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Texas Education Agency










*November 2025*




*Special Education Newsletter**
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Announcements


Don't forget, this is the last TEA SPED Newsletter of 2025. Be sure to check your email at the end of January 2026 when the monthly newsletters start again. Wishing all of our readers a wonderful and safe holiday season! 

Rulemaking Updates

Several commissioner of education rule amendments are currently progressing through the rulemaking process, with public comment windows now open. To better understand how the rulemaking process works and how to submit a comment during the designated window, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions on Public Comment Process for Proposed Rulemaking. [ [link removed] ]

* *

*The public comment period for the following commissioner of education rules is October 31, 2025, through December 1, 2025:*


* 19 TAC §102.1601, Supplemental Special Education Services and Instructional Materials Program for Certain Public School Students Receiving Special Education Services
* 19 TAC §103.1301, Video Surveillance of Certain Special Education Settings

*The public comment period for the following commissioner of education rules is November 7, 2025, through December 8, 2025:*


* 19 TAC §89.1070, Graduation Requirements
* 19 TAC §89.1035, Age Ranges for Student Eligibility
* 19 TAC §89.1080, Regional Day School Program for the Deaf
* 19 TAC §89.1127, Noneducational Community Based Support Services Grants

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*2025 Results Driven Accountability: Masked Public Reports, Program Area Determinations, and Monitoring Activities*

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has published the 2025 Results Driven Accountability (RDA) masked public reports and program area determinations that will guide general supervision and monitoring activities for the 2025–26 school year. These reports are available on TEA’s Results Driven Accountability Data and Reports [ [link removed] ] webpage. This announcement was shared in the "To the Administrator Addressed" correspondence on November 13, 2025.

 

*Available Reports*

Masked school system reports and downloadable data are now posted on the RDA – District Reports [ [link removed] ] webpage for the following program areas:


* Bilingual Education/English as a Second Language/Emergent Bilingual (BE/ESL/EB)
* Other Special Populations (OSP)
* Special Education (SPED), including results for Significant Disproportionality (SD)

*Additional Resources*

Training materials, determination methodologies, and related resources can be accessed at:


* RDA Overview for Federal Programs [ [link removed] ] (Webinars for local educational agencies [LEAs] and Education Service Centers [ESCs])
* 2025 RDA Special Education Determination Level Framework [ [link removed] ]
* 2025 RDA BE/ESL/EB and OSP Determination Level Framework [ [link removed] ]

*Contact Information*

For questions or to report unanticipated circumstances, contact:

Division of Monitoring, Review, and Support Office of Special Populations and Student Supports Phone: (512) 463-9414 Email: [email protected]






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Upcoming Dates


* *December 1:* Final date to submit public comment for commissioner of education rules rules "(see Announcements for more information)"
* *December 8:* Final date to submit public comment for commissioner of education rules rules "(see Announcements for more information)"
* *December 12:* Deadline for the Cameras in the Classroom Survey for the 2024-2025 school year completed in the Legal Framework [ [link removed] ]. Questions? Reach out your regional Legal Framework regional representative listed on the homepage. 
* *December 15:* Last day to apply for the Autism Circuit Academy Spring 2025 cohort "(see Department News for more information) "

 

*Don't forget to check out TEA's Special Education Webinars and Newsletters website [ [link removed] ] for a list of upcoming events, previous webinar recordings, and past editions of the Special Education Newsletter.*

 

 

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*Did you know... *

*November was designated as Family Caregivers Month? *

Governor Greg Abbott has officially proclaimed November as Family Caregivers Month, honoring the millions of Texans who provide essential care and support to loved ones. Family caregivers embody the values of service, perseverance, and compassion—helping aging parents, children with disabilities, and individuals with chronic illnesses live with dignity and independence. This month reminds us to recognize their sacrifices and ensure access to resources like respite programs, workplace flexibility, and training opportunities. Let’s join together to celebrate and support these everyday heroes who strengthen families and communities across our state. You can review the proclamation on The Office of the Texas Governor's website [ [link removed] ]. 

 

 



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*Celebrating Progress in Parent Involvement*

Each year, we reach out to families of thousands of Texas students served through special education—across every region, from urban centers to rural communities, and representing all demographic groups. We ask these families a simple but powerful question: “Did your child’s school help you feel involved in their education?”

 

This year’s survey results are in, and compared to last year our statewide Indicator 8 score rose to 71.9%, up from 70.0%, meaning more parents answered “YES.” While this increase may seem modest, it represents hundreds of families who now feel more connected, empowered, and supported by their schools.

 

This progress is a testament to the dedication of teachers, school leaders, school system teams, and regional ESCs across Texas, whose commitment to building strong partnerships with families is reflected in these results. While there is still more work to do, every step forward matters. Let’s take a moment to celebrate this achievement and the collective effort behind it—this is making a real difference for Texas students and families.

