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EDUCATION CODE - Title 2 - SUBTITLE F. CURRICULUM, PROGRAMS, AND SERVICES


Published: 2015-07-01

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EDUCATION CODE

TITLE 2. PUBLIC EDUCATION

SUBTITLE F. CURRICULUM, PROGRAMS, AND SERVICES

CHAPTER 28. COURSES OF STUDY; ADVANCEMENT



SUBCHAPTER A. ESSENTIAL KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS; CURRICULUM



Sec. 28.001. PURPOSE. It is the intent of the legislature that the essential knowledge and skills developed by the State Board of Education under this subchapter shall require all students to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to read, write, compute, problem solve, think critically, apply technology, and communicate across all subject areas. The essential knowledge and skills shall also prepare and enable all students to continue to learn in postsecondary educational, training, or employment settings.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995.



This section was amended by the 84th Legislature. Pending publication of the current statutes, see H.B. 1431, S.B. 968 and H.B. 440, 84th Legislature, Regular Session, for amendments affecting this section.

Sec. 28.002. REQUIRED CURRICULUM. (a) Each school district that offers kindergarten through grade 12 shall offer, as a required curriculum:

(1) a foundation curriculum that includes:

(A) English language arts;

(B) mathematics;

(C) science; and

(D) social studies, consisting of Texas, United States, and world history, government, economics, with emphasis on the free enterprise system and its benefits, and geography; and

(2) an enrichment curriculum that includes:

(A) to the extent possible, languages other than English;

(B) health, with emphasis on the importance of proper nutrition and exercise;

(C) physical education;

(D) fine arts;

(E) career and technology education;

(F) technology applications;

(G) religious literature, including the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) and New Testament, and its impact on history and literature; and

(H) personal financial literacy.

(b) The State Board of Education by rule shall designate subjects constituting a well-balanced curriculum to be offered by a school district that does not offer kindergarten through grade 12.

(b-1) In this section, "common core state standards" means the national curriculum standards developed by the Common Core State Standards Initiative.

(b-2) The State Board of Education may not adopt common core state standards to comply with a duty imposed under this chapter.

(b-3) A school district may not use common core state standards to comply with the requirement to provide instruction in the essential knowledge and skills at appropriate grade levels under Subsection (c).

(b-4) Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, a school district or open-enrollment charter school may not be required to offer any aspect of a common core state standards curriculum.

(c) The State Board of Education, with the direct participation of educators, parents, business and industry representatives, and employers shall by rule identify the essential knowledge and skills of each subject of the required curriculum that all students should be able to demonstrate and that will be used in evaluating instructional materials under Chapter 31 and addressed on the assessment instruments required under Subchapter B, Chapter 39. As a condition of accreditation, the board shall require each district to provide instruction in the essential knowledge and skills at appropriate grade levels and to make available to each high school student in the district an Algebra II course.

(c-1) The State Board of Education shall adopt rules requiring students enrolled in grade levels six, seven, and eight to complete at least one fine arts course during those grade levels as part of a district's fine arts curriculum.

(c-2) Each time the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board revises the Internet database of the coordinating board's official statewide inventory of workforce education courses, the State Board of Education shall by rule revise the essential knowledge and skills of any corresponding career and technology education curriculum as provided by Subsection (c).

(d) The physical education curriculum required under Subsection (a)(2)(C) must be sequential, developmentally appropriate, and designed, implemented, and evaluated to enable students to develop the motor, self-management, and other skills, knowledge, attitudes, and confidence necessary to participate in physical activity throughout life. Each school district shall establish specific objectives and goals the district intends to accomplish through the physical education curriculum. In identifying the essential knowledge and skills of physical education, the State Board of Education shall ensure that the curriculum:

(1) emphasizes the knowledge and skills capable of being used during a lifetime of regular physical activity;

(2) is consistent with national physical education standards for:

(A) the information that students should learn about physical activity; and

(B) the physical activities that students should be able to perform;

(3) requires that, on a weekly basis, at least 50 percent of the physical education class be used for actual student physical activity and that the activity be, to the extent practicable, at a moderate or vigorous level;

(4) offers students an opportunity to choose among many types of physical activity in which to participate;

(5) offers students both cooperative and competitive games;

(6) meets the needs of students of all physical ability levels, including students who have a disability, chronic health problem, or other special need that precludes the student from participating in regular physical education instruction but who might be able to participate in physical education that is suitably adapted and, if applicable, included in the student's individualized education program;

(7) takes into account the effect that gender and cultural differences might have on the degree of student interest in physical activity or on the types of physical activity in which a student is interested;

(8) teaches self-management and movement skills;

(9) teaches cooperation, fair play, and responsible participation in physical activity;

(10) promotes student participation in physical activity outside of school; and

(11) allows physical education classes to be an enjoyable experience for students.

(e) American Sign Language is a language for purposes of Subsection (a)(2)(A). A public school may offer an elective course in the language.

(f) A school district may offer courses for local credit in addition to those in the required curriculum. The State Board of Education shall be flexible in approving a course for credit for high school graduation under this subsection.

(g) A local instructional plan may draw on state curriculum frameworks and program standards as appropriate. Each district is encouraged to exceed minimum requirements of law and State Board of Education rule. Each district shall ensure that all children in the district participate actively in a balanced curriculum designed to meet individual needs. Before the adoption of a major curriculum initiative, including the use of a curriculum management system, a district must use a process that:

(1) includes teacher input;

(2) provides district employees with the opportunity to express opinions regarding the initiative; and

(3) includes a meeting of the board of trustees of the district at which:

(A) information regarding the initiative is presented, including the cost of the initiative and any alternatives that were considered; and

(B) members of the public and district employees are given the opportunity to comment regarding the initiative.

(g-1) A district may also offer a course or other activity, including an apprenticeship or training hours needed to obtain an industry-recognized credential or certificate, that is approved by the board of trustees for credit without obtaining State Board of Education approval if:

(1) the district develops a program under which the district partners with a public or private institution of higher education and local business, labor, and community leaders to develop and provide the courses; and

(2) the course or other activity allows students to enter:

(A) a career or technology training program in the district's region of the state;

(B) an institution of higher education without remediation;

(C) an apprenticeship training program; or

(D) an internship required as part of accreditation toward an industry-recognized credential or certificate for course credit.

(g-2) Each school district shall annually report to the agency the names of the courses, programs, institutions of higher education, and internships in which the district's students have enrolled under Subsection (g-1). The agency shall make available information provided under this subsection to other districts.

(h) The State Board of Education and each school district shall foster the continuation of the tradition of teaching United States and Texas history and the free enterprise system in regular subject matter and in reading courses and in the adoption of instructional materials. A primary purpose of the public school curriculum is to prepare thoughtful, active citizens who understand the importance of patriotism and can function productively in a free enterprise society with appreciation for the basic democratic values of our state and national heritage.

(i) The State Board of Education shall adopt rules for the implementation of this subchapter. Except as provided by Subsection (j), the board may not adopt rules that designate the methodology used by a teacher or the time spent by a teacher or a student on a particular task or subject.

(j) The State Board of Education by rule may require laboratory instruction in secondary science courses and may require a specific amount or percentage of time in a secondary science course that must be laboratory instruction.

(k) The State Board of Education, in consultation with the Department of State Health Services and the Texas Diabetes Council, shall develop a diabetes education program that a school district may use in the health curriculum under Subsection (a)(2)(B).

(l) A school district shall require a student enrolled in full-day prekindergarten, in kindergarten, or in a grade level below grade six to participate in moderate or vigorous daily physical activity for at least 30 minutes throughout the school year as part of the district's physical education curriculum or through structured activity during a school campus's daily recess. To the extent practicable, a school district shall require a student enrolled in prekindergarten on less than a full-day basis to participate in the same type and amount of physical activity as a student enrolled in full-day prekindergarten. A school district shall require students enrolled in grade levels six, seven, and eight to participate in moderate or vigorous daily physical activity for at least 30 minutes for at least four semesters during those grade levels as part of the district's physical education curriculum. If a school district determines, for any particular grade level below grade six, that requiring moderate or vigorous daily physical activity is impractical due to scheduling concerns or other factors, the district may as an alternative require a student in that grade level to participate in moderate or vigorous physical activity for at least 135 minutes during each school week. Additionally, a school district may as an alternative require a student enrolled in a grade level for which the district uses block scheduling to participate in moderate or vigorous physical activity for at least 225 minutes during each period of two school weeks. A school district must provide for an exemption for:

(1) any student who is unable to participate in the required physical activity because of illness or disability; and

(2) a middle school or junior high school student who participates in an extracurricular activity with a moderate or vigorous physical activity component that is considered a structured activity under rules adopted by the commissioner.

(l-1) In adopting rules relating to an activity described by Subsection (l)(2), the commissioner may permit an exemption for a student who participates in a school-related activity or an activity sponsored by a private league or club only if the student provides proof of participation in the activity.

(l-2) To encourage school districts to promote physical activity for children through classroom curricula for health and physical education, the agency, in consultation with the Department of State Health Services, shall designate nationally recognized health and physical education program guidelines that a school district may use in the health curriculum under Subsection (a)(2)(B) or the physical education curriculum under Subsection (a)(2)(C).

(l-3)(1) This subsection may be cited as "Lauren's Law."

(2) The State Board of Education, the Department of State Health Services, or a school district may not adopt any rule, policy, or program under Subsections (a), (k), (l), (l-1), or (l-2) that would prohibit a parent or grandparent of a student from providing any food product of the parent's or grandparent's choice to:

(A) children in the classroom of the child of the parent or grandparent on the occasion of the child's birthday; or

(B) children at a school-designated function.

(m) Section 2001.039, Government Code, as added by Chapter 1499, Acts of the 76th Legislature, Regular Session, 1999, does not apply to a rule adopted by the State Board of Education under Subsection (c) or (d).

(n) The State Board of Education may by rule develop and implement a plan designed to incorporate foundation curriculum requirements into the career and technology education curriculum under Subsection (a)(2)(E).

(o) In approving career and technology courses, the State Board of Education must determine that at least 50 percent of the approved courses are cost-effective for a school district to implement.

(p) The State Board of Education, in conjunction with the office of the attorney general, shall develop a parenting and paternity awareness program that a school district shall use in the district's high school health curriculum. A school district may use the program developed under this subsection in the district's middle or junior high school curriculum. At the discretion of the district, a teacher may modify the suggested sequence and pace of the program at any grade level. The program must:

(1) address parenting skills and responsibilities, including child support and other legal rights and responsibilities that come with parenthood;

(2) address relationship skills, including money management, communication skills, and marriage preparation; and

(3) in district middle, junior high, or high schools that do not have a family violence prevention program, address skills relating to the prevention of family violence.

(p-2) A school district may develop or adopt research-based programs and curriculum materials for use in conjunction with the program developed under Subsection (p). The programs and curriculum materials may provide instruction in:

(1) child development;

(2) parenting skills, including child abuse and neglect prevention; and

(3) assertiveness skills to prevent teenage pregnancy, abusive relationships, and family violence.

(p-3) The agency shall evaluate programs and curriculum materials developed under Subsection (p-2) and distribute to other school districts information regarding those programs and materials.

(p-4) A student under 14 years of age may not participate in a program developed under Subsection (p) without the permission of the student's parent or person standing in parental relation to the student.

(q) Repealed by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211, Sec. 78(b)(1), eff. September 1, 2014.

(r) In adopting the essential knowledge and skills for the health curriculum under Subsection (a)(2)(B), the State Board of Education shall adopt essential knowledge and skills that address the dangers, causes, consequences, signs, symptoms, and treatment of binge drinking and alcohol poisoning. The agency shall compile a list of evidence-based alcohol awareness programs from which a school district shall choose a program to use in the district's middle school, junior high school, and high school health curriculum. In this subsection, "evidence-based alcohol awareness program" means a program, practice, or strategy that has been proven to effectively prevent or delay alcohol use among students, as determined by evaluations that use valid and reliable measures and that are published in peer-reviewed journals.

(s) In this subsection, "bullying" has the meaning assigned by Section 37.0832 and "harassment" has the meaning assigned by Section 37.001. In addition to any other essential knowledge and skills the State Board of Education adopts for the health curriculum under Subsection (a)(2)(B), the board shall adopt for the health curriculum, in consultation with the Texas School Safety Center, essential knowledge and skills that include evidence-based practices that will effectively address awareness, prevention, identification, self-defense in response to, and resolution of and intervention in bullying and harassment.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995. Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 1285, Sec. 4.02, eff. Sept. 1, 1997; Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 907, Sec. 1, eff. June 14, 2001; Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 925, Sec. 3, eff. June 14, 2001; Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 61, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 2003; Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1264, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2003; Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1275, Sec. 2(14), eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 784 (S.B. 42), Sec. 1, eff. June 17, 2005.

Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 254 (H.B. 2176), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2007.

Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 856 (H.B. 1287), Sec. 3, eff. June 15, 2007.

Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1377 (S.B. 530), Sec. 1, eff. June 15, 2007.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 529 (S.B. 1344), Sec. 2, eff. June 19, 2009.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 773 (S.B. 891), Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2009.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 895 (H.B. 3), Sec. 25, eff. June 19, 2009.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1419 (H.B. 3076), Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2009.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1421 (S.B. 1219), Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2009.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 91 (S.B. 1303), Sec. 27.001(5), eff. September 1, 2011.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 776 (H.B. 1942), Sec. 4, eff. June 17, 2011.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., 1st C.S., Ch. 6 (S.B. 6), Sec. 13, eff. July 19, 2011.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 8(a), eff. June 10, 2013.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 78(b)(1), eff. September 1, 2014.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 796 (S.B. 1474), Sec. 1, eff. June 14, 2013.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 861 (H.B. 462), Sec. 1, eff. June 14, 2013.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1026 (H.B. 2662), Sec. 1, eff. June 14, 2013.



Sec. 28.0021. PERSONAL FINANCIAL LITERACY. (a) The Texas essential knowledge and skills and, as applicable, Section 28.025 shall include instruction in personal financial literacy, including instruction in methods of paying for college and other postsecondary education and training, in:

(1) mathematics instruction in kindergarten through grade eight; and

(2) one or more courses offered for high school graduation.

(b) Each school district and each open-enrollment charter school that offers a high school program shall provide an elective course in personal financial literacy that meets the requirements for a one-half elective credit under Section 28.025, using materials approved by the State Board of Education. The instruction in personal financial literacy must include instruction on completing the application for federal student aid provided by the United States Department of Education. In fulfilling the requirement to provide financial literacy instruction under this section, a school district or open-enrollment charter school may use an existing state, federal, private, or nonprofit program that provides students without charge the instruction described under this section.

(c) The State Board of Education shall, not later than January 31, 2012, identify the essential knowledge and skills of personal financial literacy instruction to include instruction in methods of paying for college and other postsecondary education and training and shall, not later than August 31, 2012, approve under Subsection (b) materials that provide for such instruction. Beginning with the 2013-2014 school year, each school district and each open-enrollment charter school that offers a high school program shall include, in the elective course in personal financial literacy, instruction in methods of paying for college and other postsecondary education and training and use materials approved for that purpose under Subsection (b). This subsection expires September 1, 2014.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 494 (H.B. 492), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2005.

Amended by:

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 214 (H.B. 34), Sec. 1, eff. June 17, 2011.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 885 (S.B. 290), Sec. 1, eff. June 17, 2011.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1026 (H.B. 2662), Sec. 2, eff. June 14, 2013.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1026 (H.B. 2662), Sec. 3, eff. June 14, 2013.



For expiration of this section, see Subsection (f).

Sec. 28.0022. REVIEW PANEL FOR CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION CURRICULUM. (a) Not later than November 1, 2007, the agency shall establish a panel under this section to:

(1) review and recommend revisions to the career and technical education curriculum under Section 28.002(a)(2)(E); and

(2) review and recommend revisions for the program in which high schools and articulated postsecondary institutions allow high school students to take advanced technical credit courses.

(b) The panel established under this section shall consist of:

(1) individuals who have expertise developing or administering career and technical education programs; and

(2) employers who hire students who have obtained certification or credentials under a career and technical education program.

(c) A member of the panel serves on a voluntary basis without compensation.

(d) Not later than November 1, 2008, the panel shall:

(1) complete the review as required by this section of:

(A) the career and technical education curriculum; and

(B) the program under which high schools and articulated postsecondary institutions allow high school students to take advanced technical credit courses; and

(2) make recommendations to the State Board of Education as necessary to:

(A) increase the academic rigor of the career and technical education curriculum under Section 28.002(a)(2)(E); and

(B) improve and increase participation in the program under which high schools and articulated postsecondary institutions allow high school students to take advanced technical credit courses.

(e) Not later than September 1, 2009, the State Board of Education by rule shall revise the essential knowledge and skills of the career and technical education curriculum as provided by Section 28.002(c) based on the recommendations of the panel under Subsection (d). The State Board of Education shall require school districts to provide instruction in the career and technical education curriculum, as revised under this subsection, beginning with the 2010-2011 school year.

(f) This section expires September 1, 2014.

Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 763 (H.B. 3485), Sec. 1, eff. June 15, 2007.

Amended by:

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., 1st C.S., Ch. 6 (S.B. 6), Sec. 14, eff. July 19, 2011.



Text of section as added by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 9

For text of section as added by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 214 (H.B. 2201), Sec. 1, see other Sec. 28.00222.

For expiration of this section, see Subsection (c).

Sec. 28.00222. INCREASE IN ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY AND CAREER-RELATED COURSES. (a) Not later than September 1, 2014, the State Board of Education shall ensure that at least six advanced career and technology education or technology applications courses, including courses in personal financial literacy consistent with Section 28.0021 and in statistics, are approved to satisfy a fourth credit in mathematics.

(b) Not later than January 1, 2015, the commissioner shall review and report to the governor, the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the house of representatives, and the presiding officer of each standing committee of the legislature with primary responsibility over public primary and secondary education regarding the progress of increasing the number of courses approved for the career and technology education or technology applications curriculum. The commissioner shall include in the report a detailed description of any new courses, including instructional materials and required equipment, if any.

(c) This section expires September 1, 2015.

Added by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 9, eff. June 10, 2013.



Text of section as added by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 214 (H.B. 2201), Sec. 1

For text of section as added by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 9, see other Sec. 28.00222.

For expiration of this section, see Subsection (c).

Sec. 28.00222. INCREASE IN ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY AND CAREER-RELATED COURSES. (a) Not later than September 1, 2014, the State Board of Education shall ensure that at least six advanced career and technology education or technology applications courses, including a course in personal financial literacy that is consistent with Section 28.0021, are approved to satisfy a fourth credit in mathematics required for high school graduation.

(b) Not later than January 1, 2015, the commissioner shall review and report to the governor, the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the house of representatives, and the presiding officer of each standing committee of the legislature with primary responsibility over public primary and secondary education regarding the progress of increasing the number of courses approved for the career and technology education or technology applications curriculum. The commissioner shall include in the report a detailed description of any new courses, including instructional materials and required equipment, if any.

(c) This section expires September 1, 2015.

Added by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 214 (H.B. 2201), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2013.



Sec. 28.0023. CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION AND AUTOMATED EXTERNAL DEFIBRILLATOR INSTRUCTION. (a) Repealed by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1269, Sec. 3, eff. June 14, 2013.

(b) The State Board of Education by rule shall require instruction in cardiopulmonary resuscitation for students in grades 7 through 12.

(c) A school district or open-enrollment charter school shall provide instruction to students in grades 7 through 12 in cardiopulmonary resuscitation in a manner consistent with the requirements of this section and State Board of Education rules adopted under this section. The instruction may be provided as a part of any course. A student shall receive the instruction at least once before graduation.

(d) A school administrator may waive the curriculum requirement under this section for an eligible student who has a disability.

(e) Cardiopulmonary resuscitation instruction must include training that has been developed:

(1) by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross; or

(2) using nationally recognized, evidence-based guidelines for emergency cardiovascular care and incorporating psychomotor skills to support the instruction.

(f) For purposes of Subsection (e), "psychomotor skills" means hands-on practice to support cognitive learning. The term does not include cognitive-only instruction and training.

(g) A school district or open-enrollment charter school may use emergency medical technicians, paramedics, police officers, firefighters, representatives of the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross, teachers, other school employees, or other similarly qualified individuals to provide instruction and training under this section. Instruction provided under this section is not required to result in certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation. If instruction is intended to result in certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, the course instructor must be authorized to provide the instruction by the American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, or a similar nationally recognized association.

Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1371 (S.B. 7), Sec. 4, eff. June 15, 2007.

Amended by:

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1269 (H.B. 897), Sec. 2, eff. June 14, 2013.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1269 (H.B. 897), Sec. 3, eff. June 14, 2013.



Sec. 28.003. EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM ACCESS. (a) If the parents or guardians of at least 22 students at a school request a transfer for the same school year to another school in the district for the purpose of enrolling in an educational program offered at that school, beginning with the following school year the district shall:

(1) offer the program at the school from which the transfers were requested; or

(2) offer the program at the school from which the transfers were requested by teleconference, if available to the district.

(b) In this section, "educational program" means a course or series of courses in the required curriculum under Section 28.002, other than a fine arts course under Section 28.002(a)(2)(D) or a career and technology course under Section 28.002(a)(2)(E).

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995.

Amended by:

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., 1st C.S., Ch. 6 (S.B. 6), Sec. 15, eff. July 19, 2011.



This section was amended by the 84th Legislature. Pending publication of the current statutes, see S.B. 97, 84th Legislature, Regular Session, for amendments affecting this section.

Sec. 28.004. LOCAL SCHOOL HEALTH ADVISORY COUNCIL AND HEALTH EDUCATION INSTRUCTION. (a) The board of trustees of each school district shall establish a local school health advisory council to assist the district in ensuring that local community values are reflected in the district's health education instruction.

(b) A school district must consider the recommendations of the local school health advisory council before changing the district's health education curriculum or instruction.

(c) The local school health advisory council's duties include recommending:

(1) the number of hours of instruction to be provided in health education;

(2) policies, procedures, strategies, and curriculum appropriate for specific grade levels designed to prevent obesity, cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, and mental health concerns through coordination of:

(A) health education;

(B) physical education and physical activity;

(C) nutrition services;

(D) parental involvement;

(E) instruction to prevent the use of tobacco;

(F) school health services;

(G) counseling and guidance services;

(H) a safe and healthy school environment; and

(I) school employee wellness;

(3) appropriate grade levels and methods of instruction for human sexuality instruction;

(4) strategies for integrating the curriculum components specified by Subdivision (2) with the following elements in a coordinated school health program for the district:

(A) school health services;

(B) counseling and guidance services;

(C) a safe and healthy school environment; and

(D) school employee wellness; and

(5) if feasible, joint use agreements or strategies for collaboration between the school district and community organizations or agencies.

(d) The board of trustees shall appoint at least five members to the local school health advisory council. A majority of the members must be persons who are parents of students enrolled in the district and who are not employed by the district. One of those members shall serve as chair or co-chair of the council. The board of trustees also may appoint one or more persons from each of the following groups or a representative from a group other than a group specified under this subsection:

(1) public school teachers;

(2) public school administrators;

(3) district students;

(4) health care professionals;

(5) the business community;

(6) law enforcement;

(7) senior citizens;

(8) the clergy;

(9) nonprofit health organizations; and

(10) local domestic violence programs.

(d-1) The local school health advisory council shall meet at least four times each year.

(e) Any course materials and instruction relating to human sexuality, sexually transmitted diseases, or human immunodeficiency virus or acquired immune deficiency syndrome shall be selected by the board of trustees with the advice of the local school health advisory council and must:

(1) present abstinence from sexual activity as the preferred choice of behavior in relationship to all sexual activity for unmarried persons of school age;

(2) devote more attention to abstinence from sexual activity than to any other behavior;

(3) emphasize that abstinence from sexual activity, if used consistently and correctly, is the only method that is 100 percent effective in preventing pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, infection with human immunodeficiency virus or acquired immune deficiency syndrome, and the emotional trauma associated with adolescent sexual activity;

(4) direct adolescents to a standard of behavior in which abstinence from sexual activity before marriage is the most effective way to prevent pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and infection with human immunodeficiency virus or acquired immune deficiency syndrome; and

(5) teach contraception and condom use in terms of human use reality rates instead of theoretical laboratory rates, if instruction on contraception and condoms is included in curriculum content.

(f) A school district may not distribute condoms in connection with instruction relating to human sexuality.

(g) A school district that provides human sexuality instruction may separate students according to sex for instructional purposes.

(h) The board of trustees shall determine the specific content of the district's instruction in human sexuality, in accordance with Subsections (e), (f), and (g).

(i) Before each school year, a school district shall provide written notice to a parent of each student enrolled in the district of the board of trustees' decision regarding whether the district will provide human sexuality instruction to district students. If instruction will be provided, the notice must include:

(1) a summary of the basic content of the district's human sexuality instruction to be provided to the student, including a statement informing the parent of the instructional requirements under state law;

(2) a statement of the parent's right to:

(A) review curriculum materials as provided by Subsection (j); and

(B) remove the student from any part of the district's human sexuality instruction without subjecting the student to any disciplinary action, academic penalty, or other sanction imposed by the district or the student's school; and

(3) information describing the opportunities for parental involvement in the development of the curriculum to be used in human sexuality instruction, including information regarding the local school health advisory council established under Subsection (a).

(i-1) A parent may use the grievance procedure adopted under Section 26.011 concerning a complaint of a violation of Subsection (i).

(j) A school district shall make all curriculum materials used in the district's human sexuality instruction available for reasonable public inspection.

(k) A school district shall publish in the student handbook and post on the district's Internet website, if the district has an Internet website:

(1) a statement of the policies adopted to ensure that elementary school, middle school, and junior high school students engage in at least the amount and level of physical activity required by Section 28.002(l);

(2) a statement of:

(A) the number of times during the preceding year the district's school health advisory council has met;

(B) whether the district has adopted and enforces policies to ensure that district campuses comply with agency vending machine and food service guidelines for restricting student access to vending machines; and

(C) whether the district has adopted and enforces policies and procedures that prescribe penalties for the use of tobacco products by students and others on school campuses or at school-sponsored or school-related activities; and

(3) a statement providing notice to parents that they can request in writing their child's physical fitness assessment results at the end of the school year.

