See how local districts stack up in the ‘22-’23 Texas Academic Performance Report
BRYAN, Texas (KBTX) – School districts learn how they stack up compared to the rest of the state thanks to the Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPR) released by the Texas Education Agency.
These reports are released each year, covering metrics like STAAR test scores and graduation rates.
Normally, those include an A-F rating. Those are on pause after a mid-year change in methodology affected the rating scale.
“Under the new system, we actually performed at higher rates than we did the year prior. But if they utilize the methodology that they released this year for last year’s rating, it would negatively impact our overall rating,” Barbara Ybarra, Associate Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, said.
The Bryan ISD Board of Trustees reviewed their ratings for the 2022-2023 school year at its Feb. 19 board meeting. The district’s graduation rate outpaces the state’s, and STAAR test results fell in line with comparable districts, like Waco and Tyler.
However, Ybarra said the new system still isn’t an accurate reflection of growth.
“That can be confusing and it can also miscommunicate school progress and student progress,” she said.
College Station ISD is voting on a resolution at their Feb. 20 board meeting similar to one Bryan ISD voted on last spring. The resolution, which is available on their meeting agenda, states that the district is opposed to the mid-year change in ratings, and wants to see a fairer and more transparent system developed.
According to the report, 60% of all College Station ISD students performed at grade level or above across all subjects in the 2023 STAAR test.
This outperforms the state, where only 49% of students performed at grade level.
Ybarra said what matters most is whether or not students are improving.
“The kid is at the heart of the decision and the communication. And if the kids are improving, then schools should receive improving ratings,” she added.
