Texas reviewers flagged potential conflicts with state law across 17 National Board certificate-area standards involving “Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion” (DEI), sexual orientation, “gender identity” and differential treatment. Reviewers separately flagged material involving racial profiling and political advocacy.

Background

A 15-page Phase One report reviewed by The Dallas Express identifies the exact passages at issue in the State Board for Educator Certification’s July 24 decision to give the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards until November 2 to revise its materials.

The report warns that teacher candidates’ scores may be affected by their ability to demonstrate practices that conflict with Texas law. A July 26 email from Texas Education Agency Associate Commissioner Jessica McLoughlin confirmed that SBEC directed the National Board to make the necessary updates before the December statutory deadline.

Specific Concerns

Reviewers identified potential conflicts with Texas Education Code Section 11.005, the state’s prohibition on DEI duties, across 17 certificate-area standards. One literacy standard says children may begin to question their “sexual identity” at a young age and suggests featuring children’s literature with “diverse gender roles.” An English language arts standard says a commitment to diversity includes sexual orientation, gender, body image and political views.

School counseling standards say counselors may develop programs for gay, lesbian, bisexual and “transgender” students and their families. They also say counselors may seek to influence district hiring, assignment and promotion policies to ensure “access and equity.”

A physical education standard says accomplished teachers may ask parents to write constituent letters to elected officials or encourage students to communicate with political leaders. Reviewers identified that passage as a potential conflict with Texas’ prohibition on forced political activity.

Next Steps

The November 2 deadline gives the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards time to revise the flagged material before SBEC’s final decision. If SBEC does not reauthorize the pathway by December 31, state law automatically revokes the authorization.

Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.