Texas House Bill HB4383

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/11/25

Caption

Relating to the paper administration of certain assessment instruments and information related to assessment instrument accommodations for students with disabilities.

Impact

The passage of HB4383 will amend existing sections of the Education Code, specifically Section 39.02342, which outlines the procedures for administering assessment instruments. One notable change is the stipulation that school districts can limit the number of students for whom they provide paper assessments to a maximum of three percent of the total student population, unless the students are those defined as having a disability who require such accommodations. This measure aims to ensure a manageable implementation while still providing essential resources for students in need.

Summary

House Bill 4383 addresses the administration of assessment instruments in paper format for certain students, particularly those in grades three and four. The bill mandates that school districts provide assessments in paper format to all third and fourth graders, ensuring that the option is available to students whose parents or guardians request such accommodations. The intent of the bill is to enhance accessibility for students who may benefit from non-digital formats, thereby promoting equal opportunities in educational assessments.

Contention

The bill has generated discussions among educators and lawmakers about the efficacy and practicality of limiting paper assessments to a small percentage of students. Critics may argue that such limitations could exclude potentially eligible students who might have benefited from a paper administration. Furthermore, the process by which districts accept requests and the timeframe set for submissions adds an administrative layer that some stakeholders feel could be burdensome. As such, balanced debate centers on ensuring equitable access for all students while managing resources effectively within school districts.