TO THE SUPERINTENDENT ADDRESSED:
The recommended high school program is designed to ensure that students will be successful as they move into adult roles. Developed with input from educators, business leaders, and the public, the recommended high school program encourages students, parents, and campuses to set targets beyond the minimum graduation requirements.
Statewide, 8.7% of the Class of 1998 graduated under the recommended high school program. I am asking your help to ensure that the number of students graduating under the recommended high school program increases. Students who complete the recommended high school program curriculum or the distinguished achievement program will have a more solid academic foundation for pursuing opportunities in higher education, training, and our competitive economy.
The Texas Legislature has provided further incentive for students to graduate under advanced high school graduation programs. The "Toward Excellence, Access, & Success (TEXAS)" Grant Programs establishes grants to cover tuition and fees to Texas public and independent colleges and universities, including community colleges and technical schools, for students with financial need who have completed one of the advanced graduation programs.
Your help is needed to inform students and parents about the recommended high school program and the options available to them. I urge you to take a look at the Texas Scholars Program, sponsored by the Texas Business and Education Coalition, which is designed to motivate all students to undertake a rigorous course of study in high school. This program helps present eighth-grade students information on the value of taking a strong academic core in high school.
Thank you for continuing your efforts to encourage students to pursue rigorous courses and graduation plans.
If you have questions about the Recommended High School Program, please contact the Curriculum and Professional Development Division, TEA, at (512) 463-9581. Additional information about the TEXAS Grant Program can be obtained from Jane Caldwell, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, at 1-800-242-3062, ext. 6455 and about the Texas Scholars Program from Joe Randolph, Statewide Coordinator, at (903) 984-3071, ext. 287.
Sincerely yours,
Jim Nelson
Commissioner of Education
For further information on this topic, contactcontact the Curriculum and Professional Development Division, TEA, at (512) 463-9581.