The House Committee on Public Education

84th Legislature

May 11, 2016

9:30 a.m.

E2.036

Pursuant to a notice posted on April 27, 2016, revised on May 6, 2016, the House Committee on Public Education met in a public hearing and was called to order by the acting chair, Representative Alma Allen, at 9:47 a.m.

The initial quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Allen; Deshotel; Dutton; Farney; Galindo; González, Mary; Huberty; King, Ken; and VanDeaver.

A quorum was present.

The committee considered interim charge four:  Review current policies and rules to protect students from inappropriate teacher-student relationships. Examine efforts by the Texas Education Agency, school districts, law enforcement and the courts to investigate and prosecute educators for criminal conduct. Recommend needed improvements to promote student safety, including examining current criminal penalties, superintendent reporting requirements, teacher certification sanctions and the documentation provided in school district separation agreements. Review school employee training and educational efforts to promote student safety.

Invited and public testimony was taken on interim charge four. (See attached witness list.)

(Representative Bohac now present.)

At 12:23 p.m., on the motion of Representative Allen and without objection, the meeting was recessed until 12:45 p.m., May 11, 2016.

The committee reconvened at 12:48 p.m. and was called to order by Representative Allen.

The quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Allen; Farney; Galindo; Huberty; King, Ken; and VanDeaver.

A quorum was present.

The committee considered interim charge three: Examine the accessibility to broadband services for schools, libraries, and institutions of higher education. Study the feasibility and affordability of providing scalable broadband to schools and other public institutions. Research federal and state funding opportunities to support increased access to broadband. Review innovative efforts by school districts to integrate technology in the classroom. Explore ways to enhance high-tech digital learning opportunities in the classroom to improve student achievement and fulfill future workforce demands.

Invited and public testimony was taken on interim charge three. (See attached witness list.)

(Representative Bohac now present.)

(Representative Dutton now present.)

(Representative González, Mary now present.)

At 3:40 p.m., on the motion of Representative Allen and without objection, the meeting was adjourned subject to the call of the chair.

________________________________________________

Rep. Allen, Chair

________________________________________________

Jenna Watts, Clerk