Texas Senate Bill SB1309

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to assessment alternatives or accommodations for certain public school students in special education programs.

Impact

The implementation of SB1309 is expected to have a significant impact on the Texas Education Code, particularly concerning the assessments administered to students with special needs. By mandating the redevelopment of assessment instruments, this bill aims to improve the overall quality of assessments and ensure that they do not unnecessarily burden teachers. It emphasizes the importance of having educational assessments that are accessible and appropriate for all students, particularly those who are significantly cognitively disabled.

Summary

Senate Bill 1309, presented by Senator Davis et al., focuses on creating assessment alternatives or accommodations for public school students who are part of special education programs. The bill aims to ensure that the assessment instruments used for significantly cognitively disabled students are redeveloped and administered appropriately, in alignment with federal law. The proposed measures will help facilitate fair evaluation processes that cater to the unique needs of these students, enabling them to demonstrate their knowledge and capabilities effectively.

Contention

Notably, there may be points of contention regarding the bill given its implications for the execution of assessments. Critics of past measures have often raised concerns related to the feasibility of redesigning assessment instruments and the resources that will be required to implement these changes. Educators may have varying opinions on whether the adjustments will accomplish the intended purpose of improving assessment and how they will affect classroom dynamics. Further discussions may also arise around the timeline of implementation and costs involved in redeveloping these assessment instruments.