematics, science, or technology degrees to
participate in academy programs;
             (3)  integrate advanced subject-matter coursework with
instructional methodology and curriculum delivery; and
             (4)  focus on strengthening instructional skills.
       (e)  An academy program may:
             (1)  provide financial assistance for the purpose of
allowing participants to complete the program and obtain a master
teacher certificate under Section 21.0482, 21.0483, or 21.0484;
             (2)  include programs in leadership skills to develop
training, mentoring, and coaching skills;
             (3)  deliver coursework electronically for some or all
of the program; and
             (4)  provide for ongoing professional development and
coordination with specific public school instructional programs.
       SECTION 6.  Section 28.008, Education Code, is amended by
adding Subsection (d-1) to read as follows:
       (d-1)  Beginning with the 2008-2009 school year, the State
Board of Education shall incorporate college readiness standards
and expectations into the essential knowledge and skills of the
foundation curriculum under Section 28.002(a)(1) for courses in
which students in grades nine through 12 generally enroll, as
determined by board rule. This subsection expires December 1,
2012.
       SECTION 7.  Section 28.0212, Education Code, is amended by
adding Subsections (d) and (e) to read as follows:
       (d)  The agency shall establish minimum standards for a
personal graduation plan under this section.
       (e)  Each school district is encouraged to establish for each
student entering grade nine a personal graduation plan that
identifies a course of study that:
             (1)  promotes:
                   (A)  college and workforce readiness; and
                   (B)  career placement and advancement; and
             (2)  facilitates the student's transition from
secondary to postsecondary education.
       SECTION 8.  Subchapter C, Chapter 29, Education Code, is
amended by adding Sections 29.095 through 29.098 to read as
follows:
       Sec. 29.095.  GRANTS FOR STUDENT CLUBS. (a) In this
section:
             (1)  "Council" means the High School Completion and
Success Initiative Council established under Subchapter L, Chapter
39.
             (2)  "Student at risk of dropping out of school" has the
meaning assigned by Section 29.081(d).
       (b)  The commissioner shall administer a pilot program to
provide grants to school districts to fund student club activities
for students at risk of dropping out of school. From funds
appropriated for purposes of this subchapter, the commissioner
shall spend an amount not to exceed $5 million in any state fiscal
biennium on the program.
       (c)  The commissioner may award a grant  in an amount not to
exceed $5,000 in a school year to a school district on behalf of a
student club at a district high school campus that is eligible under
the criteria established under Section 39.358. To be eligible for a
grant, the student club and the club's sponsor must be sanctioned by
the campus and district. A grant awarded under this program must be
matched by other federal, state, or local funds, including
donations, in an amount equal to the amount of the grant. A district
shall seek donations or sponsorships from local businesses or
community organizations to raise the matching funds. The
commissioner may award a grant on behalf of more than one student
club at a campus in the same school year.
       (d)  The commissioner shall establish application criteria
for receipt of a grant under this section. The criteria must require
confirmation that the appropriate campus-level planning and
decision-making committee established under Subchapter F, Chapter
11, and the school district board of trustees have approved a plan
that includes:
             (1)  a description of the student club;
             (2)  a statement of the student club's goals, intent,
and activities;
             (3)  a statement of the source of funds to be used to
match the grant;
             (4)  a budget for the student club;
             (5)  a statement showing that the student club's
finances are sustainable; and
             (6)  any other information the council requires.
       (e)  The commissioner shall establish the minimum
requirements for a local grant agreement, including requiring:
             (1)  the agreement to be signed by the sponsor of a
student club receiving a grant and another authorized school
district officer; and
             (2)  the district and the student club to participate
in an evaluation, as determined by the council, of the club's
program and the program's effect on student achievement and dropout
rates.
       (f)  A student club may use funds awarded under this section
to support academic or co-curricular club activities, other than
athletics, in which at least 50 percent of the participating
students have been identified as students at risk of dropping out of
school. A student club may use funds for materials, sponsor
stipends, and other needs that directly support the club's
activities. A student club must use the entire amount of the grant
to directly fund the club's activities described in the plan
approved as provided by Subsection (d). A student club may not use
more than 50 percent of a grant to pay sponsor stipends.
