Legislative Roundup: February 14

The 86th Texas Legislature will be in session from January 8 through May 27, and the House Committee on Public Education recently met to hear invited testimony about school finance.

Doug Williams, the Legislative Committee Chair for the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA), testified about two main points:

• Outcome-Based Funding: Williams testified that tying funding to STAAR scores is not an effective solution because it raises the stakes of test taking as well as encourages teaching to the test. The House Committee on Public Education Chair, Dan Huberty, stated that he anticipates the committee discussing adjustments to the STAAR test.
• One-Size-Fits-All Funding: Williams testified that a one-size-fits-all funding approach, including merit pay for teachers, needs to be reconsidered because of the varying needs and sizes of school districts across Texas. Instead, public schools need discretionary funds that can be flexibly used to improve instruction, to give raises to teachers and other school employees, and provide professional development.

The House Committee on Public Education will continue to hear invited testimony about school finance.

Best Public Schools in Texas
Klein ISD has an established 84-year history of excellence and innovation in education with unique pathways for EVERY student in our care to ensure learners are college, career, military, and life ready. With recognition for STEM, athletics, fine arts, and academics from highly-esteemed organizations, it is clear that Our Shared Vision of every student entering with a promise and exiting with a purpose is a reality for EVERY student who walks through our doors.

About Klein ISD
Klein ISD is a school district in Klein, Texas, located in northwestern Harris County. The district spans approximately 88 square miles and serves more than 53,000 students in 33 elementary schools, 10 intermediate campuses, one high school program of choice, and 5 high schools.

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