Governor Abbott supports new TEA open education resource initiative

Governor Greg Abbott today issued a statement supporting the Texas Education Agency’s (TEA) new open education resource (OER) instructional materials unveiled this morning.

"Last year, the Texas Legislature passed and I signed a law that directed the Texas Education Agency to purchase and develop instructional materials that will bring students back to the basics of education and provide the necessary fundamentals in math, reading, science, and other core subjects. The materials will also allow our students to better understand the connection of history, art, community, literature, and religion on pivotal events like the signing of the U.S. Constitution, the Civil Rights Movement, and the American Revolution. I thank the TEA for their work to ensure our students receive a robust educational foundation to succeed so that we can build a brighter Texas for generations to come,” stated Governor Abbott.

These instructional materials will undergo review by the Texas State Board of Education (SBOE), similar to all other instructional resources. Starting next year, school districts opting for SBOE-approved materials will receive additional state funding. If OER is approved by SBOE and districts choose these materials, further funding will be available to cover printing costs. The OER will be accessible online at no cost, allowing parents and families access to educational content aligned with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).

Governor Abbott signed House Bill 1605 into law last year. This legislation mandates TEA to provide OER for core subjects in key grades from Pre-K through 8th grade in reading and math. The law also requires TEA to appoint an advisory board ensuring material quality and compliance with suitability standards.