HOUSTON --
If you have a child in public school, odds are they'll be starting their TAKS testing this week. But for some, it'll be the last year they take those tests. That's because after this school year, the tests will be gradually retired. A new program called STAAR will take its place. It's designed for students in 3rd through 11th grade. The new tests are longer and more rigorous and some teachers are worried if students will be well-prepared amid teacher layoffs and cutbacks. Sophomores and juniors will still take the TAKS tests, next year.