Significant changes are coming to the Field-Based Experience (FBE) requirements for teacher candidates in Texas, effective September 1, 2024.
These updates are designed to enhance the practical training process, ensuring that future educators are even better prepared for success in the classroom. Here’s a closer look at the critical updates and how they differ from the previous requirements.
What’s New in 2024?
The Texas Education Agency has adopted important significant updates to its Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Chapter 228, Requirements for Educator Preparation Programs. One of the major changes for current and aspiring candidates relates to Field-Based Experiences.
2024 Rule Set (applies to candidates enrolled in an EPP on or after 9/1/2024)
The 2024 rule set introduces expanded requirements, including more in-person hours and a closer alignment with coursework to ensure aspiring teachers gain comprehensive and practical classroom experience.
- 50 Total Clock Hours: You must complete 50 hours of FBEs, providing more extensive in-classroom experience.
- Increased In-Person Requirement: At least 25 hours must be in-person, with significant instructional interactions. This increases from the previous 15 hours, ensuring deeper engagement with students.
- Virtual Experience Flexibility: Up to 25 hours can be virtual observations and reflections, offering more flexibility while maintaining robust, practical exposure.
- Structured Experience: FBEs are now more structured and aligned with coursework, ensuring a coherent learning journey.
- Teacher of Record Credit: With appropriate documentation, those serving as a Teacher of Record, Educational Aide, or Substitute can receive 25 hours of virtual observation credit.
- Long-Term Substitute Credit: Experience as a Long-Term Substitute can still receive 15 hours of in-person credit, consistently recognizing valuable classroom experience.
How Does It Compare to the 2017 Rule Set?
Comparing the 2024 updates with the previous 2017 ruleset highlights key changes that provide aspiring teachers with more robust and structured field-based experiences.
2017 Rule Set (applies to candidates enrolled in an EPP prior to 9/1/24)
The 2017 rule set established foundational requirements for field-based experiences, with fewer total hours and a more flexible approach to in-person and virtual experiences.
- 30 Total Clock Hours: Previously, only 30 hours were required, with fewer in-person interactions.
- Limited In-Person Requirement: Only 15 hours needed to be in person. The remaining 15 could be in-person, or virtual..
- Virtual and Substitute Credit: The flexibility to count virtual hours and substitute teaching experience remains, but now with more defined criteria and documentation requirements.
Why These Changes Matter: The 2024 updates aim to provide rich and comprehensive experience that better prepares you for the realities of the classroom. With increased in-person hours and a structured approach, you’ll gain deeper insights into teaching practices, classroom management, and student engagement.
Tips for Making the Most of Your FBEs:
To maximize the benefits of your field-based experiences, consider these practical tips to help you engage more deeply and reflect on your teaching practice effectively.
- Set Clear Objectives: Define what you want to achieve during your FBEs to maximize your learning.
- Engage Actively: Participate fully in classroom activities to develop practical teaching skills.
- Reflect Regularly: Regular reflection helps you assess your progress and identify areas for improvement.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with state policies and curriculum standards to align your teaching practices with Texas’s expectations.
Next Steps: If you’re enrolled in a teacher preparation program, understand the new requirements and plan your FBEs accordingly. For any questions or guidance, reach out to our advisors at
teach@texasteachers.org
For more detailed information on these updates and how to begin your journey to becoming a certified teacher in Texas, visit Teachersoftomorrow.org. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to shape your future and make a difference in the classroom—start your path to teaching today!
