No State Testing On Religious Holidays

State testing poses a significant challenge to students celebrating their holidays. While makeup exams will be administered, students will spend more time out of class and miss vital lessons. Students may feel pressure to remain in school and complete their exams, fostering a choice no student should ever have to make – the choice between their faith and their education. 

HB1883 amends Section 39.023(c-3) of Texas’ Education Code to ensure the State Board of Education will not schedule assessment instruments, like STAAR testing, which will not fall on designated holy days. Specifically, state-administered exams cannot be scheduled on All Saints Day, Christmas, Diwali, Eid al-Adha, Eid al-Fitr, Passover, Rosh Hashanah, Vaisakhi, Vesak, and Yom Kippur.  

Including multiple faith traditions highlights the Lone Star State as a strong protector of religious freedom. Meanwhile, students may also feel a stronger sense of belonging with their schools through steps that facilitate celebrating their holy days.

There is no cost associated with ensuring designated holidays do not overlap with statewide exams. 

Please contact us at info@minaretfoundation.com.