← Rearview Mirror
RearviewHB 4Died in conference89th Regular Session (2025)

The STAAR test would have been replaced with shorter tests during the year

What it does

HB 4 would have changed how Texas tests public school students and rates schools, replacing the single end-of-year STAAR test with shorter tests through the year. It also changed how schools can challenge their ratings.

What it means for your community

Your kids would take several shorter tests instead of one big one, and schools would get results faster. It would also change how your local school's A through F grade is set.

Why it didn't pass

Both chambers passed versions. The Senate named negotiators on May 29, 2025, but a final version was not approved before the session ended.

What to watch next session

Testing and school ratings remain a top issue. Watch for a new version of this idea and its effect on A through F ratings.

Have an opinion on HB 4?

Your lawmaker's office counts calls. Find yours and call in under a minute.

Call your lawmaker about HB 4
Read the full bill on Texas Legislature Online

Free weekly email

Get the Tuesday email

One short, plain-English recap of what the Legislature did last week. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.

We describe legislation. We do not endorse or oppose it. If you spot an error, tell us and we will correct it.