Texas House Bill HB3880

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/7/23

Caption

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.

Impact

By implementing HB3880, the Texas Education Code is modified to provide greater flexibility in assessment administration. The bill ensures that results from assessments taken in paper format will not affect a school district's evaluation—addressing potential concerns regarding performance metrics that might arise from such accommodations. This change marks a notable shift towards recognizing the varied requirements of students and supporting their ability to participate in required evaluations without the stress of format limitations.

Summary

House Bill 3880 focuses on the administration of required assessment instruments in Texas public schools, allowing students to take these assessments in paper format upon request by their parents or guardians. This bill aims to enhance accessibility by ensuring that an alternative format is available for a limited number of students, specifically up to three percent of those enrolled in a district. The legislation emphasizes the significance of accommodating diverse student needs in standardized testing environments.

Sentiment

The sentiment among supporters of HB3880 is positive, especially among advocates for student rights and educational equity. They view the bill as a significant step in promoting inclusivity within the education system. However, there may be some skepticism regarding the feasibility of its implementation and concerns about the sufficiency of accommodations for students with special needs. In prior discussions, there were mixed reactions from stakeholders, indicating that while many support the bill's intentions, there is also a call for caution to ensure that the administration of assessments remains fair and effective.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB3880 include the practical implications of the three percent cap on students allowed to take assessments in paper format, which some argue could limit access for those who may benefit from such accommodations. Additionally, previous legislative attempts to pass similar measures faced challenges, raising questions about the long-term commitment of the legislature to support necessary changes in educational assessment practices. The bill's advocates must navigate these concerns while working to ensure that the education system is responsive to the needs of all students.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 39. Public School System Accountability
  • Section: 02342