On Thursday, Texas public school districts received their long-anticipated accountability ratings, the first formal scores disclosed in five years. This release marks a significant step in a process that had been delayed due to ongoing legal challenges.

Overview of Accountability Ratings

For the 2022-23 academic year, Texas evaluated nearly 1,200 school districts, assigning letter grades from A to F. The results indicate that:

• 10.4% of districts earned an A
• 73% received a B or C
• 16.6% were graded D or F

Specifically, Fort Worth Independent School District faces potential shutdowns or state intervention due to its failing grades.

Legal Background

These ratings were previously held back due to lawsuits from several districts contesting new rating standards. However, a ruling from the 15th Court of Appeals allowed the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to proceed with the release, affirming Commissioner Mike Morath’s authority to implement these changes.

It is important to note that ratings for the upcoming 2023-24 school year remain under wraps due to a separate legal dispute.

Impact of the Accountability Ratings

Public education advocates welcomed the release of these ratings, emphasizing their role in informing parents about district performance and helping businesses assess community investments. However, critics argue that the A-F grading system disproportionately impacts districts serving low-income populations, which are more likely to receive low grades and face sanctions.

Grading Criteria

The A-F grading system evaluates districts based on three primary categories:

• Student Achievement: Assessment of student performance on state standardized tests and readiness for college and careers. The criteria for achieving an A have become more rigorous under the new regulations.
• School Progress: Measurement of student improvement on state assessments.
• Closing the Gaps: Evaluation of how well schools improve outcomes for specific student groups, including those with special needs and English language learners.

These categories contribute to the overall score, with 70% coming from the highest score between “student achievement” and “school progress,” and 30% from “closing the gaps.”

Looking Ahead

While districts have now received their ratings, the ongoing legal situation highlights the complexities involved in education accountability in Texas. As more data becomes available, stakeholders will continue to monitor improvements and challenges within the state’s education system.