Special Education Operating Procedures: Don’t Wait to Update
Special Education Operating Procedures: Don’t Wait to Update
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) recently published the 2026-2027 Special Education Back to School Update, Volume 1 to reflect rules effective October 4, 2026, and July 1, 2027. With this update, TEA did not release a date for required uploads to the Texas Legal Framework; however, special education departments should not wait for announcement of the upload date to review and update their procedures.
With an increase in TEA complaints and due process hearing claims that include a variety of issues, districts should not let the absence of an announced upload date delay the work of keeping procedures current. Review existing operating procedures against the amended rules, identify areas requiring revision, and make sure the written procedures reflect actual district practice.
The team at TASB Student Solutions is actively working on operating procedure updates to reflect recent rule changes. We will alert districts with active Student Solutions Memberships as soon as the updates are ready. A Student Solutions Membership provides operating procedures vetted by education professionals and school attorneys that meet the requirements established by TEA. We work hard to provide support that eases your burden and gives you back time to focus on students.
To learn more about operating procedure requirements and tips refer to the following information:
Implementation of Board Policy: Special Education Operating Procedures
Why Every Program Needs Strong Operating Procedures
For more information about TASB Student Solutions email us at studentsolutions@tasb.org or call 888-247-4829.
Denise Carter
Denise serves as Manager of TASB Student Solutions, where she leads a dynamic and innovative team committed to helping school districts navigate compliance requirements, strengthen programs for special populations, and improve organizational effectiveness. Drawing on extensive experience across multiple educational roles, she brings a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges districts face in meeting the diverse needs of students.
Denise specializes in program reviews, executive coaching, and professional development. She utilizes these activities to partner with district leaders to enhance systems, streamline processes, and implement practical solutions that enable educators to focus on what matters most: student success. She brings a collaborative approach and strategic perspective to helping school leaders address complex challenges while building effective, student-centered practices that support positive outcomes for all learners.
Denise joined TASB in 2019 and enjoys working with districts across Texas to strengthen programs, foster continuous improvement, and support leadership effectiveness. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos, a Master of Education from The University of Texas at Austin, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene.
Contact: denise.carter@tasb.org
