April 1, 2025
To: Senate Committee on Education K–16
Re: Testimony FOR Senate Bill 2253
Good evening Chairman Creighton, Vice Chair Campbell and Members:
My name is Kelle Kieschnick, Vice President of Policy with the Texas Business Leadership Council testifying in support of Senate Bill 2253. The TBLC is a statewide, non-partisan network of CEOs and senior executives working to build a more globally competitive Texas.
We currently have a skills gap in Texas due to low postsecondary attainment that is putting a strain on our workforce. College and career readiness starts with a strong early education, however, the increase in uncertified, underprepared teachers is negatively impacting student outcomes and this creates…