All students enrolled in Texas public schools and open-enrollment charter schools in grades 3–8 and specific high school courses are required by both federal and state law to participate in STAAR.
To protect your child: For many students, the Big Test can be very stressful. To improve education for all students: Opting out is an effective way to protest the overuse and misuse of standardized tests, which forces schools to focus on the demands of the tests instead of the needs of students.
No. State law makes it clear that students may not opt-out of tests, including standardized tests. The complete Texas Education Code section 26.010 states: EXEMPTION FROM INSTRUCTION.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS “OPTING OUT” OF STATE TESTING Texas City ISD fully respects and acknowledges requests to have students opt out of STAAR testing; however, under state and federal laws, the district is unable to honor this type of request because it is not an option offered in Texas.
"There is no parental opt-out for STAAR assessments. Federal and state laws require that all eligible students participate in STAAR.
Dear Principal Name, I wanted to let you know that my child, name, will not take part in the name the test this year. We ask that you make arrangements for him/her to have a productive educational experience during the testing period. Thank you for all you do.
Yes. California Education Code section 60615 allows a parent or guardian to submit a written request to school officials to exclude his or her child from any or all parts of state-mandated assessments.
No. State law makes it clear that students may not opt-out of tests, including standardized tests. The complete Texas Education Code section 26.010 states: EXEMPTION FROM INSTRUCTION.
Passing the state high school tests is a requirement for a high school diploma. But there is no state penalty for students who opt out in grades 3 – 8. Some schools use the scores to choose students for advanced work, but most do not. Check whether your school does.
Students in grades 3–8 take the State English Language Arts (ELA) test each spring. Students who are English Language Learners and who have been in the United States for less than one year are not required to take the NY State ELA test in their grade but must start taking ELA tests after their first year.