On this page:
Despite lower cut scores, more than 65% of students fail their EOC retest. The issue isn’t effort—it’s alignment. Too many students face the same test again without the right tools to succeed.
Texas Schools Need Smarter EOC Retest Strategies
The Reality: Most Retesters Still Don’t Pass
The outlook is challenging for students who don’t pass their first EOC attempt: more than 65% of students who take an EOC retest will fail again. Even with intervention, they often face the same test and obstacles without the tools to overcome them.
Despite relatively low thresholds—students only need to answer around 42% of questions correctly to pass (Approaches):
- 45% of students passed Algebra I
- 54% passed English I
- 60% passed English II
However, that doesn’t mean all these students are on track. Many who pass are still performing below grade level.
Only Half of TX Students Are on Grade Level
Statewide Spring 2024 results show:
- Math: Only 41% of students met grade level
- RLA: Only 53% met grade level
- Science: 42% met grade level
- Social Studies: 49% met grade level
That means more than half of Texas students are below grade level, even if they technically “passed.”
What’s Behind These Numbers?
STAAR tests not just content but thinking. The problem isn’t that students can’t learn; what they’re learning often doesn’t reflect how they’ll be tested.
- Students learn to add decimals, but STAAR asks them to apply that skill in multistep word problems.
- Students learn to identify a word in context, but STAAR asks them to revise entire paragraphs for clarity and structure.
Too often, students are taught surface-level TEKS and never get the depth or complexity needed to succeed on STAAR 2.0.
What Every EOC Retest Really Needs
Students who take an EOC retest don’t need generic remediation. They need targeted, high-impact support that helps them:
- Understand how STAAR really tests each standard
- Practice with Authentic STAAR questions that match the test in rigor and format
The Sirius Advantage: Target What’s Tested.
At Sirius, we don’t believe in just “test prep.” We believe in aligned instruction that empowers teachers and helps students succeed—especially those at risk of failing again.
✅ 100% of Tested TEKS Covered
Sirius lessons directly align with what’s tested on STAAR.
🧠 Built for STAAR-Tested Thinking
Every subject’s instruction, practice, and assessment reflect the rigor and complexity of STAAR 2.0—from cluster questions to inline choice to writing with text evidence.
🕒 Effective in Tight Timelines
Retester timelines are short. Sirius is built for focus, so you can assign by TEKS, check for understanding, and close gaps fast.
📊 Data That Drives Decisions
Sirius diagnostic tests identify learning gaps, and reports help teachers pinpoint needs, assign lessons, and track growth by TEKS.
To help boost your EOC retest strategies, explore Samplers & Demos or see how Sirius is used by schools like yours by exploring our success stories.
About the Author
