State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness (STAAR)
State Curriculum Standards - TEKS
The Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), comprise the state-mandated curriculum guidelines that establish what every student, from elementary school through high school, should know and be able to do. They were developed to comply with §28.002(c) and (d) of the Texas Education Code.
What is STAAR?
STAAR (State Assessments of Academic Readiness) is the State of Texas assessment program required by federal and state statute.
Do all kids take STAAR?
The STAAR program includes annual assessments for
- Reading and Mathematics, grades 3–8
- Science at grades 5 and 8
- Social Studies at grade 8
- End-of-course (EOC) assessments for English I, English II, Algebra I, Biology, and U.S History.
What happens if my student doesn't pass STAAR?
Beginning in 2021-2022, students who do not satisfactorily perform on a STAAR test are required to participate in 30 hours of supplemental intervention / tutoring in each subject area of concern. House Bill 4545, passed in 2021, requires a very small student-to-teacher ratio for the 30 hours of STAAR tutoring. To accomplish the low ratio, students may be required to participate in regular after-school and occasional weekend tutoring times. Parents may also request a different school-day setting with a larger ratio to accomplish the tutoring hours.
Students in high school must pass the End of Course STAAR exams listed above as a part of graduation requirements. Retests are allowed in December, May, and summer of each year.
Useful Links from the Texas Education Agency