House Bill No. 177 proposes the establishment of the Texas Commission on Assessment and Accountability, which will be added as Subchapter H to Chapter 39A of the Education Code. The commission is tasked with developing recommendations to improve the public school assessment and accountability systems. It will consist of 19 members appointed by the governor, lieutenant governor, and speaker of the house, with specific requirements for representation from various stakeholders, including educators, business and civic community members, and parents. The commission will also be responsible for addressing issues related to the statewide assessment system and the academic accountability rating system, ensuring that its recommendations reflect the diversity of Texas.
Additionally, the bill stipulates that starting after the 2025-2026 school year, the commissioner of education will no longer assign A through F ratings to independent school districts or campuses, although existing sanctions will remain in effect without increases. The commissioner is also required to seek federal waivers to implement the changes proposed in this Act. The commission is expected to deliver a report with recommendations for statutory changes by December 31, 2027, and will hold public meetings to fulfill its duties, adhering to transparency laws. The Act will take effect 91 days after the legislative session concludes.
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