       (g)  The school district board of trustees shall ensure that
funds awarded under this section are expended in compliance with
Subsection (f). At the end of the school year, a student club that
receives a grant must submit a report to the board of trustees
summarizing the club's activities and the extent to which the club
met the club's goals and achieved the club's intent. The decision
of the board of trustees under this subsection relating to
compliance with Subsection (f) is final and may not be appealed.
       Sec. 29.096.  COLLABORATIVE DROPOUT REDUCTION PILOT
PROGRAM. (a) In this section, "council" means the High School
Completion and Success Initiative Council established under
Subchapter L, Chapter 39.
       (b)  Using funds appropriated for that purpose, the
commissioner shall establish a pilot program under which a school
district or open-enrollment charter school may receive a grant to
implement a local collaborative dropout reduction program.
       (c)  A school district or open-enrollment charter school is
eligible to participate and receive a grant under this section
under the eligibility criteria established under Section 39.358.
       (d)  The commissioner shall establish application criteria
for receiving a grant under this section. The criteria must require
a school district or open-enrollment charter school that applies
for a grant to collaborate with local businesses, other local
governments or law enforcement agencies, nonprofit organizations,
faith-based organizations, and institutions of higher education to
deliver proven, research-based intervention services. The goal of
the program is to coordinate services and programs among local
entities to:
             (1)  comprehensively reduce the number of students who
drop out of school in that community; and
             (2)  increase the job skills, employment
opportunities, and continuing education opportunities of students
who might otherwise have dropped out of school.
       (e)  The commissioner shall establish minimum standards for
a local collaborative agreement, including a requirement that the
agreement must be signed by an authorized school district or
open-enrollment charter school officer and an authorized
representative of each of the other participating entities that is
a partner in the collaboration. The program must:
             (1)  limit participation in the program to students
authorized to participate by a parent or other person standing in
parental relationship;
             (2)  have as a primary goal graduation from high school
under at least the recommended high school program;
             (3)  provide for local businesses or other employers to
offer paid employment or internship opportunities and advanced
career and vocational training;
             (4)  include an outreach component and a lead
educational staff member to identify and involve eligible students
and public and private entities in participating in the program;
             (5)  serve a population of students of which at least 50
percent are identified as students at risk of dropping out of
school, as described by Section 29.081(d);
             (6)  allocate not more than 15 percent of grant funds
and matching funds, as determined by the commissioner, to
administrative expenses;
             (7)  include matching funds from any of the
participating entities; and
             (8)  include any other requirements as determined by
the council.
       (f)  A local collaborative agreement under this section may:
             (1)  be coordinated with other services provided to
students or their families by public or private entities;
             (2)  provide for local businesses to support the
program, including:
                   (A)  encouraging employees to engage in mentoring
students and other school-related volunteer activities; and
                   (B)  using matching funds to provide paid time off
for volunteer activities under Paragraph (A) and other activities
related to encouraging school involvement of parents of students
enrolled in the program;
             (3)  allow grant funds to reimburse reasonable costs of
participating entities;
             (4)  provide for electronic course delivery by a school
district, an open-enrollment charter school, or an institution of
higher education; and
             (5)  be hosted or housed by a chamber of commerce, local
workforce agency, local employer, or other public or private
participating entity.
       (g)  The commissioner may approve innovative instructional
techniques for courses in the enrichment curriculum leading to high
school graduation under a local collaborative dropout reduction
program and shall develop accountability measures appropriate to
those programs. From funds appropriated, the commissioner may fund
electronic courses that are part of a collaborative program and
that are otherwise eligible for state funds. Funding for an
electronic course may not exceed the total amount of state and local
funding for a student to which the school district or
open-enrollment charter school would otherwise be entitled.
       (h)  Nothing in this section authorizes the award of a high
school diploma other than in compliance with Section 28.025.
