This year’s legislative session has brought a lot of attention to how Texas funds education — with public school funding, teacher pay and private school vouchers at the center of the conversation. But those aren’t the only education issues under consideration.
Lawmakers are also debating other bills that could bring changes to daily life in schools. Some proposals would increase support for student safety, expand help for children who are behind in reading and math, and even place new limits on cellphone use during the school day. While some bills aim to provide more resources, others would introduce new rules or requirements for schools.
Back to center stage, a major school funding bill, House Bill 2 (HB 2), is headed to a key hearing this Thursday, May 15 — and the decisions made could impact students, teachers, and schools across Texas, including yours.
The Senate Education Committee will hear public testimony starting at 9 a.m. on Thursday. The current version of the bill (called a “committee substitute”) looks very different from what was originally proposed in the Texas House — and school families have a lot riding on what happens next.
What’s in the Bill?
Instead of increasing the basic funding each school receives for every student, this version of the bill diverts funding to other areas. Here’s a look at where the money would go:
- $4.2 billion toward teacher raises and incentives
- $270 million for teacher training and certification
- $1.3 billion to better support students with special needs
- $677 million for early childhood education
- $153 million for career and technical education (CTE)
- $1.3 billion for broader school funding reforms, including a small $55 per-student increase to the basic allotment
While the full text of the bill hasn’t been released yet, a summary is available for review.
Why It Matters to You?
This bill could shape how schools are staffed, how students are supported and how programs like special education, early childhood education and work-based training are funded.
If your child benefits from strong teachers, special education services, early learning opportunities, or career prep programs — HB 2 could have a direct effect on their day-to-day experience.
What’s Next
The public hearing starts at 9 a.m. Thursday. Testimony at the Capitol will be limited to two minutes per person, but written testimony is welcome (13 copies are required).
You can also watch the hearing live to stay informed and see how lawmakers respond to concerns from educators, parents, and experts.
