TX SB2187

Replaces Texas's current state-developed STAAR end-of-course exams with nationally recognized, norm-referenced assessment instruments (such as the Iowa Assessments) for grades 3-8 in reading, mathematics, and science, and at the secondary level for English language arts, mathematics, and science

Eliminates end-of-course exams in specific courses (Algebra I, Biology, English I, English II, and U.S. History) and instead requires a single secondary-level assessment instrument in each federally required subject area for graduation purposes

Establishes a transition plan where students entering ninth grade for the first time in 2025-2026 take the new assessments, while students already in high school continue under the existing end-of-course exam requirements until they graduate

Removes the eighth-grade social studies assessment requirement and eliminates social studies from campus distinction designation criteria

Allows the commissioner to contract with vendors for test administration and scoring, with districts required to distribute results to campuses and notify parents of student performance; also mandates that if federal law reduces testing requirements, Texas must correspondingly reduce state assessments