Texas House Bill HB4

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/20/25

Caption

Relating to the assessment of public school students, public school accountability and actions, and proceedings challenging the operations of the public school system.

Impact

If passed, HB4 is expected to significantly influence public school accountability in Texas. The bill mandates that local school boards determine whether to utilize evaluation tools, while ensuring that overarching rules are adhered to. This change promotes a system where local education agencies have a degree of autonomy to adopt suitable assessment methods while still being bound by state standards. The introduction of measures for intervention and performance ratings means that schools will be held more accountable, potentially leading to improved educational outcomes. However, it could also increase pressure on schools to perform, particularly in underfunded or struggling districts.

Summary

House Bill 4 (HB4) is a legislative proposal focusing on the assessment and accountability of public school students in Texas, as well as the procedures for challenging the operations of the public school system. The bill aims to amend various sections of the Education Code related to the standards and evaluations of public schools, ensuring that students meet required academic skills and are assessed fairly. The proposed changes emphasize the importance of reliable and valid assessment instruments and introduce potential measures for schools and districts that fail to meet performance standards.

Contention

Debates surrounding HB4 may center on the balance between state-mandated education standards and local control over school operations. Supporters argue that implementing strict accountability measures is necessary for ensuring educational quality across the state. Conversely, opponents express concern that such stringent measures could penalize struggling schools further and undermine local governance. Additionally, the implications for funding, educator rights, and the potential for increased testing could be contentious points of discussion among various stakeholders including teachers, school administrators, and parents.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 39. Public School System Accountability
  • Section: 023
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 0542

• Chapter 45. School District Funds
  • Section: New Section

Labor Code

• Chapter 312. Industry-based Certification Advisory Council
  • Section: New Section

Government Code

• Chapter 22. Appellate Courts
  • Section: New Section