Part 2.
TEXAS EDUCATION AGENCY
Chapter 74.
CURRICULUM REQUIREMENTS
The State Board of Education (SBOE) adopts amendments to §§74.1
- 74.3, 74.61, 74.63, and 74.64, concerning the curriculum requirements. The
amendments to §§74.1 - 74.3, and 74.61 are adopted without changes
to the proposed text as published in the October 6, 2006, issue of the
In accordance with the Texas Education Code (TEC), §7.102(f), the
SBOE approved this rule action for final adoption by a vote of more than two-thirds
of its members to specify an effective date earlier than September 1, 2007.
The effective date of the adopted amendments is 20 days after filing as adopted.
The earlier effective date will allow the rule changes to become effective
prior to the 2007-2008 school year. Although the rule changes will not be
implemented until that school year, the earlier effective date provides school
districts time to incorporate the changes locally.
19 TAC Chapter 74 is organized as follows: Subchapter A, Required Curriculum;
Subchapter B, Graduation Requirements; Subchapter C, Other Provisions; Subchapter
D, Graduation Requirements, Beginning with School Year 2001-2002; Subchapter
E, Graduation Requirements, Beginning with School Year 2004-2005; and Subchapter
F, Graduation Requirements, Beginning with School Year 2007-2008.
In February 2006, the SBOE initiated its review of 19 TAC Chapter 74. At
that time, the SBOE directed Texas Education Agency staff to provide rule
options for consideration at its April 2006 meeting. The proposed amendments
approved for first reading and filing authorization by the SBOE during its
April 2006 meeting were published in the May 19, 2006, issue of the
At its July 2006 meeting, the SBOE approved amendments to 19 TAC Chapter
74, Subchapters C, D, and E for second reading and final adoption. These adopted
amendments were published in the August 4, 2006, issue of the
Texas Register
(31 TexReg 6212). Those adopted amendments took effect
on August 8, 2006, and apply to the 2006-2007 school year.
In addition, the SBOE withdrew the proposed amendments to 19 TAC Chapter
74, Subchapters A and F, to consider additional amendments in accordance with
HB 1, 79th Texas Legislature, Third Called Session, 2006. The withdrawal of
19 TAC Chapter 74, Subchapters A and F, was published in the August 4, 2006,
issue of the
Texas Register
(31 TexReg 6201
and 31 TexReg 6202, respectively).
The SBOE approved modified proposed amendments to 19 TAC Chapter 74, Subchapters
A and F, for first reading and filing authorization at its September 2006
meeting. These proposed amendments were published in the October 6, 2006,
issue of the
Texas Register
(31 TexReg 8320).
19 TAC Chapter 74, Subchapter A
HB 1 requires the SBOE to include language requiring that one or more courses
in the required curriculum include a research writing component. The adopted
amendments in Subchapter A include additional wording in 19 TAC §74.3(b)(5)
to satisfy this requirement.
In addition, the adopted amendment to 19 TAC §74.1(a)(2)(B) adds language
to the health curriculum requirement to include emphasis on the importance
of proper nutrition and exercise, as required by Senate Bill 42. The adopted
amendments to Subchapter A also incorporate technical corrections, including
clarification to the languages other than English requirement in 19 TAC §74.3(b)(2)(J)
to match corrections in Subchapters D - F.
The adopted amendment to 19 TAC §74.2 adds the word "reading" to English
language arts under the required elementary curriculum, as directed by the
SBOE in September 2006.
19 TAC Chapter 74, Subchapter F
HB 1 requires four years of mathematics and science in the recommended
and distinguished achievement high school programs, beginning with students
entering Grade 9 in school year 2007-2008. Adopted amendments in Subchapter
F incorporate the mandated fourth year of mathematics and science as follows.
The adopted amendment in 19 TAC §74.61(i) removes provisional language
regarding the fourth year of science to correspond with adopted amendments
in 19 TAC §74.63 and §74.64.
The adopted amendments in §74.63 and §74.64 increase the number
of credits required to complete the recommended and distinguished achievement
high school programs to 26. This increase in the total number of required
credits specified in subsection (a) does not decrease the number of elective
credits specified in subsection (c).
Section 74.63 establishes graduation requirements under the Recommended
High School Program. As proposed, the required four mathematics credits in
the recommended program consisted of Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and
a fourth SBOE-approved mathematics course. At adoption, the SBOE approved
the mathematics requirements proposed in subsection (b)(2), with the following
changes. New subparagraph (A)(i) - (xii) was added to reference specific names
of SBOE-approved mathematics courses, new subparagraph (B) was added to stipulate
that the Mathematical Models with Applications course must be taken prior
to Algebra II, and new subparagraph (C) was added to specify that the SBOE
may designate additional courses to fulfill the mathematics credits required
under the recommended program in the future.
