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Texas Education Agency










*October 2025*




*Special Education Newsletter**
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students dressed up as cowboys





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Announcements


SPEDS Summer Submission Now Open

The Special Education Data System (SPEDS) Summer submission window in the Texas Student Data System (TSDS) is officially open for the 2025–26 school year! This submission includes data for the following State Performance Plan Indicators (SPPI):


* SPPI 7 – Preschool Outcomes
* SPPI 11A/B – Timely Initial Evaluations and Eligibility Determinations
* SPPI 12 – Early Childhood Transition
* SPPI 13 – Secondary Transition

Accurate and timely submissions are critical for compliance and reporting. Below are some tips and reminders to help ensure success:


* **Confirm TSDS/SPEDS roles: **Ensure your local educational agency (LEA) has all required roles assigned in TSDS and SPEDS for smooth submission.
* *Validate early and often: *Start validating your data early and continue running validation reports throughout the process to avoid last-minute challenges.
* *Submit TIMS tickets promptly: *If you encounter technical issues, submit a TSDS Incident Management System (TIMS) ticket as soon as possible.
* *Leverage ESC support: *Education service center (ESC) TSDS Champions serve as the primary point of contact for LEAs and are a valuable resource—reach out for guidance and troubleshooting.

*Resources:*


* ESCs 1-10 TSDS Champions [ [link removed] ]
* ESCs 11-20 TSDS Champions [ [link removed] ]
* Texas Web-Enabled Data Standards (TWEDS) [ [link removed] ]
* TSDS Training & Support Certified Vendors [ [link removed] ]

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School Health and Related Services (SHARS) Update

As of October 2025, the SHARS Handbook [ [link removed] ] has been *updated to include:*


* *New Audiology Codes*
* *Updated Personal Care Service Provider Qualification Guidelines*

In addition, the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has published responses to public comments received regarding proposed policy changes. The comments, responses and draft of the Genetic Testing Policy are available for review on the Medicaid Medical and Dental Policy webpage [ [link removed] ].

 

Please email questions to HHSC SHARS Medical Policy at [email protected]. 

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Rulemaking Updates

Several commissioner of education rule amendments are currently progressing through the rulemaking process, with public comment periods opening soon. 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] ]. Proposed rules are available on the Proposed Commissioner of Education Rules webpage [ [link removed] ], Proposed State Board of Education Rules webpage [ [link removed] ], and Proposed State Board for Educator Certification Rules webpage [ [link removed] ].

 

**The public comment period for the following commissioner of education rules are currently scheduled to open from *October 31, 2025 - 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 are currently scheduled to open from *November 7, 2025 - 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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Significant Disproportionality Notifications

Significant disproportionality notifications were sent to identified LEAs on October 9, 2025. The window for completing the required annual assurance in the Legal Framework [ [link removed] ] is open through January 15, 2026. An LEA will only complete the applicable assurance(s) for the area(s) in which they are identified as SD Year 3.  Questions? Reach out your regional Legal Framework representative listed on the Legal Framework website.






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Upcoming Dates


* *October 15 - December 15: *Autism Circuit Academy Fall 2025 cohort applications open "(see Department News section for more information) "
* *October 20 -  December 12:* Cameras in the Classroom Survey window is open. The survey and assurance must be completed in the Legal Framework [ [link removed] ] by December 12, 2025. Questions? Contact your Legal Framework regional representative.
* *October 31:* Last day for LEAs and ESCs to apply for the Empowering ECSE Educators to Improve Student Outcomes Grant Cycle 2 [ [link removed] ] for school year 2025-2026 
* *October 31:* Official end of Learning Ally's Race to Read competition [ [link removed] ] 
* *October 31 - December 1:* Public comment window for commissioner rules "(see Announcements section for more information)"
* *November 7 - December 8:* Public comment window for commissioner rules "(see Announcements section 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... *

*October was Persons with Disabilities History and Awareness Month in Texas? *

During the 82nd Texas Legislative Session in 2011, HB 3616 [ [link removed] ] was passed designating this special month. The bill’s intent was to increase public awareness of the many achievements of people with disabilities, to encourage public understanding of the disability rights movement, and to reaffirm the commitment at all levels of government to ensuring access, opportunity, and full participation in society for people with disabilities.

 

To learn more about the accomplishments of people with disabilities, check out the Office of the Texas Governor's History and Awareness Month Factoids [ [link removed] ]. 

 



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dyslexia month graphic

TEA has *many resources to support educational professionals*  who work with students who have dyslexia. 