 

View the full Parent Involvement Survey report here [ [link removed] ].




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In This Issue


* Guidance for the SAAH ECSE and Prekindergarten Program Coding Chart: Question and Answer Document [ #link_11 ]
* Explore Evidence-Based Behavior Support Trainings [ #link_7 ]
* Review of Existing Evaluation Data (REED) and Reevaluation: Question and Answer Document [ #link_6 ]
* UDL Asynchronous Courses & Face-to-Face Course [ #link_3 ]
* UDL Implementation Guide [ #link_4 ]
* TEA UDL Webpage [ #link_5 ]
* Start the Reading Habit with Learning Ally’s Audiobook Solution [ #link_8 ]
* Apply Now - Autism Circuit Academy [ #link_10 ]
* 2026-2028 Innovative Services to Students With Autism Grant Award [ #link_9 ]
* SPEDTalk Podcast Celebrates 100 Episodes! [ #link_2 ]
* NATIONAL NEWS [ #link_1 ]

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Texas SPED Support
Monthly Spotlight:

Texas SPED Support [ [link removed] ] is *getting an upgrade over the Thanksgiving holiday*. Be sure to log into the website and *check out the new bookmarking feature*! This upgrade will allow users with a Texas SPED Support account to *organize their bookmarked resources into customized lists*. No more scrolling through your bookmarked resources to find what you need... now you can group your resources into lists that make sense to you! 

 

Follow on Facebook & Instagram: @TexasSPEDSupport
Follow on Twitter: @TXSPEDSupport






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DEPARTMENT NEWS

 

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Guidance for the SAAH ECSE and Prekindergarten Program Coding Chart: Question and Answer Document

A new guidance document for the Student Attendance Accounting Handbook (SAAH) resource is now available on the Texas SPED Support website! This Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) and Prekindergarten (Pre-K) Program Coding Chart: Question and Answer Document *provides clarity on program coding requirements and supports accurate reporting*. This is a valuable tool for LEAs navigating attendance accounting for young learners with disabilities. This document serves as a *guidance tool for personnel determining average daily attendance (ADA) codes and instructional setting codes for preschool-age children receiving ECSE services and should be used in conjunction with the SAAH.*

 

*Check it Out* [ [link removed] ]


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Explore Evidence-Based Behavior Support Trainings

The TIER Behavior Module offers *eight structured pathways* designed to help educators implement effective behavioral practices within a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). These *trainings cover everything from foundational positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) strategies to advanced implementation of the Interconnected Systems Framework (ISF)*.

 

Want the full overview? Access the _Behavior Module Quick Reference Guide [ [link removed] ]_ for an overview of the trainings offered.

 

For support or to connect with a certified TIER/MTSS Trainer, visit: sped.support/mtss-trainers [ [link removed] ].

 

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Review of Existing Evaluation Data (REED) and Reevaluation: Question and Answer Document

Are you wondering how to dismiss a student with disabilities from special education or related services? This Q&A document answers that question and much more. It *provides guidance and best practices to LEAs regarding the REED and reevaluation processes*.

 

*View Document Now* [ [link removed] ]


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UDL Asynchronous Courses & Face-to-Face Course

*Build inclusive classrooms with Universal Design for Learning (UDL)!* Ready to design more accessible learning environments for all students? The UDL Professional Development Series offers *five self-paced, online courses* that explore the UDL framework in depth. Through *real-world scenarios, examples, and collaborative activities, participants will explore sample lessons and gain practical insights into effectively applying UDL strategies*. Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your understanding and refine your skills in designing environments that promote meaningful access for all students that will spark excitement and curiosity for learning, support tackling challenges with focus and determination, and harness the power of emotions and motivation in learning. 

 

Want to learn with others? The series is *also available as a one-day live session at your local ESC*. 

 

Whether you participated synchronously or asynchronously, *your ESC provides coaching to help you progress with your UDL implementation*. Find your statewide contact on Texas SPED Support [ [link removed] ] to find out more about coaching.

 

*Register for Asynchronous Trainings* [ [link removed] ]


*Find a Synchronous Training* [ [link removed] ]


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UDL Implementation Guide

The UDL Implementation Guide for Educators in Texas is *designed to help teachers and instructional leaders create inclusive learning environments* where every student can succeed. Inside, you’ll find *practical strategies for integrating UDL into lesson planning, plus side-by-side examples comparing traditional and UDL-enhanced plans*. Leaders will discover tools to cultivate a UDL-aligned school culture, support ongoing professional learning, and monitor fidelity. With checklists, rubrics, and administrator supports included, this guide makes it easy to reflect, plan, and lead with all learners in mind. 

 

Check out the guide and start transforming instruction today! 

 

*View Guide Now* [ [link removed] ]


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TEA UDL Webpage

The UDL framework and guidelines 2.2 are available on the TEA website! Explore a *comprehensive overview of the UDL guidelines, complete with detailed descriptions and practical examples to support implementatio*n in your classroom or program. Plus, the *page includes direct links to valuable UDL resources hosted on Texas SPED Support*—making it easier than ever to dive deeper into inclusive, effective teaching strategies. 

  

Click below to access the UDL framework and resources. Don’t miss out—check it out today and empower your learning community! 

 

*Go to TEA UDL Webpage* [ [link removed] ]


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Start the Reading Habit with Learning Ally’s Audiobook Solution

Encouraging children to read can feel like a big task, but it all starts with a single step: putting a book on their bookshelf and turning that very first page. One page leads to multiple pages, multiple pages lead to a book, and soon, books lead to a lifelong habit of reading!

 

*Need help getting started with resources and strategies to foster a love of reading in your students? Contact your Learning Ally account manager today [ [link removed] ]!*

 

"New to Learning Ally and need an account? Get started by enrolling for your free account  through the ""Educator Access Form" [ [link removed] ]"."

 

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Apply Now - Autism Circuit Academy

The Autism Circuit Academy (ACA) spring 2026 cohort *application opened October 15th and closes December 15th*. The ACA has been *redesigned to offer separate fall and spring cohorts*. Participants also have the option to enroll in both cohorts for a full year of training and coaching on evidence-based practices for students with autism. The ACA is *free* for educators across Texas who are employees of an LEA.

 

*Learn More & Apply* [ [link removed] ]


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2026-2028 Innovative Services to Students With Autism Grant Award

The purpose of this grant opportunity is to *increase capacity across Texas schools to implement innovative programs that effectively serve students with autism* ages 3-21. This grant will be *available to Texas school districts and open-enrollment charter schools*, with priority given to collaborations across school systems. The *application window will open January 2026*. Visit the Texas SPED Support Opportunities page for additional information and updates once the grant application is open. 

 

*Find Out More* [ [link removed] ]


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SPEDTalk Podcast Celebrates 100 Episodes!

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"Welcome to SPEDTalk—where we share stories representing our passion for special education, elevating the conversation, one story at a time."

This is the welcoming message that greets listeners for every episode of the SPEDTalk podcast. Founded in April 2019 by a collaborative group of Special Education Liaisons, SPEDTalk's mission is to celebrate Special Education in Texas and highlight the invaluable work of our local educational agencies (LEAs), communities, teachers, and, most importantly, our students.

Episodes offer something for everyone, featuring a diverse range of stories:


* Inspiring accounts of community events that support special education needs.
* Creative LEA approaches to building successful opportunities for students.
* Encouraging stories designed for parents.
* Highlights of new TEA resources for special education teachers and administrators.

As we celebrate the 100th episode of SPEDTalk, we honor the vision of founders John Bullion and Pam Humphrey. They initially created the podcast as a way for Special Education Liaisons to reach a wider audience with the success stories happening across Texas. One hundred episodes later, their vision thrives with a dedicated team of six Special Education Liaisons who continue to champion our Texas students and educators.

 

You can find the SPEDTalk podcast on all major podcast services, including Spotify, iHeart, and Apple Podcasts. To hear the 100th episode and browse a full database of all 100 shows, please visit the SPEDTalk website [ [link removed] ]. You are also invited to share your ideas for stories that should be featured on the podcast!

 



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NATIONAL NEWS

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New Resource on Error Analysis

Errors in student work samples are one type of diagnostic data that educators may use to better understand students’ skill gaps and determine how best to intensify interventions. This new tip sheet [ [link removed] ] created by the National Center on Intensive Intervention (NCSI) provides an overview of how to analyze errors in math. 

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Academic Progress Monitoring in Intensive Intervention

If you missed NCSI's latest webinar, "Academic Progress Monitoring in Intensive Intervention [ [link removed] ], "a recording is now available". "The webinar provides an overview of academic progress monitoring and describes its role in supporting students within a multi-tiered system of supports and data-based individualization.  

 

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Academic Screening Tools Chart Updated [ [link removed] ]

NCSI's Academic Screening Tools Chart [ [link removed] ] has been updated with new tools. Explore the updated chart to learn more about the technical adequacy and usability of literacy and mathematics screening tools.   

 

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SPEDTEX

Join the SPEDTex mailing list [ [link removed] ] or
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Job Listings


TEA's Office of Special Populations and Student Supports is *seeking a Special Education Performance Diagnostic Education Specialist [ [link removed] ] to join our team*. This specialist will play a critical role in* enhancing the development and implementation of a robust, data-informed continuous improvement diagnostic tool for special education programs *across Texas.

 

Qualified individuals passionate about improving outcomes for students with disabilities and building tools that support strategic planning are encouraged to apply!






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