Texas Education Agency Implements New Special Education Rules

Amendments to Texas Commissioner of Education rules for the 2026-2027 school year are now effective, many starting October 4, 2026. These changes, implementing 89th Texas Legislature legislation, update eligibility for Intellectual Disability, revise ARD committee membership, and mandate new IEP annual goal development. Special education funding will also transition to a service intensity model. These regulatory updates significantly alter special education services and funding in Texas, impacting students with disabilities, educators, and school districts.