Bill > HB56

This bill comprehensively reforms Texas's public school assessment system by creating an "instructionally supportive" assessment program designed to provide more meaningful and student-centered academic testing. The bill replaces existing assessment terminology from "reading" to "reading language arts" and shifts the focus of testing from purely accountability to supporting student learning and growth. Key provisions include developing nationally norm-referenced assessment instruments that can be administered at the beginning, middle, and end of the school year, with specific requirements such as providing detailed diagnostic reports within 24 hours of testing, creating adaptive tests that measure individual student performance, and ensuring test questions are at appropriate reading levels. The assessment instruments must minimize disruption to instructional time, with time limits ranging from 60 to 90 minutes depending on grade level and assessment type. The bill also aims to reduce the complexity and stress of testing by limiting technology-enhanced or constructed-response items to 25% of available points and requiring that tests focus on supporting excellent instruction while meeting federal accountability requirements. Additionally, the bill provides flexibility for students in special education, emergent bilingual programs, and those with dyslexia, and allows for potential reductions in testing if federal requirements change. The new assessment system will take effect in the 2026-2027 school year.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=892&Bill=HB56