Texas advocates push for Senate Bill 12 24 to reform educator misconduct reporting

The Senate Committee on Education K-16 convened on April 8, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 12 24, a proposed legislation aimed at reforming the reporting and handling of educator misconduct in Texas schools. The meeting featured testimonies from various advocates and individuals affected by educator abuse, highlighting significant concerns regarding the current system's ability to protect students.

Shannon Ayers, the state education director for Citizens Defending Freedom, opened the discussion by emphasizing the inadequacies of the existing reporting framework. She argued that when allegations of abuse arise, they are often treated as internal grievances rather than serious crimes, leading to a lack of justice for victims. Ayers pointed out that many school districts have independent police departments that report to superintendents, creating conflicts of interest that can hinder objective investigations. She urged the committee to support SB 12 24 to ensure that allegations are reported to external law enforcement, thereby enhancing accountability and student safety.

Fran Rhodes, president of True Texas Project, echoed Ayers' sentiments, expressing disbelief that such protections were not already part of Texas law. She called for immediate action to pass the bill, stating that a decade of inaction is too long for children to wait for protection from abuse.

Faith Colson, a survivor of educator abuse, shared her personal story, illustrating the failures of the current system. She recounted how multiple educators were aware of her situation but failed to report it, prioritizing the school's reputation over her safety. Colson advocated for the bill, emphasizing the need for external reporting to prevent internal cover-ups and protect future students.

Aileen Blakowski, representing the Parent Advocates of Texas Education 9 11, supported SB 12 24 but stressed the necessity of independent oversight to ensure thorough investigations. She highlighted the culture of protection within school systems and the need for accountability for those who fail to report misconduct.

Brady Gray, president of Texas Family Project, reinforced the urgency of the bill by citing alarming statistics regarding educator misconduct. He noted that many cases go unreported or are inadequately investigated, leading to a loss of trust between families and schools. Gray called for immediate action to ensure that serious allegations are reported and addressed appropriately.

The committee members engaged with the testimonies, with some expressing gratitude for the advocates' contributions and acknowledging the need for reform. The discussions underscored a collective desire to enhance student safety and accountability within Texas schools.

In conclusion, the Senate Committee on Education K-16's meeting highlighted critical issues surrounding educator misconduct and the need for legislative reform through SB 12 24. The testimonies presented painted a clear picture of the current system's failures and the urgent need for change to protect Texas students from abuse. The committee's next steps will involve further deliberation on the bill and its implications for the state's education system.