Education (Testing & Assessment)

HB 4174 limits Oklahoma's statewide student assessments to only the minimum requirements mandated by federal law under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). It eliminates the state's option to require additional assessments in reading, writing, and math beyond the core subjects already covered by federal standards. The bill maintains required assessments in English language arts and math (grades 3-8), science (across grade spans), and U.S. History (grades 9-12), while removing provisions for extra subject-area testing. Students must still pass these assessments to earn a standard high school diploma, but the requirement for optional additional tests is removed.

HB 1998 requires Oklahoma public schools to obtain written parental permission before students can participate in sex education classes or materials focused on sexual behavior/attitudes, and before administering surveys about sexual behavior. Schools must provide parents with prior written notice about these materials and surveys, including the option to opt their child out. The bill specifically applies to the Oklahoma Prevention Needs Assessment Survey (which covers mental health, substance use, and related issues) and all sex education programs for students in grades 6-12. This law directly affects parents/guardians, students, and school districts by changing consent requirements for specific curricula and surveys.