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December 2025
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"Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it."
William Arthur Ward
Thank you for making every day matter for students by teaching with patience, kindness, and love. Wishing you a restful, enjoyable holiday season!
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Contents
To navigate directly to a section, simply click on the corresponding heading listed below.
TEA Resources
The SpedTex Website is live! It was created to provide resources to both parents and educators who work with children in special education. It can be a great resource for you, so spend some time looking through it: https://www.spedtex.org
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Texas SPED Support is a website that was created to provide technical assistance and to support the needs of the state. There are resources and learning opportunities available here:https://spedsupport.tea.texas.gov/
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New and Updated TEA Information:
Additional TEA Updated Documents:
Check out TEA's Special Education Webinars and Newsletters for a list of upcoming events, previous webinar recordings, and past editions of the Special Education Newsletter.
The Texas SPED Quick Learns is an exciting addition to the TEA Microlearning Series, designed for educators and instructional leaders. This series includes 6 videos that offer practical insights into key special education topics. Dive into essential strategies such as effective co-teaching practices, working with paraprofessionals, understanding accommodations vs. modifications, and implementing specially designed instruction. Additionally, the series explores ways to integrate instructional models to enhance student learning. Perfect for educators seeking quick, impactful professional learning, Texas SPED Quick Learns provides valuable tools to support diverse learners and foster collaboration in the classroom.
Did You Know?
Effective with Governor Abbott’s signing of HB 2 on June 4, 2025, educators seeking certification in Special Education or Bilingual Education fields will have both their certification exam fees waived for their first attempt on the associated content pedagogy exam and their certification application fee waived. This means that at the time of exam registration or certification application, the associated fee will be $0. Candidates in educator preparation programs seeking these certifications will still be required to pay for their pedagogy test and fingerprinting fees.
Fees Waived as of June 4, 2025:
Certification exam fee ($116-136) + Certification application fee ($78)
Total cost savings of $194-214.
This applies to the following certification exams:
- 181 Deaf and Hard of Hearing EC-12 TExES
- 072 TASC
- 073 TASC-ASL
- 185- Deafblind EC-12 TExES
For more information, refer to the TEA website.
The Texas Transition and Employment Guide provides information on statewide services and programs that assist in the transition to life outside the public school system for students enrolled in special education programs and their parents. The guide was recently revised and published on August 1, 2025. While the URL has not changed for the page where the guide and related resources are housed, you will notice significant changes to the page organization.
This helpful guide is available in multiple languages.
Information about the Texas Transition and Employment Guide (in English and Spanish)
School Health and Related Services (SHARS) Update
As of October 2025, the SHARS Handbook has been updated to include:
- New Audiology Codes
- Updated Personal Care Service Provider Qualification Guidelines
In addition, the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has published responses to public comments received regarding proposed policy changes. The comments, responses and draft of the Genetic Testing Policy are available for review on the Medicaid Medical and Dental Policy webpage.
Please email questions to HHSC SHARS Medical Policy at MedicaidBenefitRequest@hhsc.state.tx.us.
TEA is always looking for ways to connect with partners in the field!
Whether through site visits, collaborative review opportunities, or focus groups, there are numerous ways to connect with TEA and support the field of education. If you are interested in participating in engagement opportunities, please complete the Engagement Opportunities Interest Form.
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Deaf Education Professional Preparation Programs
Do you know someone interested in joining the field of Deaf Education?
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 ESC Region 11 Professional Development
DHH Inclusion: Serving Students Who Are Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing in the General Education Setting
Fall Session: Open through December 15, 2025
Spring Session: January 6 - June 30, 2026
100% online and asynchronous
Facilitator: Petra Gatzemeyer, ESC Region 11 Specialist, DHH Services
This course is designed for professionals (teachers, administrators, staff, paraprofessionals, etc.) who serve special education and 504 students who are deaf/hard-of-hearing in the general education classroom, in extracurricular activities, and during campus activities. Course topics include the roles and responsibilities of professionals and students, understanding hearing differences, assistive listening devices and technology, accommodations, legal requirements, specially designed instruction, and student self-advocacy. This session aligns with the following components of the TEA-required Special Education Self-Assessment: Numbers 2, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 12.
FREE for professionals in Region 11 LEAs that purchased the Instructional Solutions and Support Contract
January 13 and 14, 2026
8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. CT
In-person workshop at ESC Region 11
Participants must attend both days to receive credit.
