Amend CSHB 1 (house committee report), in Article III of the bill, following the appropriations to the Texas Education Agency (page III-27), by adding the following appropriately numbered rider:

____.  Study on Relationship Between School District Size and School District Cost and Academic Effectiveness. (a) Using funds appropriated above, the commissioner of education shall conduct a study regarding the relationship between school district size and school district cost and academic effectiveness. In conducting the study, the commissioner shall consider factors affecting the operation of school districts, including:

(1)  organization and management;

(2)  financial soundness;

(3)  transportation and other general services;

(4)  parent accessibility to school district administration;

(5)  campus feeder patterns; and

(6)  number of students enrolled.

(b)  On the request of the commissioner of education, Regional Education Service Centers and the State Board of Education shall assist the commissioner in conducting the study under Subsection (a).

(c)  Not later than December 31, 2020, the commissioner of education shall submit to the governor, the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the house of representatives, and each legislative standing committee with primary jurisdiction over public education a report that includes:

(1)  the results of the study conducted under Subsection (a), including any determinations made with regard to an optimal school district size that would promote efficient operation and attainment of state educational goals; and

(2)  recommendations for legislative or other action.