NEW FUNDING MODEL
BEGINNING IN SY 2026-27
Comprehensive Special Education System( SB 568)
Requires TEA to:
• Identify 4 + service groups
• Define 8 tiers of intensity of service for use determining funding that must include separate tiers specifically for residential placement and speech-only therapy
• Service groups definition and tiers of intensity determination must consider:
• Type, frequency, and nature of services provided
• Required certifications / qualifications for1 personnel serving the student
• Provider-to-student ratios
• Necessary equipment / technology
Requires:
• 55 % of funds be spent on special education
• Proposed weights and funding for next biennium submitted to LBB by December of each evennumbered year
• $ 250 million increase in 2026-2027 compared to prior year formula
SPECIAL EDUCATION ALLOTMENT ' S
EFFECTIVE FOR SY 2025-26
Evaluations
$ 1,000 per student for full initial evaluations
14
Transportation
Adds $ 0.13 / mile to general transportation allotment for special education travel
Extended Year
Increases funding for districts that provide an extended year program for special education students to receive the full basic allotment plus the weight multiplier for each student in ADA and removes the cap
Dyslexia Allotment
Allows students receiving dyslexia accommodations to generate the dyslexia allotment beginning in the 2026-27school year
CCMR Outcomes
Increases bonus for special education graduates from $ 2,000 to $ 4,000
Regional Day School Programs for the DeaT
Provides an allotment of $ 6,925 to the program administrator for each student receiving services
SUPPLEMENT AL SERVICES
EFFECTIVE FOR SY 2025-26
Supplemental Special Education Services
Establishes a parent-directed grant program for supplemental special education services administered by TEA, and requires TEA to:
• Create a waitlist of applicants if demand exceeds funding
• Limit students to one grant unless more funds are appropriated
ESCs may retain up to 4 % for administrative costs
Providers / participants cannot be required to change beliefs or practices
Government oversight limited to what ' s necessary to operate the program
RESIDENTIAL.: & DAY PLACEMENT
EFFECTIVE FOR SY 2025-26
Residential Placement
Requires the Health and Human Services commission to create and distribute information on residential placement options for TEA and school districts
Requires districts to
• Provide this to parents at ARD meetings where residential placement is discussed
• Only contract with commissionerapproved facilities beginning 2026-27
• Notify parents of students placed in a residential or day placement program about grant availability and assign staff to assist with access
Requires the Commissioner to:
• Set minimum standards standards for and develop a list of approved providers
• Create accounts through which parents can access grants
• Adopt rules and designate ESCs to manage the program
Placement Program Grants
Establishes a grant program for approved residential / day placement services
Support services include behavioral and other disability-related supports