(l) The local school health advisory council shall consider and make policy recommendations to the district concerning the importance of daily recess for elementary school students. The council must consider research regarding unstructured and undirected play, academic and social development, and the health benefits of daily recess in making the recommendations. The council shall ensure that local community values are reflected in any policy recommendation made to the district under this subsection.

(l-1) The local school health advisory council shall establish a physical activity and fitness planning subcommittee to consider issues relating to student physical activity and fitness and make policy recommendations to increase physical activity and improve fitness among students.

(m) In addition to performing other duties, the local school health advisory council shall submit to the board of trustees, at least annually, a written report that includes:

(1) any council recommendation concerning the school district's health education curriculum and instruction or related matters that the council has not previously submitted to the board;

(2) any suggested modification to a council recommendation previously submitted to the board;

(3) a detailed explanation of the council's activities during the period between the date of the current report and the date of the last prior written report; and

(4) any recommendations made by the physical activity and fitness planning subcommittee.

(m-1) Expired.

(m-2) Expired.

(n) Any joint use agreement that a school district and community organization or agency enter into based on a recommendation of the local school health advisory council under Subsection (c)(5) must address liability for the school district and community organization or agency in the agreement.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995. Amended by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 907, Sec. 2, eff. June 14, 2001; Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 944, Sec. 1, 2, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 784 (S.B. 42), Sec. 2, eff. June 17, 2005.

Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1377 (S.B. 530), Sec. 2, eff. June 15, 2007.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 729 (S.B. 283), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2009.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1235 (S.B. 736), Sec. 1, eff. June 17, 2011.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 892 (H.B. 1018), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2013.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1321 (S.B. 460), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2013.



Sec. 28.005. LANGUAGE OF INSTRUCTION. (a) Except as provided by this section, English shall be the basic language of instruction in public schools.

(b) It is the policy of this state to ensure the mastery of English by all students, except that bilingual instruction may be offered or permitted in situations in which bilingual instruction is necessary to ensure students' reasonable proficiency in the English language and ability to achieve academic success.

(c) A school district may adopt a dual language immersion program for students enrolled in elementary school grades as provided by Section 28.0051.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995. Amended by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 925, Sec. 1, eff. June 14, 2001.



Sec. 28.0051. DUAL LANGUAGE IMMERSION PROGRAM. (a) A dual language immersion program should be designed to produce students with a demonstrated mastery, in both English and one other language, of the required curriculum under Section 28.002(a).

(b) The commissioner by rule shall adopt:

(1) minimum requirements for a dual language immersion program implemented by a school district;

(2) standards for evaluating:

(A) the success of a dual language immersion program; and

(B) the performance of schools that implement a dual language immersion program; and

(3) standards for recognizing:

(A) schools that offer an exceptional dual language immersion program; and

(B) students who successfully complete a dual language immersion program.

(c) A school district may implement a dual language immersion program in a manner and at elementary grade levels consistent with rules adopted by the commissioner under this section.

Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 925, Sec. 2, eff. June 14, 2001.



Sec. 28.006. READING DIAGNOSIS. (a) The commissioner shall develop recommendations for school districts for:

(1) administering reading instruments to diagnose student reading development and comprehension;

(2) training educators in administering the reading instruments; and

(3) applying the results of the reading instruments to the instructional program.

(b) The commissioner shall adopt a list of reading instruments that a school district may use to diagnose student reading development and comprehension. For use in diagnosing the reading development and comprehension of kindergarten students, the commissioner shall include on the commissioner's list at least two multidimensional assessment tools. A multidimensional assessment tool on the commissioner's list must either include a reading instrument and test at least three developmental skills, including literacy, or test at least two developmental skills, other than literacy, and be administered in conjunction with a separate reading instrument that is on a list adopted under this subsection. A multidimensional assessment tool administered as provided by this subsection is considered to be a reading instrument for purposes of this section. A district-level committee established under Subchapter F, Chapter 11, may adopt a list of reading instruments for use in the district in addition to the reading instruments on the commissioner's list. Each reading instrument adopted by the commissioner or a district-level committee must be based on scientific research concerning reading skills development and reading comprehension. A list of reading instruments adopted under this subsection must provide for diagnosing the reading development and comprehension of students participating in a program under Subchapter B, Chapter 29.

(c) Each school district shall administer, at the kindergarten and first and second grade levels, a reading instrument on the list adopted by the commissioner or by the district-level committee. The district shall administer the reading instrument in accordance with the commissioner's recommendations under Subsection (a)(1).

(c-1) Each school district shall administer at the beginning of the seventh grade a reading instrument adopted by the commissioner to each student whose performance on the assessment instrument in reading administered under Section 39.023(a) to the student in grade six did not demonstrate reading proficiency, as determined by the commissioner. The district shall administer the reading instrument in accordance with the commissioner's recommendations under Subsection (a)(1).

(d) The superintendent of each school district shall:

(1) report to the commissioner and the board of trustees of the district the results of the reading instruments;

(2) report, in writing, to a student's parent or guardian the student's results on the reading instrument; and

(3) using the school readiness certification system provided to the school district in accordance with Section 29.161(e), report electronically each student's raw score on the reading instrument to the agency for use in the school readiness certification system.

(d-1) The agency shall contract with the State Center for Early Childhood Development to receive and use scores under Subsection (d)(3) on behalf of the agency.

(e) The results of reading instruments administered under this section may not be used for purposes of appraisals and incentives under Chapter 21 or accountability under Chapter 39.

(f) This section may be implemented only if funds are appropriated for administering the reading instruments. Funds, other than local funds, may be used to pay the cost of administering a reading instrument only if the instrument is on the list adopted by the commissioner.

(g) A school district shall notify the parent or guardian of each student in kindergarten or first or second grade who is determined, on the basis of reading instrument results, to be at risk for dyslexia or other reading difficulties. The district shall implement an accelerated reading instruction program that provides reading instruction that addresses reading deficiencies to those students and shall determine the form, content, and timing of that program. The admission, review, and dismissal committee of a student who participates in a district's special education program under Subchapter B, Chapter 29, and who does not perform satisfactorily on a reading instrument under this section shall determine the manner in which the student will participate in an accelerated reading instruction program under this subsection.

(g-1) A school district shall provide additional reading instruction and intervention to each student in seventh grade assessed under Subsection (c-1), as appropriate to improve the student's reading skills in the relevant areas identified through the assessment instrument. Training and support for activities required by this subsection shall be provided by regional education service centers and teacher reading academies established under Section 21.4551, and may be provided by other public and private providers.

(h) The school district shall make a good faith effort to ensure that the notice required under this section is provided either in person or by regular mail and that the notice is clear and easy to understand and is written in English and in the parent or guardian's native language.

(i) The commissioner shall certify, not later than July 1 of each school year or as soon as practicable thereafter, whether sufficient funds have been appropriated statewide for the purposes of this section. A determination by the commissioner is final and may not be appealed. For purposes of certification, the commissioner may not consider Foundation School Program funds.

(j) No more than 15 percent of the funds certified by the commissioner under Subsection (i) may be spent on indirect costs. The commissioner shall evaluate the programs that fail to meet the standard of performance under Section 39.301(c)(5) and may implement interventions or sanctions under Subchapter E, Chapter 39. The commissioner may audit the expenditures of funds appropriated for purposes of this section. The use of the funds appropriated for purposes of this section shall be verified as part of the district audit under Section 44.008.

(k) The provisions of this section relating to parental notification of a student's results on the reading instrument and to implementation of an accelerated reading instruction program may be implemented only if the commissioner certifies that funds have been appropriated during a school year for administering the accelerated reading instruction program specified under this section.

(l), (m) Expired.

Added by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 397, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 1997. Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 396, Sec. 2.11, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.

Amended by:

Acts 2006, 79th Leg., 3rd C.S., Ch. 5 (H.B. 1), Sec. 3.05, eff. May 31, 2006.

Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1058 (H.B. 2237), Sec. 6, eff. June 15, 2007.

Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1340 (S.B. 1871), Sec. 1, eff. June 15, 2007.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 895 (H.B. 3), Sec. 26, eff. June 19, 2009.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1314 (S.B. 172), Sec. 1, eff. June 14, 2013.



Sec. 28.007. MATHEMATICS DIAGNOSIS. (a) Using funds appropriated for the purpose, the commissioner shall develop and make available or contract for the development and dissemination of assessment instruments that a school district may use to diagnose student mathematics skills. In developing the assessment instruments, all assessment methods available through advanced technology, including methods using the Internet or other computer resources to provide immediate assessment of a student's skills, shall be considered.

(b) The results of assessment instruments developed under Subsection (a) may not be used for purposes of appraisals and incentives under Chapter 21 or accountability under Chapter 39.

Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 834, Sec. 7, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.



This section was amended by the 84th Legislature. Pending publication of the current statutes, see H.B. 1613 and S.B. 313, 84th Legislature, Regular Session, for amendments affecting this section.

Sec. 28.008. ADVANCEMENT OF COLLEGE READINESS IN CURRICULUM. (a) To ensure that students are able to perform college-level course work at institutions of higher education, the commissioner of education and the commissioner of higher education shall establish vertical teams composed of public school educators and institution of higher education faculty.

(b) The vertical teams shall:

(1) recommend for approval by the commissioner of education and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board college readiness standards and expectations that address what students must know and be able to do to succeed in entry-level courses offered at institutions of higher education;

(2) evaluate whether the high school curriculum requirements under Section 28.002 and other instructional requirements serve to prepare students to successfully perform college-level course work;

(3) recommend how the public school curriculum requirements can be aligned with college readiness standards and expectations;

(4) develop instructional strategies for teaching courses to prepare students to successfully perform college-level course work;

(5) develop or establish minimum standards for curricula, professional development materials, and online support materials in English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, designed for students who need additional assistance in preparing to successfully perform college-level course work; and

(6) periodically review and revise the college readiness standards and expectations developed under Subdivision (1) and recommend revised standards for approval by the commissioner of education and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

(c) The commissioner of education and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board by rule shall:

(1) establish the composition and duties of the vertical teams established under this section; and

(2) establish a schedule for the periodic review required under Subsection (b)(6), giving consideration to the cycle of review and identification under Section 28.002 of the essential knowledge and skills of subjects of the required curriculum.

(d) The State Board of Education shall incorporate college readiness standards and expectations approved by the commissioner of education and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board under Subsection (b) into the essential knowledge and skills identified by the board under Section 28.002(c).

(e) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, the State Board of Education retains its authority under Section 28.002 concerning the required curriculum.

(g) The agency shall coordinate with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board as necessary in administering this section.

Added by Acts 2006, 79th Leg., 3rd C.S., Ch. 5 (H.B. 1), Sec. 5.01, eff. May 31, 2006.

Amended by:

Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1058 (H.B. 2237), Sec. 7, eff. June 15, 2007.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1014 (H.B. 2549), Sec. 1, eff. June 14, 2013.



This section was amended by the 84th Legislature. Pending publication of the current statutes, see H.B. 18 and H.B. 505, 84th Legislature, Regular Session, for amendments affecting this section.

Sec. 28.009. COLLEGE CREDIT PROGRAM. (a) Each school district shall implement a program under which students may earn the equivalent of at least 12 semester credit hours of college credit in high school. On request, a public institution of higher education in this state shall assist a school district in developing and implementing the program. The college credit may be earned through:

(1) international baccalaureate, advanced placement, or dual credit courses;

(2) articulated postsecondary courses provided for local credit or articulated postsecondary advanced technical credit courses provided for state credit; or

(3) any combination of the courses described by Subdivisions (1) and (2).

(a-1) A program implemented under this section may provide a student the opportunity to earn credit for a course or activity, including an apprenticeship or training hours:

(1) that:

(A) satisfies a requirement necessary to obtain an industry-recognized credential or certificate or an associate degree; and

(B) is approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board; and

(2) for which a student may earn credit concurrently toward both the student's high school diploma and postsecondary academic requirements.

(a-2) A school district is not required to pay a student's tuition or other associated costs for taking a course under this section.

(b) The agency shall coordinate with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board as necessary in administering this section. The commissioner may adopt rules as necessary concerning the duties under this section of a school district. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board may adopt rules as necessary concerning the duties under this section of a public institution of higher education.

(c) The commissioner and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board shall share data as necessary to enable school districts to comply with this subsection. Each school district shall annually report to the agency:

(1) the number of district students, including career and technical students, who have participated in the program and earned college credit; and

(2) the cumulative number of courses in which participating district students have enrolled and college credit hours the students have earned.

(c-1) The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board shall collect student course credit data from public institutions of higher education as necessary for purposes of Subsection (c).

(d) In this section:

(1) "Career and technical student" means:

(A) a secondary education student who has entered the first course in a sequence of two or more technical courses for three or more credits in a career and technical education program; or

(B) a student who:

(i) is enrolled in an academic or workforce course that is part of a sequence of courses leading to an industry-recognized credential, certificate, or degree; and

(ii) has declared that sequence of courses as the student's major course of study.

(2) "Sequence of courses" means career and technical education courses approved by the State Board of Education, innovative courses approved by the State Board of Education that are provided for local credit, or a tech-prep program of study under Section 61.852.

Added by Acts 2006, 79th Leg., 3rd C.S., Ch. 5 (H.B. 1), Sec. 5.01, eff. May 31, 2006.

Amended by:

Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 763 (H.B. 3485), Sec. 2, eff. June 15, 2007.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1328 (H.B. 3646), Sec. 15, eff. September 1, 2009.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 369 (S.B. 149), Sec. 1, eff. June 17, 2011.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 369 (S.B. 149), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2011.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 369 (S.B. 149), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2013.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 369 (S.B. 149), Sec. 4, eff. September 1, 2013.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1104 (S.B. 1619), Sec. 1, eff. June 17, 2011.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 213 (H.B. 842), Sec. 1, eff. June 10, 2013.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 424 (S.B. 435), Sec. 1, eff. June 14, 2013.



Sec. 28.010. NOTIFICATION REGARDING COLLEGE CREDIT PROGRAMS. (a) Each school year, a school district shall notify the parent of each district student enrolled in grade nine or above of the availability of programs in the district under which a student may earn college credit, including advanced placement programs, dual credit programs, joint high school and college credit programs, and international baccalaureate programs.

(b) A school district may provide the notification required by this section on the district's Internet website. The notification must include the name and contact information of any public or private entity offering a program described by this section in the district.

Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 973 (S.B. 282), Sec. 1, eff. June 15, 2007.



Section effective beginning with the 2009-2010 school year.

Sec. 28.011. ELECTIVE COURSES ON THE BIBLE'S HEBREW SCRIPTURES (OLD TESTAMENT) AND NEW TESTAMENT AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE HISTORY AND LITERATURE OF WESTERN CIVILIZATION. (a) A school district may offer to students in grade nine or above:

(1) an elective course on the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament) and its impact and an elective course on the New Testament and its impact; or

(2) an elective course that combines the courses described by Subdivision (1).

(b) The purpose of a course under this section is to:

(1) teach students knowledge of biblical content, characters, poetry, and narratives that are prerequisites to understanding contemporary society and culture, including literature, art, music, mores, oratory, and public policy; and

(2) familiarize students with, as applicable:

(A) the contents of the Hebrew Scriptures or New Testament;

(B) the history of the Hebrew Scriptures or New Testament;

(C) the literary style and structure of the Hebrew Scriptures or New Testament; and

(D) the influence of the Hebrew Scriptures or New Testament on law, history, government, literature, art, music, customs, morals, values, and culture.

(c) A student may not be required to use a specific translation as the sole text of the Hebrew Scriptures or New Testament and may use as the basic instructional material a different translation of the Hebrew Scriptures or New Testament from that chosen by the board of trustees of the student's school district or the student's teacher.

(d) A course offered under this section shall follow applicable law and all federal and state guidelines in maintaining religious neutrality and accommodating the diverse religious views, traditions, and perspectives of students in their school district. A course under this section shall not endorse, favor, or promote, or disfavor or show hostility toward, any particular religion or nonreligious faith or religious perspective. Nothing in this statute is intended to violate any provision of the United States Constitution or federal law, the Texas Constitution or any state law, or any rules or guidelines provided by the United States Department of Education or the Texas Education Agency.

(e) Before adopting rules identifying the essential knowledge and skills of a course offered under this section, the State Board of Education shall submit the proposed essential knowledge and skills to the attorney general. The attorney general shall review the proposed essential knowledge and skills to ensure that the course complies with the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, and the board may not adopt rules identifying the essential knowledge and skills of a course offered under this section without the attorney general's approval under this subsection.

(f) A teacher of a course offered under this section must hold a minimum of a High School Composite Certification in language arts, social studies, or history with, where practical, a minor in religion or biblical studies. A teacher selected to teach a course under this section shall successfully complete staff development training outlined in Section 21.459. A course under this section may only be taught by a teacher who has successfully completed training under Section 21.459.

(g) For the purpose of a student earning credit for high school graduation, a school district shall grant one-half academic elective credit for satisfactory completion of a course on the Hebrew Scriptures, one-half academic elective credit for satisfactory completion of a course on the New Testament, and one-half academic elective credit for satisfactory completion of a combined course on both the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament. This subsection applies only to a course that is taught in strict compliance with this section.

(h) If, for a particular semester, fewer than 15 students at a school district campus register to enroll in a course required by this section, the district is not required to offer the course at that campus for that semester.

(i) This section does not prohibit the board of trustees of a school district from offering an elective course based on the books of a religion other than Christianity. In determining whether to offer such a course, the board may consider various factors, including student and parent demand for such a course and the impact such books have had on history and culture.

(j) This section does not prohibit a school district from offering a course, other than the course authorized by this section, in the academic study of the Hebrew Scriptures, the New Testament, or both for local credit or for state elective credit towards high school graduation.

Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 856 (H.B. 1287), Sec. 1, eff. June 15, 2007.

Amended by:

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., 1st C.S., Ch. 6 (S.B. 6), Sec. 16, eff. July 19, 2011.



Sec. 28.013. NATURE SCIENCE CURRICULUM PROJECT. (a) The State Board of Education shall assist in developing a nature science curriculum, in accordance with this section, the following entities, acting jointly:

(1) the Outdoor School at Texas Tech University Center at Junction;

(2) the Texas Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (T-STEM) Center of Texas Tech University; and

(3) South Llano River State Park.

(b) The nature science curriculum must:

(1) be designed for instruction of students in grades six through 12;

(2) provide for grade-level appropriate instruction in essential knowledge and skills identified by the State Board of Education under Section 28.002 for:

(A) science; and

(B) mathematics, social studies, and language arts, to the extent practicable and relevant to nature science studies;

(3) through participation in outdoor experiential learning projects in state parks, provide for the scientific study by students of:

(A) conservation, wildlife or aquatic biology, range ecology, or other areas of nature science; and

(B) problems affecting nature, such as threats to the watershed, and possible solutions to those problems; and

(4) be designed to:

(A) be capable of implementation in any state park;

(B) use state park resources in providing instruction; and

(C) be presented by classroom teachers and state park employees.

(c) The Texas Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (T-STEM) Center of Texas Tech University shall make the nature science curriculum available through the university's Internet website or through a separate Internet website developed by the center for that purpose.

(d) The Texas Tech University Center at Junction, with assistance from South Llano River State Park, shall present to classroom teachers and state park employees staff development courses in providing instruction in the nature science curriculum.

(e) The nature science curriculum project must be implemented and maintained using money appropriated for those purposes.

Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 300 (H.B. 1700), Sec. 1, eff. June 15, 2007.



Sec. 28.014. COLLEGE PREPARATORY COURSES. (a) Each school district shall partner with at least one institution of higher education to develop and provide courses in college preparatory mathematics and English language arts. The courses must be designed:

(1) for students at the 12th grade level whose performance on:

(A) an end-of-course assessment instrument required under Section 39.023(c) does not meet college readiness standards; or

(B) coursework, a college entrance examination, or an assessment instrument designated under Section 51.3062(c) indicates that the student is not ready to perform entry-level college coursework; and

(2) to prepare students for success in entry-level college courses.

(b) A course developed under this section must be provided:

(1) on the campus of the high school offering the course; or

(2) through distance learning or as an online course provided through an institution of higher education with which the school district partners as provided by Subsection (a).

(c) Appropriate faculty of each high school offering courses under this section and appropriate faculty of each institution of higher education with which the school district partners shall meet regularly as necessary to ensure that each course is aligned with college readiness expectations. The commissioner of education, in coordination with the commissioner of higher education, may adopt rules to administer this subsection.

(d) Each school district shall provide a notice to each district student to whom Subsection (a) applies and the student's parent or guardian regarding the benefits of enrolling in a course under this section.

(e) A student who successfully completes an English language arts course developed under this section may use the credit earned in the course toward satisfying the advanced English language arts curriculum requirement for the foundation high school program under Section 28.025(b-1)(1). A student who successfully completes a mathematics course developed under this section may use the credit earned in the course toward satisfying an advanced mathematics curriculum requirement under Section 28.025 after completion of the mathematics curriculum requirements for the foundation high school program under Section 28.025(b-1)(2).

(f) A course provided under this section may be offered for dual credit at the discretion of the institution of higher education with which a school district partners under this section.

(g) Each school district, in consultation with each institution of higher education with which the district partners, shall develop or purchase instructional materials for a course developed under this section consistent with Chapter 31. The instructional materials must include technology resources that enhance the effectiveness of the course and draw on established best practices.

(h) To the extent applicable, a district shall draw from curricula and instructional materials developed under Section 28.008 in developing a course and related instructional materials under this section. A course developed under this section and the related instructional materials shall be made available to students not later than the 2014-2015 school year. This subsection expires September 1, 2015.

Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1058 (H.B. 2237), Sec. 8(a), eff. June 15, 2007.

Amended by:

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 895 (H.B. 3), Sec. 27, eff. June 19, 2009.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 10(a), eff. June 10, 2013.



SUBCHAPTER B. ADVANCEMENT, PLACEMENT, CREDIT, AND ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT RECORD



Sec. 28.021. STUDENT ADVANCEMENT. (a) A student may be promoted only on the basis of academic achievement or demonstrated proficiency of the subject matter of the course or grade level.

(b) In measuring the academic achievement or proficiency of a student who is dyslexic, the student's potential for achievement or proficiency in the area must be considered.

(c) In determining promotion under Subsection (a), a school district shall consider:

(1) the recommendation of the student's teacher;

(2) the student's grade in each subject or course;

(3) the student's score on an assessment instrument administered under Section 39.023(a), (b), or (l), to the extent applicable; and

(4) any other necessary academic information, as determined by the district.

(d) By the start of the school year, a district shall make public the requirements for student advancement under this section.

(e) The commissioner shall provide guidelines to districts based on best practices that a district may use when considering factors for promotion.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995.

Amended by:

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 895 (H.B. 3), Sec. 28, eff. June 19, 2009.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 307 (H.B. 2135), Sec. 1, eff. June 17, 2011.



Sec. 28.0211. SATISFACTORY PERFORMANCE ON ASSESSMENT INSTRUMENTS REQUIRED; ACCELERATED INSTRUCTION. (a) Except as provided by Subsection (b) or (e), a student may not be promoted to:

(1) the sixth grade program to which the student would otherwise be assigned if the student does not perform satisfactorily on the fifth grade mathematics and reading assessment instruments under Section 39.023; or

(2) the ninth grade program to which the student would otherwise be assigned if the student does not perform satisfactorily on the eighth grade mathematics and reading assessment instruments under Section 39.023.

(a-1) Each time a student fails to perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument administered under Section 39.023(a) in the third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, or eighth grade, the school district in which the student attends school shall provide to the student accelerated instruction in the applicable subject area. Accelerated instruction may require participation of the student before or after normal school hours and may include participation at times of the year outside normal school operations.

(a-2) A student who fails to perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument specified under Subsection (a) and who is promoted to the next grade level must complete accelerated instruction required under Subsection (a-1) before placement in the next grade level. A student who fails to complete required accelerated instruction may not be promoted.

(a-3) The commissioner shall provide guidelines to districts on research-based best practices and effective strategies that a district may use in developing an accelerated instruction program.

(b) A school district shall provide to a student who initially fails to perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument specified under Subsection (a) at least two additional opportunities to take the assessment instrument. A school district may administer an alternate assessment instrument to a student who has failed an assessment instrument specified under Subsection (a) on the previous two opportunities. Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, a student may be promoted if the student performs at grade level on an alternate assessment instrument under this subsection that is appropriate for the student's grade level and approved by the commissioner.

(c) Each time a student fails to perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument specified under Subsection (a), the school district in which the student attends school shall provide to the student accelerated instruction in the applicable subject area, including reading instruction for a student who fails to perform satisfactorily on a reading assessment instrument. After a student fails to perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument a second time, a grade placement committee shall be established to prescribe the accelerated instruction the district shall provide to the student before the student is administered the assessment instrument the third time. The grade placement committee shall be composed of the principal or the principal's designee, the student's parent or guardian, and the teacher of the subject of an assessment instrument on which the student failed to perform satisfactorily. The district shall notify the parent or guardian of the time and place for convening the grade placement committee and the purpose of the committee. An accelerated instruction group administered by a school district under this section may not have a ratio of more than 10 students for each teacher.

(d) In addition to providing accelerated instruction to a student under Subsection (c), the district shall notify the student's parent or guardian of:

(1) the student's failure to perform satisfactorily on the assessment instrument;

(2) the accelerated instruction program to which the student is assigned; and

(3) the possibility that the student might be retained at the same grade level for the next school year.

(e) A student who, after at least three attempts, fails to perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument specified under Subsection (a) shall be retained at the same grade level for the next school year in accordance with Subsection (a). The student's parent or guardian may appeal the student's retention by submitting a request to the grade placement committee established under Subsection (c). The school district shall give the parent or guardian written notice of the opportunity to appeal. The grade placement committee may decide in favor of a student's promotion only if the committee concludes, using standards adopted by the board of trustees, that if promoted and given accelerated instruction, the student is likely to perform at grade level. A student may not be promoted on the basis of the grade placement committee's decision unless that decision is unanimous. The commissioner by rule shall establish a time line for making the placement determination. This subsection does not create a property interest in promotion. The decision of the grade placement committee is final and may not be appealed.

(f) A school district shall provide to a student who, after three attempts, has failed to perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument specified under Subsection (a) accelerated instruction during the next school year as prescribed by an educational plan developed for the student by the student's grade placement committee established under Subsection (c). The district shall provide that accelerated instruction regardless of whether the student has been promoted or retained. The educational plan must be designed to enable the student to perform at the appropriate grade level by the conclusion of the school year. During the school year, the student shall be monitored to ensure that the student is progressing in accordance with the plan. The district shall administer to the student the assessment instrument for the grade level in which the student is placed at the time the district regularly administers the assessment instruments for that school year.

(g) This section does not preclude the retention at a grade level, in accordance with state law or school district policy, of a student who performs satisfactorily on an assessment instrument specified under Subsection (a).

(h) In each instance under this section in which a school district is specifically required to provide notice to a parent or guardian of a student, the district shall make a good faith effort to ensure that such notice is provided either in person or by regular mail and that the notice is clear and easy to understand and is written in English or the parent or guardian's native language.

(i) The admission, review, and dismissal committee of a student who participates in a district's special education program under Subchapter B, Chapter 29, and who does not perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument specified under Subsection (a) and administered under Section 39.023(a) or (b) shall determine:

(1) the manner in which the student will participate in an accelerated instruction program under this section; and

(2) whether the student will be promoted or retained under this section.

(j) A school district or open-enrollment charter school shall provide students required to attend accelerated programs under this section with transportation to those programs if the programs occur outside of regular school hours.

(k) The commissioner shall adopt rules as necessary to implement this section, including rules concerning when school districts shall administer assessment instruments required under this section and which administration of the assessment instruments will be used for purposes of Section 39.054.

(l) Repealed by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1058, Sec. 17, eff. June 15, 2007.

(l-1) The commissioner may adopt rules requiring a school district that receives federal funding under Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. Section 6301 et seq.) to use that funding to provide supplemental educational services under 20 U.S.C. Section 6316 in conjunction with the accelerated instruction provided under this section, provided that the rules may not conflict with federal law governing the use of that funding.

(m) The commissioner shall certify, not later than July 1 of each school year or as soon as practicable thereafter, whether sufficient funds have been appropriated statewide for the purposes of this section and Section 28.0217. A determination by the commissioner is final and may not be appealed. For purposes of certification, the commissioner shall consider:

(1) the average cost per student per assessment instrument administration;

(2) the number of students that require accelerated instruction because the student failed to perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument;

(3) whether sufficient funds have been appropriated to provide support to students in grades three through 12 identified as being at risk of dropping out of school, as defined in Section 29.081(d); and

(4) whether sufficient funds have been appropriated to provide instructional materials that are aligned with the assessment instruments under Sections 39.023(a) and (c).

(m-1) For purposes of certification under Subsection (m), the commissioner may not consider Foundation School Program funds except for compensatory education funds under Section 42.152. This section may be implemented only if the commissioner certifies that sufficient funds have been appropriated during a school year for administering the accelerated instruction programs specified under this section and Section 28.0217, including teacher training for that purpose.

(n) A student who is promoted by a grade placement committee under this section must be assigned in each subject in which the student failed to perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument specified under Subsection (a) to a teacher who meets all state and federal qualifications to teach that subject and grade.

(o) This section does not require the administration of a fifth or eighth grade assessment instrument in a subject under Section 39.023(a) to a student enrolled in the fifth or eighth grade, as applicable, if the student:

(1) is enrolled in a course in the subject intended for students above the student's grade level and will be administered an assessment instrument adopted or developed under Section 39.023(a) that aligns with the curriculum for the course in which the student is enrolled; or

(2) is enrolled in a course in the subject for which the student will receive high school academic credit and will be administered an end-of-course assessment instrument adopted under Section 39.023(c) for the course.

(p) Notwithstanding any other provision of this section, a student described by Subsection (o) may not be denied promotion on the basis of failure to perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument not required to be administered to the student in accordance with that subsection.

Added by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 396, Sec. 2.12, eff. Sept. 1, 1999.

Amended by:

Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1058 (H.B. 2237), Sec. 9, eff. June 15, 2007.

Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1058 (H.B. 2237), Sec. 17, eff. June 15, 2007.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 895 (H.B. 3), Sec. 29, eff. June 19, 2009.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 91 (S.B. 1303), Sec. 7.006, eff. September 1, 2011.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 307 (H.B. 2135), Sec. 2, eff. June 17, 2011.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 11, eff. June 10, 2013.



Sec. 28.0212. JUNIOR HIGH OR MIDDLE SCHOOL PERSONAL GRADUATION PLAN. (a) A principal of a junior high or middle school shall designate a school counselor, teacher, or other appropriate individual to develop and administer a personal graduation plan for each student enrolled in the junior high or middle school who:

(1) does not perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument administered under Subchapter B, Chapter 39; or

(2) is not likely to receive a high school diploma before the fifth school year following the student's enrollment in grade level nine, as determined by the district.

(b) A personal graduation plan under this section must:

(1) identify educational goals for the student;

(2) include diagnostic information, appropriate monitoring and intervention, and other evaluation strategies;

(3) include an intensive instruction program described by Section 28.0213;

(4) address participation of the student's parent or guardian, including consideration of the parent's or guardian's educational expectations for the student; and

(5) provide innovative methods to promote the student's advancement, including flexible scheduling, alternative learning environments, on-line instruction, and other interventions that are proven to accelerate the learning process and have been scientifically validated to improve learning and cognitive ability.

(c) Notwithstanding Subsection (b), a student's individualized education program developed under Section 29.005 may be used as the student's personal graduation plan under this section.

(d) The agency shall establish minimum standards for a personal graduation plan under this section.

(e) Repealed by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211, Sec. 78(b)(2), eff. September 1, 2014.

(g) Repealed by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 78(b)(2), eff. September 1, 2014.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1212, Sec. 7, eff. June 20, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 763 (H.B. 3485), Sec. 3, eff. June 15, 2007.

Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1058 (H.B. 2237), Sec. 10, eff. June 15, 2007.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 12(a), eff. June 10, 2013.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 13(a), eff. June 10, 2013.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 78(b)(2), eff. September 1, 2014.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 443 (S.B. 715), Sec. 19, eff. June 14, 2013.



Sec. 28.02121. HIGH SCHOOL PERSONAL GRADUATION PLAN. (a) The agency, in consultation with the Texas Workforce Commission and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, shall prepare and make available to each school district in English and Spanish information that explains the advantages of the distinguished level of achievement described by Section 28.025(b-15) and each endorsement described by Section 28.025(c-1). The information must contain an explanation:

(1) concerning the benefits of choosing a high school personal graduation plan that includes the distinguished level of achievement under the foundation high school program and includes one or more endorsements to enable the student to achieve a class rank in the top 10 percent for students at the campus; and

(2) that encourages parents, to the greatest extent practicable, to have the student choose a high school personal graduation plan described by Subdivision (1).

(b) A school district shall publish the information provided to the district under Subsection (a) on the Internet website of the district and ensure that the information is available to students in grades nine and above and the parents or legal guardians of those students in the language in which the parents or legal guardians are most proficient. A district is required to provide information under this subsection in the language in which the parents or legal guardians are most proficient only if at least 20 students in a grade level primarily speak that language.

(c) A principal of a high school shall designate a school counselor or school administrator to review personal graduation plan options with each student entering grade nine together with that student's parent or guardian. The personal graduation plan options reviewed must include the distinguished level of achievement described by Section 28.025(b-15) and the endorsements described by Section 28.025(c-1). Before the conclusion of the school year, the student and the student's parent or guardian must confirm and sign a personal graduation plan for the student.

(d) A personal graduation plan under Subsection (c) must identify a course of study that:

(1) promotes:

(A) college and workforce readiness; and

(B) career placement and advancement; and

(2) facilitates the student's transition from secondary to postsecondary education.

(e) A school district may not prevent a student and the student's parent or guardian from confirming a personal graduation plan that includes pursuit of a distinguished level of achievement or an endorsement.

(f) A student may amend the student's personal graduation plan after the initial confirmation of the plan under this section. If a student amends the student's personal graduation plan, the school shall send written notice to the student's parents regarding the change.

Added by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 14(a), eff. June 10, 2013.



Sec. 28.0213. INTENSIVE PROGRAM OF INSTRUCTION. (a) A school district shall offer an intensive program of instruction to a student who:

(1) does not perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument administered under Subchapter B, Chapter 39; or

(2) is not likely to receive a high school diploma before the fifth school year following the student's enrollment in grade nine, as determined by the district.

(b) A school district shall design the intensive program of instruction described by Subsection (a) to:

(1) enable the student to:

(A) to the extent practicable, perform at the student's grade level at the conclusion of the next regular school term; or

(B) attain a standard of annual growth specified by the school district and reported by the district to the agency; and

(2) if applicable, carry out the purposes of Section 28.0211.

(c) A school district shall use funds appropriated by the legislature for an intensive program of instruction to plan and implement intensive instruction and other activities aimed at helping a student satisfy state and local high school graduation requirements. The commissioner shall distribute funds to districts that implement a program under this section based on the number of students identified by the district who:

(1) do not perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument administered under Subchapter B, Chapter 39; or

(2) are not likely to receive a high school diploma before the fifth school year following the student's enrollment in grade nine, as determined by the district.

(d) A school district's determination of the appropriateness of a program for a student under this section is final and does not create a cause of action.

(e) For a student in a special education program under Subchapter A, Chapter 29, who does not perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument administered under Section 39.023(a), (b), or (c), the student's admission, review, and dismissal committee shall design the program to:

(1) enable the student to attain a standard of annual growth on the basis of the student's individualized education program; and

(2) if applicable, carry out the purposes of Section 28.0211.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1212, Sec. 7, eff. June 20, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1354 (S.B. 1404), Sec. 3, eff. June 14, 2013.



Sec. 28.0214. FINALITY OF GRADE. (a) An examination or course grade issued by a classroom teacher is final and may not be changed unless the grade is arbitrary, erroneous, or not consistent with the school district grading policy applicable to the grade, as determined by the board of trustees of the school district in which the teacher is employed.

(b) A determination by a school district board of trustees under Subsection (a) is not subject to appeal. This subsection does not prohibit an appeal related to a student's eligibility to participate in extracurricular activities under Section 33.081.

Added by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 194, Sec. 1, effective June 2, 2003.

Renumbered from Education Code, Section 28.0212 by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 728 (H.B. 2018), Sec. 23.001(14), eff. September 1, 2005.



Sec. 28.0216. DISTRICT GRADING POLICY. A school district shall adopt a grading policy, including provisions for the assignment of grades on class assignments and examinations, before each school year. A district grading policy:

(1) must require a classroom teacher to assign a grade that reflects the student's relative mastery of an assignment;

(2) may not require a classroom teacher to assign a minimum grade for an assignment without regard to the student's quality of work; and

(3) may allow a student a reasonable opportunity to make up or redo a class assignment or examination for which the student received a failing grade.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1236 (S.B. 2033), Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 2009.



Sec. 28.0217. ACCELERATED INSTRUCTION FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS. Each time a student fails to perform satisfactorily on an assessment instrument administered under Section 39.023(c), the school district in which the student attends school shall provide to the student accelerated instruction in the applicable subject area, using funds appropriated for accelerated instruction under Section 28.0211. Accelerated instruction may require participation of the student before or after normal school hours and may include participation at times of the year outside normal school operations.

Added by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 15, eff. June 10, 2013.



This section was amended by the 84th Legislature. Pending publication of the current statutes, see H.B. 1993, 84th Legislature, Regular Session, for amendments affecting this section.

Sec. 28.022. NOTICE TO PARENT OF UNSATISFACTORY PERFORMANCE. (a) The board of trustees of each school district shall adopt a policy that:

(1) provides for a conference between parents and teachers;

(2) requires the district, at least once every 12 weeks, to give written notice to a parent of a student's performance in each class or subject; and

(3) requires the district, at least once every three weeks, or during the fourth week of each nine-week grading period, to give written notice to a parent or legal guardian of a student's performance in a subject included in the foundation curriculum under Section 28.002(a)(1) if the student's performance in the subject is consistently unsatisfactory, as determined by the district.

(b) The notice required under Subsections (a)(2) and (a)(3) must:

(1) provide for the signature of a student's parent; and

(2) be returned to the district.

(c) A policy adopted under this section does not apply to a student who:

(1) is 18 years of age or older and who is living in a different residence than the student's parents;

(2) is married; or

(3) has had the disabilities of minority removed for general purposes.

(d) In this section, "parent" includes a guardian, conservator, or other person having lawful control of a student.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995. Amended by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1237, Sec. 1, eff. Aug. 30, 1999.



This section was amended by the 84th Legislature. Pending publication of the current statutes, see S.B. 453, 84th Legislature, Regular Session, for amendments affecting this section.

Sec. 28.023. CREDIT BY EXAMINATION. (a) Using guidelines established by the State Board of Education, a school district shall develop or select for review by the district board of trustees examinations for acceleration for each primary school grade level and for credit for secondary school academic subjects. The guidelines must provide for the examinations to thoroughly test comprehension of the information presented in the applicable grade level or subject. The board of trustees shall approve for each subject, to the extent available, at least four examinations that satisfy State Board of Education guidelines. The examinations approved by the board of trustees must include:

(1) advanced placement examinations developed by the College Board; and

(2) examinations administered through the College-Level Examination Program.

(b) A school district shall give a student in a primary grade level credit for a grade level and advance the student one grade level on the basis of an examination for acceleration approved by the board of trustees under Subsection (a) if:

(1) the student scores in the 80th percentile or above on each section of the examination;

(2) a district representative recommends that the student be advanced; and

(3) the student's parent or guardian gives written approval of the advancement.

(c) A school district shall give a student in grade level six or above credit for a subject on the basis of an examination for credit in the subject approved by the board of trustees under Subsection (a) if the student scores in the 80th percentile or above on the examination or if the student achieves a score as provided by Subsection (c-1). If a student is given credit in a subject on the basis of an examination, the district shall enter the examination score on the student's transcript and the student is not required to take an end-of-course assessment instrument adopted under Section 39.023(c) for that subject.

(c-1) A school district shall give a student in grade level six or above credit for a subject if the student scores:

(1) a three or higher on an advanced placement examination approved by the board of trustees under Subsection (a) and developed by the College Board; or

(2) a scaled score of 60 or higher on an examination approved by the board of trustees under Subsection (a) and administered through the College-Level Examination Program.

(d) Each district shall administer each examination approved by the board of trustees under Subsection (a) not fewer than four times each year, at times to be determined by the State Board of Education.

(e) Subsection (d) does not apply to an examination that has an administration date that is established by an entity other than the school district.

(f) A student may not attempt more than two times to receive credit for a particular subject on the basis of an examination for credit in that subject.

(g) If a student fails to achieve the designated score described by Subsection (c) or (c-1) on an applicable examination described by Subsection (c) or (c-1) for a subject before the beginning of the school year in which the student would ordinarily be required to enroll in a course in that subject in accordance with the school district's prescribed course sequence, the student must satisfactorily complete the course to receive credit for the course.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995.

Amended by:

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1029 (H.B. 2694), Sec. 2, eff. June 14, 2013.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1203 (S.B. 1365), Sec. 2, eff. June 14, 2013.



Sec. 28.024. CREDIT FOR ENROLLMENT IN CERTAIN ACADEMIES. A school district shall grant to a student credit toward the academic course requirements for high school graduation, up to a maximum of two years of credit, for courses the student successfully completes at:

(1) the Texas Academy of Leadership in the Humanities under Section 96.707;

(2) the Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science under Subchapter G, Chapter 105;

(3) the Texas Academy of Mathematics and Science under Section 78.10; or

(4) the Texas Academy of International Studies under Section 87.505.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995.

Amended by:

Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 887 (S.B. 1452), Sec. 3, eff. June 17, 2005.

Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 1339 (S.B. 151), Sec. 7, eff. June 18, 2005.

Reenacted and amended by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 921 (H.B. 3167), Sec. 4.004, eff. September 1, 2007.



This section was amended by the 84th Legislature. Pending publication of the current statutes, see S.B. 149, H.B. 181, H.B. 1430, H.B. 2349 and S.B. 1494, 84th Legislature, Regular Session, for amendments affecting this section.

For expiration of Subsections (h) and (h-1), see Subsection (h-1).

Sec. 28.025. HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA AND CERTIFICATE; ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT RECORD. (a) The State Board of Education by rule shall determine curriculum requirements for the foundation high school program that are consistent with the required curriculum under Section 28.002. The State Board of Education shall designate the specific courses in the foundation curriculum under Section 28.002(a)(1) required under the foundation high school program. Except as provided by this section, the State Board of Education may not designate a specific course or a specific number of credits in the enrichment curriculum as requirements for the program.

(b) A school district shall ensure that each student, on entering ninth grade, indicates in writing an endorsement under Subsection (c-1) that the student intends to earn. A district shall permit a student to choose, at any time, to earn an endorsement other than the endorsement the student previously indicated. A student may graduate under the foundation high school program without earning an endorsement if, after the student's sophomore year:

(1) the student and the student's parent or person standing in parental relation to the student are advised by a school counselor of the specific benefits of graduating from high school with one or more endorsements; and

(2) the student's parent or person standing in parental relation to the student files with a school counselor written permission, on a form adopted by the agency, allowing the student to graduate under the foundation high school program without earning an endorsement.

(b-1) The State Board of Education by rule shall require that the curriculum requirements for the foundation high school program under Subsection (a) include a requirement that students successfully complete:

(1) four credits in English language arts under Section 28.002(a)(1)(A), including one credit in English I, one credit in English II, one credit in English III, and one credit in an advanced English course authorized under Subsection (b-2);

(2) three credits in mathematics under Section 28.002(a)(1)(B), including one credit in Algebra I, one credit in geometry, and one credit in any advanced mathematics course authorized under Subsection (b-2);

(3) three credits in science under Section 28.002(a)(1)(C), including one credit in biology, one credit in any advanced science course authorized under Subsection (b-2), and one credit in integrated physics and chemistry or in an additional advanced science course authorized under Subsection (b-2);

(4) three credits in social studies under Section 28.002(a)(1)(D), including one credit in United States history, at least one-half credit in government and at least one-half credit in economics, and one credit in world geography or world history;

(5) except as provided under Subsections (b-12), (b-13), and (b-14), two credits in the same language in a language other than English under Section 28.002(a)(2)(A);

(6) five elective credits;

(7) one credit in fine arts under Section 28.002(a)(2)(D); and

(8) except as provided by Subsection (b-11), one credit in physical education under Section 28.002(a)(2)(C).



Text of subsection as amended by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 16



(b-2) In adopting rules under Subsection (b-1), the State Board of Education shall provide for a student to comply with the curriculum requirements for an advanced English course under Subsection (b-1)(1) taken after successful completion of English I, English II, and English III, for an advanced mathematics course under Subsection (b-1)(2) taken after the successful completion of Algebra I and geometry, and for any advanced science course under Subsection (b-1)(3) by successfully completing a course in the appropriate content area that has been approved as an advanced course by board rule or that is offered as an advanced course for credit without board approval as provided by Section 28.002(g-1).



Text of subsection as amended by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 214 (H.B. 2201), Sec. 2



(b-2) In adopting rules under Subsection (b-1), the State Board of Education shall allow a student to comply with the curriculum requirements for the third and fourth mathematics credits under Subsection (b-1)(1) or the third and fourth science credits under Subsection (b-1)(1) by successfully completing an advanced career and technical course designated by the State Board of Education as containing substantively similar and rigorous academic content.

(b-3) In adopting rules for purposes of Subsection (b-2), the State Board of Education must approve a variety of advanced English, mathematics, and science courses that may be taken to comply with the foundation high school program requirements, provided that each approved course prepares students to enter the workforce successfully or postsecondary education without remediation.

(b-4) A school district may offer the curriculum described in Subsections (b-1)(1) through (4) in an applied manner. Courses delivered in an applied manner must cover the essential knowledge and skills, and the student shall be administered the applicable end-of-course assessment instrument as provided by Sections 39.023(c) and 39.025.

(b-5) A school district may offer a mathematics or science course to be taken by a student after completion of Algebra II and physics. A course approved under this subsection must be endorsed by an institution of higher education as a course for which the institution would award course credit or as a prerequisite for a course for which the institution would award course credit.

(b-6) Repealed by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211, Sec. 78(b)(3), eff. September 1, 2014.

(b-7) The State Board of Education, in coordination with the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, shall adopt rules to ensure that a student may comply with the curriculum requirements under the foundation high school program or for an endorsement under Subsection (c-1) by successfully completing appropriate courses in the core curriculum of an institution of higher education under Section 61.822. Notwithstanding Subsection (b-15) or (c) of this section, Section 39.025, or any other provision of this code and notwithstanding any school district policy, a student who has completed the core curriculum of an institution of higher education under Section 61.822, as certified by the institution in accordance with commissioner rule, is considered to have earned a distinguished level of achievement under the foundation high school program and is entitled to receive a high school diploma from the appropriate high school as that high school is determined in accordance with commissioner rule. A student who is considered to have earned a distinguished level of achievement under the foundation high school program under this subsection may apply for admission to an institution of higher education for the first semester or other academic term after the semester or other academic term in which the student completes the core curriculum.

(b-8) Repealed by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211, Sec. 78(b)(3), eff. September 1, 2014.

(b-9) A school district, with the approval of the commissioner, may allow a student to satisfy the fine arts credit required under Subsection (b-1)(7) by participating in a community-based fine arts program not provided by the school district in which the student is enrolled. The fine arts program must provide instruction in the essential knowledge and skills identified for fine arts by the State Board of Education under Section 28.002(c). The fine arts program may be provided on or off a school campus and outside the regular school day.

(b-10) A school district, with the approval of the commissioner, may allow a student to comply with the curriculum requirements for the physical education credit required under Subsection (b-1)(8) by participating in a private or commercially sponsored physical activity program provided on or off a school campus and outside the regular school day.

(b-11) In adopting rules under Subsection (b-1), the State Board of Education shall allow a student who is unable to participate in physical activity due to disability or illness to substitute one credit in English language arts, mathematics, science, or social studies, one credit in a course that is offered for credit as provided by Section 28.002(g-1), or one academic elective credit for the physical education credit required under Subsection (b-1)(8). A credit allowed to be substituted under this subsection may not also be used by the student to satisfy a graduation requirement other than completion of the physical education credit. The rules must provide that the determination regarding a student's ability to participate in physical activity will be made by:

(1) if the student receives special education services under Subchapter A, Chapter 29, the student's admission, review, and dismissal committee;

(2) if the student does not receive special education services under Subchapter A, Chapter 29, but is covered by Section 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. Section 794), the committee established for the student under that Act; or

(3) if each of the committees described by Subdivisions (1) and (2) is inapplicable, a committee established by the school district of persons with appropriate knowledge regarding the student.

(b-12) In adopting rules under Subsection (b-1), the State Board of Education shall adopt criteria to allow a student to comply with the curriculum requirements for the two credits in a language other than English required under Subsection (b-1)(5) by substituting two credits in computer programming languages.

(b-13) In adopting rules under Subsection (b-1), the State Board of Education shall allow a student to substitute credit in another appropriate course for the second credit in the same language in a language other than English otherwise required by Subsection (b-1)(5) if the student, in completing the first credit required under Subsection (b-1)(5), demonstrates that the student is unlikely to be able to complete the second credit. The board rules must establish:

(1) the standards and, as applicable, the appropriate school personnel for making a determination under this subsection; and

(2) appropriate substitute courses for purposes of this subsection.

(b-14) In adopting rules under Subsection (b-1), the State Board of Education shall allow a student who, due to disability, is unable to complete two courses in the same language in a language other than English, as provided under Subsection (b-1)(5), to substitute for those credits two credits in English language arts, mathematics, science, or social studies or two credits in career and technology education, technology applications, or other academic electives. A credit allowed to be substituted under this subsection may not also be used by the student to satisfy a graduation credit requirement other than credit for completion of a language other than English. The rules must provide that the determination regarding a student's ability to participate in language-other-than-English courses will be made by:

(1) if the student receives special education services under Subchapter A, Chapter 29, the student's admission, review, and dismissal committee; or

(2) if the student does not receive special education services under Subchapter A, Chapter 29, but is covered by Section 504, Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (29 U.S.C. Section 794), the committee established for the student under that Act.

(b-15) A student may earn a distinguished level of achievement under the foundation high school program by successfully completing:

(1) four credits in mathematics, which must include Algebra II and the courses described by Subsection (b-1)(2);

(2) four credits in science, which must include the courses described by Subsection (b-1)(3);

(3) the remaining curriculum requirements under Subsection (b-1); and

(4) the curriculum requirements for at least one endorsement under Subsection (c-1).

(b-16) A student may satisfy an elective credit required under Subsection (b-1)(6) with a credit earned to satisfy the additional curriculum requirements for the distinguished level of achievement under the foundation high school program or an endorsement under Subsection (c-1). This subsection may apply to more than one elective credit.

(b-17) The State Board of Education shall adopt rules to ensure that a student may comply with the curriculum requirements under Subsection (b-1)(6) by successfully completing an advanced career and technical course, including a course that may lead to an industry-recognized credential or certificate or an associate degree.

(b-18) In adopting rules under Subsection (b-1), the State Board of Education shall allow a student to comply with the curriculum requirements under Subsection (b-1) by successfully completing a dual credit course.

(b-19) In adopting rules under Subsection (b-1), the State Board of Education shall adopt criteria to allow a student to comply with curriculum requirements for the world geography or world history credit under Subsection (b-1)(4) by successfully completing a combined world history and world geography course developed by the State Board of Education.

(c) A person may receive a diploma if the person is eligible for a diploma under Section 28.0251. In other cases, a student may graduate and receive a diploma only if:

(1) the student successfully completes the curriculum requirements identified by the State Board of Education under Subsection (a) and complies with Section 39.025; or

(2) the student successfully completes an individualized education program developed under Section 29.005.

(c-1) A student may earn an endorsement on the student's diploma and transcript by successfully completing curriculum requirements for that endorsement adopted by the State Board of Education by rule. The State Board of Education by rule shall provide students with multiple options for earning each endorsement, including, to the greatest extent possible, coherent sequences of courses. The State Board of Education by rule must permit a student to enroll in courses under more than one endorsement curriculum before the student's junior year. An endorsement under this subsection may be earned in any of the following categories:

(1) science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), which includes courses directly related to science, including environmental science, technology, including computer science, engineering, and advanced mathematics;

(2) business and industry, which includes courses directly related to database management, information technology, communications, accounting, finance, marketing, graphic design, architecture, construction, welding, logistics, automotive technology, agricultural science, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning;

(3) public services, which includes courses directly related to health sciences and occupations, education and training, law enforcement, and culinary arts and hospitality;

(4) arts and humanities, which includes courses directly related to political science, world languages, cultural studies, English literature, history, and fine arts; and

(5) multidisciplinary studies, which allows a student to:

(A) select courses from the curriculum of each endorsement area described by Subdivisions (1) through (4); and

(B) earn credits in a variety of advanced courses from multiple content areas sufficient to complete the distinguished level of achievement under the foundation high school program.

(c-2) In adopting rules under Subsection (c-1), the State Board of Education shall:

(1) require a student in order to earn any endorsement to successfully complete:

(A) four credits in mathematics, which must include:

(i) the courses described by Subsection (b-1)(2); and

(ii) an additional advanced mathematics course authorized under Subsection (b-2) or an advanced career and technology course designated by the State Board of Education;

(B) four credits in science, which must include:

(i) the courses described by Subsection (b-1)(3); and

(ii) an additional advanced science course authorized under Subsection (b-2) or an advanced career and technology course designated by the State Board of Education; and

(C) two elective credits in addition to the elective credits required under Subsection (b-1)(6); and

(2) develop additional curriculum requirements for each endorsement with the direct participation of educators and business, labor, and industry representatives, and shall require each school district to report to the agency the categories of endorsements under Subsection (c-1) for which the district offers all courses for curriculum requirements, as determined by board rule.

(c-3) In adopting rules under Subsection (c-1), the State Board of Education shall adopt criteria to allow a student participating in the arts and humanities endorsement under Subsection (c-1)(4), with the written permission of the student's parent or a person standing in parental relation to the student, to comply with the curriculum requirements for science required under Subsection (c-2)(1)(B)(ii) by substituting for an advanced course requirement a course related to that endorsement.

(c-4) Each school district must make available to high school students courses that allow a student to complete the curriculum requirements for at least one endorsement under Subsection (c-1). A school district that offers only one endorsement curriculum must offer the multidisciplinary studies endorsement curriculum.

(c-5) A student may earn a performance acknowledgment on the student's diploma and transcript by satisfying the requirements for that acknowledgment adopted by the State Board of Education by rule. An acknowledgment under this subsection may be earned:

(1) for outstanding performance:

(A) in a dual credit course;

(B) in bilingualism and biliteracy;

(C) on a college advanced placement test or international baccalaureate examination; or

(D) on the PSAT, the ACT-Plan, the SAT, or the ACT; or

(2) for earning a nationally or internationally recognized business or industry certification or license.

(d) A school district may issue a certificate of coursework completion to a student who successfully completes the curriculum requirements identified by the State Board of Education under Subsection (a) but who fails to comply with Section 39.025. A school district may allow a student who receives a certificate to participate in a graduation ceremony with students receiving high school diplomas.

(e) Each school district shall report the academic achievement record of students who have completed the foundation high school program on transcript forms adopted by the State Board of Education. The transcript forms adopted by the board must be designed to clearly identify whether a student received a diploma or a certificate of coursework completion.

(e-1) A school district shall clearly indicate a distinguished level of achievement under the foundation high school program as described by Subsection (b-15), an endorsement described by Subsection (c-1), and a performance acknowledgment described by Subsection (c-5) on the diploma and transcript of a student who satisfies the applicable requirements. The State Board of Education shall adopt rules as necessary to administer this subsection.

(e-2) At the end of each school year, each school district shall report through the Public Education Information Management System (PEIMS) the number of district students who, during that school year, were:

(1) enrolled in the foundation high school program;

(2) pursuing the distinguished level of achievement under the foundation high school program as provided by Subsection (b-15); and

(3) enrolled in a program to earn an endorsement described by Subsection (c-1).

(e-3) Information reported under Subsection (e-2) must be disaggregated by all student groups served by the district, including categories of race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, sex, and populations served by special programs, including students in special education programs under Subchapter A, Chapter 29.

(f) A school district shall issue a certificate of attendance to a student who receives special education services under Subchapter A, Chapter 29, and who has completed four years of high school but has not completed the student's individualized education program. A school district shall allow a student who receives a certificate to participate in a graduation ceremony with students receiving high school diplomas. A student may participate in only one graduation ceremony under this subsection. This subsection does not preclude a student from receiving a diploma under Subsection (c)(2).

(g) Repealed by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211, Sec. 78(b)(3), eff. September 1, 2014.

(g-1) Expired.

(h) The commissioner by rule shall adopt a transition plan to implement and administer the amendments made by H.B. No. 5, 83rd Legislature, Regular Session, 2013, replacing the minimum, recommended, and advanced high school programs with the foundation high school program beginning with the 2014-2015 school year. Under the transition plan, a student who entered the ninth grade before the 2014-2015 school year must be permitted to complete the curriculum requirements required for high school graduation under:

(1) the foundation high school program, if the student chooses during the 2014-2015 school year to take courses under this program;

(2) the minimum high school program, as that program existed before the adoption of H.B. No. 5, 83rd Legislature, Regular Session, 2013, if the student was participating in that program before the 2014-2015 school year;

(3) the recommended high school program, as that program existed before the adoption of H.B. No. 5, 83rd Legislature, Regular Session, 2013, if the student was participating in that program before the 2014-2015 school year; or

(4) the advanced high school program, as that program existed before the adoption of H.B. No. 5, 83rd Legislature, Regular Session, 2013, if the student was participating in that program before the 2014-2015 school year.

(h-1) This subsection and Subsection (h) expire September 1, 2018.

(h-2) This subsection applies only to a student participating in the minimum, recommended, or advanced high school program who is completing the fourth year of high school during the 2013-2014 school year. The commissioner by rule shall permit a student who does not satisfy the curriculum requirements of the high school program in which the student is participating to graduate if the student satisfies the curriculum requirements established for the foundation high school program under this section as amended by H.B. No. 5, 83rd Legislature, Regular Session, 2013, and any other requirement required for graduation. This subsection expires September 1, 2015.

(i) If an 11th or 12th grade student in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services transfers to a different school district and the student is ineligible to graduate from the district to which the student transfers, the district from which the student transferred shall award a diploma at the student's request, if the student meets the graduation requirements of the district from which the student transferred.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995. Amended by Acts 1997, 75th Leg., ch. 767, Sec. 8, eff. Sept. 1, 1997; Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 397, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1999; Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 187, Sec. 2, eff. May 19, 2001; Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 834, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 2001; Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 365, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 2003; Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1276, Sec. 6.003, eff. Sept. 1, 2003; Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 1317, Sec. 10, eff. Sept. 1, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 164 (H.B. 25), Sec. 4, eff. May 27, 2005.

Acts 2006, 79th Leg., 3rd C.S., Ch. 5 (H.B. 1), Sec. 5.02, eff. May 31, 2006.

Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 46 (S.B. 673), Sec. 1, eff. May 28, 2007.

Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 763 (H.B. 3485), Sec. 4, eff. June 15, 2007.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 895 (H.B. 3), Sec. 30, eff. June 19, 2009.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 714 (H.B. 692), Sec. 1, eff. June 17, 2011.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 926 (S.B. 1620), Sec. 3, eff. June 17, 2011.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1163 (H.B. 2702), Sec. 9, eff. September 1, 2011.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 16(a), eff. June 10, 2013.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 78(b)(3), eff. September 1, 2014.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 214 (H.B. 2201), Sec. 2, eff. September 1, 2013.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 1354 (S.B. 1404), Sec. 4, eff. June 14, 2013.



Sec. 28.0251. HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA FOR CERTAIN VETERANS. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, a school district may issue a high school diploma to a person who:

(1) is an honorably discharged member of the armed forces of the United States;

(2) was scheduled to graduate from high school:

(A) after 1940 and before 1975; or

(B) after 1989; and

(3) left school after completing the sixth or a higher grade, before graduating from high school, to serve in:

(A) World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Persian Gulf War, the Iraq War, or the war in Afghanistan; or

(B) any other war formally declared by the United States, military engagement authorized by the United States Congress, military engagement authorized by a United Nations Security Council resolution and funded by the United States Congress, or conflict authorized by the president of the United States under the War Powers Resolution of 1973 (50 U.S.C. Section 1541 et seq.).

(b) A school district may issue a diploma to a person otherwise eligible under Subsection (a) notwithstanding the fact that the person holds a high school equivalency certificate or is deceased.

(c) The commissioner by rule shall adopt a form for a diploma application to be used by a veteran or a person acting on behalf of a deceased veteran under this section. The commissioner shall specify acceptable evidence of eligibility for a diploma under this section.

Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 187, Sec. 1, eff. May 19, 2001.

Amended by:

Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 540 (H.B. 1058), Sec. 1, eff. June 17, 2005.

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 642 (S.B. 966), Sec. 1, eff. June 17, 2011.



Sec. 28.0252. COMPUTATION OF HIGH SCHOOL GRADE POINT AVERAGE. (a) The commissioner may develop a standard method of computing a student's high school grade point average that provides for additional weight to be given to each honors course, advanced placement course, international baccalaureate course, or dual credit course completed by a student.

(b) If the commissioner develops a standard method under this section, a school district shall use the standard method to compute a student's high school grade point average.

(b-1) Expired.

(c) The commissioner may adopt rules necessary to implement this section.

Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., Ch. 293 (S.B. 111), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2005.

Amended by:

Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 1369 (H.B. 3851), Sec. 1, eff. June 15, 2007.

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 895 (H.B. 3), Sec. 31, eff. June 19, 2009.



Sec. 28.0253. PILOT PROGRAM: HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMAS FOR STUDENTS WHO DEMONSTRATE EARLY READINESS FOR COLLEGE. (a) In this section:

(1) "Institution of higher education" has the meaning assigned by Section 61.003.

(2) "Research university" means an institution of higher education that is designated as a research university under the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board's accountability system.

(b) A research university that chooses to participate in the pilot program shall:

(1) not later than September 1 of each year, make available on the university's Internet website detailed standards for use in the program regarding:

(A) the specific competencies that demonstrate a student's mastery of each subject area for which the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the commissioner have adopted college readiness standards;

(B) the specific competencies that demonstrate a student's mastery of a language other than English; and

(C) acceptable assessments or other means by which a student may demonstrate the student's early readiness for college with respect to each subject area and the language described by this subdivision, subject to Subsection (c);

(2) partner with at least 10 school districts that reflect the geographic diversity of this state and the student compositions of which reflect the socioeconomic diversity of this state; and

(3) assist school administrators, school counselors, and other educators in each of those school districts in designing the specific requirements of and implementing the program in the district.

(c) The assessments or other means filed by a research university under Subsection (b)(1)(C) must be equivalent to the assessments or other means the university uses to place students at the university in courses that may be credited toward a degree requirement.

(d) A research university that partners with a school district under this section shall enter into an agreement with the district under which the university and district agree that the district will assess a student's mastery of the subject areas described by Subsection (b)(1) and a language other than English in accordance with the standards the university filed under Subsection (b)(1). The district may issue a high school diploma to a student under the program if, using the standards, the student demonstrates mastery of and early readiness for college in each of those subject areas and in a language other than English, notwithstanding any other local or state requirements.

(e) A student who receives a high school diploma through the pilot program is considered to have earned a distinguished level of achievement under the foundation high school program adopted under Section 28.025. The student is not guaranteed admission to any institution of higher education or to any academic program at an institution of higher education solely on the basis of having received the diploma through the program. The student may apply for admission to an institution of higher education for the first semester or other academic term after the semester or other academic term in which the student earns a diploma through the pilot program.

(f) A research university that participates in the pilot program shall enter into an agreement with an education research center established under Section 1.005 to conduct an evaluation of the program with respect to that university and the school districts with which the university partners. Not later than January 1, 2013, the education research center shall provide a written report of the evaluation to the commissioner and the commissioner of higher education and make the report available on the center's Internet website. The report may include an analysis of the effects of the program on the university's admissions review process.

Added by Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 895 (H.B. 3), Sec. 32, eff. June 19, 2009.

Amended by:

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 17(a), eff. June 10, 2013.



Sec. 28.0254. POSTHUMOUS HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA FOR CERTAIN STUDENTS. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, but subject to Subsection (b), on request of the student's parent, a school district shall issue a high school diploma posthumously to each student who died while enrolled in the district at grade level 12, provided that the student was academically on track at the time of death to receive a diploma at the end of the school year in which the student died. For purposes of this subsection, "school year" includes any summer session following the spring semester.

(b) A school district is not required to issue a high school diploma to a student described by Subsection (a) if the student at any time before the student's death was convicted of a felony offense under Title 5 or 6, Penal Code, or adjudicated as having engaged in conduct constituting a felony offense under Title 5 or 6, Penal Code.

Added by Acts 2007, 80th Leg., R.S., Ch. 871 (H.B. 1563), Sec. 1, eff. June 15, 2007.



This section was amended by the 84th Legislature. Pending publication of the current statutes, see H.B. 2025, 84th Legislature, Regular Session, for amendments affecting this section.

For expiration of this section, see Subsection (l).

Sec. 28.0255. PILOT PROGRAM: THREE-YEAR HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA PLAN. (a) In this section, "certificate program," "public junior college," "public state college," and "public technical institute" have the meanings assigned by Section 61.003.

