Texas schools will once again receive their annual performance ratings in A to F terms, following a legal decision by Attorney General Ken Paxton that affirmed the state's authority to publish these assessments. After delays prevented the release of the ratings, Texas school districts took legal action questioning Education Commissioner Mike Morath's decision to release the grades later than usual, as reported by the Attorney General's office.
With unanimous support from the Fifteenth Court of Appeals, Paxton’s position reinforces transparency in Texas education. He noted that while state laws require the release of school evaluations, disputes from districts have created complications, affecting the process of holding public schools accountable. Despite the statutory requirement to issue grades, delays in 2023 kept the evaluations from being released on time, leading to legal challenges.
The ruling, which overturned the Travis County district court's initial decision, concludes the legal challenges from certain school districts regarding Commissioner Morath's delayed ratings. The court confirmed that he had jurisdiction over the issue. According to a statement from the Attorney General's office, Paxton proclaimed, "This is a major victory for accountability and transparency in Texas's educational system that will strengthen the ability of parents and students to ensure that public schools fulfill their responsibilities."
In his concurring opinion, Chief Justice Scott Brister supported Paxton’s victory and cautioned against further use of the judicial system to disrupt the legislative accountability process. He noted that each appeal could delay a final resolution, which may impede the timely action needed for addressing failing schools. Brister highlighted the legislature's view that quick action is necessary from all parties involved—state officials, families, and voters—stating, "Every time a judicial resolution is sought, a final resolution will be delayed for a year or two," according to the press release.
