Tools and Resources
TEA has a variety of tools and resources available to support school systems in addressing the unique needs of highly mobile and at-risk students.
This page contains a variety of tools and resources that address the needs of at-risk students broadly, offering practical guidance, data tools, and evidence-based strategies to help LEAs implement effective supports and interventions.
Given that ESSER III funds must be obligated by September 2023 and completely spent by September 2024, the Office of Special Populations and Student Support (OSPSS) at the Texas Education Agency (TEA) wants to remind local educational agencies (LEAs) of the requirements and allowable uses of these funds to meet the unique needs of students adversely impacted by the pandemic.
AskTED is an online directory of Texas school information, including charter schools. The directory is primarily used by people seeking contact information for schools, districts, and education service centers. AskTED is a real-time database that is updated regularly by Texas LEAs.
To that end, Texas School Districts and Open-Enrollment Charter Schools are required to have both Homeless and Foster Care Liaisons as individual designated roles for all LEAs. The information must be maintained and stored in AskTED. It is important for LEAs to keep this information regularly updated, so that McKinney-Vento and Foster Care Liaison information is publicly available, and these points of contacts are available to support students and remove barriers related to school transitions and mobility.
This series of one-pagers guides school systems with implementing the transition assistance requirements for students who are in foster care or experiencing homelessness. These requirements include:
- Providing nutrition benefits upon enrollment
- Holding an enrollment conference
- Providing student welcome packets
- Introducing new students to the school
- TAC §89.1605
This document serves as a contact directory for individual HMAR program liaisons and/or champions at the Education Service Centers (ESCs). Stakeholders can use this guide to locate their ESC’s Homeless Liaison, Foster Care Champion, and Military-Connected Student Champion.
🎥 NEW PROMOTIONAL VIDEO!!!
Ever wish you had a short, powerful video to share that both inspires and informs about the resources available to support Foster Care programs? Look no further! This new promotional clip is designed to energize your outreach efforts and spotlight the ESSA tools that help ensure educational stability and success for students in foster care. Whether you're presenting to stakeholders, training staff, or simply spreading awareness, this video is a must-watch and share!
👉 Watch now: https://youtu.be/ZXNBO1KjMS8?si=l12JecIykv1p65Eu
Discover the Heart of HMAR: Empowering Texas Students Through Support and Innovation
This video introduces the Highly Mobile and At-Risk Student Programs (HMAR) Unit, a dedicated team within TEA committed to uplifting students who face unique challenges—including those experiencing homelessness, in foster care, or military-connected students. Learn how HMAR provides tools, resources, and statewide support to ensure every student has access to a quality education and the opportunity to thrive. From professional development to strategic partnerships, this video highlights the impactful work being done to serve Texas’s most vulnerable youth.
👉 Watch now: https://youtu.be/Bk-XrqUHPig?si=mOq30WO1j3XZVm2b