Also within the recommended program, the proposal required that the four
science credits consist of one credit in biology and two credits selected
from Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC), a chemistry credit, or a physics
credit plus one additional credit selected from the laboratory-based science
courses listed in 19 TAC Chapter 112 of this title (relating to Texas Essential
Knowledge and Skills for Science), with the addition of Engineering and Earth
and Space Science. The proposal also stipulated that IPC could not be taken
as the fourth science credit and must be taken before the senior year of high
school. Further, the proposal specified that after the 2011-2012 school year,
IPC would only be available to students on the minimum graduation plan. The
proposal specified that beginning with students who enter Grade 9 beginning
with the 2012-2013 school year, the four science credits under the recommended
program must consist of a biology credit, a chemistry credit, a physics credit,
and a credit selected from the laboratory-based science courses listed in
19 TAC Chapter 112, with the addition of Engineering and Earth and Space Science.
At adoption, the SBOE approved the science requirements proposed in subsection
(b)(3), with the following changes. Subparagraph (C)(iii) was modified to
add Principles of Technology I to the list of courses for which a physics
credit can be earned by students entering Grade 9 beginning with the 2012-2013
school year to be consistent with adopted new subparagraph (A)(iii). New subparagraph
(E) was added to specify that the SBOE may designate additional courses to
fulfill the science credits required under the recommended program.
Section 74.64 establishes graduation requirements under the Distinguished
Achievement Program. For the Distinguished Achievement Program, the proposal
required that the four mathematics credits consist of Algebra I, Algebra II,
Geometry, and a fourth SBOE-approved mathematics course for which Algebra
II is a prerequisite. The SBOE approved the mathematics requirements for the
distinguished plan with no changes from the proposal.
Also within the Distinguished Achievement Program, the proposal required
that the four science credits consist of a biology credit, a chemistry credit,
a physics credit, and a credit selected from the following laboratory-based
courses: Earth and Space Science, Environmental Systems, Aquatic Science,
Astronomy, Anatomy and Physiology of Human Systems, Advanced Placement (AP)
Biology, International Baccalaureate (IB) Biology, AP Chemistry, IB Chemistry,
AP Physics, IB Physics, AP Environmental Science, IB Environmental Systems,
Scientific Research and Design, and Engineering. The SBOE approved the science
requirements for the distinguished achievement program with no changes from
the proposal.
In addition, the SBOE approved proposed amendments to Subchapter F that
match amendments to Subchapters D and E as appropriate. These amendments include:
clarification of the languages other than English requirement in subsection
(b)(6) in §74.63 and §74.64; replacement of the term "tech prep
articulated" with the correct term "advanced technical credit" in subsection
(d)(3) in §74.64; and clarification of requirements to satisfy the technology
applications credit in subsection (b)(10)(D) in §74.63 and §74.64.
The SBOE made one additional change in §74.64(d)(3) at adoption in response
to public comment requesting clarification about advanced measures relating
to dual credit courses. The additional change clarifies that dual credit courses
also include courses under local articulation agreements.
Following are comments received and corresponding responses regarding adoption
of the proposed amendments.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, comments were received from four individuals,
10 parents, three teachers, a science coordinator for Coppell Independent
School District (ISD), the superintendent of Northside ISD, the executive
director of fine arts for Katy ISD, the program directors for secondary mathematics
and science from Aldine ISD, and a member of the Angleton ISD board of trustees
in support of the proposed amendments. Comments placed an emphasis on the
desire to keep as much flexibility for students as possible.
Response. The SBOE agreed with the desire to maintain flexibility for students
and took action to ensure sufficient courses were available to provide opportunities
for student choice with respect to course selection in completing the fourth
year of mathematics and fourth year of science.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, comments were received from the Greater
San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, the San Antonio Aerospace Industry Council,
the San Antonio Manufacturers Association, and Alamo Aerospace Academies urging
the SBOE to allow for flexibility in the courses that will satisfy the requirements
for a fourth year of mathematics and a fourth year of science to include opportunities
for students to learn through technical and hands-on instruction.
Response. The SBOE agreed with the desire to maintain flexibility for students
and took action to ensure sufficient courses were available to provide opportunities
for student choice with respect to course selection in completing the fourth
year of mathematics and fourth year of science.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, comments were received from an individual
and the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals urging the SBOE to
allow the fourth year of mathematics and science courses to be relevant to
the needs of all students.
Response. The SBOE agreed and took action to ensure that graduation requirements
provide opportunities for student choice with respect to course selection
in completing the fourth year of mathematics and fourth year of science.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, comments were received from six individuals,
a superintendent, and two parents expressing their objection to requiring
all students to take an additional mathematics and an additional science course.
Concerns include an increase in the dropout rate as a result of the new requirements,
lack of flexibility for students to pursue their individual interests, and
undue stress for students.
Response. The SBOE disagreed and took action to determine the courses that
would satisfy the requirements for a fourth year of mathematics and a fourth
year of science. The additional graduation requirements are the result of
state law that the SBOE must implement.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, a comment was received from an individual
asking the SBOE to keep the graduation requirements as they are.
Response. The SBOE disagreed and took action to determine the courses that
would satisfy the requirements for a fourth year of mathematics and a fourth
year of science. The additional graduation requirements are the result of
state law that the SBOE must implement.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, comments were received from an individual
and two teachers in support of the proposal for course selection and sequencing
submitted to the SBOE in September 2006 by Cypress-Fairbanks ISD.
