Our elected officials have difficult jobs that force them to make tough decisions. Your voice is critical to influencing the choices they make. Here’s what you can do to help maximize the educational opportunity of every Texas student:
Stay up-to-date with everything you need to know about the 2023 education legislation in Austin.
When the time comes to call your representatives, we will give you simple action items and instructions on what to do. Together we can ensure systemic and sustainable reforms to our TX public schools finance system so that our students get the resources they need to be successful.
For more information on getting your organization involved, click below.
Policy Areas For 88th Legislative Session
1. Equitable School Funding
Sustaining House Bill 3’s equitable and strategic investments in Texas schools is critical for the success of our state.
2. Assessments & Accountability
In addition to formative academic snapshots, valid, reliable, annual, and comparable summative assessments in core subjects enable decision makers (parents, school leaders, and policymakers) to identify opportunities and herald bright spots. Meaningful, fair, and transparent accountability systems (including reporting, ratings, and consequences) define excellence and spur continuous improvement. Both accountability and the assessment system within it must focus on core academic skills that research shows are critical to post-graduation success.
3. Attract, Prepare, Develop & Retain Effective and Diverse Educators
In a time where more teachers are leaving the profession, we must incentivize our best educators to stay in the classroom and set future teachers on a path toward successful careers in the field. With high-quality teacher preparation and data-driven continuing education, a diverse, effective teaching workforce can support high-quality instruction and strong student outcomes.
4. Innovation in Instructional Delivery and School Design
COVID-19 has changed the way Texans think about school and necessitated innovative solutions to ensure all students receive an excellent education. After years of disrupted learning, evidence-based accelerated learning strategies and workforce-aligned virtual education opportunities are tools that can support getting students back on track to graduate ready for college and career.
5. Post-secondary Readiness and Success
A student’s academic experience from prekindergarten through high school graduation should result in a college or career-ready transition and ultimately reach their potential. Evidence-based strategies should ensure all students have the opportunity to lead a productive, successful life.
2023 Legislative Timeline
Throughout the 2023 legislative session, InvestEdTX will send you updates and action items to let you know when to call your state representative and senator.
January 10
Session Begins
The first day of the 2023 Legislative Session.
Late January
Top Priorities
Governor Abbott hosts his State of the State address, releasing his emergency items for the session.
January - February
Committee Assignments
The Lieutenant Governor releases committee assignments for the Senate, and the Speaker releases committee assignments for the House.
February - May
Lawmaking
Legislators in both chambers hear and take action on bills in committee and vote as an entire body on legislation.
May 29
Session Ends
The last day of the 2023 Legislative Session. All bills must pass through both chambers by this point to become law.
June 18
Governor Takes Action
Governor Abbott must either sign or veto bills that successfully made it to his desk by this date.