Read, Watch or Listen

A researcher's analysis reveals that Texas's annual STAAR reading test, administered from 2012-2021, was designed to show flat performance, regardless of actual student improvement. Despite billions in increased K-12 spending, the test's norm-referenced design, adjusting difficulty yearly, ensured a consistent failure rate. This design masks whether increased funding improved teaching and learning, impacting schools, communities, and particularly marginalized students. Further investigation is needed to determine if other states employ similar testing methods.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.