Presenters: Christi Perkins and Susan Key, ESC Region 11 Specialists
The focus of this session is developing a present levels of academic achievement and functional performance (PLAAFP) statement based on student data, drafting measurable annual goals (academic and/or functional) and objectives, if appropriate, and collecting data for reporting progress. Participants will understand the importance of these components and how their alignment results in an appropriate and ambitious individualized education program for students receiving special education and related services. The intended audience for this training is special education teachers, related service providers, and any other professional staff responsible for drafting a student’s IEP, including present levels of academic achievement and functional performance and measurable annual goals. Please plan to bring (or have access to via an electronic device) an IEP of a student on your caseload. We will engage in an activity in which you will analyze your student's PLAAFP, annual goal(s), and data collection for progress monitoring. This session is aligned with the IEP Content and Development components of the TEA-required self-assessment.
FREE for professionals in Region 11 LEAs that purchased the Instructional Solutions and Support Contract
January 15, 2026
8:00 - 11:00 a.m. CT
Virtual Workshop
Presenter: Michael Tucker, M.Ed., BCBA, LBA
Facilitator: Petra Gatzemeyer, ESC Region 11 Specialist, DHH Services
Join us for a practical and engaging session designed to empower educators with effective strategies to support students with autism and hearing differences (Deaf or Hard of Hearing/DHH) in the classroom. Participants will gain valuable insights into understanding the unique characteristics and learning styles of students on the autism spectrum and will learn how to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment that promotes their academic and social success. This session is aligned with the Instructional Strategies component(s) of the TEA-required self-assessment.
FREE for professionals in Regions 10 and 11
Region 10 professionals register through ESC Region 10
January 17 and 24, 2026
8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. CT
Virtual Workshop
Participants must attend both days to receive credit.
Presenter: Vicki Alford, Certified Visual Phonics Instructor
Facilitator: Petra Gatzemeyer, ESC Region 11 Specialist, DHH Services
This Visual Phonics training explores the multi-sensory Visual Phonics program and its benefits when reinforcing oral language, speech, and beginning literacy skills for students who are deaf or hard of hearing, bilingual, or possess diverse learning needs. Participants will learn to recognize, produce, and blend the Visual Phonics hand cues and written symbols for the 42+ English phonemes. This training aligns with the Science of Teaching Reading as it explores research-based strategies to support beginning spelling and reading instruction with the support of Visual Phonics in therapeutic and instructional settings. This session is aligned with the Instructional Strategies component of the TEA-required Special Education Self-assessment.
FREE for professionals in Regions 10 and 11
Region 10 professionals register through ESC Region 10
January 29, 2026
9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. CT
In-person session at ESC Region 11
Facilitator: Petra Gatzemeyer, ESC Region 11 Specialist, DHH Services
This interactive networking meeting brings together Parent Advisors and Itinerant Teachers of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing to share experiences, strengthen collaboration, and explore effective service delivery models across educational and home-based settings. Participants will engage in a focused presentation on the Expanded Core Curriculum for students who are DHH, followed by open discussion and peer problem-solving. Join colleagues to connect, reflect, and leave with refreshed strategies and resources to enhance one's impact in the field. This session aligns with the Special Education Self-Assessment indicators #2, 8, 9, 12, 14, 22, and 23.
FREE for professionals in Regions 10 and 11
Region 10 professionals register using the Itinerant TODHH PD Form
January 31, 2026
8:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. CT
Virtual Workshop
Presenters: Lindsay Dimich and Holly Mason, Sunshine Cottage School for Deaf Children
Facilitator: Petra Gatzemeyer, ESC Region 11 Specialist, DHH Services
Designed for professionals with foundational CASLLS knowledge, this intermediate-level training offers a deeper exploration into using the CASLLS (Cottage Acquisition Scales for Listening, Language & Speech) for targeted language intervention. Participants will strengthen their ability to interpret language samples, identify complex grammatical structures, and map these to the appropriate CASLLS strands. Through interactive practice and real-world examples, attendees will enhance their ability to use CASLLS for effective goal setting and ongoing language development support. This session is ideal for speech-language pathologists, educators, and interventionists ready to expand their CASLLS skill set and apply it more confidently in daily practice. Indicators 1, 4, 5, and 7 of the TEA Special Education Self-Assessment will be addressed.
FREE for professionals in Regions 10 and 11
Region 10 professionals register through ESC Region 10
February 3, 2026
2:00 - 3:30 p.m.
