Texas House Bill HB173

Texas 2023 - 88th 3rd C.S.

• Filed: 10/18/23

Caption

Relating to the consideration of distinction designations in the assignment of district and campus performance ratings under the public school accountability system.

Impact

If enacted, HB 173 will necessitate changes in how the Texas Education Agency assesses and reports school performance, starting from the 2024-2025 school year. This modification has the potential to enhance the motivational landscape for schools, as they may be incentivized to attain distinction designations to improve their accountability ratings. Supporters of the bill believe it will create a more competitive environment among schools, encouraging them to strive for higher standards and accountability. This approach could lead to improved educational outcomes and overall school performance across the state.

Summary

House Bill 173 aims to modify the public school accountability system in Texas by incorporating distinction designations into the performance ratings of school districts and campuses. The bill mandates that the commissioner of education adopt a method that assigns point values to each distinction designation a district or campus receives. This new method will allow for a more comprehensive evaluation of school performance, emphasizing not only the overall rating but also recognizing specific achievements that can now influence the ratings directly. The intent is to promote high performance among schools and make accountability measures more meaningful by reflecting exceptional performance as recognized through these distinctions.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 173 appears generally positive among proponents of educational reform and improvement, as it is seen as a step towards recognizing and rewarding high-performing schools. Educational advocates argue that such a system would incentivize districts to enhance their educational offerings and support student achievement. Conversely, there may be some apprehension from critics concerned about the potential for increased pressure on low-performing schools, which may already be struggling with resources and community challenges. These critics may advocate for a more balanced approach that also takes into account the context of school communities.

Contention

One notable point of contention regarding HB 173 revolves around the implications of incorporating distinction designations into performance evaluations. Opponents worry that emphasizing these designations may lead to an overemphasis on competition at the expense of collaboration and support for underperforming schools. Additionally, there are concerns that the focus on measurable distinctions could inadvertently marginalize schools that serve disadvantaged populations, where achieving distinction may be inherently more difficult due to systemic challenges. The discussion raises critical questions about equity and the broader goals of the public education system in Texas, balancing accountability with the need for support.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

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