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Thank you for subscribing to the TEA social studies newsletter.
This issue of the TEA social studies newsletter provides information on the following topics:
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March Social Studies and Reading Language Arts Stakeholder Engagement Sessions
- Topic: K-5 Cross-Curricular Connections for Social Studies and English Language Arts and Reading
- Dates: March 5 and 6
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IMRA 2025 Reviewers Needed
- Texas Education Agency Releases Annual Report for 2024
- Upcoming Innovative Course Application Cycle
March Social Studies and Reading Language Arts Stakeholder Engagement Sessions
Topic: K-5 Cross-Curricular Connections for Social Studies and English Language Arts and Reading
Target Audience: Social Studies and English Language Arts and Reading Stakeholders- Teachers, District Administrators, Campus Administrators, Education Service Center Specialists, Parents, Professional Organizations
Session Description: The TEA social studies and English language arts team will share research regarding the importance of knowledge building and the impact it has on literacy. The team will then provide an overview of a cross-curricular connections tool developed by TEA staff for grades K-5. The team will explain the different parts of this tool and share how this tool supports cross-curricular instructional planning. Stakeholders will have an opportunity to participate in questions and discussion with members of the TEA social studies and English language arts team.
IMRA 2025 Reviewers Needed Texas Education Agency Releases Annual Report for 2024
The Texas Education Agency is seeking Texas educators and subject-matter experts to apply as instructional materials reviewers for the new Instructional Materials Review and Approval (IMRA) review processes. For those who would like to get involved but do not have content expertise, TEA is also looking for suitability reviewers.
As part of these selective groups, IMRA reviewers make a significant impact on Texas public education while working with a collaborative group of dedicated educators from across the state. IMRA reviewers earn a competitive stipend and, for educators, continuing professional education (CPE) credits for their contributions to this statewide initiative.
Please review the IMRA reviewer job description and complete the initial application today. Applications will be reviewed and advanced on a rolling basis until February 24, 2025. Office hours for the IMRA 2025 will be held on Mondays from 5:00-5:30 p.m. and Thursdays from 7:00 - 7:30 p.m. through February 20 and will provide an overview of the work and answer questions you may have.
For questions or concerns regarding the IMRA application or application process, please submit an IMRA Reviewer Help Desk Ticket. Please visit our website for updates.
Texas Education Agency Releases Annual Report for 2024
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) released the 2024 Annual Report, offering a comprehensive overview of the progress made in Texas public education while also addressing the challenges and opportunities that remain.
The report provides a detailed look at TEA’s strategic priorities, ongoing implementation of legislation passed during the 88th legislative session, and the statewide efforts to strengthen educational outcomes for Texas’s more than 5.5 million public school students. The report also features an accessible explanation of how the Texas public education system is funded and how those funds are allocated to school systems.
“Education is the foundation of our state’s future, and the 2024 Annual Report reflects our continued dedication to ensuring all Texas students have access to the teachers, resources, and opportunities they need to succeed,” said Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath. “This report not only tracks our progress but also identifies areas where additional investments are critical to ensuring every student receives a quality education that prepares them for the future.”
The 2024 Annual Report serves as a vital resource for understanding the current state of education in Texas and the ongoing efforts to provide every student with a high-quality educational experience.
To view a full copy of the 2024 Annual Report and the 2023-24 Pocket Edition, please visit the TEA Annual Report page.
Upcoming Innovative Course Application Cycle
The next available opportunity for stakeholders to submit new and renewal innovative course applications is coming soon. Innovative course applications that are considered and approved by the State Board of Education (SBOE) for this upcoming cycle will be made available for districts and open-enrollment charters for the 2026-2027 school year. Some important dates include the following:
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Date
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Milestone
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January 17, 2025
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Information regarding innovative courses and renewals is made available on the TEA innovative courses webpage.
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February 24, 2025
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Application window is open for the 2026-2027 cycle. Applicants may begin to submit materials.
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September 12, 2025
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Application deadline—New innovative course and renewal applications are due.
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Stakeholders can learn more about innovative courses and the upcoming application cycle on the TEA innovative courses webpage.
Thank you for your commitment to serving Texas students.
Social Studies Team
Curriculum Standards and Student Support Division
curriculum@tea.texas.gov
(512) 463-9581
For questions or additional information, please visit the Social Studies web page or submit a Curriculum Request Form through the TEA Help Desk.
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