Virtual Workshop
Presenter: Petra Gatzemeyer, M.A., LSLS Cert. AVT
The first three years of life are critical for brain development, language acquisition, and social-emotional growth. For children who are deaf or hard of hearing, this period is especially important to ensure access to meaningful communication and rich learning experiences. This interactive 90-minute workshop explores the science of early brain development, evidence-based practices that foster language and cognitive growth, and strategies professionals and families can use to create nurturing, language-rich environments. Participants will leave with practical tools to empower families as the "baby brain builders" for their young children. This session is designed for parents of infants and toddlers who are deaf or hard of hearing and teachers of the deaf and hard of hearing who work in early intervention. This session addresses the TEA Special Education Self-Assessment indicators 22 and 23.
FREE for professionals in Region 11 LEAs that purchased the Instructional Solutions and Support Contract
January 26, 2026, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
February 2, 2026, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
February 23, 2026, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
A three-day, in-person workshop at ESC Region 11
Presenters: Anne Darr and Heather Varon, Certified Abydos Writing Project Trainers
This three-day, research-based, interdisciplinary, hands-on training focuses on (1) teaching reflexive and expository writing as a process; (2) increasing vocabulary complexity and knowledge coherence through writing in response to reading; (3) preparing students for state assessments; (4) incorporating grouping, sharing, and conferencing techniques into instruction; (5) pre-writing, writing, reformulating, correcting, editing, and proofreading; (6) integrating grammar as a part of the writing process; and (7) making the act of writing and the teaching of writing more engaging, effective, and enjoyable. Every participant will receive a free copy of the book "Acts of Teaching: How to Teach Writing." This session addresses the following Special Education Self-Assessment indicators: #2, 6, 8, 9, 10, and 12.
Printable Flyer
FREE for professionals in Region 11 LEAs that purchased the Instructional Solutions and Support Contract
February 10, 2026
8:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. CT
In-person workshop at ESC Region 11
Presenter: Devon Spence-Herron, ESC Region 11 Specialist, Inclusive Services
Paraprofessionals play a vital role in supporting students and instructional teams. This interactive session will provide clear guidance on roles and responsibilities, effective communication, and documentation practices aligned with state guidance. Participants will also learn practical behavior management strategies, including understanding behavior functions, using proactive supports, reinforcing positive behavior, and supporting teacher-led plans. Attendees will leave with ready-to-use tools to strengthen student relationships and team collaboration. This session is aligned with FAPE, IEP Implementation, Instructional Strategies, and LRE components of the TEA-required self-assessment.
FREE for professionals in Region 11 LEAs that purchased the Instructional Solutions and Support Contract
February 12, 2026
3:00 - 4:30 p.m. CT
Virtual Workshop
Presenters: Laura Lewis, M.S., CCC/SLP, and Petra Gatzemeyer, M.A., LSLS Cert. AVT
Communication access is crucial for students who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing (DHH). Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) can be a powerful tool to expand language, literacy, and participation opportunities for all DHH students, whether they use spoken language, sign language, or a combination of modalities. This session will explore the benefits of incorporating AAC into the classroom environment and provide practical strategies for implementing and modeling AAC to support student engagement and success. Teachers will leave with actionable ideas to create inclusive, language-rich learning spaces where every student’s voice is supported. This session addresses Special Education Self-Assessment indicators 9, 12, & 18.
FREE for professionals in Region 11 LEAs that purchased the Instructional Solutions and Support Contract
February 23, 2026
8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. CT
In-person workshop at ESC Region 11
Presenter: Mari Hubig, Birth to Age 8 Intervention Specialist
This workshop focuses on using the coaching approach with families and caregivers when providing infant and toddler services. Coaching is required for all Early Childhood Intervention service providers, including services for children who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH), blind of visually impaired (VI), or deafblind (DB). Coaching ensures that families and caregivers of children, ages birth to three, feel competent and confident in supporting their children in all aspects of their development. This workshop is designed for teachers of the deaf and hard of hearing, teachers of students with visual impairments, and certified orientation and mobility specialists working in early intervention, and it will provide opportunities to practice strategies that can be used to better collaborate and partner with families and caregivers of infants and toddlers. This session addresses TEA's Special Education Self-Assessment Indicators 1, 2, 14, and 22.
FREE for professionals in Region 11 LEAs that purchased the Instructional Solutions and Support Contract
February 25, 2026
8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. CT
In-person workshop at ESC Region 11
Presenter: Susan Key, ESC Region 11 Specialist, Complex Access Needs
The Quality and Rigor Rubric was created to guide professionals in the process of developing Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance statements (PLAAFPs), Goals/Objectives, and Progress Monitoring Methods of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) for Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities. This tool assists educators as they reflect on the quality and rigor of their own IEP goal writing in a supportive and strategic manner. This process is about continuous improvement and is not evaluative of the educator. * Important * Each participant must bring a copy of a student's IEP PLAAFP and goals for use with instruction and coaching during the session. Please bring a device if you choose to view the handouts electronically. This session is aligned with the IEP Content and Development components of the TEA-required Special Education Self-Assessment.