       (i)  The commissioner shall adopt rules necessary to
administer the pilot program under this section.
       Sec. 29.097.  INTENSIVE TECHNOLOGY-BASED ACADEMIC
INTERVENTION PILOT PROGRAM. (a)  In this section:
             (1)  "Council" means the High School Completion and
Success Initiative Council established under Subchapter L, Chapter
39.
             (2)  "Pilot program" means the intensive
technology-based academic intervention pilot program.
       (b)  From funds appropriated for that purpose, the
commissioner shall establish a pilot program for the commissioner
to award grants to participating campuses to provide intensive
technology-based supplementary instruction in English,
mathematics, science, or social studies to students in grades nine
through 12 identified as being at risk of dropping out of school, as
described by Section 29.081(d). Instruction techniques and
technology used by a campus under this section must be based on the
best available research, as determined by the council, regarding
college and workforce readiness.
       (c)  The commissioner may select for participation in the
pilot program only a campus that is eligible under the criteria
established under Section 39.358.
       (d)  A program supported by a grant under this section to
provide intensive technology-based supplementary instruction at a
campus may:
             (1)  include comprehensive course plans and teacher
guides that are aligned with one or more subjects of the foundation
curriculum described by Section 28.002(a)(1);
             (2)  include technology-based supplementary
instruction;
             (3)  include training, professional development, and
mentoring for teachers;
             (4)  provide students individual access to
technology-based supplementary instruction at least 90 minutes
each week;
             (5)  demonstrate significant effectiveness in high
schools serving students identified as being at risk of dropping
out of school, as described by Section 29.081(d);
             (6)  be selected in consultation with the teachers at
the affected campus; and
             (7)  be implemented in partnership with institutions of
higher education.
       (e)  The primary purpose of a program supported by a grant
under this section to provide intensive technology-based
supplementary instruction at a campus is to benefit students
identified as being at risk of dropping out of school, as described
by Section 29.081(d), but grant funds may be used to benefit a
campus-wide program if the use of the funds does not defeat the
primary purpose provided by this subsection.
       (f)  A grant awarded under this section:
             (1)  may not exceed $50 for each participating student;
and
             (2)  must be matched by other federal, state, or local
funds, including private donations.
       (g)  For purposes of Subsection (f)(2), a school district is
encouraged to use funds allocated under Section 42.2516(b)(3).
       (h)  A grant awarded under this section may not be used to
replace federal, state, or local funds previously spent on an
instructional program, but may be used to expand an existing
program.
       (i)  The entire amount of a grant awarded under this section:
             (1)  must fund the program described in the application
for the grant; and
             (2)  may be used for:
                   (A)  supplementary instructional support systems;
                   (B)  technology used primarily for the delivery of
supplementary instruction;
                   (C)  teacher training and professional
development; and
                   (D)  other necessary costs, as determined by the
commissioner.
       Sec. 29.098.  INTENSIVE SUMMER PROGRAMS. (a)  In this
section, "pilot program" means the intensive summer pilot program
for students identified as being at risk of dropping out of school
or college.
       (b)  From funds appropriated for that purpose, the
commissioner of education and the commissioner of higher education
by rule shall establish a pilot program to award grants to
participating campuses to provide intensive academic instruction
during the summer semester to promote college and workforce
readiness to students identified as being at risk of dropping out of
school or college. A grant awarded under this section may be used
to fund any of the following categories of programs:
             (1)  a program administered by an institution of higher
education to provide intensive academic instruction in English
language arts, mathematics, and science to facilitate the student's
transition from high school to a postsecondary institution;
             (2)  a program administered by a school district in
partnership with an institution of higher education to provide
intensive academic instruction in English language arts,
mathematics, and science to promote high school completion and
college readiness; and
             (3)  a program administered by a school district in
partnership with an institution of higher education to provide
intensive academic instruction in reading and mathematics to
students in grades six through eight to promote high school
completion and college readiness.
       (c)  The commissioner of education may select for
participation in the pilot program only a campus that is eligible
under the criteria established under Section 39.358.
