Statement About HB 4294

I am signing House Bill No. 4294 into law because it will further propel Texas schools into the 21st century and ensure that our students have access to the most up-to-date information available in each subject. This bill allows the commissioner of education to adopt electronic textbooks and instructional materials, giving districts that are ready to transition to technology the flexibility to choose an alternative to traditional textbooks to effectively educate students.

This bill also allows a district to use state funds to purchase the technological equipment – such as laptops, wireless reading devices or interactive whiteboards – necessary to support electronic textbooks or instructional materials. This will further allow districts the opportunity to bring technological advances to the classroom and enhance the learning environment.

I am signing this bill in support of the advancement of technology in the classroom. The elected State Board of Education (SBOE) has statutory authority to adopt textbooks for each subject and grade level after ensuring that the textbooks cover the essential knowledge and skills required for student success. Because I have concerns that this bill could be used to bypass the important role the SBOE plays in ensuring that the content of textbooks and instructional materials meets the academic standards and values set by the SBOE, I am issuing an Executive Order to clarify the role the SBOE must have in approving electronic textbooks and other instructional materials.

RICK PERRY
Governor of Texas

ATTESTED BY:
COBY SHORTER, III
Deputy Secretary of State

For a detailed view of this bill, visit http://www.legis.state.tx.us/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=81R&Bill=HB4294.