February 12, 2004

TO THE ADMINISTRATOR ADDRESSED:

Subject: Requirement of Enrichment TEKS

On June 21, 2003, Governor Perry signed Senate Bill (SB) 815 into law requiring school districts, as a condition of accreditation, to provide instruction in the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) at appropriate grade levels in all subjects of the required curriculum, effective September 1, 2003. The required curriculum includes both the foundation and enrichment subjects.

Prior to the passage of SB 815, the TEKS were required in providing instruction in the foundation curriculum (English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies); whereas the TEKS were required only as “guidelines” in providing instruction in the enrichment curriculum (languages other than English, health, physical education, fine arts, economics, career and technology education, technology applications). School districts may apply to the Commissioner of Education for an extension for implementation of this requirement until the 2004-05 school year and may reapply in the summer of 2004 to delay implementation until the 2005-06 school year.

Many school districts already utilize the TEKS for instruction in the enrichment content areas and have developed a rigorous curriculum that is aligned with the standards. For those districts that have not fully implemented the TEKS for the enrichment content areas, SB 815 could necessitate professional development for teachers on standards-based instruction.

The prevailing philosophy of the “No Child Left Behind” Act is anchored in instruction based on state academic content and achievement standards. Utilizing the TEKS for all of the required curriculum will be a significant factor in providing a high quality and balanced education for all students. Please do not hesitate to contact the Division of Curriculum at (512) 463-9581 if additional information or assistance is required regarding this matter.

Sincerely,

Robert Scott
Chief Deputy Commissioner

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