February 4, 2000
TO THE EDUCATOR ADDRESSED:
During the last session of the Texas Legislature, statutes were passed requiring that all middle school teachers, counselors, parents, and students receive information on the need for students to make informed academic decisions that prepare for success after high school and on available financial aid options for college. This action was taken in part to assure that as many students as possible are aware of the requirements of the Toward Excellence, Access And Success (TEXAS) grants program. This program provides funds for students with financial need to attend college if they successfully complete the Recommended or Distinguished Achievement high school programs. To assist districts in meeting this requirement, several one-day counselor conferences are being scheduled around the state that will provide materials and information that can be used in local presentations.
Students need sound advice and adequate academic preparation to successfully participate in the Recommended High School Program (RHSP). These conferences, jointly sponsored by the Texas Education Agency and the University of Texas System component institutions, will provide information on the RHSP, the AP/IB Incentive Program, the TEXAS grants program, the Center for Financial Aid, and other state initiatives that encourage student achievement. The purpose of the one-day conference is to assure that middle school counselors and teachers understand the requirements of these new state initiatives and programs and know where to go for additional assistance. Each of the conferences will be offered on a UT system campus and the $10 registration fee includes lunch.
The first of the series of conferences will be held at the University of Texas/San Antonio Downtown Campus on February 23, 2000. Registration and a continental breakfast will begin at
8:00 a.m. in the Assembly Meeting Room in the Buena Vista Building (BV), Room 1.338 and the conference itself will begin at 9:00 a.m. in the Theatre, Room BV 1.326. The attached form,
along with the registration fee of $10 per participant, should be sent to: UTSA Alliance for Education, 501 W. Durango Blvd., BV 2.308, San Antonio, TX 78207-4415 no later than February
11, 2000. This conference is limited to the first 150 people who submit a registration form with payment, so please act promptly if you wish to be included. A confirmation, with
parking instructions, will be returned to each registered participants. Other locations are included on one of the attachments that accompany this letter. Be sure to check the UT Systems
website (www.utsystem.edu/telecampus/k-12/AP/home.htm) for exact dates or email the address indicated for more
information.
It is hoped that you will participate in these meetings, and will give us feedback on how helpful they were to you in serving students on your campuses. Should you have any questions,
please do not hesitate to contact Janie Dominguez by email at jdominguez@utsa.edu or at 210-458-2769.
Sincerely yours,
Jim Nelson
Commissioner of Education
Attachments
elh
For further information on this topic, contact Janie Dominguez by email at jdominguez@utsa.edu or at 210-458-2769.