TEA Releases Update on New Teacher Certification Requirements
A recent Texas Education Agency (TEA) To the Administrator Addressed Correspondence outlines the application process for districts seeking commissioner approval to delay implementation of House Bill (HB) 2 teacher certification requirements for foundation curriculum courses.
District Plan
Before applying, districts must develop a plan outlining how they will meet new teacher certification requirements by the 2029-2030 school year. The plan should include:
- A timeline and strategies to reduce uncertified teachers each year
- Support structures to help uncertified teachers earn certification
- Recruitment and teacher pipeline initiatives to increase the number of certified teachers
- Partnership with at least one Educator Preparation Program (EPP)
The plan must be approved by the district board of trustees and posted on the district website prior to submitting an application to TEA.
Application Process
Districts requesting a delay must include the following in their application:
- The number of uncertified teachers assigned to foundation curriculum courses in 2025-2026
- The name of at least one EPP partner supporting certification efforts
- The board approval date for submitting the application
- Link to the board meeting agenda and the board-approved plan on the district website
Applications can be submitted via the TEA webpage Application Submission for Delay of Teacher Certification Requirements. Dates to note include:
- Submission window: October 16, 2025 - March 2, 2026
- Review process: Rolling schedule with all approvals issued by March 31, 2026
Add automation@app.smartsheet.com to the district’s safe sender list to ensure receipt of all application updates.
Important Reminders
Only one application should be submitted per district, and applications must be approved by the board of trustees before submission. For assistance, contact HB2@tea.texas.gov or submit a help desk ticket to Educator Certification.
Additional information is available in the TEA To the Administrator Addressed Correspondence.
