(1) As used in this section, "early mathematics benchmark assessment" or "benchmark assessment" means a standardized assessment to measure the acquisition of mathematics skills in kindergarten and grades 1 through 3 that includes predictive indicators of academic achievement based on measures of early mathematics, computation, and problem solving.
(2) The state board may approve a benchmark assessment for use statewide by LEAs to assess the mathematics competency of students in kindergarten and grades 1 through 3.
(3) If the state board approves a benchmark assessment for statewide use under Subsection (2), an LEA shall:
(a) administer benchmark assessments to students at the beginning, middle, and end of the school year using the mathematics benchmark assessment in:
(i) kindergarten, as an optional assessment; and
(ii) grades 1 through 3, as a required assessment; and
(b) after administering a benchmark assessment described in Subsection (3)(a) to a student, report the results to the student's parent.
(4) In making the approval described in Subsection (2), the state board shall:
(a) prioritize the assessment's reliability, validity, speed, and efficiency; and
(b) ensure the mathematics benchmark assessment's ability to:
(i) identify students who may be at risk for mathematics difficulties; and
(ii) measure students' progress through data.