Bill > HB284

This bill establishes a new ombudsman position within the Texas education system to support parents of children enrolled in public schools and open-enrollment charter schools. The ombudsman will be appointed by the State Board of Education and must be a current parent of a school-enrolled child who is not a current or former elected official. The ombudsman's primary responsibilities include receiving and investigating parent complaints about potential unethical conduct or violations of state or federal education laws by schools, districts, or education agencies, while maintaining strict confidentiality of all communications. The ombudsman will develop statewide procedures for complaint intake, review complaints, conduct investigations, identify systemic issues, and assist parents in filing complaints. The bill prohibits retaliation against parents, students, or individuals who cooperate with the ombudsman's investigations and requires the ombudsman to provide annual reports to the agency and State Board of Education detailing complaint trends, recommendations, and any changes made in response to substantiated complaints. The ombudsman will also be responsible for developing an annual public outreach plan to promote awareness of the position among parents. The position will be administratively attached to the agency, and the ombudsman may employ staff to assist in performing duties. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB284