Del Valle ISD Joins Coalition of School Districts in Lawsuit Against TEA’s Accountability System Changes
The Del Valle Independent School District (DVISD) Board of Trustees voted unanimously to join a coalition of school districts across Texas in a lawsuit against the Texas Education Agency (TEA) over changes to its accountability ratings system. The lawsuit aims to halt TEA’s planned refresh of the Texas State Accountability System, which assigns letter grades to campuses and districts.
In a letter to families and staff, DVISD Superintendent Dr. Annette Tielle expressed disappointment in the changes and highlighted the district’s tireless efforts to improve student outcomes. She emphasized the progress made by teachers, staff, students, and families and criticized the TEA for using the changes in the accountability system to create a negative image of public schools. Tielle referred to this as a part of a political agenda that diverts attention from the district’s focus on student success.
The letter outlined some of the changes proposed in the new Accountability System and mentioned that a bipartisan group of 55 legislators shared the concerns of the school districts and requested a delay in implementing the new standards.
Tielle announced her plans to meet with staff and parents in the coming month to discuss the changes and share videos featuring a state accountability expert who will explain the details. She also affirmed her commitment to advocating for the benefit of students in Del Valle ISD by testifying at the Capitol.
While acknowledging that there is still work to be done, Tielle expressed excitement about the progress made by the district and the upcoming school year.
The district also sent a separate letter to parents and staff addressing the changes to the Accountability System. Citing reports from the media, the letter expressed concerns that these changes may create a perception that public schools in Texas are not performing well, even if they are improving.
This move by Del Valle ISD is not an isolated one. In March, hundreds of school districts across the state requested a delay in implementing the A-F Accountability Rating system changes. Austin ISD, for example, anticipated a decline in its secondary campus and district grades by one to two letters under the new rules.
TEA Commissioner Mike Morath defended the changes, stating that they would help recognize schools’ growth and narrow the focus on at-risk students to close achievement gaps effectively. Morath emphasized the importance of providing parents with accurate information about school performance and progress.
In conclusion, Del Valle ISD proactively communicated with families and staff about the potential impact of the Accountability System changes. The district expressed its commitment to doing what is best for all students and standing up for public schools across the state. Superintendent Annette Tielle and Accountability Ex. Director Ana Rush testified multiple times at the Capitol advocating for a fair and equitable accountability system throughout the past year and plan to continue their advocacy efforts.
The Del Valle ISD’s decision to join the coalition and file a lawsuit against TEA demonstrates the district’s commitment to ensuring a fair and accurate accountability system that truly reflects the progress made by its students and staff. Time will tell how the legal battle unfolds and what it means for the future of school accountability in Texas.