Response. The SBOE agreed with the desire to maintain flexibility for students
and took action to ensure sufficient courses were available to provide opportunities
for student choice with respect to course selection in completing the fourth
year of mathematics and fourth year of science.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, comments were received from the Cy-Fair
Minority Parents Association opposing the proposal submitted to the SBOE in
September 2006 by Cypress-Fairbanks ISD and supporting the requirement that
all students take Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and Pre-calculus.
Response. The SBOE agreed with this requirement for the Distinguished Achievement
Program but disagreed with it for the Recommended Program. The SBOE took action
to require Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and a fourth mathematics course
for which Algebra II is a prerequisite for the Distinguished Achievement Program,
but took action to allow for more flexibility for meeting the additional mathematics
requirement under the Recommended Program. This will allow students to take
Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and Pre-calculus, but does not require it.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, comments were received from four individuals,
nine parents, a member of the Coppell ISD board of trustees, the superintendent
of Northside ISD, and two teachers expressing concern that gifted/academically
advanced students, in particular, would be penalized if required to take four
years of mathematics and four years of science beyond high school credits
they earned in middle school. Individuals expressed the desire for students
to be allowed to earn credits toward high school in middle school and not
be required to take four years of mathematics and four years of science in
high school beyond those courses earned beginning in middle school.
Response. The SBOE agreed and took no action to require specified grade
levels at which the four years of mathematics and four years of science must
be taken, maintaining the provision for students to take courses for high
school credit prior to entering high school.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, a comment was received from the Greater
Austin Chamber of Commerce Task Force on Mathematics and Science Education
strongly endorsing the requirement that students receive mathematics and science
instruction each year in Grades 9-12.
Response. The SBOE disagreed and took no action to require specified grade
levels at which the four years of mathematics and four years of science must
be taken, maintaining the provision for students to take courses for high
school credit prior to entering high school.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, a comment was received from an individual
indicating that school districts should be required to offer a seven-period
day in order to allow students to complete required courses while still having
the ability to participate in activities such as athletics, band, and orchestra.
Response. The SBOE disagreed and took no action regarding this matter.
State law does not grant either the agency or the SBOE statutory authority
over scheduling of the school day.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, a comment was received from the Texas
Association of Secondary School Principals asking the SBOE to carefully consider
the timeline for implementation of new graduation requirements.
Response. The SBOE took action to make amendments to graduation requirements
effective beginning with students who enter Grade 9 in 2007-2008. This implementation
date is required in state law.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, a comment was received from an individual
expressing support for enhanced mathematics and science curriculum for graduation,
but concern that students who are inappropriately placed in higher level courses
will hinder the educational progress of other students. The individual commented
that the additional mathematics and science courses should be strongly encouraged
and not mandated.
Response. The SBOE disagreed and took action to determine the courses that
would satisfy the requirements for a fourth year of mathematics and a fourth
year of science. The additional graduation requirements are the result of
state law that the SBOE must implement.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, a comment was received from the executive
director of the Texas Music Educators Association encouraging SBOE members
to protect electives and flexibility for students.
Response. The SBOE agreed and took action to increase the number of credits
required for graduation under both the Recommended and Distinguished Achievement
Programs to 26 in order to preserve the number of electives in a student's
graduation program.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, a comment was received from an individual
asking the SBOE to evaluate elective courses to determine whether they can
be used to satisfy the mathematics and science requirements.
Response. The SBOE disagreed and took no action to evaluate elective courses
or add them to the list of courses that will satisfy the new mathematics and
science requirements.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, a comment was received from the executive
director of the Ingenuity Center at the University of Texas at Tyler asking
the SBOE to create a new course that focuses on developing students' capacities
to design solutions to current and future problems.
Response. The SBOE agreed with the need to develop new courses and took
action to allow for the development of additional mathematics courses in the
future.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, a comment was received from the executive
director of the Education Career Alternatives Program expressing concerns
over the testing irregularities and lack of test sites for potential candidates
who are trying to take the TExES certification exam.
Response. The SBOE took no action relating to this matter as it was outside
of the scope of the proposed amendments to 19 TAC Chapter 74.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, comments were received from the president
and the executive director of the Texas Association of School Personnel Administrators
expressing concern over the impact the implementation of the new mathematics
and science requirements will have on the existing shortage of certified teachers
in these areas. Comments also included recommendations for addressing these
concerns.
Response. The SBOE took no action on this matter as it was outside the
scope of the proposed amendments to 19 TAC Chapter 74.
Comment. Concerning Chapter 74, Subchapter F, Graduation Requirements,
Beginning with School Year 2007-2008, a comment was received from an individual
asking the SBOE to improve mathematics and science teacher certification and
provide intense and sustained professional development.
Response. The SBOE took no action on this matter as it was outside the
scope of the proposed amendments to 19 TAC Chapter 74.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(2), comments were received from two
individuals, a teacher, the superintendent of Jayton-Girard ISD, and the director
of mathematics for Coppell ISD in support of creating multiple paths to completing
the fourth year of mathematics including Mathematical Models with Applications.
Response. The SBOE agreed and took action to allow Mathematical Models
with Applications to count as one of the four years of mathematics under the
Recommended Program.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(2), a comment was received from three
individuals and the coordinator of secondary mathematics in Cypress-Fairbanks
ISD emphasizing that Mathematical Models with Applications is sufficiently
rigorous for students on the Recommended Program and that the course will
support student success in rigorous Algebra II courses.
