Discussion of Standardized Testing in Texas
April 18, 2012
COMMITTEE ON INSTRUCTION: DISCUSSION
STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION: NO ACTION
SUMMARY: At the request of a board member, the committee will discuss standardized testing in Texas. The item will also address benchmark tests administered by school districts designed to prepare students for state-administered assessments.
BOARD RESPONSE: This item is presented for review and comment.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION AND SIGNIFICANT ISSUES: Current statewide testing requirements are mandated by Texas Education Code (TEC), §39.023(a), (b), (c), (l). In the spring of 2012, the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) will be administered statewide for the first time to students in Grades 3-8 and to students first entering Grade 9. Students first entering Grade 9 in the 2011-2012 school year or thereafter are required to meet STAAR end-of-course (EOC) requirements for graduation from high school.
FISCAL IMPACT: Not applicable.
PUBLIC AND STUDENT BENEFIT: Benefits include the availability of state assessment results annually to inform instruction, improve student performance, and ensure that students graduate ready for postsecondary success.
PROCEDURAL AND REPORTING IMPLICATIONS: Not applicable.
PUBLIC COMMENTS: Not applicable.
ALTERNATIVES: Not applicable.
OTHER COMMENTS AND RELATED ISSUES: None.
Respectfully submitted,
Robert Scott
Commissioner of Education
Staff Members Responsible:
Criss Cloudt, Associate Commissioner
Assessment and Accountability
Gloria Zyskowski, Division Director
Student Assessment