Relating to developmentally appropriate assessment of special education students.
The passage of SB906 is expected to empower the Texas Education Agency to develop or adopt alternative assessment instruments that align more suitably with the capabilities of special education students. By doing so, this bill will promote the adoption of more tailored assessments that can lead to better educational outcomes for these students. The bill's implementation is aimed at beginning the 2013-2014 school year, indicating a push for timely action in improving educational assessments for vulnerable student populations.
SB906, titled 'Relating to the developmentally appropriate assessment of special education students,' seeks to amend the Education Code to provide a clearer framework for assessing students in special education programs. The bill emphasizes the need for criterion-referenced alternative assessments when traditional assessment methods may not accurately gauge a student's achievement. This is particularly pertinent for students whose disabilities limit their ability to perform on standard assessments even with accommodations. The legislature recognizes that assessments must reflect a student's developmental level as determined by individualized committees.
The bill's introduction and anticipated implementation may present some divisions within the educational community. While proponents advocate for more inclusive and representative assessments, ensuring that special education students are not unfairly judged against standard criteria, detractors may be concerned about the potential implications for accountability standards and the overall comparability of educational assessments in Texas. Addressing these concerns is vital for the bill's long-term success and acceptance.
SB906 was successfully passed in the House on May 22, 2013, with an overwhelming majority of 148 yeas and no nays, signifying strong bipartisan support for the necessary adjustments to assessment protocols in special education.