       (d)  A grant may be awarded to an institution of higher
education for a program administered under Subsection (b)(1) only
if at least 50 percent of the students served in the program:
             (1)  have a score on the Scholastic Assessment Test
(SAT) or American College Test (ACT) that is equal to a score less
than the national mean score;
             (2)  have been awarded a grant under the federal Pell
grant program;
             (3)  are at least 20 years of age on the date the
student initially enrolls in the institution of higher education;
or
             (4)  have enrolled or will initially enroll as a
part-time student.
       (e)  A program supported by a grant to provide intensive
summer instruction under this section must:
             (1)  provide rigorous academic instruction;
             (2)  provide at least four weeks of instruction; and
             (3)  for a program described by Subsection (b)(2) or
(3), be designed and implemented in partnership with an institution
of higher education.
       (f)  To the extent practicable, an institution of higher
education shall create work-study opportunities for students
enrolled in teacher preparation programs to assist in providing
instruction in programs described by this section.
       (g)  A grant awarded under this section:
             (1)  may not exceed $750 for each participating
student; and
             (2)  must be matched by not less than $250 for each
participating student in other federal, state, or local funds,
including private donations.
       (h)  For purposes of Subsection (g)(2), a school district is
encouraged to use funds allocated under Section 42.2516(b)(3).
       (i)  A grant awarded under this section may not be used to
replace federal, state, or local funds previously spent on a summer
intensive program, but may be used to expand an existing program.
       (j)  The entire amount of a grant awarded under this section:
             (1)  must fund the program described in the application
for the grant; and
             (2)  may be used for:
                   (A)  instructional materials;
                   (B)  technology used primarily for the delivery of
supplementary instruction;
                   (C)  teacher training and professional
development, including educator stipends; and
                   (D)  other necessary costs, as determined by the
commissioner of education.
       (k)  Instructional materials adopted by the State Board of
Education shall be used for instruction in a program under
Subsection (b)(2) or (3). The State Board of Education may adopt
any additional instructional materials as necessary for a program
under Subsection (b)(2) or (3). The Texas Higher Education
Coordinating Board may adopt instructional materials as necessary
for students enrolled in a program under Subsection (b)(1).
       (l)  The State Board of Education and the Texas Higher
Education Coordinating Board shall include information technology
instructional resources that incorporate established best
practices for instruction among approved instructional materials
for intensive summer programs under this section to enhance the
effectiveness of the programs.
       SECTION 9.  Subchapter Z, Chapter 29, Education Code, is
amended by adding Sections 29.911, 29.917, 29.918, and 29.919 to
read as follows:
       Sec. 29.911.  "EDUCATION:  GO GET IT" WEEK. (a) To educate
middle school, junior high school, and high school students about
the importance of higher education, each school district and each
open-enrollment charter school offering any of those grade levels
shall designate one week during the school year as "Education:  Go
Get It" Week.
       (b)  During the designated week, each middle school, junior
high school, and high school shall provide students with
comprehensive grade-appropriate information regarding the pursuit
of higher education. The information provided must include
information regarding:
             (1)  higher education options available to students;
             (2)  standard admission requirements for institutions
of higher education, including:
                   (A)  overall high school grade point average;
                   (B)  required curriculum; and
                   (C)  scores necessary on generally recognized
tests or assessment instruments used in admissions determinations,
including the Scholastic Assessment Test and the American College
Test;
             (3)  automatic admission of certain students to general
academic teaching institutions as provided by Section 51.803; and
             (4)  financial aid availability and requirements,
including the financial aid information provided by counselors
under Section 33.007(b).
       (c)  In addition to the information provided under
Subsection (b), each middle school, junior high school, and high
school shall provide to the students during the designated week at
least one public speaker to promote the importance of higher
education.
       Sec. 29.917.  HIGHER EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE READINESS
PROGRAMS. (a) From funds appropriated for the purpose, the
commissioner may award grants to organizations that provide
volunteers to teach classroom or after-school programs to enhance:
             (1)  college readiness;
             (2)  workforce readiness;
             (3)  dropout prevention; or
             (4)  personal financial literacy.
