85R1717 MK-D
 
  By: Bernal H.B. No. 188
 
 
 
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
 
AN ACT
  relating to student/teacher ratios for prekindergarten classes in
  public schools.
         BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
         SECTION 1.  Subchapter E, Chapter 29, Education Code, is
  amended by adding Section 29.1535 to read as follows:
         Sec. 29.1535.  STUDENT/TEACHER RATIOS.  A school district
  that offers a prekindergarten program under Section 29.153 must
  maintain an average ratio of not less than one certified teacher or
  teacher's aide for each 10 students.
         SECTION 2.  Section 29.167(d), Education Code, is amended to
  read as follows:
         (d)  A school district must [attempt to] maintain an average
  ratio in any prekindergarten program class of not less than one
  certified teacher or teacher's aide for each 10 [11] students.
         SECTION 3.  This Act applies beginning with the 2017-2018
  school year.
         SECTION 4.  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, 2017.