Response. The SBOE agreed and took action to allow Mathematical Models
with Applications to count as one of the four years of mathematics under the
Recommended Program.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(2), a comment was received from the
Texas Business and Education Coalition asking the SBOE to phase-out Mathematical
Models as a course for which students may receive credit toward the mathematics
requirements.
Response. The SBOE disagreed and took action to allow Mathematical Models
with Applications to count as one of the four years of mathematics under the
Recommended Program.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(2), a comment was received from two
individuals and a member of the Coppell ISD board of trustees asking the SBOE
not to make Algebra II a prerequisite for the fourth year mathematics courses.
Response. The SBOE agreed and took action to maintain language as proposed
that does not require Algebra II as a prerequisite for the fourth mathematics
course under the Recommended Program.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(2), a comment was received from a teacher
expressing concern that requiring more students to take upper level mathematics
courses "waters down" the content in those courses.
Response. The SBOE disagreed and took action to determine the courses that
would satisfy the requirements for a fourth year of mathematics and a fourth
year of science. State law and rule require that all Texas Essential Knowledge
and Skills for all courses be taught.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(2), a comment was received from an individual
suggesting that a consumer related personal finance mathematics course be
included as an option for the fourth year of math.
Response. The SBOE disagreed and took action to determine the courses that
would satisfy the requirements for a fourth year of math. This list of courses
did not include a personal finance mathematics course. State law requires
that personal financial literacy be taught in courses that count for economics
credit toward graduation.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(2), a comment was received from the
regional director for elementary/secondary school services for ACT, Inc. providing
evidence of the value of a fourth year of mathematics that goes beyond Algebra
II.
Response. The SBOE agreed with this recommendation for the Distinguished
Achievement Program but disagreed with it for the Recommended Program. The
SBOE took action to maintain language as proposed that does not require Algebra
II as a prerequisite for the fourth mathematics course under the Recommended
Program. The SBOE took action to require that students graduating under the
Distinguished Achievement Program complete a course beyond Algebra II for
the fourth credit of mathematics.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(2), a comment was received from the
Texas Business and Education Coalition asking the SBOE to develop additional
mathematics courses to be implemented by the 2009-2010 school year.
Response. The SBOE agreed with the need to develop new courses and took
action to allow for the development of additional mathematics courses in the
future.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(2), comments were received from three
teachers asking the SBOE to approve AP Computer Science as an option for the
fourth year of mathematics under the Recommended Program.
Response. The SBOE agreed and took action to approve AP Computer Science
as an option for the fourth year of mathematics under the Recommended Program.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(2), comments were received from two
teachers expressing their belief that computer science should be approved
as an option for the fourth year of mathematics under the Recommended Program.
Response. The SBOE agreed and took action to approve AP Computer Science
as an option for the fourth year of mathematics under the Recommended Program.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(3), comments were received from three
teachers expressing their belief that computer science should be approved
as an option for the fourth year of science under the Recommended Program.
Response. The SBOE disagreed and took action to approve AP Computer Science
as an option for the fourth year of mathematics under the Recommended Program.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(3), comments were received from two
individuals urging the SBOE to allow IPC to count toward graduation for gifted/academically
advanced students who take these courses in middle school.
Response. The SBOE took action to allow IPC to count toward a science course
required for graduation until 2012 under the Recommended Program. The SBOE
took action to remove IPC from the Distinguished Achievement Program beginning
with students who enter Grade 9 in the 2007-2008 school year.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(3), a comment was received from an individual
in support of removing IPC from the Recommended Program, but allowing the
course to count toward graduation for students on the Minimum High School
Program.
Response. The SBOE agreed and took action to phase out IPC as a course
allowed for science credit toward graduation under the Recommended Program.
The SBOE took no action regarding the Minimum Program and continues to allow
IPC to count as a science credit under this program.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(3), a comment was received from the
Texas Business and Education Coalition asking the SBOE to accelerate the phase-out
of IPC to first affect students who enter Grade 9 in 2009-2010.
Response. The SBOE disagreed and took action to phase out IPC under the
Recommended Program beginning with students entering Grade 9 in the 2012-2013
school year. This course will continue to count toward a science credit for
students who enter Grade 9 prior to 2012-2013 until these students complete
their graduation requirements.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(3), a comment was received from 26 teachers,
the Charles A. Dana Center, and a curriculum director opposing the elimination
of IPC as a course for high school graduation credit. Individuals expressed
their belief in the merits of the IPC course and its importance in helping
struggling students prepare for success in chemistry and physics.
Response. The SBOE disagreed and took action to phase out IPC under the
Recommended Program beginning with students entering Grade 9 in the 2012-2013
school year. This course will continue to count toward a science credit for
students who enter Grade 9 prior to 2012-2013 until these students complete
their graduation requirements. The SBOE took action to remove IPC from the
Distinguished Achievement Program beginning with students who enter Grade
9 in the 2007-2008 school year.
Comment. Concerning §74.64(b)(3), a comment was received from an individual
inquiring about whether the decision to remove IPC has been made and when
implementation would occur.
Response. The SBOE took action to phase out IPC under the Recommended Program
beginning with students entering Grade 9 in the 2012-2013 school year. This
course will continue to count toward a science credit for students who enter
Grade 9 prior to 2012-2013 until these students complete their graduation
requirements. The SBOE took action to remove IPC from the Distinguished Achievement
Program beginning with students who enter Grade 9 in the 2007-2008 school
year.
Comment. Concerning §74.64(b)(3), a comment was received from a science
coordinator in Coppell ISD supporting the phase out of IPC.
Response. The SBOE agreed and took action to phase out IPC. Beginning with
students who enter Grade 9 in 2012-2013, IPC will no longer count toward the
required four years of science.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(3)(C), comments were received from four
teachers, a representative of the American Association of Physics Teachers,
the Texas Business and Education Coalition, and the superintendent of Northside
ISD requesting that the Principles of Technology course continue to be included
as an option for satisfying the physics course requirement for graduation.
Response. The SBOE agreed and took action to allow Principles of Technology
to continue to count as an option for satisfying the physics requirement under
the Recommended Program. The SBOE took action to remove Principles of Technology
as an option for satisfying the physics requirement under the Distinguished
Achievement Program.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(3), a comment was received from director
of public affairs with Texas Instruments encouraging the SBOE to include engineering
as one of the approved course options for the fourth year of science.
Response. The SBOE agreed and took action to include an engineering course
as an option for the fourth science credit under the Recommended and the Distinguished
Achievement Programs.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(3), comments were received from a teacher
and the Texas Business and Education Coalition urging the SBOE to grant students
credit for a fourth year of science for successful completion of the Infinity
project or engineering through Project Lead the Way.
Response. The SBOE agreed that students should be able to earn credit for
a fourth year of science for successful completion of an engineering course
and took action to add engineering to the list of courses that will count
for the fourth year of science. The SBOE directed the agency to begin work
on development of Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for engineering.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(3), a comment was received from the
Texas Section of the American Association of Physics Teachers recommending
that the Recommended Program include biology, chemistry, physics, and a fourth
course from any of the state approved science courses. The organization supported
the proposal for the Distinguished Achievement Program and strongly recommended
a rigorous advanced or capstone course. Additionally, the organization recommended
that the Minimum Program include IPC, biology, and one additional state approved
science course.
Response. The SBOE disagreed and took action to allow various courses to
count for the fourth year of science, including a phase out of IPC under the
Recommended Program. The SBOE agreed with the comments regarding the Distinguished
Achievement Program and took action to approve language as proposed. The SBOE
took no action regarding the Minimum High School Program.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(3), a comment was received from a member
of the Texas Earth Science Teachers Association advisory board making recommendations
for revision of middle school science Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills.
Response. The SBOE took no action on this matter as it was outside the
scope of the proposed amendments to 19 TAC Chapter 74.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(3), a comment was received from a teacher
inquiring about how adequate classrooms and labs will be built and sufficient
numbers of physics teachers hired to be able to implement the additional science
requirement.
Response. The additional graduation requirements are the result of state
law that the SBOE must implement. The SBOE took action to determine the courses
that would satisfy the requirements for a fourth year of mathematics and a
fourth year of science. The SBOE does not have statutory authority over facilities
or recruitment.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(3), a comment was received from an individual
expressing concern over the lack of science labs/classrooms including concern
that labs do not meet safety standards. The comment included concern that
science is underfunded at the campus level.
Response. The additional graduation requirements are the result of state
law that the SBOE must implement. The SBOE took action to determine the courses
that would satisfy the requirements for a fourth year of mathematics and a
fourth year of science. The SBOE does not have statutory authority over facilities.
Comment. Concerning §74.63(b)(3)(A), a comment was received from the
Texas Earth Science Teachers Association urging the SBOE to add Earth and
Space science to the choices for the second and third science courses under
the Recommended Program during the phase out of IPC. When IPC is phased out,
the association recommends requiring an Earth and Space Systems.
Response. The SBOE disagreed and took action to allow various courses to
count for the fourth year of science.
Comment. Concerning §74.64(d)(3), comments were received from an individual
expressing concern that the wording in this subsection relating to dual credit
courses could lead to misinterpretations by school districts and community
colleges.
Response. The SBOE agreed and took action to add language to provide clarification
about advanced measures relating to dual credit courses. The additional change
clarifies that dual credit courses also include courses under local articulation
agreements.
Comment. Concerning House Bill 1, a comment was received from an individual
asking the SBOE to include or consult with industry professionals in the creation
of vertical teams to ensure students are prepared to perform college-level
course work.
Response. The SBOE took no action on this matter as it was outside the
scope of the proposed amendments to 19 TAC Chapter 74.
Subchapter A. REQUIRED CURRICULUM
19 TAC §§74.1 - 74.3
The amendments are adopted under the Texas Education Code, §7.102(c)(4),
which authorizes the SBOE to establish curriculum and graduation requirements;
and §28.002, which authorizes the SBOE to by rule designate subjects
constituting a well-balanced curriculum and to require each district to provide
instruction in the essential knowledge and skills at appropriate grade levels.
The amendments implement the Texas Education Code, §§7.102(c)(4),
28.002, and 28.025.
This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.
Filed with the Office of
the Secretary of State on December 20, 2006.