       (b)  To implement or administer a program under this section,
the commissioner may accept gifts, grants, and donations from
public or private entities.
       (c)  The commissioner may conduct a study of the programs
under this section to determine the success of the programs in
preparing students for higher education and participation in the
workforce.
       Sec. 29.918.  DROPOUT PREVENTION STRATEGIES. (a)
Notwithstanding Section 39.114 or 42.152, a school district or
open-enrollment charter school with a high dropout rate, as
determined by the commissioner, must submit a plan to the
commissioner describing the manner in which the district or charter
school intends to use the compensatory education allotment under
Section 42.152 and the high school allotment under Section
42.2516(b)(3) for developing and implementing research-based
strategies for dropout prevention.  The district or charter school
shall submit the plan not later than December 1 of each school year
preceding the school year in which the district or charter school
will receive the compensatory education allotment or high school
allotment to which the plan applies.
       (b)  A school district or open-enrollment charter school to
which this section applies may not spend or obligate more than 25
percent of the district's or charter school's compensatory
education allotment or high school allotment unless the
commissioner approves the plan submitted under Subsection (a).  The
commissioner shall complete an initial review of the district's or
charter school's plan not later than March 1 of the school year
preceding the school year in which the district or charter school
will receive the compensatory education allotment or high school
allotment to which the plan applies.
       (c)  The commissioner shall adopt rules to administer this
section. The commissioner may impose sanctions under Section
39.131 or 39.1321 if a school district or open-enrollment charter
school fails to timely comply with this section.
       Sec. 29.919.  TECHNOLOGY-BASED SUPPLEMENTAL INSTRUCTION
PILOT PROGRAM. (a) The commissioner shall establish a pilot
program under which state grant funds are provided to finance
technology-based supplemental instruction to students at the sixth
through 12th grade levels at participating campuses.
       (b)  A campus is eligible to participate in the program and
receive state grant funds if the campus is located in a school
district that:
             (1)  has an enrollment of fewer than 5,000 students;
and
             (2)  is not located in an area defined by the United
States Office of Management and Budget as a standard metropolitan
statistical area as of January 1, 2007.
       (c)  The commissioner shall develop an application and
selection process for selecting campuses to participate in the
program. The commissioner shall give priority to a campus that
offers a relatively limited course selection to students, in
comparison to the course selections generally offered to students
in metropolitan areas.
       (d)  A campus selected to participate in the program is
entitled to receive state grant funds in an amount not to exceed
$200 each school year for each student in an eligible grade level
served through the program. The state grant funds must be used to
provide technology-based supplemental instruction for students at
the eligible grade levels. Permissible expenditures under the
program include costs incurred to provide:
             (1)  research-based instructional support;
             (2)  teacher training;
             (3)  academic tutoring or counseling;
             (4)  distance learning opportunities that use the
Internet and are aligned with the essential knowledge and skills
adopted under Section 28.002 for the subject areas of English
language arts, social studies, mathematics, science, and languages
other than English, as applicable; and
             (5)  distance learning opportunities that enable
students to earn college credit in the subject areas of English
language arts, social studies, mathematics, science, or languages
other than English.
       (e)  As a condition of receiving a state grant, a campus must
contribute additional funding for activities provided at the campus
through the program, in an amount equal to at least $100 each school
year for each student in an eligible grade level served through the
program. The additional funding required by this subsection may
consist of local funds, private funds, or state funds other than
grant funds provided under this section. For program activities
provided at the high school level, the high school allotment
provided under Section 42.2516(b)(3) may be used to meet the
additional funding requirement prescribed by this subsection.
       (f)  A campus participating in the program must make
instructional support services available to students outside of
regular school hours for at least 10 hours each week.
       (g)  The commissioner shall pay the costs of the program
using funds available for that purpose, not to exceed $4 million
each fiscal year or a greater amount specified by the General
Appropriations Act.
