Let’s Measure What Matters in Our Texas Public Schools

The Problem

In the course of a 180-day school year, Texas public schools do so much more than administer standardized tests. Yet, we continue to rely on one very narrow measure of school performance to define a “good school”: The STAAR test.

The Opportunity

Let’s expand our definition of a “good school” beyond STAAR test scores and consider the many ways our schools shape young Texans all year long from college and workforce preparedness to teacher quality to parent engagement.

The Problem

Today, elementary and middle schools are being graded 100% on STAAR test performance. STAAR scores are also the primary factor for high school ratings.

The Opportunity

Standardized testing should be one of many assessment tools to inform instruction and monitor student progress, but a single multiple-choice test should not be the only factor in determining how our students and schools are performing

The Problem

A single letter grade (A-F) captured on a single day puts tremendous pressure on students and teachers, and leaves way too much on the table.

The Opportunity

Texas students, teachers and families deserve a more well-rounded approach to school ratings that captures a fuller picture of the achievements happening in Texas schools.

“It’s worrisome when you hear parents share that they feel like their children are being taught to a test and our schools are not more comprehensively graded on the development of the whole child or everything that goes into their education experience.”

-Erika Ramos, Fort Worth parent

“I am not a fan of weighted accountability of one test on one day and I don’t know if I’m comfortable making kids take tests in September, January, and April. The state of Texas should focus on the growth of kids.”

– Dr. Carnelius Gilder, Superintendent of West Sabine ISD