Texas bill could eliminate some state-mandated exams

The Texas House recently passed a bill that could roll back some state-mandated exams.

House Bill 515 would eliminate two standardized exams currently required or suggested for high school graduation, including the U.S. history test.

The bill would bring down the number of exams to the minimum number allowed by federal law.

State Rep. Cesar Blanco said too many educators are pressured to teach to the test and students become stressed about state exams.

“Both democrats and republicans have agreed that over-testing over-stresses kids,” Blanco said.

The bill introduced by Rep. Gary VanDeaver, R-New Boston, would eliminate social studies tests in the eighth grade and the U.S. history test in high school.

Blanco said administering fewer tests would save the state money. He estimated a revenue savings of $1.8 million in 2018 and $3.2 million in fiscal year 2020.

“Overtesting has become a problem in our communities, especially communities that are dealing with English as a second language,” Blanco said.

HB 515 now moves to the Senate for approval.