TEA is Dictating Required Reading Lists, Respond Now.
The State Board of Education (SBOE) is required to adopt a list of literary works, at least one per grade level, into the TEKS for English language arts. Commissioner Mike Morath has had two years to submit a list to the board for consideration which finally happened in January 2026.
The initial list as proposed by TEA contains far more than the one title required in the bill.
Teaching this excessively long list would consume most of the instructional time, leaving little room for other essential instruction or student-selected readings.
The proposed list also leans heavily on classic works, excluding more contemporary and diverse authors and subjects.
Both lists are now open for informal public feedback through April 4. There will be an item on the agenda for the next SBOE meeting on April 7.
Classrooms shouldn’t be controlled from the top down.
The State Board of Education is considering a reading list that could take up most of the year, pushing out teacher choice.
Make your voice heard by April 4.
Teachers know what works.
The State Board of Education is considering a reading list that limits flexibility and student choice.
Let’s speak up before April 4.
As teachers, we know one thing: students engage when they see themselves in what they read.
The State Board of Education’s proposed list doesn’t leave room for that.
Speak up before April 4.