       (h)  Using funds available for the program in an amount not
to exceed $150,000 each fiscal year, the commissioner shall
contract for an evaluation of the program's effectiveness in
improving student performance. Not later than December 1, 2008,
the commissioner shall deliver an interim report containing the
results of the evaluation. Not later than December 1, 2010, the
commissioner shall deliver a final report regarding the program to
the legislature.
       (i)  The commissioner shall adopt rules necessary to
implement this section.
       (j)  This section expires September 1, 2011.
       SECTION 10.  Subchapter F, Chapter 39, Education Code, is
amended by adding Section 39.115 to read as follows:
       Sec. 39.115.  HIGH SCHOOL INNOVATION GRANT INITIATIVE.
(a)  From funds appropriated for that purpose, the commissioner may
establish a grant program under which grants are awarded to
secondary campuses and school districts to support:
             (1)  the implementation of innovative high school
improvement programs that are based on the best available research
regarding high school reform, dropout prevention, and preparing
students for postsecondary coursework or employment;
             (2)  enhancing education practices that have been
demonstrated by significant evidence of effectiveness; and
             (3)  the alignment of grants and programs to the
strategic plan adopted under Section 39.357.
       (b)  Before awarding a grant under this section, the
commissioner may require a campus or school district to:
             (1)  obtain local matching funds; or
             (2)  meet other conditions, including developing a
personal graduation plan under Section 28.0212 for each student
enrolled at the campus or in a district high school.
       (c)  The commissioner may:
             (1)  accept gifts, grants, or donations from a private
foundation to implement a grant program under this section; and
             (2)  coordinate gifts, grants, or donations with other
available funding to implement a grant program under this section.
       (d)  The commissioner may use funds appropriated under this
section to support technical assistance services for school
districts and open-enrollment charter schools to implement a high
school improvement program under this section.
       SECTION 11.  Chapter 39, Education Code, is amended by
adding Subchapter L to read as follows:
SUBCHAPTER L. HIGH SCHOOL COMPLETION AND SUCCESS INITIATIVE
       Sec. 39.351.  DEFINITION. In this subchapter, "council"
means the High School Completion and Success Initiative Council.
       Sec. 39.352.  HIGH SCHOOL COMPLETION AND SUCCESS INITIATIVE
COUNCIL. (a) The High School Completion and Success Initiative
Council is established to identify strategic priorities for and
make recommendations to improve the effectiveness, coordination,
and alignment of high school completion and college and workforce
readiness efforts.
       (b)  The council is composed of:
             (1)  the commissioner of education;
             (2)  the commissioner of higher education; and
             (3)  seven members appointed by the commissioner of
education.
       (c)  In making appointments required by Subsection (b)(3),
the commissioner of education shall appoint:
             (1)  three members from a list of nominations provided
by the governor;
             (2)  two members from a list of nominations provided by
the lieutenant governor; and
             (3)  two members from a list of nominations provided by
the speaker of the house of representatives.
       (d)  In making nominations under Subsection (c), the
governor, lieutenant governor, and speaker of the house of
representatives shall nominate persons who have distinguished
experience in:
             (1)  developing and implementing high school reform
strategies; and
             (2)  promoting college and workforce readiness.
       Sec. 39.353.  TERMS. Members of the council appointed under
Section 39.352(b)(3) serve terms of two years and may be
reappointed for additional terms.
       Sec. 39.354.  PRESIDING OFFICER. The commissioner of
education serves as the presiding officer of the council.
       Sec. 39.355.  COMPENSATION AND REIMBURSEMENT. A member of
the council is not entitled to compensation for service on the
council but is entitled to reimbursement for actual and necessary
expenses incurred in performing council duties.
       Sec. 39.356.  COUNCIL STAFF AND FUNDING. (a) Except as
otherwise provided, staff members of the agency, with the
assistance of the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, shall
provide administrative support for the council.
       (b)  Funding for the administrative and operational expenses
of the council shall be provided by appropriation to the agency for
that purpose and by gifts, grants, and donations solicited and
accepted by the agency for that purpose.
