Relating to the administration of public school assessment instruments and the temporary suspension of certain accountability determinations for public schools in a school year in which public school operations are disrupted as a result of a declared disaster and the requirement to use those assessment instruments as a criterion for promotion or graduation of a public school student.
Impact
HB2802 specifically amends the Texas Education Code, particularly by introducing Section 39.0239. This allows the state's education commissioner to request waivers from the U.S. Department of Education, liberating public schools from the accountability measures typically required under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). If granted, schools will not use assessment results to evaluate district performance or to inform decisions regarding student promotion or graduation during the affected school year. This legislative provision is particularly significant in addressing possible disruptions from statewide disasters, ensuring that educational assessments align with the realities faced by schools during emergencies.
Summary
House Bill 2802 focuses on the administration of public school assessment instruments during times of disaster. It permits the temporary suspension of certain accountability determinations for public schools when school operations are significantly disrupted as a result of a declared disaster. The bill aims to provide a flexible approach to educational accountability in response to unforeseen circumstances, such as natural disasters or other emergencies that impede normal school operations. This measure acknowledges the critical need to adapt assessment protocols to ensure that students and schools are not unfairly penalized during such times.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB2802 appears predominantly positive among its proponents. Supporters argue that the bill represents a necessary adaptation of education policy that prioritizes student welfare amidst disruptions. By alleviating the pressure of assessments during crisis situations, advocates see this as a protective measure for both students and educational institutions. Critically, there may be minor concerns related to accountability that some stakeholders raise, though discussions around these points reflect general support for the bill's objectives.
Contention
Notable points of contention regarding HB2802 may arise concerning the implications of reducing accountability for schools during emergencies. Some dissenters might express concerns that the temporary suspension of assessments could lead to long-term challenges in measuring educational progress and outcomes. Additionally, there is anticipation around how effective the waiver requests will be, particularly if the U.S. Department of Education does not accept the waivers as anticipated, leaving schools to grapple with the usual assessment requirements under adverse conditions. Ultimately, while the bill champions flexibility, discussions may reflect a broader debate about maintaining educational standards during times of crisis.
Relating to the use of interim testing and adaptive, growth-based assessment instruments for certain required assessments of public school students and prohibiting the use of the results of certain required assessments of public school students for certain purposes.
Relating to the use of interim testing and adaptive, growth-based assessment instruments for certain required assessments of public school students and prohibiting the use of the results of certain required assessments of public school students for certain purposes.
Relating to eliminating the requirement to use public school assessment instruments as indicators of achievement under the public school accountability system.
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 the administration of certain required assessment instruments and prohibiting the use of the results of certain required assessments of public school students for certain purposes.