News Type
TEA Media Contact
ºÚÁÏÉç Releases Updated Bluebonnet Learning Instructional Materials
The updated and newly named state-owned textbooks represent the highest commitment to transparency and quality so that Texas schools have access to resources that will improve student learning in reading and math
AUSTIN, TX – October 16, 2024 – The ºÚÁÏÉç (TEA) today announced updates and a new brand for Texas’s state-owned textbooks, now known as Bluebonnet Learning. A collection of high-quality math and elementary reading instructional materials, Bluebonnet Learning is designed to improve student academic outcomes by building foundational skills in reading and mathematics and providing valuable curricular and instructional support for Texas teachers.
Bluebonnet Learning was developed in response to House Bill (HB) 1605 (88th Regular Session), which directed TEA to develop instructional materials for statewide use, subject to approval by the State Board of Education (SBOE). A highly transparent, three-month public feedback period began in May 2024, giving the public an opportunity to review and offer comments on the proposed materials. The SBOE also welcomed several hours of public testimony at its September meeting where additional feedback on the product was received. TEA used these comments and feedback to further refine, edit and ready the product for final submission as part of the SBOE’s Instructional Materials Review and Approval (IMRA) process - ensuring the materials are aligned with state standards and values.
The branding of Bluebonnet Learning began with feedback from teachers and parents seeking a clear, distinctive name to make the materials easier to recognize for educators and school systems. Bluebonnet Learning materials are Texas Open Education Resources (OER), meaning they are owned by the state, made available free to anyone, and can be modified over time to make them better for students and teachers. If selected for inclusion on the SBOE’s list of high-quality instructional materials, Bluebonnet Learning will be an optional resource for Texas school systems.
For more information on Bluebonnet Learning and to view the updated materials, please visit tea.texas.gov/bluebonnet.
The SBOE will vote on Bluebonnet Learning and other products submitted as part of the IMRA process at the Board’s next general meeting November 19-22.
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