       Sec. 39.357.  STRATEGIC PLAN.  (a) The council shall adopt
a strategic plan under this subchapter to:
             (1)  specify strategies to identify, support, and
expand programs to improve high school completion rates and college
and workforce readiness;
             (2)  establish specific goals with which to measure the
success of the strategies identified under Subdivision (1) in
improving high school completion rates and college and workforce
readiness;
             (3)  identify strategies for alignment and
coordination of federal and other funding sources that may be
pursued for high school reform, dropout prevention, and preparation
of students for postsecondary coursework or employment; and
             (4)  identify key objectives for appropriate research
and program evaluation conducted as provided by this subchapter.
       (b)  The commissioner of education and the commissioner of
higher education shall adopt rules as necessary to administer the
strategic plan adopted by the council under this section.
       (c)  The commissioner of education or the commissioner of
higher education may not, in a manner inconsistent with the
strategic plan, spend money, award a grant, or enter into a contract
in connection with a program relating to high school success and
completion.
       (d)  Notwithstanding Subsection (c), the commissioner of
education, commissioner of higher education, or State Board of
Education may use funds appropriated for high school success and
completion to continue or expand a project, grant, or initiative
relating to high school success and completion that was developed
before January 1, 2007. This subsection expires September 1, 2009.
       Sec. 39.358.  ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR CERTAIN GRANT
PROGRAMS. A school district or campus is eligible to participate in
programs under Sections 21.4541, 29.095, 29.096, 29.097, and 29.098
if the district or campus exhibited during each of the three
preceding school years characteristics that strongly correlate
with high dropout rates.
       Sec. 39.359.  PRIVATE FOUNDATION PARTNERSHIPS. (a)  The
commissioner of education or the commissioner of higher education,
as appropriate, and the council may coordinate with private
foundations that have made a substantial investment in the
improvement of high schools in this state to maximize the impact of
public and private investments.
       (b)  A private foundation is not required to obtain the
approval of the appropriate commissioner or the council under
Subsection (a) before allocating resources to a school in this
state.
       Sec. 39.360.  GRANT PROGRAM EVALUATION. (a) The
commissioner of education shall annually set aside not more than
five percent of the funds appropriated for high school completion
and success to contract for the evaluation of programs supported by
grants approved under this subchapter. In awarding a contract
under this subsection, the commissioner shall consider centers for
education research established under Section 1.005.
       (b)  A person who receives a grant approved under this
subchapter must consent to an evaluation under this section as a
condition of receiving the grant.
       (c)  The commissioner shall ensure that an evaluation
conducted under this section includes an assessment of whether
student achievement has improved. Results of the evaluation shall
be provided through the online clearinghouse of information
relating to the best practices of campuses and school districts
established under Section 7.009.
       Sec. 39.361.  COUNCIL RECOMMENDATIONS. (a) Based on the
strategic plan adopted under this section, the council shall make
recommendations to the commissioner of education or the
commissioner of higher education, as applicable, for the use of
federal and state funds appropriated or received for high school
reform, college readiness, and dropout prevention, including
grants awarded under Sections 21.4511, 21.4541, 29.095-29.098,
29.917, 29.919, and 39.115.
       (b)  The council shall include recommendations under this
section for:
             (1)  key elements of program design;
             (2)  criteria for awarding grants and evaluating
programs;
             (3)  program funding priorities; and
             (4)  program evaluation as provided by this subchapter.
       (c)  The commissioner of education or the commissioner of
higher education, as applicable, shall consider the council's
recommendations and based on those recommendations may award grants
to school districts, open-enrollment charter schools, institutions
of higher education, regional education service centers, and
nonprofit organizations to meet the goals of the council's
strategic plan.
       Sec. 39.362.  FUNDING PROVIDED TO SCHOOL DISTRICTS.  From
funds appropriated, the commissioner of education may provide
funding to school districts to permit a school district to obtain
technical assistance in preparing a grant proposal for a grant
program administered under this subchapter.
