Homeschool teaching is growing rapidly, and more families and students are opting for the alternative education option. Working with the Texas Education Agency, and the State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness, or STAAR test, homeschool teachers are able to give the state-mandated assessment to their homeschoolers and track each student’s progress. This guide will provide a comprehensive look into how homeschool teachers give the STAAR test in Texas.
What is the STAAR Test?
The STAAR test is a state-mandated academic assessment given to Texas students in grades 3-1 It is intended to measure what students have learned and the level of mastery they have achieved.
The test is aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), and is designed to assess the critical thinking and problem-solving skills of students. The testing process is rigorous and focuses heavy emphasis on standardized testing. Each grade is given its own set of tests, with varying tests from one grade to the next.
What is the Testing Process for the STAAR Test?
The STAAR test is created and administered according to a standardized process. The testing window for STAAR test is April – May, but can differ from year to year. Additionally, the testing dates vary depending on which grade the student is in.
The STAAR test is administered in a proctored setting, typically with a teacher or other school personnel overseeing the test-taking process. The test materials are issued to each school or homeschool a few days before the scheduled test date.
It is the responsibility of the teacher to check the accuracy of the test materials and to ensure that the materials are securely stored until the day of the test. On the day of the test, the teacher will administer the tests to the students according to the standard testing procedures.
What are the Different Types of Tests Given as a Part of the STAAR Test?
As part of the STAAR test, students in grades 3-8 take tests in five core content areas: reading, writing, math, science, and social studies. All tests are in a multiple-choice format and are constructed in accordance with the Texas essential knowledge and skills. Additionally, students in grades 4 and 7 take tests to assess their performance in writing as determined by Texas Education Agency.
Grade 5 and 8 students take tests in the five core content areas plus an end of course test in four subject areas: writing, math, science, and social studies. Additionally, the grade 8 test includes an additional multiple-choice assessment called the Personal Financial Literacy exam.
High school students take end-of-course (EOC) exams for core curriculum courses such as Algebra I and II, English I and II, Biology, Chemistry, and US History.
What is the Required Passing Score for the STAAR Test?
The required passing score for the STAAR test depends on the grade’s test and subject area. All grade 3-8 tests require a passing score of 2000 or higher, while all high school end-of-course tests require a passing score of 2000 to 2200, depending on the subject area. Additionally, the student’s composite score must equal a cumulative score of 2000.
What Happens if a Student Does Not Pass the STAAR Test?
If a student does not pass the STAAR test, he/she is required to retake the test during the next available testing window. There are specific additional requirements that must be met in order to pass the test after a retake.
These requirements vary depending on the student’s grade level and which core content areas have been tested.
Are Homeschool Students Required to Take the STAAR Test?
Yes. All students in grades 3-12, regardless of whether they attend public school, private school, or are homeschooled, are required by Texas law to take the STAAR test.
Which Homeschool Teachers are Eligible to Give the STAAR Test?
In order to give the STAAR test, the teacher must be a certified educator in the State of Texas and must have passed the STAAR test certification exam. Additionally, the teacher must have taken the STAAR test training, which is provided by the Texas Education Agency.
What Are the Testing Requirements for Homeschool Teachers Giving the STAAR Test?
All homeschool teachers giving the STAAR test must adhere to the same testing requirements as public and private school teachers who administer the test. This includes providing a secure and proctored testing environment, following the test administration guidelines, and properly storing and securing the test materials before, during, and after the testing period.
How Does a Homeschool Teacher Register to Give the STAAR Test?
All homeschool teachers who wish to give the STAAR test must register online with the Texas Education Agency. This registration process will include providing all necessary documentation, including the teacher’s certification, STAAR certification, the homeschool’s accreditation information, and all approved curriculum.
What Resources Are Available to Help Homeschool Teachers Prepare for the STAAR Test?
The Texas Education Agency provides many resources to help teachers prepare for the STAAR test. These resources include sample test materials, practice test items, and instructional resources to help teachers create an effective STAAR test preparation program for their students.
Additionally, many third-party vendors provide STAAR test preparation materials and programs that are available for purchase.
What is the Process for Distributing and Returning Test Materials to the Texas Education Agency?
Once the STAAR test has been administered, the tests must be securely stored and all supporting materials must be filled out accurately and in accordance with the STAAR test protocol. The tests and any accompanying documents must be packaged and shipped to the Texas Education Agency no later than one week after the test date.
The TEA will notify the homeschool once the test materials have been received and processed.
Are Homeschools Responsible for Administering Make-Up Tests if a Student Misses the Test?
Yes, homeschool teachers are responsible for administering a make-up test for any student who misses the test due to illness, emergency, or any other reason. To ensure that the test is administered correctly, the teacher must follow the same STAAR test procedures as is required for administering the test to all other students.
Is There a Fee for Administering the STAAR Test?
No. Homeschool teachers do not have to pay a fee for administering the STAAR test. However, there may be vendors who require nominal fees for certain materials related to the STAAR test preparation.
Conclusion
Homeschool teaching is growing rapidly and homeschool teachers must understand the process for administering the STAAR test. This comprehensive guide provided a comprehensive look at how homeschool teachers give the STAAR test in Texas.
It included information on the different types of tests, the testing process, how to register, and other important information. By understanding the process and following the testing protocols, homeschool teachers can successfully provide the STAAR test to their homeschoolers and help them measure progress and mastery.