Texas Senate Bill SB531

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the use of individual graduation committee determinations for certain public school accountability and high school graduation purposes and to the use of other alternative methods for certain high school graduation purposes.

Impact

If enacted, SB531 would significantly influence public education standards and graduation requirements across Texas. The bill aims to provide flexibility in high school graduation criteria, enabling students with varied educational backgrounds and capabilities to meet graduation requirements without being solely dependent on standardized test outcomes. By incorporating individual graduation committee recommendations, it is anticipated that this could lead to increased graduation rates and better accommodate diverse learning needs among students.

Summary

Senate Bill 531 addresses the criteria and methods for high school graduation determinations, specifically focusing on the use of individual graduation committees and alternative assessment methods. The bill seeks to amend the Education Code to clarify and enhance the mechanisms by which students can qualify for graduation, particularly in cases where they may not have performed adequately on standardized tests. It introduces provisions for allowing students who have failed end-of-course assessments to graduate based on recommendations from these committees, which look at alternative methods of evaluation.

Contention

There may be points of contention regarding the reliance on individual graduation committees, as some lawmakers and stakeholders might express concerns about the consistency and fairness of the graduation determinations made by these committees. Critics of the bill may argue that it could dilute educational standards and accountability by allowing students to graduate without meeting traditional assessment requirements. Additionally, questions may arise regarding the administrative burden placed upon schools in implementing these modifications and the potential impact on school district performance ratings.