Abstract
This abstract proposes a strategy to improve the Texas education system and encourage improved student learning results. This study outlines critical areas for development by assessing recent trends and issues in education, as well as the specific requirements of Texas children. The emphasis is on developing novel ways to make learning more effective and enjoyable. Among the planned reforms is the use of technology, the implementation of innovative teaching methods, the promotion of collaborative learning, and the provision of additional assistance to students who are struggling. By implementing these improvements, the Texas education system will be able to better prepare students for success in the twenty-first century.
Introduction
For over a century, standardized testing has been a vital aspect of the educational system in the United States, acting as a tool for instructors to assess student progress and identify those who may need more support (Barksdale et al., 2021). The frequency of standardized examinations has expanded in recent years, sparking disagreement about their efficiency in assessing students’ skills and knowledge. This essay contends that the overuse of standardized assessments gives a poor depiction of students’ actual learning and emphasizes the need for improvements in the Texas educational system, particularly in fostering multiple points of view and preserving students’ rights. This essay intends to provide insight into prospective reforms that could improve the overall quality of education in Texas by reviewing the current condition of standardized testing, educational policy, and student rights.
Standardized Testing
Most states, including Texas, require standardized tests for kids in grades three through eight, and they are typically required for high school admissions and scholarship selection processes (Fazal & Bryant, 2019). Standardized examinations are criticized for being unduly difficult and failing to accurately reflect students’ skills and knowledge, while supporters believe that they effectively measure students’ academic growth (Freire, 2018). Excessive use of standardized tests, in my opinion, provides a poor picture of students’ actual learning and may be substituted with more effective study time (Texas Education Agency, 2021). Furthermore, standardized testing can lead to teaching to the test, limiting the scope of the curriculum and suffocating students’ creativity and critical thinking (Magalhes et al., 2022). Many educators and professionals advocate for a more comprehensive approach to assessment, which could include project-based learning, presentations, and classroom debates that provide a thorough assessment of students’ abilities (Sahlberg & Doyle, 2019). Texas can develop a more holistic educational experience that stresses individual student growth and learning above test scores by lowering reliance on standardized testing.
Encouraging Critical Thinking and Open Discussion
Teachers must be able to raise fascinating questions and create a classroom environment that encourages the open exchange of ideas in order to engage pupils and develop critical thinking (Sahlberg & Doyle, 2019). Texas educators are concerned that new laws may limit their freedom to explore themes such as racism in America’s past and present, which could harm the quality of classroom debates and students’ critical thinking skills (Pasi, 2020). Texas must work for rules that encourage free and open discussion in classrooms, allowing kids to learn about and explore different points of view on a variety of topics (Texas Education Agency, 2021). Students can gain a better grasp of the world around them and the various perspectives that exist within it by cultivating an environment of intellectual curiosity and inclusivity. This method not only improves their critical thinking skills but also prepares students to become more sympathetic, well-informed citizens who can constructively contribute to their communities and society as a whole.
Student Rights in Texas
The Constitution provides all high school students, regardless of ethnicity, country, religion, or immigration status, a free and equitable public education (Pasi, 2020). Students have the right to free speech and expression under the First Amendment, including on school grounds, and they are protected from discrimination based on race, color, or national origin (Magalhes et al., 2022). Furthermore, pupils have the right to make up for missed work and must not be harassed or bullied. The American Civil Liberties Union of Texas (ACLU) aims to guarantee that all children, particularly those who identify as LGBTQIA+, Black, Brown, Indigenous, or religious minorities, have equal access to high-quality education (Barksdale et al., 2021). The organization campaigns against discriminatory practices that disproportionately affect minority student populations, including book bans, censorship in the classroom, anti-trans regulations, and outmoded dress requirements. The ACLU of Texas works with organizations such as Teach the Truth, Texans for the Right to Read, and the Equality Coalition to build a more inclusive and fair educational environment for all children, where their rights are respected and upheld.
Ensuring Student Safety
The provision of a secure and loving atmosphere in which all kids can thrive is a critical component of an effective educational system. Teachers, principals, and police officers all share responsibility for student safety and well-being, and they all work together to create a safe environment in schools (Sahlberg & Doyle, 2019). It is critical that schools provide care and respect to all students, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or physical or mental ability (Sahlberg & Doyle, 2019). In addition to physical safety, schools must establish an inclusive and supportive learning environment that serves all kids’ emotional and social needs. This includes putting rules and programs in place to avoid bullying, harassment, and discrimination, as well as giving resources and support to students who are dealing with mental health issues (Magalhes et al., 2022).
Schools should also engage in ongoing staff training to recognize and address indicators of mental distress and hazardous behavior in students. Furthermore, by fostering an environment of empathy and understanding, schools can encourage students to seek assistance and support one another, resulting in a more positive learning experience for all (Subrahmanyam, 2021). Collaboration among educators, law enforcement, and community organizations can aid in the development of comprehensive safety plans that address a wide range of potential threats, from natural disasters to violent crimes. Regular updates and evaluations of these plans, as well as drills and exercises, will serve to create a safe and supportive environment for students, allowing them to focus on learning and personal growth (Fazal & Bryant, 2019).
Supporting Struggling Students
Response to Intervention (RtI) is an approach used in Texas schools to provide additional support to all kids, not just those who are failing (Subrahmanyam, 2021). This multi-tiered method tries to identify students who require assistance early on, allowing for focused interventions to address specific academic or behavioral challenges. The Texas Behavior Support Initiative was created to assist public schools in implementing Pleasant Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) for all Texan children, resulting in a proactive, school-wide approach to punishment and the creation of a positive school climate (Varela & Fedynich, 2020). The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law that requires the establishment of special education programs to ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to an appropriate public school education (Varela & Fedynich, 2020). The IDEA mandates public school districts to offer special education services to kids with special needs in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) and to prepare Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Furthermore, schools should consider adopting programs like tutoring, mentoring, or after-school activities to assist struggling pupils in reaching their full potential.
Funding and Legislative Support for Texas Schools
The Texas state legislature is addressing issues plaguing the state’s public schools, such as a lack of resources and qualified teachers, in both the Senate and House budget proposals, which include funding for school safety initiatives as well as potential tax increases to support education spending and teacher pay raises (Fazal & Bryant, 2019). The majority of Texans think that more should be done to close the achievement gap, improve school safety, and raise teacher pay. Programs such as the Texas Behavior Support Initiative, which aims to help public schools implement positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) for all Texans, are also part of efforts to improve educational outcomes (National Center for Education Statistics, 2021). Another important piece of law is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which mandates that students with disabilities have equal access to adequate public school education and services (Varela & Fedynich, 2020). Texas can work toward a more equitable and successful educational system that fulfills the needs of all kids by providing the necessary budget, resources, and legislative support.
Conclusion
The Texas educational system has tremendous room for improvement in several critical areas, including eliminating overreliance on standardized testing, fostering various points of view, and protecting students’ rights. By addressing these concerns, Texas may seek to build a more comprehensive and inclusive educational system that encourages critical thinking, creativity, and diversity among students. Prioritizing these aims will not only improve education quality but would also assist Texas schools in creating an environment where students’ ideas are respected, and they are better prepared to handle future difficulties. As a result, the next generation of Texans will be better prepared to make significant and constructive contributions to their communities, the nation, and the global civilization.
References
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