(a) From funds appropriated for that purpose, the commissioner may establish a grant program under which grants are awarded to middle, junior high, and high school campuses and school districts to support:

1. (1) the implementation of innovative improvement programs that are based on the best available research regarding middle, junior high, or high school reform, dropout prevention, and preparing students for postsecondary coursework or employment; and
2. (2) enhancing education practices that have been demonstrated by significant evidence of effectiveness.

(b) Before awarding a grant under this section, the commissioner may require a campus or school district to:

1. (1) obtain local matching funds; or
2. (2) meet other conditions, including developing a personal graduation plan under Section 28.0212 or 28.02121, as applicable, for each student enrolled at the campus or in a district middle, junior high, or high school.

(c) The commissioner may:

1. (1) accept gifts, grants, or donations from a private foundation to implement a grant program under this section; and
2. (2) coordinate gifts, grants, or donations with other available funding to implement a grant program under this section.

(d) The commissioner may use funds appropriated under this section to support technical assistance services for school districts and open-enrollment charter schools to implement an improvement program under this section.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 895 (H.B. 3), Sec. 59, eff. June 19, 2009.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 56(a), eff. June 10, 2013.

Acts 2019, 86th Leg., R.S., Ch. 439 (S.B. 1376), Sec. 1.06, eff. June 4, 2019.