Texas lawmakers are taking significant steps to address educational disparities as the Senate Committee on Education convened on May 27, 2025, to discuss House Bill 123. This bill aims to identify and close learning gaps early, ensuring that students receive the necessary support to succeed academically.

During the meeting, committee members emphasized the importance of aligning House Bill 123 with Article 5 of the committee substitute for House Bill 2. This alignment is intended to maintain consistency with the ongoing budget and policy framework being considered in both legislative chambers. The proposed amendments are designed to enhance the effectiveness of educational initiatives across Texas.

Gabe Grantham, an education policy advisor at Texas 2036, testified in support of House Bill 123. He highlighted the critical need for students to develop foundational literacy and numeracy skills, which are essential for lifelong success. Grantham pointed out that strong math skills are particularly vital, as research indicates that improvements in math scores for children up to age 12 can significantly influence their future earnings, even more so than similar gains in literacy.

The statistics presented during the meeting underscore the urgency of the situation: 59 percent of Texas students are currently performing below grade level in math. Furthermore, national assessments reveal that only 43 percent of fourth graders and one-fourth of eighth graders achieve proficiency in math. These figures illustrate the pressing need for effective educational policies that can help bridge these gaps.

As the committee moves forward, the implications of House Bill 123 could lead to improved educational outcomes for Texas students, equipping them with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly competitive world. The commitment to addressing these challenges reflects a proactive approach to education reform in the state.