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    TEA Announces Pre-K Learning Solution to Support Texas Schools with In-Person and Remote Instruction

    Texas Education Agency • Nov 25, 2020
    The Texas Education Agency announced the next set of instructional materials – a full suite of resources and tools for prekindergarten – that will be made available to school systems through the Texas Home Learning 3.0 (THL 3.0) initiative. Like other THL 3.0 offerings, these instructional materials are optional, customized for Texas, and aligned to Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS)—the state standards for what students should know and be able to do. 

    TEA has partnered with Teaching Strategies, whose research-based, effective curriculum, assessment, professional development, and family engagement resources reach over 5 million children in the U.S., to develop and deliver this next set of high-quality resources including TEKS-aligned lessons and unit plans called “studies”. Before release, all THL 3.0 instructional materials undergo a rigorous review that includes Texas teacher feedback to confirm alignment with TEKS and quality standards. Additional THL 3.0 instructional materials for other subjects and grade levels will be announced over the coming weeks.

    “Thanks to Governor Abbott, in the past several years, Texas has made a massive commitment to expanding access to quality prekindergarten and the development of suitable instructional materials for our youngest students. These new tools will help improve our schools’ ability to support our youngest learners, whether they are coming to school in person or attending remotely,” said Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath.

    Teaching Strategies’ Prekindergarten Learning Solution for Texas includes several resources to provide support for teachers, students, and parents, including: 
    • Access to digital curriculum aligned to Texas prekindergarten guidelines
    • Resources to engage children and families in the classroom or at home with developmentally appropriate digital resources
    • Materials designed to support teachers and families for all types of learners including English and Dual Language Learners, Advanced Learners, and students with disabilities.

    “The global pandemic has only elevated the importance of high-quality early learning as both a critical foundation for a child’s lifelong success and a lever for economic mobility. Texas has taken this challenge seriously, and we are proud to play a role in offering support to educators and families across the state,” said John Olsen, CEO of Teaching Strategies. “The state’s innovative initiative gives educators the best tools and professional learning to be able to navigate instruction across a variety of learning environments and ensure that families are supported along the way.”

    THL 3.0 is a comprehensive initiative to support school systems, teachers, parents, and students during the public health crisis and beyond with high-quality instructional materials, technology solutions, and professional development resources. TEA previously announced that it will offer all Texas school systems a world-class Learning Management System (LMS) from PowerSchool’s Schoology for two years at no cost. Nearly 400 Texas school systems have already signed up, with another 200 currently engaging with the Schoology team.  

     For more information on Texas Home Learning 3.0, please click here.
    By Workforce Solutions East Texas 11 Apr, 2024
    Are you passionate about children and eager to positively impact their lives? Do you dream of opening your own child care center but feel overwhelmed by the process? Workforce Solutions East Texas Child Care Services (WSET-CCS) is here to help! Why Child Care? Starting a child care center is a significant undertaking, but it's achievable with the proper guidance and resources. WSET-CCS provides personal insights, practical tips, and expert advice to help you navigate the complexities of launching and managing a successful child care business. Partnering with Workforce Solutions East Texas Child Care Services We understand that turning your dream into reality requires more than passion and determination – it requires support and resources. Here's how WSET-CCS can help: Funding Assistance: Securing funding is often one of the biggest challenges for aspiring child care providers. Our team can guide you through grants and funding streams to support establishing and expanding child care centers. Whether you need help covering startup costs or investing in facility upgrades, we can guide you through the application process and connect you with the resources you need to succeed. Support Services: Starting a child care business involves many tasks, from developing a business plan to navigating regulatory requirements. Our team provides personalized support services to help you confidently tackle these challenges. Experienced staff offers guidance from licensing and accreditation to curriculum development and staff training, ensuring you have the knowledge and resources to operate a high-quality childcare center. Hiring Assistance: Building a team of qualified and dedicated staff is essential for the success of your child care center. Workforce Solutions East Texas offers recruitment and hiring assistance to help you find the right candidates for your organization. Whether you're looking for teachers, caregivers, or administrative staff, their job placement services can connect you with talented individuals who share your passion for early childhood education. Professional Development: Continuous learning and professional development are crucial to staying competitive in the child care industry. Our team provides resources for in-person and online training programs and workshops to help you enhance your skills and knowledge as a childcare provider. Our resources empower you to grow and thrive as a child care provider, from early childhood education best practices to business management strategies. Join Our Community! Are you ready to turn your vision of owning a child care center into a reality? We're here to support you every step of the way. Give us a call or meet with one of our staff members to learn more. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children and families in our community. Let's embark on this exciting journey together!
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    By Workforce Solutions East Texas 11 Apr, 2024
    In the diverse landscape of neurodiversity, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents a unique set of challenges and strengths for individuals seeking employment. Just as each person with ASD is unique, their needs and aspirations in the workforce are too. Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) plays a crucial role in assisting individuals with ASD in their journey towards a successful career. VR counselors work hand in hand with individuals and contracted providers to explore job opportunities, evaluate accommodations, and create personalized employment plans. Supported Employment Services, a cornerstone of VR, offers structured guidance, enabling individuals to integrate into the workforce while gradually building their support networks. By considering geographical preferences, desired work hours, and on-the-job training goals, individuals with ASD can chart a course toward sustainable employment. This tailored approach ensures a smooth transition into the workforce, fostering a sense of confidence and competence. For more information and resources, consider reaching out to your local Vocational Rehabilitation Office. Remember, there's support available to help you navigate the path to employment with confidence. Visit www.easttexasworkforce.org/vocational-rehabilitation-services . 
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    By Workforce Solutions East Texas 05 Apr, 2024
    The National Association for the Education of Young Children invites you to celebrate and spotlight your classroom, advocacy, and family engagement activities during the Week of the Young Child (WOYC).
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