Bill > SB569

This bill comprehensively reforms virtual and hybrid education in Texas public schools by creating a new Chapter 30B in the Education Code that establishes detailed regulations for virtual and hybrid courses, programs, and campuses. The bill defines key terms like "full-time virtual program" (where students attend in-person minimally or not at all and receive instruction primarily over the internet) and "hybrid course" (where students attend in-person for less than 90% of instruction time). It provides a framework for school districts and charter schools to offer virtual and hybrid educational options, including requiring quality standards for courses, protecting student and teacher rights, and establishing an authorization process for full-time virtual and hybrid campuses. The bill also includes provisions for funding, student eligibility, and accountability for private providers of virtual instruction. Additionally, the legislation includes provisions for using virtual education as an alternative to student expulsion and allows the commissioner of education to modify funding requirements during emergencies that impact school attendance. The bill repeals the existing Chapter 30A governing virtual education and provides a transition period for existing virtual education programs, with implementation beginning in the 2025-2026 school year.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB569