Texas House Bill HB4613

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the waiving academic assessment and testing for children in special education services.

Impact

By enacting HB 4613, the Texas Legislature aims to create a more accommodating educational environment for students with disabilities. The proposed changes would affect how testing is administered to special education students, aligning state practices with broader educational needs. Specifically, the bill permits the Texas Education Agency to determine when testing may be waived, thereby offering flexibility that is intended to enhance learning opportunities for affected students. The bill suggests that educational professionals view standardized testing as not always fitting for diverse learning needs.

Summary

House Bill 4613 is focused on amending the Education Code to allow exemptions from academic assessments and testing for children receiving special education services. The bill establishes criteria under which students with disabilities may be exempted from state-mandated testing if such assessments inhibit their learning outcomes. This includes provisions for students who are experiencing various disabilities, such as physical or mental challenges, or those who are not proficient in English and have recently immigrated to the United States.

Contention

While proponents of HB 4613 argue that it is a progressive step for inclusivity in education, critics may contend that waiving assessments could impede accountability measures designed to ensure educational standards. There might be concerns that if assessments are not normalized for special education students, it could disadvantage them in terms of academic recognition or future opportunities. Additionally, the specifics of how exemptions are applied could vary, leading to potential disparities in educational quality among schools and districts.

Implementation

If passed, the bill would take effect beginning with the 2019-2020 school year. It also mandates that the State Board of Education create rules regarding assessment procedures specifically tailored for students exempted under HB 4613. This includes the potential for accommodations like extended times or modified examinations for dyslexic students, ensuring that all eligible students can demonstrate their competencies adequately.