Summary

Texas HB 3662 (Open States or Texas Legislature) establishes the Texas Workforce Innovation Needs Program. The program will provide selected school districts and institutions with the opportunity to establish innovative college and career programs. The applicant’s plan should focus on student learning through either competency-based learning or incorporating career and technical courses into dual enrollment or the early college education program. The state education commissioner will select from among the applicants the programs most likely to be effective.

Legislative Analysis

TX HB 3662 establishes the Texas Workforce Innovation Needs Program. The program will provide selected school districts and institutions of higher education with the opportunity to establish innovative programs designed to prepare students for careers in high-demand in Texas. Results from the program will be used to inform methods of improving education and higher education throughout the state by improving student learning and career preparedness.

Districts and institutions must apply to participate in the program and submit a plan detailing their approach to instruction and accountability. In the case of a school district application, it is not necessary for every campus to participate in the program. Plans should emphasize approaches such as competency-based learning, career and technical education collaborations, workforce-focused innovations, high school courses that will yield college credit, and career and technical education pathways. Districts and institutions selected to participate may apply for waivers of applicable prohibitions, requirements, or restrictions in order to increase their flexibility and ability to innovate.

By December 1, 2014 and December 1, 2016, the commissioner will submit reports to the governor and legislature detailing the performance and progress of program participants. In the first report, the commissioner will include any recommendations requiring legislative authority in order for the commissioner to waive a prohibition, requirement, or restriction that applies to a program participant or to other districts or institutions interested in beginning a similar program. To prepare for implementing a commissioner waiver, the commissioner will also seek any necessary federal waivers.

Digital learning could be beneficial to many programs established through the Texas Workforce Innovation Needs Program. Virtual education resources can aid in competency-based learning by letting students advance through courses at their own individualized pace. Many in-demand careers are also highly technical and require learners to use a variety of technological equipment and programs.

Legislative History

Detailed Vote History: Legiscan | Open States

Approved by Governor Rick Perry on 6/10/2013