Texas Senate Approves Bill Replacing STAAR Test, Sends to House

The Texas Senate has approved House Bill 4, a significant education reform measure that aims to replace the controversial STAAR standardized test with three shorter assessments administered throughout the school year. The new testing model would provide quicker results, enabling teachers to monitor and support student progress more effectively. HB 4 also addresses the state's A-F accountability ratings by prohibiting school districts from suing to block these ratings and requiring the Texas Education Agency to release ratings annually and update the accountability system regularly. Despite broad support, there remain unresolved differences between the House and Senate regarding how student performance should be evaluated and the structure of accountability ratings. The bill now returns to the House for final approval, with the legislative session nearing its end, making timely consensus crucial. Proponents emphasize that these changes aim to reduce student anxiety, improve instructional time, and ensure accountability in a clearer and fairer manner.