AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - The Texas House is considering a new system to pay for school materials, including textbooks.
The bill would combine the textbook and technology allotments to public schools.
In the past lawmakers approved two different payments to schools based on the number of students in attendance. One was for textbooks, another for technology. If this measure passes, they will get one lump sum to buy instructional materials. The amount spent per students will depend on how much money is available in state accounts.
The proposed law requires the State Board of Education to set aside 50 percent of available funds for instructional materials. The board would no longer have to approve all materials.
Opponents say the new system does not include a mechanism to adjust for inflation.
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