Updates in Special Education
Resources for Families
TEA: TEA.Texas.gov/TexasSpEd
SpEdTex: SpEdTex.org | 1-855-773-3839
Family members can call or go online to find answers to their questions and access general information about special education.
TEA has created topic-specific resources for families.
Access the Resources Here
Special Education Reporting Changes
Beginning with the 2017 school year, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) changed how it reports special education enrollment in school systems. TEA no longer includes a target number for total students in special education as part of state monitoring.
Now, TEA only reports over-representation in certain race, ethnicity, and disability categories, as required by federal law.
Important: School systems may not use this data to delay, deny, or prevent a referral for special education evaluation.
Special Education / IDEA Eligibility
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law that guarantees eligible students with disabilities the right to receive special education services.
To qualify, a student must:
How to Begin the Special Education Process
Parents or guardians have the right to request a special education evaluation at any time.
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Submit your request in writing
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Address it to your school's principal or the district’s special education director
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If your child is not yet enrolled in school, send the request to the district's special education director
If the school knows or suspects a disability and a need for services, it must refer the student for evaluation.
Learn About Evaluation Timelines
