[basil]

I have thought for a long time that the public schools, especially in TX have so many students who don't speak English, and aren't made to learn it, as well as certain other races whose parents aren't involved in what's going on at school, bring the passing scores way down. I know that Houston, in particular, is having a huge problem with the New Orleans evacuees who are now staying in Houston.

It seems to me that the new system would hold the course teachers' feet to the fire. If their students aren't passing these tests, it seem to me it would put the onus on the teachers to be sure that the students were learning what she/he is teaching.

I'm always for dumping a lot of responsibility into the individual teacher's lap. Of course I'm sure the teachers' unions will hate this.

[raybbr]

If their students aren't passing these tests, it seem to me it would put the onus on the teachers to be sure that the students were learning what she/he is teaching.

Exactly. The curriculum will be weakened so that the students pass the end of course exam. You will have districts around Houston teaching four or five years below age level just so they pass the end of course exam.