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Texas Senate Examines DEI Policies: Key Insights from Higher Education Hearing

The Texas Senate Higher Education Subcommittee is set to conduct its third interim hearing on Monday, focusing on the functions of faculty senates, an evaluation of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, as well as initiatives aimed at improving access to higher education for high school students. The hearing will convene at 9 a.m. in the Capitol Extension, Room E1.028, with opportunities for public testimony.

Interim Charges and DEI Policy Review

The interim charges outlined by Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick include a review of faculty senates and a directive to identify and eliminate what are characterized as “discriminatory” DEI policies from specific programs and certificates intended to support Texas’ workforce development. The subcommittee will also investigate the potential expansion of advanced placement and dual credit courses for high school students.

Impact of Senate Bill 17

This review of DEI policies has been prompted by the enactment of Senate Bill 17 during the 2023 legislative session, which bans DEI offices and related training programs at state higher education institutions. This legislation, which took effect in January, has led to job reductions for DEI staff at the University of Texas and decreased access to diversity support services for students.

Academic Exceptions and Faculty Restrictions

Senate Bill 17 makes provisions for academic exceptions regarding research-related DEI activities. However, attempts to impose further restrictions on faculty providing advice to students about issues related to race or ethnicity have not progressed in the Texas House.

Challenges to Academic Courses

As the upcoming legislative session nears, some lawmakers and advocacy groups are challenging academic courses that delve into race, LGBTQ+ studies, or social justice, questioning their alignment with the qualifications considered beneficial for Texas’ workforce.

Texas A&M University Curriculum Changes

Texas A&M University has announced the discontinuation of its LGBTQ+ studies minor, along with more than 50 additional certificates and minors, citing low enrollment as the reasoning behind this decision. Faculty members have raised concerns that this move violates established procedures for curricular modifications.

Evaluation of Discriminatory DEI Policies

The subcommittee aims to evaluate programs and certificates at higher education institutions that may include discriminatory DEI policies and how these might conflict with the workforce requirements of the state.

Functions of Faculty Senates

Additionally, the subcommittee will assess the roles of faculty senates and offer recommendations regarding their functions in the current educational context. Faculty senates generally possess symbolic authority, but can express opposition to administrative decisions. For instance, the Texas A&M Faculty Senate has previously expressed a vote of no confidence in certain administrative actions, illustrating the ongoing tensions surrounding governance in higher education.

Strategic Goals for Higher Education

In line with a broader strategic goal, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board aims for 60% of Texans aged 25-64 to hold a skill-based credential by 2030, necessitating a reexamination of K-12 education pathways leading to college.

Public Testimony Guidelines

During the hearing, public testimony will be capped at two minutes, and participants are encouraged to bring multiple written copies of their statements for distribution to committee members.

(Original source: Statesman)

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