Governor Abbott signed House Bill 1883!

The law eliminates standardized exams on religious holidays.

This means children in Texas no longer have to choose between their faith and their education!

Thank you, Senator Lois Kolkhorst and Representative Salman Bhojani for protecting our religious freedom!

And, a special thanks to our coalition members for their time and support!

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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.