TRD-200606862
Cristina De La Fuente-Valadez
Director, Policy Coordination
Texas Education Agency
Effective date: January 9, 2007
Proposal publication date: October 6, 2006
For further information, please call: (512) 475-1497
19 TAC §§74.61, 74.63, 74.64
The amendments are adopted under the Texas Education Code, §7.102(c)(4),
which authorizes the SBOE to establish curriculum and graduation requirements; §28.002,
which authorizes the SBOE to by rule designate subjects constituting a well-balanced
curriculum and to require each district to provide instruction in the essential
knowledge and skills at appropriate grade levels; and §28.025(a), which
authorizes the SBOE to by rule determine curriculum requirements for the minimum,
recommended, and advanced high school programs that are consistent with §28.002.
The amendments implement the Texas Education Code, §§7.102(c)(4),
28.002, and 28.025(a).
§74.63.Recommended High School Program.
(a)
Credits. A student must earn at least 26 credits to complete
the Recommended High School Program.
(b)
Core Courses. A student must demonstrate proficiency in
the following:
(1)
English language arts--four credits. The credits must consist
of English I, II, III, and IV (English I for Speakers of Other Languages
and English II for Speakers of Other Languages may be substituted for English
I and II only for immigrant students with limited English proficiency).
(2)
Mathematics--four credits.
(A)
The credits must consist of Algebra I, Algebra II, and
Geometry. After successful completion of Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra
II, a student may select the fourth required credit from any of the following
courses, except as provided in subparagraph (B) of this paragraph:
(i)
Precalculus;
(ii)
Independent Study in Mathematics;
(iii)
Advanced Placement (AP) Statistics;
(iv)
AP Calculus AB;
(v)
AP Calculus BC;
(vi)
AP Computer Science;
(vii)
International Baccalaureate (IB) Mathematical Studies
Subsidiary Level;
(viii)
IB Mathematical Methods Subsidiary Level;
(ix)
IB Mathematics Higher Level;
(x)
IB Advanced Mathematics Subsidiary Level;
(xi)
concurrent enrollment in college mathematics courses;
and
(xii)
Mathematical Models with Applications.
(B)
If selected, Mathematical Models with Applications must
be taken prior to Algebra II.
(C)
The SBOE may designate additional courses that meet the
requirements of this paragraph.
(3)
Science--four credits.
(A)
One credit must be a biology credit (Biology, Advanced
Placement (AP) Biology, or International Baccalaureate (IB) Biology). Students
must choose two credits from the following areas. Not more than one credit
may be chosen from each of the areas to satisfy this requirement.
(i)
Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC);
(ii)
Chemistry, AP Chemistry, or IB Chemistry; and
(iii)
Physics, Principles of Technology I, AP Physics, or IB
Physics.
(B)
IPC cannot be taken as the final or fourth year of science,
but must be taken before the senior year of high school. The fourth year of
science may be selected from the laboratory-based courses listed in Chapter
112 of this title (relating to Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Science),
with the addition of Engineering and Earth and Space Science.
(C)
A student entering Grade 9 beginning with the 2012-2013
school year must take three science credits, at least one from each category,
from the following areas:
(i)
Biology, AP Biology, or IB Biology;
(ii)
Chemistry, AP Chemistry, or IB Chemistry; and
(iii)
Physics, Principles of Technology I, AP Physics, or IB
Physics.
(D)
The fourth year of science may be selected from the laboratory-based
courses listed in Chapter 112 of this title (relating to Texas Essential Knowledge
and Skills for Science), with the addition of Engineering and Earth and Space
Science.
(E)
The SBOE may designate additional courses that meet the
requirements of this paragraph.
(4)
Social studies--three and one-half credits. The credits
must consist of World History Studies (one credit), World Geography Studies
(one credit), United States History Studies Since Reconstruction (one credit),
and United States Government (one-half credit).
(5)
Economics, with emphasis on the free enterprise system
and its benefits--one-half credit. The credit must consist of Economics with
Emphasis on the Free Enterprise System and Its Benefits.
(6)
Languages other than English--two credits. The credits
earned must be for any two levels in the same language.
(7)
Physical education--one and one-half credits to include
Foundations of Personal Fitness (one-half credit).
(A)
A student may not earn more than two credits in physical
education toward state graduation requirements.
(B)
The school district board of trustees may allow a student
to substitute certain physical activities for the required credits in physical
education, including the Foundations of Personal Fitness. The substitutions
must be based on the physical activity involved in drill team, marching band,
and cheerleading during the fall semester; Junior Reserve Officer Training
Corps (JROTC); athletics; Dance I-IV; and two- or three-credit career and
technology work-based training courses.
(C)
In accordance with local district policy, a school district
may award up to two credits for physical education for appropriate private
or commercially-sponsored physical activity programs conducted on or off campus.
The district must apply to the commissioner of education for approval of such
programs, which may be substituted for state graduation credit in physical
education. Such approval may be granted under the following conditions.
(i)
Olympic-level participation and/or competition includes
a minimum of 15 hours per week of highly intensive, professional, supervised
training. The training facility, instructors, and the activities involved
in the program must be certified by the superintendent to be of exceptional
quality. Students qualifying and participating at this level may be dismissed
from school one hour per day. Students dismissed may not miss any class other
than physical education.