FREE for professionals in Region 11 LEAs that purchased the Instructional Solutions and Support Contract
February 25, 2026
8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. CT
In-person workshop at ESC Region 11
Presenter: Devon Spence-Herron, ESC Region 11 Specialist, Inclusive Services
This professional development session equips educators with practical tools and strategies to ensure students with a range of learning needs can meaningfully engage in instruction within the general education setting. Participants will explore how differentiated instruction and specially designed instruction (SDI) work together to provide appropriate access to the curriculum for all learners. This session supports teachers in delivering high-quality instruction aligned to legal and instructional requirements, while building confidence in planning for and responding to academic needs. This session is aligned with the FAPE, LRE, and Instructional Strategies portions of the TEA-Required Self-Assessment and TEA Identified Areas of Non-Compliance.
FREE for professionals in Region 11 LEAs that purchased the Instructional Solutions and Support Contract
February 26, 2026
In-person event at ESC Region 11
Contact: Petra Gatzemeyer, ESC Region 11 Specialist, DHH Services
This interactive session empowers high school students who are deaf or hard of hearing to explore their next steps after graduation. Participants will learn about career pathways, college and training programs, self-advocacy skills, and community resources that support independent living. Through hands-on activities and real-life examples, students will leave with a clearer vision for their future and practical tools to help them achieve their goals. The target audiences for this event are high school students who are DHH (students served in their home districts AND students served by an RDSPD), parents, guardians, and professionals serving students who are DHH.
FREE for students, families, and professionals in Region 11
Parents and professionals, please use this link to register.
SAVE THE DATE! ASL Rhyming and Literacy Fun
March 25, 2026
3:00 - 5:00 p.m. CT
Virtual Workshop
Presenter: Dr. Leala Holcomb
Facilitator: Petra Gatzemeyer, ESC Region 11 Specialist, DHH Services
Rhyme and rhythm increase young children’s engagement, executive functioning skills, language awareness, vocabulary, and emergent literacy and are strongly linked to reading achievement. This workshop, designed for Teachers of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, paraprofessionals, and related service staff serving deaf or hard of hearing children, ages birth through early childhood, introduces ways to provide children access to rhyme and rhythm that capitalize on the linguistic and cultural benefits of American Sign Language and Deaf culture. The presenters will discuss the history of ASL rhyme and rhythm and its linguistic patterns, research on the role of ASL rhyme and rhythm in facilitating language, and creative ways to engage children in language play at home. This workshop addresses the Instructional Strategies component of the Special Education Self-Assessment.
FREE for professionals in Regions 10 and 11
Region 10 professionals register through ESC Region 10
Registration will be available soon.
SAVE THE DATE! Evaluating Students who are DHH for SLD
March 31, 2026
8:00 a.m. - Noon CT
In-person workshop at ESC Region 11
Presenters: Dr. Jyutika Mehta and Amy Smith, ESC Region 10 Specialists
Facilitator: Petra Gatzemeyer, ESC Region 11 Specialist, DHH Services
FREE for professionals in Region 11 LEAs that purchased the Instructional Solutions and Support Contract
Registration will be available soon.
April 7, 2026
9:00 - 11:00 a.m. CT
Virtual Meeting
Facilitator: Petra Gatzemeyer, ESC Region 11 Specialist, DHH Services
This meeting is for Itinerant Teachers of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Teachers will meet virtually to discuss relevant topics, troubleshoot issues, answer questions, and build capacity in serving children and students who are deaf or hard of hearing. Meetings will allow time for field updates, participant sharing, and staffing questions. These meetings align with the following components of the TEA-required Special Education Self-Assessment: Numbers 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 19.
