📅 2026 Update: Recent Changes in Texas Education

Since the original article was published, the Texas Department of Education has seen significant updates that affect students, educators, and educational programs. These changes include new assessments, updated policies for bilingual students, and funding adjustments for special education. The earlier article continues further down the page, providing foundational information about the Texas Department of Education.

🏫 House Bill 8 Implementation

House Bill 8, passed in September 2025, introduces a new assessment program to replace the STAAR tests. This transition to the Student Success Tool (SST) will begin in the 2027-28 school year. The SST aims to support instruction and improve student outcomes.

🌐 Emergent Bilingual Policy Changes

Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, policies regarding the identification and reclassification of emergent bilingual students will change. These updates follow a performance review by the U.S. Department of Education.

They aim to better support bilingual students in Texas schools.

💰 Funding for Special Education Evaluations

Local educational agencies (LEAs) will receive $1,000 for each initial special education evaluation completed, effective from the 2025-2026 school year. This funding is designed to help offset evaluation costs, ensuring students receive the necessary support.

🚍 Special Education Transportation Changes

The mileage reimbursement rate for transporting special education students has increased from $1.08 to $1.13 per mile, effective from the 2025-2026 school year. This adjustment helps schools better manage transportation costs for special education services.

📚 TEKS Implementation Updates

New Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) will be implemented in the 2026-2027 school year. This includes revised standards for English Language Proficiency for students in Kindergarten through Grade 3 and Grades 4-12, along with updates to Career and Technical Education courses.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • House Bill 8 replaces STAAR with SST starting in 2027-28.
  • Emergent bilingual policies will change in the 2026-2027 school year.
  • LEAs will receive $1,000 for each initial special education evaluation.
  • Transportation reimbursement for special education rises to $1.13 per mile.
  • New TEKS will be effective in the 2026-2027 school year.

💡 Tips for Navigating Texas Education Services

It is important to discuss your specific circumstances with an attorney.

🌟 Understand the New Assessment Program

Familiarize yourself with the upcoming Student Success Tool. This assessment will replace STAAR tests and is set to start in the 2027-28 school year. Knowing the changes can help educators and students prepare effectively.

📞 Contact the TEA for Certification Help

For those seeking educator certification, the Texas Education Agency offers assistance through its Educator Certification Help Desk. Reach out for guidance on the application process and required documents.

📝 Keep Up with TEKS Changes

Stay informed about the new TEKS being implemented in the 2026-2027 school year. Understanding these changes can aid educators in aligning their teaching methods with updated standards.

💵 Utilize Special Education Funding

Local educational agencies should be aware of the $1,000 funding available for each initial special education evaluation. This can significantly alleviate financial burdens related to assessments.

🚍 Plan for Transportation Reimbursements

If you are involved in special education programs, note the increase in transportation reimbursement rates. Keeping track of mileage can help ensure proper funding for transporting students with special needs.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

📚 What is House Bill 8?

House Bill 8 introduces a new assessment program that will replace the STAAR tests with the Student Success Tool, starting in the 2027-28 school year.

🌍 How are emergent bilingual students affected?

Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, new policies will change how emergent bilingual students are identified and reclassified, aiming to better support their educational needs.

💰 What funding is available for special education evaluations?

Local educational agencies will receive $1,000 for each initial special education evaluation completed, effective from the 2025-2026 school year.

🚍 How much is the reimbursement for special education transportation?

The transportation reimbursement rate for special education students has increased to $1.13 per mile, effective from the 2025-2026 school year.

📅 When will the new TEKS be implemented?

The new Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) will be implemented in the 2026-2027 school year, including updates for various subjects.

📞 How can I contact the Texas Education Agency for assistance?

You can reach out to the Texas Education Agency's Educator Certification Help Desk for assistance with certification applications and other inquiries.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Texas Education

Recent court rulings have impacted various aspects of education in Texas, including funding and policy changes. These rulings help shape how educational services are delivered and administered.

For more recent rulings, feel free to browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





The Texas Department of Education, which is also be referred to as the Texas Education Agency, or TEA, has responsibility for the public school system in the State. The Texas Department of Education has existed since it was established in 1949 and is headquartered currently in offices located in the William B. Travis State Office Building, located at 1702 North Congress Ave. in Austin. The main authority over the Texas Department of Education is Commissioner of Education Robert Scott. The Education Commissioner presides over the State Board of Education. This governing body of the Texas Department of Education has fifteen members, each of whom holds terms lasting for four years.

The Texas Department of Education has administrative areas of responsibility, including funding issues related to the State’s public school system, as well as the direction of the curriculum taught to Texas students, such as through the educational materials used in schools. The Texas Department of Education has an area of responsibility split into 20 different districts.

In one of these, the Harris County Department of Education functions as a non-profit group which is provided with taxpayer funds in order to assist the education of Texas students in this area. The Harris County Department of Education has been a part of the Texas Department of Education public school system since 1889. The Harris County Department of Education administers around 1500 employees. County School Superintendent John E. Sawyer administers the Harris County Department of Education out of the organization’s main HCDE Administration offices in the Ronald W. Reagan Building. 

Texas Department of Education