Oregon House Bill 2009 establishes student performance growth metrics for schools

House Bill 2009, introduced by Representative Fahey on April 15, 2025, aims to enhance educational outcomes across Oregon's public school system. The bill establishes a framework for school districts to measure student performance and improve academic results, particularly in mathematics and language arts.

Key provisions of the bill require the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) to conduct studies aimed at increasing accountability within the public education system. The ODE is tasked with submitting findings to legislative committees by September 15, 2026. Additionally, the bill mandates that entities receiving funds from the State School Fund develop performance growth targets for their students. If these targets are not met, the ODE has the authority to impose specific requirements, including the adoption of instructional materials and participation in training programs.

The bill also seeks to streamline reporting requirements for school districts, allowing for the reduction or consolidation of certain obligations. This is intended to alleviate administrative burdens and enhance the focus on student outcomes. Furthermore, it removes the requirement for publishers to pay fees for submitting instructional materials to the State Board of Education.

Notably, House Bill 2009 has sparked discussions regarding its potential impact on educational equity, as it emphasizes disaggregated data to better understand performance across different student groups. Critics have raised concerns about the feasibility of the proposed measures and the implications for schools that may struggle to meet the new standards.

The bill is set to sunset on January 2, 2027, and has been declared an emergency measure, indicating the urgency of addressing educational challenges in the state. As the legislative process unfolds, the implications of House Bill 2009 could significantly shape the future of public education in Oregon, with potential long-term effects on student achievement and accountability.