       Sec. 39.363.  FUNDING FOR CERTAIN PROGRAMS. (a) From funds
appropriated, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board shall
allocate $8.75 million each year to establish mathematics, science,
and technology teacher preparation academies under Section 21.462
and implement and administer the program under Section 29.098.
       (b)  The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board shall
establish mathematics, science, and technology teacher preparation
academies under Section 21.462 and implement and administer the
program under Section 29.098 in a manner consistent with the goals
of this subchapter and the goals in "Closing the Gaps," the state's
master plan for higher education.
       Sec. 39.364.  PRIVATE FUNDING.  The commissioner of
education or the commissioner of higher education, as appropriate,
may accept gifts, grants, or donations to fund a grant administered
under this subchapter.
       Sec. 39.365.  REPORTS. (a) Not later than December 1 of
each even-numbered year, the agency shall prepare and deliver a
report to the legislature that recommends any statutory changes the
council considers appropriate to promote high school completion and
college and workforce readiness.
       (b)  Not later than March 1 and September 1 of each year, the
commissioner of education shall prepare and deliver a progress
report to the presiding officers of the standing committees of each
house of the legislature with primary jurisdiction over public
education, the Legislative Budget Board, and the Governor's Office
of Policy and Planning on:
             (1)  the implementation of Sections 7.031, 21.4511,
21.4541, 21.462, 28.008(d-1), 28.0212(d), 29.095-29.098, 29.911,
29.917-29.919, and 39.115 and this subchapter;
             (2)  the programs supported by grants approved under
this subchapter; and
             (3)  the alignment of grants and programs to the
strategic plan adopted under Section 39.357.
       Sec. 39.366.  RULES. The commissioner of education and the
commissioner of higher education shall adopt rules as necessary to
administer this subchapter and any programs under the authority of
the commissioner of education or the commissioner of higher
education and the council under this subchapter.
       SECTION 12.  Section 42.158, Education Code, is amended by
amending Subsection (d) and adding Subsection (d-1) to read as
follows:
       (d)  Subject to Subsection (d-1), the [The] amount
appropriated for allotments under this section may not exceed $25
million in a school year.  If the total amount of allotments to
which districts are entitled under this section for a school year
exceeds the amount appropriated [for allotments] under this
subsection [section], the commissioner shall reduce each
district's allotment under this section in the manner provided by
Section 42.253(h).
       (d-1)  In addition to the appropriation amount described by
Subsection (d), the amount of $1 million may be appropriated each
school year to supplement the allotment to which a school district
is entitled under this section that may be provided using the
appropriation amount described by Subsection (d).  The commissioner
shall first apply the funds appropriated under this subsection to
prevent any reduction under Subsection (d) in the allotment for
attendance at an eligible high school instructional facility,
subject to the maximum amount of $250 for each student in average
daily attendance.  Any funds remaining after preventing all
reductions in amounts due for high school instructional facilities
may be applied proportionally to all other eligible instructional
facilities, subject to the maximum amount of $250 for each student
in average daily attendance.
       SECTION 13.  (a) The commissioner of education shall
prepare and deliver to the governor, the lieutenant governor, the
speaker of the house of representatives, and the presiding officers
of the standing committees of each house of the legislature with
primary jurisdiction over public education a preliminary report on
or before December 1, 2008, and a final report on or before December
1, 2010, as described by Subsection (b) of this section.
       (b)  The reports referred to in Subsection (a) of this
section must include an assessment of the impact of programs for
which grants have been awarded under Subchapter L, Chapter 39,
Education Code, as added by this Act, on:
             (1)  student performance on assessment instruments
administered under Subchapter B, Chapter 39, Education Code;
             (2)  high school completion rates;
             (3)  college readiness of high school students;
             (4)  teacher effectiveness in instruction;
             (5)  cost-effectiveness of the programs; and
             (6)  any other factors the commissioner of education
determines relevant.
       SECTION 14.  This Act applies beginning with the 2007-2008
school year.
       SECTION 15.  This Act takes effect immediately if it
receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each
house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution.
If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate
effect, this Act takes effect September 1, 2007.
* * * * *