Texans support a new era of student testing
This is a preview of our Texas 2036 newsletter recapping our voter poll results on voters’ attitudes toward the new approach to student testing. To receive this weekly look at our work, sign up here.
Voter Poll: Texans like new testing approach
Our new survey of Texas voters finds seven in 10 favor a new approach to student testing, which replaces the once-a-year STAAR exam with three shorter tests given at the beginning, middle and end of the year.
In this edition, we break down what voters told us and what this major shift means for Texas students, families and schools.
Let’s recap: STAAR’s replacement
In the 2027-28 school year, a new test system will provide faster results for parents and teachers on how their student is performing.
The change was set in motion when lawmakers passed House Bill 8 during the 89th Legislature’s second special session.
What House Bill 8 does:
- Replaces the once-a-year STAAR exam
- Introduces three shorter tests (beginning, middle and end of year)
- Provides results within 48 hours
- Reduces practice testing to restore more instructional time
- Maintains clear A–F accountability
Looking Forward: The Texas Education Agency will spend the next two school years preparing school systems for the transition, including piloting the new assessments and finalizing teacher review panels.
Our findings: Texans like the new system
Our new statewide poll of Texas voters also shows broad, bipartisan support for the key elements of the new system. Let’s look at the top takeaways.
1. They like three shorter tests a year
70% of voters support three shorter tests given at the beginning, middle and end of the year.
2. They like getting faster test results
85% of voters support the new system requiring student test results be available within 48 hours.
3. They like that students will get more support
84% of voters support the new approach giving students more support, not consequences, for their test performance.
4. They like that students will get more instructional time
79% of voters support the new system ending excessive practice tests and restoring instructional time to the classroom.
5. They like clear and consistent accountability
71% of voters support clear and consistent accountability, including A-F ratings assigned to districts and school campuses.
A note on methodology: The survey was conducted Nov. 7–13, 2025, by respected polling firm Baselice & Associates, Inc. The poll interviewed 1,001 registered Texas voters and has a margin of error of ±3.1%.
Learn more at texas2036.org/assessments.
Why replacing STAAR matters
Texas 2036’s analysis of testing results from the 2025 STAAR test shows that only about half of students are performing on grade level:
- 54% in reading
- 43% in math
- 46% in science
- 49% in social studies
While students posted modest year-over-year gains, results remain below pre-pandemic levels, highlighting the need for more timely and actionable feedback for teachers and parents.
Voters want leaders to keep schools accountable
Texas voters told us earlier this year they expect the state’s leaders to look for decisive opportunities to improve school outcomes.
- 78% said they are more likely to vote for a candidate who supports improving education accountability.
Also, 36% of parents of current public school students told us they had considered sending their child to a different school or school district, citing a lack of rigorous academics as the primary reason.
Students must be prepared for the future
“For students, the new system will result in more learning and less test prep. Texans clearly see this as a move away from one high-stakes test toward a system that will help better prepare students for life after high school.“
Mary Lynn Pruneda
Director, Education & Workforce Policy