Preparation for next spring: Important STAAR information
This summer, Texas passed legislation (HB-4545) to address learning gaps identified by STAAR performance. In the past, students in 5th & 8th grades who did not pass the reading and/or math STAAR were subject to re-testing and possible retention. This requirement has been removed.
Instead, all students who did not meet standard in STAAR subjects will receive 30 hours of additional small group intervention/instruction per subject to close these gaps.
Additionally, students who did not take STAAR last year will take a Beginning-of-Year (BOY) STAAR test over last year’s material. For example; a current 5th grader would take a 4th grade test. The BOY STAAR test is composed of released STAAR questions and is used for internal evaluation only. The results are not reported to the State. If your student does not meet standard, then they will also qualify for the 30 hours of small group intervention.
It is important to note that the intervention will not take the place of regular classes or specials/electives.
Students who did not participate in STAAR (but were eligible) will be taking the BOY Reading and/or Math STAAR next week, August 23 – 27. Although this is a new requirement, Meridian is encouraged that the State is providing resources & assistance to help all our students succeed.
You can access online practice tests here. Please note that Meridian does not expect your student to study for the BOY test, rather this is simply an opportunity for students to familiarize themselves with the test format and questions.