 


* TEA Dyslexia and Related Disorders webpage [ [link removed] ]
* Texas Dyslexia Academies Online [ [link removed] ] Courses [ [link removed] ]
* _TEA Dyslexia Online Course [ [link removed] ]_
* Guidance for the Comprehensive Evaluation of Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) [ [link removed] ]
* Technology Integration for Students with Dyslexia and Related Disorders [ [link removed] ]
* TSDS PEIMS Dyslexia Document [ [link removed] ]




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In This Issue


* Autism Circuit Academy [ #link_9 ]
* STAAR Alternate 2 Participation Notices [ #link_11 ]
* Navigating the SB IEP Process for Students with Dyslexia [ #link_5 ]
* Standards-based Individualized Education Program Process Training [ #link_6 ]
* Meaningful Access Collection – NEW! [ #link_7 ]
* Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) Field User Guides for Bluebonnet Learning – NEW! [ #link_8 ]
* Fall Into Literacy with Learning Ally [ #link_4 ]
* 2026-2028 Innovative Services to Students With Autism Grant Award [ #link_10 ]
* Looking to Serve on the Texas CAC? [ #link_12 ]
* TEA Engagement Opportunities [ #link_1 ]
* State Assessment Educator Item Review Committees [ #link_2 ]
* NATIONAL NEWS [ #link_3 ]

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Texas SPED Support
Monthly Spotlight:

Don't forget to take the *annual Texas SPED Support user survey [ [link removed] ]* by *October 31st*. Your input is important and helps us continue enhancing the website to *ensure it’s user-friendly, relevant, and effective* for your needs.

 

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






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*DEPARTMENT NEWS*

 

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Autism Circuit Academy

The Autism Circuit Academy (ACA) Spring 2025 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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STAAR Alternate 2 Participation Notices

*TEA will soon be sending STAAR Alternate 2 notices to LEAs that had participation rates over one percent last year.* These LEAs are required to complete the STAAR Alternate 2 Justification and Assurance Form. For questions about the notices or completing the form, please contact the TEA Student Assessment Division using the Student Assessment Help Desk [ [link removed] ] or emailing [email protected].

 

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Navigating the SB IEP Process for Students with Dyslexia

TEA in collaboration with their grantee is providing *training of trainers (TOTs) for ESC evaluation and standards-based individualized education program (SB IEP) trainers/coaches and dyslexia specialists* on the Navigating the SB IEP Process for Students with Dyslexia synchronous course. *Watch your ESC’s calendar for when this training will be offered in your region*. This training applies the standards-based process for IEPs to developing present levels of academic achievement and functional performance (PLAAFP) statements, writing annual goals, determining specially designed instruction (SDI), and progress monitoring goals for students with dyslexia. Case studies and examples are provided.

 

*Learn More* [ [link removed] ]


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Standards-based Individualized Education Program Process Training

Participants may now take the *updated* _Standards-Based Individualized Education Program (SB IEP) Process Training [ [link removed] ]_ in person by finding a trainer at their regional ESC. 

 

The intent of this training is to provide participants with an understanding of the SB IEP process for *gathering student data*, including the full individual and initial evaluation (FIIE), *developing the student’s present levels of academic achievement and functional performance* (PLAAFP) statement, *drafting measurable annual goals* with short-term objectives/benchmarks, if appropriate, *determining what specially designed instruction is needed*, and *creating a data collection system for monitoring progress* on the annual goals.

 

This course is *approved for 12 hours of continuing education credit by the Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association (TSHA)*. TSHA approval does not imply endorsement of course content, specific products, or clinical procedures. Instructions for claiming TSHA continuing education credit will be provided at the end of this course. 

 

*Find a Trainer* [ [link removed] ]


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Meaningful Access Collection – NEW!

Meaningful Access ensures that students with disabilities who receive special education and related services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) have equal opportunities to engage with and make progress in the general education curriculum and environment. This concept is deeply rooted in inclusive practices, which involve intentional, systematic actions designed to meet the individual needs of each student. Inclusion is achieved when these practices are implemented with fidelity, allowing students with disabilities to learn, participate, and make progress alongside their peers without disabilities in a meaningful and equitable manner throughout their entire school experience. 

 

The NEW Meaningful Access Collection is a *comprehensive suite of resources designed to support educators, instructional leaders, and support staff in implementing inclusive practices*. These tools help ensure that students with disabilities have equitable access to the general education curriculum. The *collection includes guidance on collaborative instruction, specially designed instruction (SDI), and Universal Design for Learning (UDL), with a strong emphasis on building effective partnerships*. Take a look at the Meaningful Access Collection today! 

 

*Browse Collection* [ [link removed] ]


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Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) Field User Guides for Bluebonnet Learning – NEW!

The *NEW SDI Field User Guides for Bluebonnet Learning *K-5 Reading Language Arts (RLA), K-5 Mathematics, and Secondary Mathematics offer multiple entry points for approaching SDI and help educators make meaningful connections between the tools and content in the instructional materials and the core components of SDI: *content, methodology, and delivery of instruction*. Whether you're a classroom teacher, instructional coach, or administrator, these resources are designed to support thoughtful planning and inclusive instruction.

