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 Texas Education Agency (TEA) or State Board of Education (SBOE) are reserved for the trustees.
Texas Education Code, Chapter 11, Subchapter D defines the powers and duties of an independent school district board of trustees.
The Framework for School Board Development outlines 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.
Texas Education Code, §11.159, requires the SBOE to provide a course of training for independent school district boards of trustees.
School Board Training Requirements
Continuing education requirements for independent school board trustees are established in Texas Education Code, §11.159, Texas Administrative Code §61.1 and Texas Government Code, §§ 551.005, 552.012, and 2054.5191. 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 |
• Registered Providers • Authorized Providers • LSG Coaches |
|
| Team-building (Team-of-eight) |
Three hours | Three hours every year | • Registered Providers • Authorized Providers • LSG Coaches |
| Additional Education based on Framework for School Board Development | Ten hours | Five hours every year | • Registered Providers • Authorized Providers • LSG Coaches |
| Evaluating and Improving Student Outcomes | Three hours within the first 120 days in office | Three hours every two years | • Authorized Providers • LSG Coaches |
| Sexual Abuse, Human Trafficking, and Other Maltreatment of Children |
One hour within the first 120 days in office | One hour every two years | • Registered Providers • Authorized Providers • LSG Coaches |
| Open Meetings Act (OMA) | One hour within the first 90 days in office | N/A | Attorney General of Texas |
| Public Information Act (PIA) | One hour within the first 90 days in office | N/A | Attorney General of Texas |
| Cybersecurity | Varies by provider | Every year | Department of Information Resources |
| School Safety | Two hours within the first 120 days in office | Every two years | • TEA Learn • Technical Support |
Team Commendation
Local board-superintendent teams that, together, receive at least eight hours of continuing education specified in Texas Administrative Code §61.1(k) are 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 commendation eligibility form to apply.
School Governance
Phone: (512) 936-1533
SchoolGovernance@tea.texas.gov