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TX HB2196
Bill
Status
1/29/2025
Primary Sponsor
Keith Bell
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AI Summary
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Creates new Chapter 30B in the Education Code establishing a comprehensive framework for virtual and hybrid education in Texas public schools, replacing the existing state virtual school network (Chapter 30A)
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Defines full-time virtual programs (instruction delivered primarily over the Internet with minimal in-person attendance) and full-time hybrid programs (less than 90% in-person attendance with flexible delivery methods), requiring commissioner authorization before districts can operate these campuses
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Requires students to have prior Texas public school attendance of at least six weeks to enroll in full-time virtual campuses, with exceptions for first graders, military dependents, new state residents, and students in substitute care
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Prohibits schools from requiring students to enroll in virtual or hybrid courses (except open-enrollment charter schools may require it), and prohibits requiring teachers hired for in-person instruction to teach virtual courses without their agreement
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Authorizes the commissioner to modify attendance calculation requirements during emergencies or crises that cause statewide or regional decreases in average daily attendance, ensuring districts can maintain funding entitlements
Legislative Description
Relating to the provision of virtual education in public schools and to certain waivers and modifications by the commissioner of education to the method of calculating average daily attendance in an emergency or crisis for purposes of preserving school district funding entitlements under the Foundation School Program during that emergency or crisis; authorizing a fee.
Education
Last Action
Laid on the table subject to call
4/17/2025