School Board Trustee Training
The board of trustees of an independent school district is a corporate body that has the exclusive power and duty to oversee the district management and evaluate the performance of its superintendent. All powers and duties not specifically delegated by state law to the Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ (TEA) or State Board of Education (SBOE) are reserved for the trustees.
Ìýdefines the powers and duties of anÌýindependent school districtÌýboard of trustees.Ìý
The Framework for School Board DevelopmentÌýoutlines the vision and goals, systems and processes, progress and accountability, advocacy and engagement, and synergy and teamwork needed to provide local educational programs and services that will promote excellence in student academic achievement. Initially adopted in January 1996, the framework was revised by the SBOE in November 2020.
requires the SBOE to provide a course of training for independent school district boards of trustees.
School Board Training RequirementsÌý
Continuing education requirements for independent school board trustees are established in Texas Administrative Code §61.1 and Texas Government Code, §§, , and . This table provides a summary of these requirements. Use the links in the Eligible Provider(s) column to find a provider.
| Required Continuing Education |
First Year in Office |
Subsequent Years in Office |
Eligible Provider(s) |
| Local District Orientation | Three hours within the first 120 days in office | N/A | Local District |
| Orientation to the Texas Education Code |
Three hours within the first 120 days in office | N/A | Education Service Centers |
| Update to the Texas Education Code |
Following each legislative session and of sufficient length to address major changes |
• • • |
|
| Team-building (Team-of-eight) |
Three hours | Three hours every year | • • • |
| Additional Education based on Framework for School Board Development | Ten hours | Five hours every year | • • • |
| Evaluating and Improving Student Outcomes | Three hours within the first 120 days in office | Three hours every two years | • • |
| Sexual Abuse, Human Trafficking, and Other Maltreatment of Children |
One hour within the first 120 days in office | One hour every two years | • • • |
| Open Meetings Act (OMA) | One hour within the first 90 days in office | N/A | |
| Public Information Act (PIA) | One hour within the first 90 days in office | N/A | |
| Cybersecurity | Varies by provider | Every year | |
| School Safety | Two hours within the first 120 days in office | Every two years | • • |
Ìý
Team Commendation
Local board-superintendent teams that, together, receive at least eight hours of continuing education specified in Texas Administrative Code §61.1(k)Ìýare eligible for commendation. The SBOE established this commendation in recognition of the importance of working together as a team for the benefit of Texas students. Complete and submit the Ìýto apply.
School Governance
Phone: (512) 936-1533
SchoolGovernance@tea.texas.gov