 This spring newsletter contains key updates from TEA teams and partners to support school counselors in delivering the four statutory counseling program components of system support, guidance curriculum, responsive services, and individual planning (as defined in Texas Education Code, §33.005).
System Support
Counselor Work Time FAQs
Several FAQs relating to the 80/20 policy described in Texas Education Code (TEC), §33.006 and Texas Administrative Code (TAC), §78.1003 have been added and revised in this new FAQ document.
School Counseling Program Agreement
This optional Texas template guides the annual program planning discussion between school counselors and administrators. The process helps school leaders align priorities, roles, and campus expectations for the school counseling program.
Guidance Curriculum
Student Wellness: Guidance Curriculum Tier 1 Supports
This webinar provides counselors with statutorily-aligned wellness information and activities that they can use in tier 1 guidance lessons to support students.
Individual Planning
Effective Advising Framework (EAF)
The EAF continues to expand and is currently in 17 Education Service Centers (ESCs), with plans to have it available in all ESCs. More information, including new videos that highlight how districts are planning and implementing the framework, can be viewed here at the EAF website.
Proposed New 19 TAC Chapter 74, Curriculum Requirements, Subchapter EE, Computation of High School Grade Point Average, §74.3001, Computation of High School Grade Point Average
The proposed new rule would reflect the requirements of Senate Bill 1191, 89th Texas Legislature, Regular Session, 2025, and identify minimum requirements for school districts when computing a student's high school grade point average. The public comment period is March 20, 2026-April 20, 2026. A form for submitting public comments is available on the proposed commissioner of education rules webpage. The proposed effective date is July 12, 2026.
Responsive Services
Stress Management Webinar
This webinar provides counselors with tiered interventions and accompanying resources that they can use to reduce student stress and anxiety. Access the webinar PDF here and the webinar recording here.
Counseling Group and Individual Permission Forms
These two optional parent permission forms are available to gain written consent for students to participate in short-term individual counseling sessions or student support group sessions.
Communications from Across the Agency
|
-
TEA has completed a comprehensive revision of the Statewide Plan for Student Mental Health, reflecting the evolving needs of students across Texas. This updated plan strengthens the state’s commitment to ensuring that every student has access to mental health supports.
-
The newest edition of the TEA Graduation Toolkit is designed to help Texas students, families, and educators understand high school graduation requirements and plan for college, career, or military readiness. It provides clear guidance on graduation programs, endorsements, academic planning, and resources to support successful transitions beyond high school.
-
The School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) FAQ document has been updated to reflect changes made by the 89th Texas Legislature. To view the updated document, please visit the Health Education web page.
Updates from Other Agencies
|
As a courtesy to our readers, the following additional update from another state agency has been included.
 |
|
Engagement Opportunities
|
|
