TEA LEGAL STAFF announced last week that the new Commissioner's Rules regarding HB6 will not be finalized on January 1, 2002 as originally planned. After the rules have been approved, the Resource Center will proceed with our Charter School Board Training, which will then be in compliance with HB6. Topics will include all those required in HB6. Watch the Friday Fax for the schedule of the no-cost Resource Center Board Training that will be offered in your area.

TEXTBOOK QUESTION AND ANSWER Eugene Rios, from the Textbook Administration at TEA, has forwarded another frequently asked Q & A to the Resource Center.

Question:
We have received numerous calls about House Bill 623 and the section that makes it a misdemeanor for teachers to accept gifts, services, or favors from publishers for the purpose of influencing textbook selection.

Answer:
The link, www.tea.state.tx.us/taa/text010927.html, is Commissioner Nelson's interpretation of this section of the law. The agency is not the enforcing agency; the local district attorneys will make decisions regarding future prosecution. Educators should read the letter from Mr. Nelson carefully and contact TEA Legal Services at 512-463-9720 for further information.