(ii)
Private or commercially-sponsored physical activities
include those certified by the superintendent to be of high quality and well
supervised by appropriately trained instructors. Student participation of
at least five hours per week must be required. Students certified to participate
at this level may not be dismissed from any part of the regular school day.
(8)
Health education--one-half credit, which may satisfied
by Health 1 or Advanced Health, or Health Science Technology--one credit,
which may be satisfied by Introduction to Health Science Technology, Health
Science Technology I, or Health Science Technology II.
(9)
Speech--one-half credit. The credit must consist of Communication
Applications.
(10)
Technology applications--one credit, which may be satisfied
by:
(A)
the following courses in Chapter 126 of this title (relating
to Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Technology Applications): Computer
Science I, Computer Science II, Desktop Publishing, Digital Graphics/Animation,
Multimedia, Video Technology, Web Mastering, or Independent Study in Technology
Applications, or state-approved technology applications innovative courses;
(B)
the following courses in Chapter 120 of this title (relating
to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Business Education): Business
Computer Information Systems I or II, Business Computer Programming, Telecommunications
and Networking, or Business Image Management and Multimedia;
(C)
the following courses in Chapter 123 of this title (relating
to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Technology Education/Industrial
Technology Education): Computer Applications, Technology Systems (modular
computer laboratory-based), Communications Graphics (modular computer laboratory-based),
or Computer Multimedia and Animation Technology; or
(D)
the completion of three credits (for students participating
in a coherent sequence of career and technology courses or who are enrolled
in a Tech Prep high school plan of study) consisting of two or more state-approved
career and technology courses in Chapters 119 - 125 and 127 of this title.
Districts shall ensure that career and technology courses, including innovative
courses, in a coherent sequence used to meet the technology applications credit
are appropriate to collectively teach the knowledge and skills found in any
of the approved courses listed in subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C) of this
paragraph. Students pursuing the technology applications option described
in this subparagraph must demonstrate proficiency in technology applications
prior to the beginning of Grade 11.
(11)
Fine arts--one credit, which may be satisfied by any course
in Chapter 117, Subchapter C, of this title (relating to Texas Essential Knowledge
and Skills for Fine Arts).
(c)
Elective Courses--three and one-half credits. The credits
may be selected from the list of courses specified in §74.61(g) of this
title (relating to High School Graduation Requirements). All students who
wish to complete the Recommended High School Program are encouraged to study
each of the four foundation curriculum areas (English language arts, mathematics,
science, and social studies) every year in high school.
(d)
Substitutions. No substitutions are allowed in the Recommended
High School Program, except as specified in this chapter.
§74.64.Distinguished Achievement High School Program--Advanced High School Program.
(a)
Credits. A student must earn at least 26 credits to complete
the Distinguished Achievement High School Program.
(b)
Core Courses. A student must demonstrate proficiency in
the following:
(1)
English language arts--four credits. The credits must consist
of English I, II, III, and IV (English I for Speakers of Other Languages
and English II for Speakers of Other Languages may be substituted for English
I and II only for immigrant students with limited English proficiency).
(2)
Mathematics--four credits. The credits must consist of
Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry and an additional SBOE-approved mathematics
course for which Algebra II is a prerequisite.
(3)
Science--four credits. The credits must consist of a biology
credit (Biology, Advanced Placement (AP) Biology, or International Baccalaureate
(IB) Biology), a chemistry credit (Chemistry, AP Chemistry, or IB Chemistry),
a physics credit (Physics, AP Physics, or IB Physics), and an additional approved
laboratory-based science course. After successful completion of a biology
course, a chemistry course, and a physics course, a student may select the
fourth required credit from any of the following laboratory-based courses:
(A)
Earth and Space Science;
(B)
Environmental Systems;
(C)
Aquatic Science;
(D)
Astronomy;
(E)
Anatomy and Physiology of Human Systems;
(F)
AP Biology;
(G)
IB Biology
(H)
AP Chemistry;
(I)
IB Chemistry;
(J)
AP Physics;
(K)
IB Physics;
(L)
AP Environmental Science;
(M)
IB Environmental Systems;
(N)
Scientific Research and Design; and
(O)
Engineering.
(4)
Social studies--three and one-half credits. The credits
must consist of World History Studies (one credit), World Geography Studies
(one credit), United States History Studies Since Reconstruction (one credit),
and United States Government (one-half credit).
(5)
Economics, with emphasis on the free enterprise system
and its benefits--one-half credit. The credit must consist of Economics with
Emphasis on the Free Enterprise System and Its Benefits.
(6)
Languages other than English--three credits. The credits
earned must be for any three levels in the same language.
(7)
Physical education--one and one-half credits to include
Foundations of Personal Fitness (one-half credit).
(A)
A student may not earn more than two credits in physical
education toward state graduation requirements.
(B)
The school district board of trustees may allow a student
to substitute certain physical activities for the required credits in physical
education, including the Foundations of Personal Fitness. The substitutions
must be based on the physical activity involved in drill team, marching band,
and cheerleading during the fall semester; Junior Reserve Officer Training
Corps (JROTC); athletics; Dance I-IV; and two- or three-credit career and
technology work-based training courses.
