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TEA Correspondence

A Microsoft Word version of this letter is available for download and PRINTING.

April 18, 2011

To the Administrator Addressed:

Subject: 2010-2011 Character Education Survey (Texas Education Code, §29.906)

In order to gather data required by the Texas Education Code (TEC), §29.906(e), an electronic Character Education Survey has been made available for your completion. You may access the survey at the following link: https://landry.tea.state.tx.us/tea_survey/CharacterEducation/CharacterEducation2011/
CharacterEducation2011.htm
.

A survey should be completed and submitted by every Texas district, regardless of whether the district offers character education.

TEC, §29.906(e), permits school districts to implement character education programs for students. Programs offered under TEC, §29.906, must meet the following criteria: (1) stress positive character traits as outlined in statute; (2) use integrated teaching strategies; and (3) be age appropriate. Districts are also required to consult with parents of students, educators, and members of the community, including community leaders, in selecting a character education program. The statute does not require or authorize the proselytization or indoctrination of any specific religious or political belief.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) is required to maintain a list of character education programs that meet the above criteria. Each year the TEA will designate every school that provides a program that meets the criteria and is approved by a committee as defined in statute as a Character Plus School. Character Plus Schools will be designated by TEA by August 30, 2011, and a comprehensive list of Character Plus Schools will be posted at http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index4.aspx?id=6098.
Data collected through this survey regarding the impact of the character education program on student discipline and academic achievement are required to be reported annually and will appear in TEA’s Comprehensive Annual Report.

Please complete the survey (by accessing the link referenced in the first paragraph) and submit it electronically by May 6, 2011. If you have any questions regarding this survey, please contact the Curriculum Division at (512) 463-9581 or via e-mail at curriculum@tea.state.tx.us.

Thank you for your assistance.

Sincerely,

Anita Givens
Associate Commissioner
Standards and Programs

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