Bill Caption

Relating to the reporting of private school educator misconduct.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

SB 1230 would require a court clerk to notify the chief administrative officer of a private school that an employee was convicted or granted deferred adjudication of an offense. 

This bill would also require a chief administrative officer of a private school to notify the State Board for Educator Certification if an educator has a criminal record and the school found out by a means other than the criminal history clearinghouse, was terminated and there is evidence that the educator committed an unlawful act with a student or minor or was involved in a romantic relationship with a student, or resigned and there is evidence that the educator abused or was engaged with sexual contact with a student. The chief administrative officer would be required to complete an investigation and a report of an educator suspected of committing a crime even if the educator resigns. Any person who knows or has reason to believe that an educator committed a crime would be allowed to file a report as well. 

SB 1230 also would allow private and public schools equal access to reports of alleged misconduct for an educator. 

Vote Recommendation Notes

Texas Action supports SB 1230. This bill promotes our liberty principle of limited government because keeping students safe is well within the proper role of government. This bill also upholds our liberty principle of personal responsibility by holding chief administrative officers accountable if they fail to properly vet their employees, as well as the individual who previously engaged in misconduct with a student.