 

*K-5 RLA Guide* [ [link removed] ]


*K-5 Math Guide* [ [link removed] ]


*Secondary Math Guide* [ [link removed] ]


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Fall Into Literacy with Learning Ally

Leaves are falling and a new reading adventure is calling! Learning Ally’s Fall into Literacy program helps students, educators, and families stay engaged with reading through curated book lists, fun challenges, and seasonal activities throughout November. Our *Fall into Literacy website* [ [link removed] ] is packed with resources to keep the love of reading alive all season long.  

 

*Utilize these resources to:*


* *Keep momentum going in your classroom* with engaging activities, reading challenges, and a special “Stories Around the Campfire” virtual event.
* *Inspire your students* with new books and a chance to win prizes.
* *Help families connect* through our "Reading is S'More Fun Together" packet.

Be sure to check out our Texas landing page [ [link removed] ] for exclusive Spotlight On Dyslexia “Diving Deeper” professional learning sessions and educator coaching sessions to level up your Learning Ally expertise.

 

"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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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 in early spring 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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Looking to Serve on the Texas CAC?

*The Texas Continuing Advisory Committee (CAC) for Special Education is looking for additional members!* The CAC is the state advisory panel required under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The CAC consists of members from around the state who fulfill specific roles as outlined in IDEA and state law. These members are appointed by the Office of the Governor for staggered terms of four years with the terms of half of the members expiring every two years.  *A majority of the members of the CAC must be individuals with disabilities or parents of children with disabilities. *

 

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


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TEA Engagement Opportunities

*We are always looking for ways to connect with our partners in the field!*

Whether through site visits, collaborative review opportunities, or focus groups, there are numerous ways to connect with TEA and support the field of education. *If you are interested in participating in engagement opportunities, sign up by clicking the button below.  *

 

*Sign Up Here* [ [link removed] ]


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State Assessment Educator Item Review Committees

Each year the *TEA invites groups of Texas educators to provide feedback on the development of state assessments* (STAAR, STAAR Alternate 2, and TELPAS) through educator committees across all assessed grades and content areas. Developing high-quality, aligned questions relies on the expertise and experience of Texas educators. Participants collaborate with other educators from across the state to review and approve each potential question for state assessments. *TEA is currently accepting applications from all districts to participate in item review committees all subjects and grade levels*. 

 

If you know of any educators (including yourself!) who might be interested in participating in these review meetings, please encourage them to apply using the link below.* Meetings are typically held during the spring and summer*. If selected, an invite will be sent with all the logistical information. 

 

The commitment is generally* two to three days in Austin with all travel, accommodations, and substitute coverage paid for by TEA*. All participants will *earn Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits*. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

 

*Apply Now* [ [link removed] ]


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NATIONAL NEWS

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Five Considerations that Educators Can Employ for Accelerated Learning 

This Fast Five [ [link removed] ] defines the role of accelerated learning to support all students, but specifically students with disabilities. It provides considerations and ideas to support LEA’s to plan for and implement accelerated learning.

 

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Guiding Questions: The FAIR Test

This resource [ [link removed] ] provides guiding questions to help you select the best intervention for your student or group of students that are feasible to implement, acceptable for stakeholders, show a potential for impact and are relevant in your context.

 

This resource is a companion to Three Circles of Evidence-Based Decision Making to Support Students with Disabilities [ [link removed] ], which describes a process for collecting information and making decisions about interventions for students.

 

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Functional Behavioral Assessment: Identifying the Reasons for Student Behavior

These modules from the IRIS Center explore the importance of discovering the reasons that students engage in challenging behavior and outlines steps for conducting a functional behavioral assessment (FBA). It is recommended to complete Behavioral Principles: The Basics of Understanding Student Behavior [ [link removed] ] prior to beginning either FBA module. 


* FBA: Elementary [ [link removed] ]
* FBA: Secondary [ [link removed] ]

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Behavioral Intervention Plans: Developing a Plan to Address Student Behavior

These modules explore the steps for developing a behavioral intervention plan (BIP). They include identifying appropriate behaviors to replace the interfering behavior, selecting and implementing interventions that address the function of the behavior, monitoring students’ responses to the interventions, and making adjustments based on the data. 

It is recommended to complete the FBA and Behavioral Principles modules previously linked in this newsletter. 


* BIP: Elementary [ [link removed] ]
* BIP: Secondary [ [link removed] ]

 

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Data-Based Individualization Hypothesis Development Tool

Analyzing diagnostic data is a critical step of the data-based individualization (DBI) process. In this step, educators review data to help generate a hypothesis for why a student has not yet responded to the intervention and determine the necessary adaptations to improve student outcomes.

 

This interactive tool [ [link removed] ] designed by the National Center on Intensive Intervention (NCII) can assist educators in developing a hypothesis to explain why a student has not made adequate progress in an academic intervention and to help identify next steps for intensifying the intervention. Use this tool before or during a DBI team meeting to develop an initial hypothesis or to refine or change an existing hypothesis.

 

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SPEDTEX

Join the SPEDTex mailing list [ [link removed] ] or
visit the site to locate resources [ [link removed] ]
you need.




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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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