(C)
In accordance with local district policy, a school district
may award up to two credits for physical education for appropriate private
or commercially-sponsored physical activity programs conducted on or off campus.
The district must apply to the commissioner of education for approval of such
programs, which may be substituted for state graduation credit in physical
education. Such approval may be granted under the following conditions.
(i)
Olympic-level participation and/or competition includes
a minimum of 15 hours per week of highly intensive, professional, supervised
training. The training facility, instructors, and the activities involved
in the program must be certified by the superintendent to be of exceptional
quality. Students qualifying and participating at this level may be dismissed
from school one hour per day. Students dismissed may not miss any class other
than physical education.
(ii)
Private or commercially-sponsored physical activities
include those certified by the superintendent to be of high quality and well
supervised by appropriately trained instructors. Student participation of
at least five hours per week must be required. Students certified to participate
at this level may not be dismissed from any part of the regular school day.
(8)
Health education--one-half credit, which may be satisfied
by Health 1 or Advanced Health, or Health Science Technology--one credit,
which may be satisfied by Introduction to Health Science Technology, Health
Science Technology I, or Health Science Technology II.
(9)
Speech--one-half credit. The credit must consist of Communication
Applications.
(10)
Technology applications--one credit, which may be satisfied
by:
(A)
the following courses in Chapter 126 of this title (relating
to Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Technology Applications): Computer
Science I, Computer Science II, Desktop Publishing, Digital Graphics/Animation,
Multimedia, Video Technology, Web Mastering, or Independent Study in Technology
Applications, or state-approved technology applications innovative courses;
(B)
the following courses in Chapter 120 of this title (relating
to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Business Education): Business
Computer Information Systems I or II, Business Computer Programming, Telecommunications
and Networking, or Business Image Management and Multimedia;
(C)
the following courses in Chapter 123 of this title (relating
to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Technology Education/Industrial
Technology Education): Computer Applications, Technology Systems (modular
computer laboratory-based), Communications Graphics (modular computer laboratory-based),
or Computer Multimedia and Animation Technology; or
(D)
the completion of three credits (for students participating
in a coherent sequence of career and technology courses or who are enrolled
in a Tech Prep high school plan of study) consisting of two or more state-approved
career and technology courses in Chapters 119 - 125 and 127 of this title.
Districts shall ensure that career and technology courses, including innovative
courses, in a coherent sequence used to meet the technology applications credit
are appropriate to collectively teach the knowledge and skills found in any
of the approved courses listed in subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C) of this
paragraph. Students pursuing the technology applications option described
in this subparagraph must demonstrate proficiency in technology applications
prior to the beginning of Grade 11.
(11)
Fine arts--one credit, which may be satisfied by any course
in Chapter 117, Subchapter C, of this title (relating to Texas Essential Knowledge
and Skills for Fine Arts).
(c)
Elective Courses--two and one-half credits. The credits
may be selected from the list of courses specified in §74.61(g) of this
title (relating to High School Graduation Requirements). All students who
wish to complete the Distinguished Achievement High School Program are encouraged
to study each of the four foundation curriculum areas (English language arts,
mathematics, science, and social studies) every year in high school.
(d)
Advanced measures. A student also must achieve any combination
of four of the following advanced measures. Original research/projects may
not be used for more than two of the four advanced measures. The measures
must focus on demonstrated student performance at the college or professional
level. Student performance on advanced measures must be assessed through an
external review process. The student may choose from the following options:
(1)
original research/project that is:
(A)
judged by a panel of professionals in the field that is
the focus of the project; or
(B)
conducted under the direction of mentor(s) and reported
to an appropriate audience; and
(C)
related to the required curriculum set forth in §74.1
of this title (relating to Essential Knowledge and Skills);
(2)
test data where a student receives:
(A)
a score of three or above on the College Board advanced
placement examination;
(B)
a score of four or above on an International Baccalaureate
examination; or
(C)
a score on the Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test (PSAT)
that qualifies the student for recognition as a commended scholar or higher
by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, as part of the National Hispanic
Scholar Program of the College Board or as part of the National Achievement
Scholarship Program for Outstanding Negro Students of the National Merit Scholarship
Corporation. The PSAT score shall count as only one advanced measure regardless
of the number of honors received by the student; or
(3)
college academic courses, advanced technical credit courses,
and dual credit courses, including local articulation, with a grade of 3.0
or higher.
(e)
Substitutions. No substitutions are allowed in the Distinguished
Achievement High School Program, except as specified in this chapter.
This agency hereby certifies that the adoption has been reviewed
by legal counsel and found to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.
Filed
with the Office of the Secretary of State on December 20, 2006.
TRD-200606863
Cristina De La Fuente-Valadez
Director, Policy Coordination
Texas Education Agency
Effective date: January 9, 2007
Proposal publication date: October 6, 2006
For further information, please call: (512) 475-1497
Subchapter FF. COMMISSIONER'S RULES CONCERNING GOVERNOR'S EDUCATOR EXCELLENCE AWARD PROGRAMS
Subchapter F. GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS, BEGINNING WITH SCHOOL YEAR 2007 - 2008
Chapter 102.
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS