In addition to an opportunity to comment on instructional materials being considered through IMRA Cycle 2026, as reported in this May 19 Teach the Vote post, Texas educators can also now weigh in on proposed changes that could significantly shape instruction in Texas classrooms: the proposed Social Studies Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS); the Literary Works List, a new statewide required reading list embedded in the English Language Arts and Reading (ELAR) TEKS; and the Spanish Language Arts and Reading (SLAR) and English as a Second Language (ESL) TEKS.

The proposed changes are part of an ongoing overhaul of Texas social studies standards by the State Board of Education (SBOE). The first major rewrite in roughly 15 years has already generated significant debate over historical representation, instructional workload, age appropriateness, and the inclusion of additional Bible passages and other required literary works. Recent SBOE discussions have also raised concerns from educators and historians about the overall volume of content, implementation challenges, and how topics involving race, religion, civics, and world history are presented in classrooms.

Follow these links to submit feedback:

• Social Studies TEKS
• Literary Works List
• SLAR/ESL TEKS

The public comment period is currently open through June 15. Educators may especially want to review the proposed standards and reading lists closely to evaluate classroom feasibility, TEKS alignment, historical accuracy, developmental appropriateness, and potential impacts on instructional time and STAAR-tested courses.