Texas House Bill HB3092

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to measures to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on public schools during the 2020-2021 school year, including the administration of public school assessment instruments and the temporary suspension of certain accountability determinations, the requirement to use those assessment instruments as a criterion for promotion or graduation, and the calculation of average daily attendance.

Impact

The bill specifically aims to modify how public school assessment results are utilized for evaluating school performance, determining student promotion or graduation, and adjusting funding based on average daily attendance. By stipulating that assessment results should not affect the accreditation status or performance ratings of districts for the affected period, it seeks to provide a safety net for schools coping with the adverse effects of the pandemic. The temporary suspension of certain accountability measures is also intended to prevent further hardship amidst ongoing public health concerns.

Summary

House Bill 3092 addresses the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic on public education in Texas during the 2020-2021 school year. The bill proposes measures such as requesting a waiver from the federal government to bypass the mandatory administration of assessment instruments as required under the Every Student Succeeds Act. This is aimed at alleviating the pressures on schools and students during a tumultuous time marked by health-related school closures and adaptations to teaching methods, especially in the context of in-person learning requirements.

Contention

While the bill is largely seen as a necessary response to unprecedented challenges, debates have emerged over the implications for educational standards and accountability. Some lawmakers and educators argue that suspending testing and accountability measures might dilute the focus on educational outcomes. Critics of the bill suggest that without consistent assessment, it may be challenging to gauge the effectiveness of schools and the educational progress of students during this critical period. The bill's temporary nature also introduces questions about long-term educational impacts post-pandemic.