H.B. No. 247 aims to establish a new instructionally supportive assessment program in Texas public schools by amending Section 39.022 of the Education Code. The bill emphasizes student achievement and accountability through progress monitoring and the use of essential knowledge and skills as defined by the State Board of Education. It mandates the transition from the current State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness (STAAR) program to the new framework by the 2027-2028 school year, requiring the agency to contract with a recognized provider for the transition and conduct field testing of assessment questions. The bill also includes provisions for ensuring assessment items are appropriate for grade levels and aligned with state educational standards, with a report on implementation status due by February 2027.

Additionally, the bill introduces several amendments to enhance the assessment process, including the evaluation of assessment items for readability and compliance with federal law, as well as the involvement of teachers in the review process. It outlines specific procedures for assessment administration, including timelines and accommodations for special education students, and mandates timely reporting of results to teachers and parents. The bill also emphasizes annual performance goals for student assessments, access to state assessment instruments for parents, and the introduction of a pilot program for new assessment instruments starting in the 2028-2029 school year. Overall, H.B. No. 247 seeks to improve educational outcomes and support for students and educators in Texas through enhanced assessment and accountability measures.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 39.022, Education Code 39.023, Education Code 39.0263, Education Code 39.304, Education Code 7.056, Education Code 11.185, Education Code 21.4552, Education Code 26.005, Education Code 39.02342, Education Code 39.0236, Education Code 39.0238, Education Code 39.025, Education Code 39.027, Education Code 39.030, Education Code 39.031, Education Code 39.035, Education Code 39.053, Education Code 39.203 (Education Code 39, Education Code 21, Education Code 7, Education Code 11, Education Code 26)