Relating to the administration of certain assessment instruments, the accountability rating system for assessing campus and district performance, public school career and technology education programs, and an extracurricular and cocurricular allotment under the Foundation School Program.
Impact
The primary impact of this bill is the modification of the performance rating system for school districts and campuses. It mandates the introduction of multiple indicators, including student participation in extracurricular activities, to assess the overall academic success of students. This could lead to a more equitable assessment of student outcomes, particularly for schools that have historically struggled under traditional accountability measures. Additionally, it promotes career and technology education, which aligns with workforce readiness and skills development.
Summary
House Bill 4402 seeks to reform the assessment and accountability systems in Texas public education for grades three through eight. This bill emphasizes a shift from strict reliance on standardized testing to a broader evaluation that considers various indicators of student success, aiming for a well-rounded approach rather than a single day of testing. The legislation introduces through-year assessments that allow schools to manage student learning more effectively throughout the academic year, rather than judging performance on isolated tests.
Sentiment
The sentiment around HB 4402 is mixed. Proponents argue that it represents a much-needed change in educational assessment methods, reducing pressure on students while encouraging a more comprehensive evaluation of their abilities. Opponents express concerns that the new measures may introduce ambiguity in accountability and could require significant adjustments from schools and educators. The ongoing debate reflects broader questions about educational standards and the best methods to ensure all students achieve success.
Contention
Notable points of contention in the discussions surrounding this bill include fears that the proposed changes may not adequately address the needs of students in underperforming schools. Some committee members emphasize the importance of stakeholder input before fully implementing these measures. Moreover, there are apprehensions that increasing the focus on extracurricular involvement could overshadow academic priorities, causing misalignment in educational goals.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Education Code
Chapter 29. Educational Programs
Section: 182
Section: 187
Section: 402
Chapter 39. Public School System Accountability
Section: 023
Section: New Section
Section: 02342
Section: 023
Section: 02342
Section: New Section
Section: 023
Section: 0236
Section: New Section
Section: 0548
Chapter 48. Foundation School Program
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 11. School Districts
Section: New Section
Chapter 12. Charters
Section: New Section
Section: 257
Section: 258
Section: 260
Chapter 19. Schools In The Texas Department Of Criminal Justice
Section: 0043
Chapter 25. Admission, Transfer, And Attendance
Section: New Section
Chapter 28. Courses Of Study; Advancement
Section: New Section
Chapter 33. Service Programs And Extracurricular Activities
Relating to the administration of assessment instruments in public schools, eliminating the requirement to use public school assessment instruments as a criterion for promotion or graduation, and the temporary suspension of certain accountability determinations for a school district or campus in a school year in which the operations of the district or campus are disrupted as a result of a declared disaster.
Relating to the administration of assessment instruments in public schools and eliminating the requirement to use public school assessment instruments as a criterion for promotion or graduation or to make certain accountability determinations.
Relating to the administration of assessment instruments in public schools, eliminating the requirement to use public school assessment instruments as a criterion for promotion or graduation, and the temporary suspension of certain accountability determinations for a school district or campus in a school year in which the operations of the district or campus are disrupted as a result of a declared disaster.
Relating to public school accountability, including the administration of assessment instruments in public schools, the assignment of public school campus performance ratings, and the creation of the Texas Commission on Public School Assessment and Accountability.
Relating to academic distinction designations under the public school accountability system and the career and technology allotment under the Foundation School Program.
Relating to the assessment of public school students, including the development and administration of assessment instruments, and technology permitted for use by students.