Texas Senate Bill SB615

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to requirements regarding assessment instruments required for public high school graduation and the use of individual graduation committees to satisfy certain public high school graduation requirements.

Impact

This bill is expected to impact the graduation pathways for high school students in Texas significantly. By allowing individual graduation committees to operate, the legislation aims to assist students who may struggle with high-stakes testing but still meet other academic criteria. The bill emphasizes a more personalized approach to graduation requirements, reflecting a growing recognition that standardized tests may not thoroughly capture a student’s capabilities and readiness for postsecondary education or careers.

Summary

SB615 aims to amend several sections of the Education Code concerning assessment instruments required for public high school graduation and the establishment of individual graduation committees. The bill provides a framework for high school students to demonstrate readiness for graduation through an individual graduation committee, especially if they do not perform satisfactorily on statewide assessment instruments. This change intends to offer schools and students more flexibility in fulfilling graduation requirements, taking into account various factors that may affect student performance.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding SB615 relates to the reliability of assessment instruments as measures of student success. Critics may argue that relying on alternative pathways to graduation could undermine academic standards. Conversely, supporters advocate for the bill's intention to accommodate diverse learning styles and conditions among students, acknowledging that a single test score may not adequately represent a student's knowledge or abilities. The overall discussions around the bill suggest a balancing act between maintaining rigorous academic standards and providing equitable opportunities for all students to succeed.