Delaware House Bill HR13

Delaware 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/5/25
• Refer: 6/5/25

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Education To Study And Report To The General Assembly Possible Changes To Delaware's Student Assessment System.

Impact

The potential impact of HR13 on state laws includes a shift in how educational assessments are structured and administered. By compelling the Department of Education to research and possibly adopt new assessment models, the resolution aims to enhance educational practices in Delaware. This could facilitate greater flexibility in instructional methods and provide a clearer picture of student performance over time. Furthermore, it signals a commitment to improving educational outcomes for all students, with particular attention to those with learning challenges, thereby addressing long-standing issues within the assessment system.

Summary

House Resolution 13 (HR13) requests that the Delaware Department of Education conduct a comprehensive review of alternative student assessment models. The bill emphasizes the need to explore assessment systems that could better serve students, particularly those with learning disabilities. Current statewide assessments, like the Smarter Balanced Assessment and the SAT, are seen as inadequate in providing real-time feedback and accurately reflecting student growth. The resolution suggests the Department consider alternatives like the Montana Aligned to Standards Through-Year (MAST) pilot program, which has shown promise in fostering better learning outcomes through shorter, frequent assessments.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HR13 appears to be positive, especially among those advocating for educational reform and improvements in student assessment methods. Educators, parents, and advocates for students with disabilities are likely to welcome a system that is more in tune with individual learning needs. However, some may have concerns regarding the implementation of new assessment models, including the potential costs and the readiness of schools to adapt to changes. Overall, the resolution reflects a growing consensus on the necessity for reform in the student assessment process.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise regarding the feasibility and effectiveness of implementing a new assessment model like the MAST program. Critics might question whether transitioning to a growth-based system can be achieved without significant investment and whether it would be equitable across diverse educational settings. Stakeholder engagement is emphasized in the bill, suggesting a need for collaboration among educators, special education professionals, and families to ensure that any new assessment framework addresses the diverse needs of students without further complicating existing educational structures.