As school administrators, you understand the importance of high-quality instructional materials in achieving academic success. We’re excited to share some fantastic news from the Texas Education Agency (TEA): the release of newly developed Texas Open Education Resources (OER) textbooks. These innovative resources, developed as part of House Bill (HB) 1605, are designed to support teachers, improve student outcomes, and provide schools with flexible, high-quality materials.
What Are Texas OER Textbooks?
Texas OER textbooks are state-owned instructional materials aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) standards. They offer comprehensive support in mathematics and elementary literacy, helping to close achievement gaps and support teachers with quality content developed using the best evidence from cognitive science.
These textbooks are “open,” meaning they are freely available to anyone and can be adapted over time to better meet the needs of students and educators. This flexibility is a game-changer for schools looking to tailor their curriculum to their unique student populations.
A Closer Look at the Texas OER Textbooks
OER K-5 Reading & Language Arts (RLA)
- Aligned with English Reading and Language Arts TEKS: These materials combine elements of the science of reading with a cross-curricular approach, immersing students in classic literature and lessons about art, history, culture, science, and technology.
- Texas Representation: The content reflects the diverse people, places, and history of Texas, making the learning experience more relatable and engaging for students.
OER K-8/Algebra Mathematics
- Built on Cognitive Science: These materials are designed based on insights about how people learn math, helping students build a strong foundation in mathematics.
- Comprehensive and Sequenced: They guide students through mastering arithmetic, memorizing math facts, and developing mathematical reasoning skills.
Why Texas OER Textbooks Matter
These textbooks are a significant step forward in providing exceptional instructional materials for Texas students and teachers. Here’s why they’re important:
- High-Quality Content: Developed using evidence from cognitive science, these materials ensure that all students have access to grade-level content.
- Flexibility: Teachers can customize the instruction to meet their students’ unique needs, promoting academic success and bridging knowledge gaps.
- Accessibility: Texas OER textbooks are available online, keeping parents and guardians informed and involved in their child’s education.
How to Get Involved
The TEA is inviting public feedback on these new textbooks. The State Board of Education (SBOE) will review and approve the materials as part of the Instructional Materials Review and Approval (IMRA) process. We encourage you to review the materials and provide your input to help improve them.
For more information and to access the Texas OER textbooks, visit the SBOE’s IMRA webpage.
Partner with Education Support Service
Implementing new instructional materials can be a daunting task, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Education Support Service, we’re here to help you navigate the process and make the most of these valuable resources. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in integrating Texas OER textbooks into your curriculum seamlessly.
Contact us today for a consultation and discover how we can support your educational goals.
Let’s work together to ensure every Texas student has access to the high-quality education they deserve.