FREE for professionals in Regions 10 and 11
Region 10 professionals register using the Itinerant TODHH Networking Form
April 28, 2026
9:00 a.m. - Noon CT
In-person event at ESC Region 11
Facilitators: Petra Gatzemeyer, DHH Specialist, and Ben Davisson, BVI Specialist
Get ready for a morning filled with imagination, exploration, and connection! Babies’ Day Out: Little Hands, Big Imaginations – A Day of Creative Play invites infants and toddlers who are deaf or hard of hearing, blind or visually impaired, or deafblind, along with their caregivers and service providers, to come together for a celebration of early learning through play. This special event offers a blend of hands-on sensory activities, creative experiences, and interactive sessions designed to inspire your child’s curiosity and support development in fun, meaningful ways. Parents and caregivers will have the opportunity to connect with early intervention professionals, discover new resources, participate in creative and sensory play sessions, learn from a parent panel about shared experiences and practical tips, interact with local and community early childhood resources, connect with other families and professionals, and share the joy of watching their children learn and grow. Come enjoy a day where little hands explore big ideas and where play sparks endless possibilities! This session addresses Family Engagement and Connection to Community & School Climate strategy items of the TEA Special Education Self-Assessment.
FREE for professionals and families in Region 11
May 6, 2026
1:00 - 3:00 p.m. CT
Virtual Meeting
Facilitator: Petra Gatzemeyer, ESC Region 11 Specialist, DHH Services
The Tarrant County Auditory Services Collaborative (TCASC) is a group of community and school professionals who provide services to infants and toddlers with hearing differences and their families in Tarrant County. The TCASC works to support the efforts of the Texas Early Hearing Detection and Intervention movement in Tarrant County. These meetings align with the following components of the TEA-required Special Education Self-Assessment: 1, 2, 4, 14, 22, and 23.
FREE for professionals in Region 11
Contact Petra Gatzemeyer for the registration password.
For ESC Region 11 Speech-Language Pathologists:
Please subscribe to The SLP Scoop by entering your email on this website.
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SESS Grant Professional Development
2025-2026 Deaf Education Administration & Leadership (DEAL)
2025-2026 DEAL Virtual Meetings
Host: Emily Heise, TEA Deaf Education Administrator
December 4, 2025; 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. CT
May 14, 2026; 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. CT
August 13, 2026; 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. CT
Please register separately for each meeting.
Contact Jennifer Hunter or Mari Hubig for the password to register.
2025-2026 DEAL Virtual Office Hours
Hosts: Kristin Pfeiffer (ESC 4), Petra Gatzemeyer (ESC 11), Yvonne Delgado (ESC 13), Tonya Gary (ESC 17), and Shelly Bybee (ESC 20)
These open forums are opportunities for discussions and questions. To submit a question or a discussion topic, please fill out this brief form.
January 8, 2026; 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. CT
April 9, 2026; 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. CT
Please register separately for each session.
Contact Jennifer Hunter or Mari Hubig for the password to register.
In-person DEAL Meeting: REGISTRATION IS OPEN!
The in-person DEAL Meeting is scheduled for February 18-20, 2026, at ESC Region 20 in San Antonio. Please contact Jennifer Hunter or Mari Hubig for the registration information.
Presenter: Mari Hubig, Early Intervention Sensory Impairment Specialist
- December 12, 2025, 8:00 to 10:00 am CT
- February 10, 2026,10:00 am to noon CT
- April 6, 2026, 1:00 to 3:00 pm CT
These meetings provide networking opportunities for teachers of the deaf and hard of hearing (TODHHs), teachers of students with visual impairments (TSVIs), and certified orientation and mobility specialists (COMS) who provide services to families with children who are deaf or hard of hearing, blind or visually impaired, or deafblind under the age of 3; however, anyone who is providing early intervention services is welcome to attend. The meetings will address the Child Find, Intervention, FAPE, Early Childhood Transition, and Family Engagement indicators of the TEA-required Special Education Self-Assessment. These meetings are for professionals only.
Registration is required.
FREE for professionals in Texas
Facilitator: Mari Hubig, Birth to Age 8 Intervention Specialist
October 13 - December 17, 2025
100% Online Book Study
Participants will read, discuss, and apply the book The Early Childhood Coaching Handbook, SECOND Edition by Rush & Shelden (ISBN#978-1681252568). If there were a way that you could be a more effective parent advisor (PA), teacher of students with visual impairments (TVI), teacher of students who are deaf or hard of hearing (TODHH), teacher of students who are deafblind (TDB), or Certified Orientation Mobility Specialist (COMS), you would want to know how, right? You will find the concepts and strategies in this book are easy to understand, immediately applicable, and abundantly impactful as you work with deaf or hard of hearing, visually impaired, and deafblind babies/toddlers and their families. The Early Childhood Coaching Handbook, Second Edition, will be provided to participants who do not have or have access to it for this book study. Mailing addresses will be requested via email.
Registration is now open. The course is limited to 40 participants.