(b) This section applies only to a school district:

(1) with an enrollment of more than 150,000 students; and

(2) located primarily in a county that has a population of 2.2 million or more and that is adjacent to a county with a population of more than 600,000.

(c) A school district to which this section applies may develop and implement a pilot program for students who wish to obtain a high school diploma after completion of three years of secondary school attendance as an alternative to the traditional four-year period of attendance. The program must include partnerships between the school district and public junior colleges, public technical institutes, public state colleges, and any other public postsecondary institutions in this state offering academic or technical education or vocational training under a certificate program or an associate degree program to facilitate the prompt enrollment of students in those institutions after high school graduation under the program.

(d) Participation by a student in the program must be voluntary, with approval of the student's parent. A student who agrees to participate in the program may, on request, discontinue participation and resume taking courses under a high school program based on a traditional four-year period of attendance.

(e) Notwithstanding Section 28.025, the school district shall specify the curriculum requirements for receiving a high school diploma under the program. The curriculum requirements must ensure that a student who graduates under the program possesses sufficient knowledge and skills in English language arts and mathematics to be capable of performing successfully in public junior college-level courses.

(f) The school district shall submit to the commissioner for approval the district's proposal regarding the scope of the program and the program curriculum requirements. The school district shall also submit the proposed curriculum requirements to the State Board of Education for comment. The district may not implement the program before obtaining the commissioner's approval of the scope of the program and the program curriculum requirements.

(g) A student is entitled to a high school diploma if the student:

(1) successfully complies with the curriculum requirements specified under Subsection (e); and

(2) performs satisfactorily, as determined by the commissioner under Subsection (h), on end-of-course assessment instruments listed under Section 39.023(c) for courses in which the student was enrolled.

(h) For purposes of Subsection (g)(2), the commissioner shall determine the level of satisfactory performance on applicable end-of-course assessment instruments administered to a student.

(i) The school district shall report the academic achievement record of students who have completed the program on a transcript that clearly identifies the program and distinguishes the program from the other high school programs based on a traditional four-year period of attendance.

(j) A student who has received a diploma under the program is exempt from the compulsory school attendance requirements under Section 25.085.

(k) To the extent this section conflicts with any other provision of this code or rule adopted under this code, this section prevails.

(l) This section expires September 1, 2023.

Added by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 660 (H.B. 1122), Sec. 1, eff. September 1, 2013.



Sec. 28.026. NOTICE OF REQUIREMENTS FOR AUTOMATIC COLLEGE ADMISSION AND FINANCIAL AID. (a) The board of trustees of a school district and the governing body of each open-enrollment charter school that provides a high school shall require each high school in the district or provided by the charter school, as applicable, to post appropriate signs in each school counselor's office, in each principal's office, and in each administrative building indicating the substance of Section 51.803 regarding automatic college admission and stating the curriculum requirements for financial aid authorized under Title 3. To assist in the dissemination of that information, the district or charter school shall:

(1) require that each school counselor and class advisor at a high school be provided a detailed explanation of the substance of Section 51.803 and the curriculum requirements for financial aid authorized under Title 3;

(2) provide each district or school student, at the time the student first registers for one or more classes required for high school graduation, with a written notification, including a detailed explanation in plain language, of the substance of Section 51.803, the curriculum requirements for financial aid authorized under Title 3, and the benefits of completing the requirements for that automatic admission and financial aid;

(3) require that each school counselor and senior class advisor at a high school explain to eligible students the substance of Section 51.803; and

(4) not later than the 14th day after the last day of classes for the fall semester or an equivalent date in the case of a school operated on a year-round system under Section 25.084, provide each senior student eligible under Section 51.803 and each student enrolled in the junior year of high school who has a grade point average in the top 10 percent of the student's high school class, and the student's parent or guardian, with a written notification of the student's eligibility with a detailed explanation in plain language of the substance of Section 51.803.

(b) The commissioner shall adopt forms, including specific language, to use in providing notice under Subsections (a)(2) and (4). In providing notice under Subsection (a)(2) or (4), a school district or open-enrollment charter school shall use the appropriate form adopted by the commissioner. The notice to a student and the student's parent or guardian under Subsections (a)(2) and (4) must be on a single form that contains signature lines to indicate receipt of notice by the student and the student's parent or guardian. The notice under Subsection (a)(2) must be signed by the student's counselor in addition to being signed by the student and the student's parent or guardian.

Added by Acts 1999, 76th Leg., ch. 1511, Sec. 1, eff. June 19, 1999.

Amended by:

Acts 2009, 81st Leg., R.S., Ch. 1342 (S.B. 175), Sec. 3, eff. June 19, 2009.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 18(a), eff. June 10, 2013.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 443 (S.B. 715), Sec. 20, eff. June 14, 2013.



Sec. 28.027. APPLIED SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS COURSES. (a) In this section, "applied STEM course" means an applied science, technology, engineering, or mathematics course offered as part of a school district's career and technology education or technology applications curriculum.



Text of subsection as amended by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 19



(b) The State Board of Education shall establish a process under which an applied STEM course may be reviewed and approved for purposes of satisfying the mathematics and science curriculum requirements for the foundation high school program under Section 28.025 through substitution of the applied STEM course for a specific mathematics or science course otherwise required under the foundation high school program. The State Board of Education may only approve a course to substitute for a science course taken after successful completion of biology.



Text of subsection as amended by Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 214 (H.B. 2201), Sec. 3



(b) The State Board of Education shall establish a process under which an applied STEM course may be reviewed and approved for purposes of satisfying the mathematics and science curriculum requirements for the recommended high school program imposed under Section 28.025(b-1)(1)(A) through substitution of the applied STEM course for a specific mathematics or science course otherwise required under the recommended high school program. The State Board of Education may only approve a course to substitute for a mathematics course taken after successful completion of Algebra I and geometry. The State Board of Education may only approve a course to substitute for a science course taken after successful completion of biology.

(c) The process must provide that an applied STEM course is entitled to be approved for the purpose described by Subsection (b) if the course meets the following requirements:

(1) the applied STEM course is part of a curriculum created by a recognized national or international business and industry group to prepare a student for a national or international business and industry certification or license;

(2) the applied STEM course qualifies as:

(A) a dual credit course; or

(B) an articulated postsecondary course provided for local credit or articulated postsecondary advanced technical credit course provided for state credit;

(3) the essential knowledge and skills covered in the applied STEM course are equivalent to the essential knowledge and skills covered in the mathematics or science course for which the applied STEM course is proposed to be approved for substitution; and

(4) the applied STEM course:

(A) provides substantial mathematics content or science content, as applicable, taught in an applied or symbolic format, that enables a student to develop relevant critical thinking skills necessary for preparation for employment or additional training in a career identified by the Texas Workforce Commission as a high-demand or emerging occupation; and

(B) incorporates college and career readiness skills.

(d) If an applied STEM course approved under this section is part of a coherent sequence of career and technology courses, a student is eligible to enroll in the applied STEM course for the purpose described in Subsection (b) only if the student has completed the prerequisite course work, if any, for the applied STEM course.

Added by Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., R.S., Ch. 926 (S.B. 1620), Sec. 2, eff. June 17, 2011.

Amended by:

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 211 (H.B. 5), Sec. 19(a), eff. June 10, 2013.

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 214 (H.B. 2201), Sec. 3, eff. September 1, 2013.



SUBCHAPTER C. ADVANCED PLACEMENT INCENTIVES



Sec. 28.051. DEFINITIONS. In this subchapter:

(1) "Board" means the State Board of Education.

(2) "College advanced placement course" means a board-approved high-school-level preparatory course for a college advanced placement test that incorporates all topics specified by the college board on its standard syllabus for a given subject area.

(3) "College advanced placement test" means the advanced placement test administered by the College Board and Educational Testing Service.

(4) "College board" means the College Board and Educational Testing Service.

(5) "International baccalaureate course" means a high-school-level preparatory course for an international baccalaureate examination that incorporates each topic specified by the International Baccalaureate Organization on its standard syllabus for a particular subject area.

(6) "International baccalaureate examination" means the international baccalaureate examination administered by the International Baccalaureate Organization.

(7) "Program" means the Texas Advanced Placement Incentive Program.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995.



Sec. 28.052. PROGRAM; PURPOSE. (a) The purpose of the Texas Advanced Placement Incentive Program is to recognize and reward those students, teachers, and schools that demonstrate success in achieving the state's educational goals.

(b) Awards and subsidies granted under the program are for the public purpose of promoting an educated citizenry.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995.



Sec. 28.053. TYPES OF AWARDS. (a) A school participating in the program may be awarded:

(1) a one-time $3,000 equipment grant for providing a college advanced placement course or international baccalaureate course to be paid to a school based on need as determined by the commissioner; and

(2) $100 for each student who scores a three or better on a college advanced placement test or four or better on an international baccalaureate examination.

(b) Funds awarded under Subsection (a) shall be used in the manner determined by the campus team established, by the principal, under Subsection (c).

(c) The principal of each school participating in the program shall convene, at least annually, a team composed of not more than five members, with not fewer than three teachers, to include at least one teacher participating in the program and at least one teacher who teaches students in preparation for their participation in the program, for the purpose of determining the use of funds awarded under Subsection (a). Nothing in this section limits the authority of the team to direct expenditure of funds awarded under Subsection (a)(2) for awards to individual teachers participating in the program.

(d) A teacher participating in the program may be awarded:

(1) subsidized teacher training, not to exceed $450 for each teacher, for a college advanced placement course or an international baccalaureate course;

(2) a one-time award of $250 for teaching a college advanced placement course or an international baccalaureate course for the first time; and

(3) a share of the teacher bonus pool, which shall be distributed by the teacher's school in shares proportional to the number of courses taught.

(e) To be eligible for an award under Subsection (d), a teacher must teach a college advanced placement course or an international baccalaureate course.

(f) Fifty dollars may be deposited in the teacher bonus pool for each student enrolled in the school that scores a three or better on a college advanced placement test or four or better on an international baccalaureate examination.

(g) A student receiving a score of three or better on a college advanced placement test or four or better on an international baccalaureate examination may receive reimbursement, not to exceed $65, for the testing fee. The reimbursement shall be reduced by the amount of any subsidy awarded by the college board or the International Baccalaureate Organization or under Section 28.054.

(h) The commissioner may enter into agreements with the college board and the International Baccalaureate Organization to pay for all examinations taken by eligible public school students. An eligible student is a student who:

(1) takes a college advanced placement or international baccalaureate course at a public school or who is recommended by the student's principal or teacher to take the test; and

(2) demonstrates financial need as determined in accordance with guidelines adopted by the board that are consistent with the definition of financial need adopted by the college board or the International Baccalaureate Organization.

(i) The commissioner shall analyze and adjust, as needed, the sum of and number of awards to ensure that the purpose of the program is realized.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995. Amended by Acts 2003, 78th Leg., ch. 854, Sec. 1, eff. June 20, 2003.

Amended by:

Acts 2011, 82nd Leg., 1st C.S., Ch. 4 (S.B. 1), Sec. 49.01, eff. September 28, 2011.



Sec. 28.054. SUBSIDIES FOR COLLEGE ADVANCED PLACEMENT TEST OR INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE EXAMINATION. (a) A student is entitled to a subsidy for a fee paid by the student to take a college advanced placement test or an international baccalaureate examination if the student demonstrates financial need. The board shall adopt guidelines for determining financial need consistent with the definition of financial need adopted by the college board or the International Baccalaureate Organization.

(b) To obtain a subsidy under this section, a student must:

(1) pay the fee for each test or examination for which the student seeks a subsidy; and

(2) submit to the board through the student's school counselor a written application on a form prescribed by the commissioner demonstrating financial need and the amount of the fee paid by the student for each test or examination.

(c) On approval by the board, the agency may pay each eligible applicant an equal amount, not to exceed $25 for each applicant.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995.

Amended by:

Acts 2013, 83rd Leg., R.S., Ch. 443 (S.B. 715), Sec. 21, eff. June 14, 2013.



Sec. 28.055. USE OF SCHOOL AWARDS; APPLICATION. (a) A school shall give priority to academic enhancement purposes in using an award received under the program. The award may not be used for any purpose related to athletics.

(b) To obtain an award under the program, a school must submit to the board a written application in a form, manner, and time prescribed by the commissioner.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995.



Sec. 28.056. APPLICATION FOR TEACHER AWARDS AND REIMBURSEMENTS. To obtain an award or reimbursement for training expenses under the program, a teacher must submit to the board a written application in a form, manner, and time prescribed by the commissioner.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995.



Sec. 28.057. FUNDING. (a) An award or subsidy granted under this subchapter may be funded by donations, grants, or legislative appropriations. The commissioner may solicit and receive grants and donations for making awards under this subchapter. The agency shall account for and distribute the donations, grants, or legislative appropriations.

(b) The agency shall apply to the program any available funds from its appropriations that may be used for purposes of the program.

(c) The grant of any award or subsidy under the program is subject to the availability of funds.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995.



Sec. 28.058. CONFIDENTIALITY. All information regarding an individual student received by the commissioner under this subchapter from a school district or student is confidential under Chapter 552, Government Code.

Added by Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 260, Sec. 1, eff. May 30, 1995.