Virtual and Hybrid Campus - Expedited Authorization

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Contact Information

virtual.hybrid@tea.texas.gov

TEA is excited to announce the launch of the authorization process for full-time virtual and hybrid campuses, expanding access to high-quality, flexible learning opportunities for students across Texas.  

This page provides guidance on virtual and hybrid campus expedited authorization, including key requirements, processes, and resources to support school systems in navigating the authorization process.

Authorization is granted only to school systems that demonstrate robust planning and preparation, including documented board approval, as evaluated through a rubric-based review process. The Commissioner may authorize a virtual or hybrid campus only when it is determined that the proposed campus is likely to result in improved student learning opportunities.

Expedited Authorization Eligibility

To qualify for the expedited authorization, school systems must meet one of the following criteria:

  • Operated an electronic course or full-time program through the state virtual school network in accordance with TEC Chapter 30A, as the law existed immediately before the effective date of SB 569; or
  • Operated a virtual education program during the 2022-2023, 2023-2024, or 2024-2025 school year, regardless of whether the district or school received funding for students enrolled in the program.

A virtual education program must meet all of the following:

  • students were enrolled in a virtual or hybrid model and took four or more virtual or hybrid courses within a semester;
  • the majority of instruction was delivered through the virtual or hybrid model as part of a cohesive instructional program with coordinated curriculum, staffing, and student supports; and
  • the program was not limited to individual or supplemental virtual courses taken by students otherwise enrolled in and required to attend an in-person campus.

School systems that operated a virtual education program during the 2022-2023, 2023-2024, or 2024-2025 school year must submit documentation demonstrating the existence and scope of the program. 

School systems approved under expedited authorization may begin operations without a planning year if they demonstrate compliance with program implementation requirements and submit an abridged application that includes evidence of student performance, leadership capacity, and alignment of the current school design with Chapter 30B.

2027-28 Virtual and Hybrid Campus Expedited Authorization Timeline

Applications for expedited authorization during the 2027-2028 cycle are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Review the timeline below for key milestones and deadlines in the authorization process.

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September 25, 2026 Expedited application is posted to the Virtual and Hybrid campus web page
September 25, 2026 - April 8, 2027 Applications may be submitted on a rolling basis
April 8, 2027 Final deadline to submit expedited applications
September 25, 2026 - May 8, 2027 

TEA will review applications on a rolling basis; timing may vary based on submission date. Capacity interviews may be conducted as part of the review process. 

 

Submission to decision timeline will be approximately 45 days.
June 7, 2027 Final authorization announcements
July 15, 2027 Deadline for authorized campuses to request a county-district-campus-number (CDCN), if applicable.

2026-27 Virtual and Hybrid Campus Expedited Authorization Timeline

School systems that are ready to transition to operating under TEC Chapter 30B may apply through the 2026-2027 pathway. Eligible school systems that meet the expedited authorization criteria should follow the timeline outlined below. For information on the standard authorization process, please visit the standard authorization web page. 

Review the timeline below for key milestones and deadlines in the authorization process.

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July 8, 2026 Application posts 
July 9, 2026 Mandatory informational webinar - Zoom link - 2:00-3:00 p.m. (Option 1)
July 9, 2026 Notice of Intent form due
July 14, 2026 Mandatory informational webinar - Zoom link - 10:00-11:00 a.m. (Option 2)
July 29, 2026 Application due at 5:00 p.m. Central Standard Time
July 29-31, 2026 Application review
July 29-31, 2026 Capacity interview (if necessary)
August 5, 2026 Approval notification
August 15, 2026 Deadline to apply for a county-district-campus-number (CDCN)

Application

Eligible school systems may apply for expedited authorization by submitting an application demonstrating student performance, leadership capacity, and alignment to statutory requirements.

The User Guide is designed to support school systems in the planning process and to help prepare for completion of the official Smartsheet application. All responses and required uploads must be submitted through the Smartsheet form, which must be completed in a single session.

Application requirements are differentiated based on the campus’s most recent accountability rating. The streamlined application and differentiated review are based on the campus’s prior record of success, as reflected in its accountability rating.

School systems must secure local board approval to submit an application for a full-time virtual or hybrid campus authorization. 

Applications must be submitted through the agency’s designated form and include all required documentation, including evidence of board approval and any additional required artifacts. Emailed submissions will not be accepted.

State Law & Rule

See the following links for the relevant law and rules:

Law - TEC, Chapter 30B. Virtual and Hybrid Campuses, Programs, and Courses.
Rule - Texas Administrative Code (TAC) rulemaking will take place during the 2025-2026 school year.