FREE for professionals in Texas
February 16, 2026
8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. CT
Virtual Workshop
Presenter: Petra Gatzemeyer, M.A., LSLS Cert. AVT
This interactive workshop is designed for educators, speech-language pathologists, audiologists, and families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing from birth to age eight. Through engaging presentations, hands-on activities, and collaborative discussions, participants will explore evidence-based listening and spoken language (LSL) strategies that can be seamlessly integrated into both home and educational settings. Attendees will gain practical tools and resources to enhance listening, spoken language, and communication skills in everyday interactions. This session addresses Special Education Self-Assessment indicators 7, 9, 12, 18, and 22.
FREE for professionals in Texas
April 2, 2026
9:00 a.m. - Noon CT
Virtual Workshop
Presenter: Petra Gatzemeyer, MA, LSLS Cert. AVT
For children who are deaf or hard of hearing, executive function and language development are deeply interconnected. Language provides the foundation for organizing thoughts, regulating behavior, and solving problems, while communication experiences support the growth of attention, memory, and self-control. This session will explore how these areas influence one another and offer practical listening and spoken language strategies to strengthen executive function within daily routines, therapy sessions, and classroom environments. Participants will gain actionable tools to help children build focus, flexibility, and independence in meaningful, developmentally appropriate ways. This workshop is designed for teachers of the deaf and hard of hearing, early interventionists, paraprofessionals, speech language pathologists, and parents of children who are deaf or hard of hearing. This session is aligned with the LRE, Behavior, Instructional Strategies, and Family Engagement component(s) of the TEA-required Special Education Self-assessment.
FREE for professionals in Texas
Resources: Online Literacy Education for DHH Learners
Looking for free, online professional development? Check out the new resources on Texas SPED Support!
Literacy Education for DHH Learners Part 1 and Part 2 are one-hour asynchronous courses that can be completed from the comfort of your home. Each course addresses requisites for literacy development when working with students who are DHH.
Explore these resources using the links below:
While you're there, investigate additional existing resources related to serving students who are DHH available on Texas SPED Support by selecting "Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing" from the topics list.
The Texas Deafblind Project is proud to announce the new and improved "Introduction to the Intervener Team Model," a self-paced course.
This course introduces new team members to the intervener team model, providing essential skills to support students who are deafblind. Learners will gain a clear understanding of the intervener's role and responsibilities and practical strategies to foster communication, safety, trust, and independence. Emphasizing the "Do with, not for" philosophy, the course builds confidence and purpose for meaningful student support.
Click on this link and scroll to the bottom of the page for more information and instructions on how to enroll in the free course!
Resources for Families
This checklist "provides a framework to develop skills for independence in adulthood for individuals with disabilities. Families might use this tool to reflect on their child's achievements, consider any areas of concern, or collaborate with educators. Educators might use this tool to identify critical skills to address, adaptations to consider, or as an informal transition assessment for self-determination skills. Within each age group, you will see lists of activities and suggestions for teaching these critical skills and connecting with community partners."
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Sign Language
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The ESC Region 13 Signing Exact English (SEE) App is now live for use on a phone, tablet, or computer! With the encouragement of The SEE Center, this app contains signs created by ESC Region 13 to supplement the Signing Exact English Dictionary.
The words or signs are from the ESC Region 13 SEE Sign Database, created more than 20 years ago. This database is supplemental to the SEE Signs Dictionary and is now digital for phones, tablets, or computers. Please take a peek, use, and share with students, parents, teachers, interpreters, and everyone interested!
ASL at Home is an innovative, family-centered curriculum designed for families with young deaf children and the professionals who support them. The ASL at Home, Second Edition is now available in English and Spanish!
Did you know that Language First offers free virtual ASL classes for parents and ASL Read-Alouds for students?
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Additional Opportunities
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The Wizarding World of Imagination Texas 2026
April 10 -- 11, 2026
$70 per participant
Additional Information: 2026 Imagination Texas Electronic Flyer
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Imagination Texas, a statewide event for high school students who are deaf and hard of hearing, provides opportunities for students to learn about the arts and other post-secondary careers from deaf role models.
Questions? Contact Jennifer Hunter
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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED: Imagination Texas is looking for certified interpreters to volunteer for the various workshops and activities offered during Imagination Texas in Fort Worth on April 10-11, 2026.
For more information, reference the Imagination Texas Volunteer flyer or reach out to Twyla Loftin at twyla.loftin@tsd.texas.gov.
Mission: Possible: Every student presents a unique mission for educational teams. Every mission for every student is achievable when teams are united by a collaborative spirit. This conference, the biennial Texas Statewide Conference for Education of the Deaf, reminds us that all students with hearing differences deserve exceptional services, resources, and support to help them achieve their potential. "Mission: Possible" inspires us to provide transformative educational experiences, to build inclusive communities, and to empower students. Together, as parents, educators, and community members, we will ensure that every mission is accomplished!
IMPORTANT: When registering yourself or your staff for the Statewide Conference on Education of the Deaf (SWCED), please review and complete the communication and dietary accommodation sections. Specific needs and instructions should be documented on the Accommodations page for our team to best support your participants. You can access this section by clicking the blue Request Accommodations tab on the registration page or by going directly to the Request Accommodations page. Thank you for helping to create an accessible and welcoming conference experience for everyone!
Calling all K-12 Texas artists who are deaf, hard of hearing, or deafblind!
Would you like your artwork to be featured on the cover of the 2026 SWCED Conference Program? Create a piece of art using the theme, "Mission: POSSIBLE!" and follow the guidelines below:
- Any medium (paint, pencil, pen, crayon, marker, paper, canvas, modeling clay, collage, photography, digital, etc.) is welcome.
- The artwork must be vertical.
- A photo of the artwork, not the actual piece of art, will be submitted.
- Submission Deadline: February 28, 2026
The winner will be featured on the cover of the 2026 SWCED Conference Program and will receive a $100 Amazon Gift Card!
To add or remove a job vacancy from the Statewide Outreach Center at Texas School for the Deaf website, please complete the RDSPD Vacancy form.
The Statewide Outreach Center (SOC) at the Texas School for the Deaf provides resources and services to families with children who are deaf and hard of hearing. Starting at birth, SOC is here to support families along their journey.
For more information, please submit the Family Services Interest Form, and a member of the SOC staff will contact you.
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The Statewide Outreach Center (SOC) is excited to bring their popular Discovery Retreat, and other statewide resources, to your backyard. This one day program will feature three separate tracks for your community.
Student Track: Hands-on STEM Day where students will explore fun, interactive activities and gain valuable experience.
Parent Track: Presentations designed for parents and families to answer questions about language acquisition, school-based experiences, and the transition process for students as they prepare for life after high school.
Deaf Education Professional Track: Valuable workshops for professionals that focus on best-practice strategies and provide CEUs. (This track will have a small registration fee.)
Are you interested?
Please view the 2025-2026 Discovery Retreat: On the Road Flyer and complete this Interest Form.
Hosted by the Statewide Outreach Center at Texas School for the Deaf
- This free, virtual program brings engaging, TEKS-aligned storytelling sessions directly to education classrooms across Texas
- Designed specifically for ECSE through elementary-age Deaf and hard of hearing students
- Hosted by experienced Deaf storytellers and aligned with TEKS standards
- Supports language development and literacy in an accessible way
Electronic Flyer
Texas Hands and Voices:
Guide By Your Side
Texas Guide By Your Side (GBYS) is a family support program that embodies the mission of Hands & Voices, which is to provide support in an unbiased manner to parents/guardians with children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing from birth-21.
Guide By Your Side (GBYS) does this through specially trained parents of children who are deaf or hard of hearing. These parents work as “Guides” directly with families who have just learned of their child’s hearing condition or who have older children and need the unique support that comes from someone else who has walked this same path and can share their direct experiences and wisdom. GBYS programs can also include an option for Deaf/Hard-of-Hearing Guides (DHH Guides) who are deaf or hard-of-hearing adults and specially trained to provide support to families.
Texas Hands and Voices Website
Texas Hands and Voices YouTube Channel
HOW DO I ENROLL?
- Enrolling in the Guide By Your Side program is straightforward, confidential, and free of charge!
- Parents and family members can request services in English or Spanish.
- With faxed consent, professionals can also request services for staff or families they serve.
Enroll in English and Espanola
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Rochester Institute of Technology’s National Technical Institute for the Deaf is pleased to announce the launch of InterpNET – a database for deafness-related organizations, educators, interpreters, students, and anyone interested in finding deafness-related resources.
You can search categories such as Resources by U.S. State, Deaf Life and Culture, Books and Journals, and more. This is a crowd-sourced site, so more information is regularly added.
To explore the site, visit www.rit.edu/interpnet. To add to the database, click “connect with us” at the top of the homepage.
NTID Competitions for Middle School and High School Students who are DHH
Did you know that the National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID) offers a variety of competitions for middle school and high school students who are DHH to participate in?
October 26 - 28, 2026
National Technical Institute for the Deaf at Rochester Institute of Technology
Rochester, NY
Printable Flyer
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Health and Human Services Commission
DHHS Certificate of Deafness for Tuition Waiver Program
Updates from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Services (DHHS) regarding the Certificate of Deafness for Tuition Waiver (CODTW):
- CODTW information in English
- CODTW information in Spanish
- Applications may be sent via mail to the address listed on the application or emailed to dhhs.tuitionwaivers@hhs.texas.gov. This email address can also be used to ask questions about the program, request copies, etc.
- Allow up to 30 days for DHHS to process applications. After review, the applicant will receive an email at the email address they list on the application.
There are new updates to the Certificate of Deafness for Tuition Waiver Website, including a video in ASL describing the program and the newly updated Exemption for Blind or Deaf Students Fact Sheet.
Update: Method of Delivery for HHSC Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has established a new channel dedicated to sharing information and training announcements related to Texas Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS) programs.
If you or someone you know could benefit from updates on Texas Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS) programs, please subscribe or encourage them to subscribe through the HHSC Email and Text Updates. Your support in spreading awareness about DHHS initiatives is greatly appreciated!
View the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services webpage for more information.
Email questions to HHS DHHS Mailbox.
Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program (STAP)
Would you like to receive FREE equipment, devices, and services?
The Specialized Telecommunication Assistance Program (STAP) helps people with a disability that interferes with access to telephone networks and purchases basic specialized assistive equipment and services for those individuals. STAP typically covers the cost of most phones and other devices included in the voucher categories.
STAP applications can be found on the Texas Health and Human Services Commission website.
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Resources
Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE)
ECSE is a state and federally-mandated program for young children (ages 3-5) with disabilities. Eligible children are entitled to receive a free, appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment according to their individual needs.
Early Childhood Texas: Resources for Raising Kids
Created in partnership with the Texas Education Agency, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, Texas Health and Human Services, and the Texas Workforce Commission, this website provides resources and supports for parents and professionals as children grow and develop.
Information for Teachers of the DeafBlind
The Teachers of Students who are DeafBlind (TDB) website provides a centralized gathering place offering opportunities for a community of practice, sharing ideas, and resources.
Mental Health Crisis Hotline
Text DEAF to 741741: The person on the other end of the line will know sign language.
OR
Text HOME to 741741: This hotline is for persons not requiring sign-language communication.
National Association for Interpreters in Education State Standards
New Transition Resource: Next Steps to Independence — Skills and Strategies
This checklist "provides a framework to develop skills for independence in adulthood for individuals with disabilities. Families might use this tool to reflect on their child's achievements, consider any areas of concern, or collaborate with educators. Educators might use this tool to identify critical skills to address, adaptations to consider, or as an informal transition assessment for self-determination skills. Within each age group, you will see lists of activities and suggestions for teaching these critical skills and connecting with community partners."
National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes
As deaf people leave high school and prepare for college or careers, the National Deaf Center wants them to succeed. Their research shows that deaf people are not completing college degrees, getting jobs, or earning as much as hearing people. The NDC's goal is to change that!
SPEDTex
SPEDTex provides information and resources that help parents understand a child's disability and their rights and responsibilities under IDEA.
Statewide Outreach Center (SOC) at Texas School for the Deaf
Texas RDSPD Locator
This tool identifies which Regional Day School Programs for the Deaf serve specific cities, school districts, or charter schools. Contact information is included.
Texas SPED Support
Technical assistance and support needs for the State of Texas.
Texas Transition and Employment Guide
This helpful guide is available in English, Spanish, Korean, Vietnamese, and Chinese and includes information on transition planning, personal rights, careers, college, community, finances, and health for students and adults with disabilities.
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Contacts
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 Jennifer Hunter, Specialized Supports Grant Facilitator
817-740-7718
Mari Hubig, Birth to Age 8 Intervention Specialist
817-740-7661
Ben Davisson, Specialist, Visually Impaired and Deafblind
817-740-7637
Have you joined these Facebook groups?
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What's NEWs with you?
Do you have good news to share? Upcoming events to promote? Information to disseminate? Please let Anne Darr know by emailing details and photos to Anne Darr. Remember, parent consent is required to share images or names of students.
Does this newsletter meet your needs?
Is this newsletter helpful to you? Is there additional information that you would like included in Engage? Please share your thoughts, ideas, and feedback with Anne Darr. Seriously — your input is appreciated!
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Anne Darr
ESC Region 11 Special Programs Coordinator
Email: adarr@esc11.net
Phone: 817-740-3698
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