Relating to establishing a pilot program under which public schools may develop a portfolio method to assess student performance in grades three through eight for purposes of accountability and qualification for promotion.
Impact
The implications of HB 988 extend to the Education Code of Texas, potentially altering how student performance is assessed for accountability and promotion eligibility. By integrating a portfolio assessment method, schools participating in this pilot program can utilize a variety of evaluative tools, including both formative and summative assessments. The blended approach allows for a more comprehensive view of a student's capabilities, aiming to ensure that evaluations reflect a broader spectrum of student skills beyond standardized testing alone, thus fostering a more holistic educational assessment strategy.
Summary
House Bill 988 establishes a pilot program aimed at allowing public schools to implement a portfolio assessment method for evaluating student performance in grades three through eight. This innovative approach combines traditional assessment methods with portfolio evaluations, seeking to improve accountability in educational outcomes while also providing flexibility in how student performance is measured. The program encourages school districts to develop their own assessment plans, which must include participation from teachers, administrators, and students, fostering a collaborative environment in educational strategy formulation.
Contention
However, the introduction of portfolio assessments may raise points of contention regarding the reliability and validity of such evaluations compared to traditional standardized tests. Critics could express concerns about the subjective nature of portfolio assessments, where performance may be influenced by the interpretation skills of evaluators. Additionally, there may be debates on the implementation logistics and the potential for disparities in evaluation quality among districts adopting the pilot program. Proponents argue that such methodologies could encourage deeper learning and engagement as students are assessed on a range of skills that contribute to their overall educational experience.
Relating to the administration of certain assessment instruments, the accountability rating system for assessing campus and district performance, public school career and technology education programs, and an extracurricular and cocurricular allotment under the Foundation School Program.
Relating to accelerated instruction provided for public school students who fail to achieve satisfactory performance on certain assessment instruments, indicators under the public school accountability system, and performance standards in public schools.
Relating to public school accountability, including the assessment of academic performance, and district and campus performance standards and sanctions.
Relating to the assessment of public school students and the provision of accelerated instruction to students who fail to achieve satisfactory performance on certain assessment instruments.
Relating to establishing a pilot program under which public schools may develop a portfolio method to assess secondary-level student performance for purposes of accountability and qualification for graduation.
Relating to establishing a pilot program under which public schools may use a digital portfolio method to assess student performance in grades three through eight for purposes of accountability and qualification for promotion.
Relating to establishing a pilot program under which public schools may use a digital portfolio method to assess student performance in grades three through eight for purposes of accountability and qualification for promotion.
Relating to eliminating the state-required assessment instrument in social studies and the United States history end-of-course assessment instrument and to establishing a pilot program to develop a portfolio method to assess student performance in those courses.
Relating to the administration of certain assessment instruments, the accountability rating system for assessing campus and district performance, public school career and technology education programs, and an extracurricular and cocurricular allotment under the Foundation School Program.
Relating to the assessment of public school students, public school accountability and actions, and proceedings challenging the operations of the public school system.