The Texas Education Agency (TEA) provides extensive STAAR resources.
STAAR and STAAR EOC
At the elementary and middle school levels, the STAAR program assesses:
- reading and mathematics for all students in grades 3-8
- writing for students in grades 4 and 7
- science for students in grades 5 and 8
- social studies for students in grade 8
For high school students there are five STAAR end-of-course (EOC) assessments:
- English I
- English II
- Algebra I
- Biology
- U.S. History
Beginning spring 2016, English III and Algebra II will be administered on a voluntary basis.
STAAR EOC Frequently Asked Questions
Who participates in the STAAR EOC tests?
Any student who starts high school during/after the 2011-2012 school year, including middle school students enrolled in Algebra I.
When will the STAAR EOC tests be administered?
There are three assessment windows - spring, summer, winter. Specific dates will be posted on the Testing Calendar.
When will scores be available?
Per legislation, state assessment scores are to be received by the district within 30 days of the administration date.
Scores are distributed to parents and students as soon as possible after they have been received.
Can students retake the test?
Yes. Students must continue to retake each EOC exam required for graduation until they meet Level 2: Satisfactory passing standards.
How do the EOC scores impact graduation?
In addition to other graduation requirements, five EOC tests must be passed before a student can graduate.
See the Graduation Requirements page for additional information.
How can students prepare for the EOC tests?
The most important thing students can do is keep up with class assignments and homework.
Additional study time and attending tutorials can help to increase understanding of the course materials.
Students are encouraged to get help as soon as they realize they are having trouble with a particular part of the course content.
What is the district doing to help prepare students?
Quality teaching of course content by our exceptional teachers is the fundamental preparation for student success on these tests.
To supplement class instruction, we have purchased online courseware for the EOC courses. Students who need additional help can complete online lessons that correspond to the same content covered in class. These lessons can be done at home, or anywhere with Internet access. Contact your teacher for more information.
What happens if a student fails one of the STAAR EOC tests?
Teachers/Counselors may recommend pre-registration for EOC summer school to those students whose semester grades and classroom performance are less than satisfactory.
Students who fail one of the EOC tests will be notified in time to register for an EOC summer school session that will be held prior to the July retest date.
Tests where the Level 2: Satisfactory score is not met must be retaken until satisfactory performance is achieved; however, it may not be necessary to retake a course. Your counselor will work with you to determine your options for remedial classes and resources as well as any schedule changes that might be required.
Resources
Contact us
For more information about STAAR testing in Garland ISD, contact