Architects have been a leading voice in policy discussions and rulemakings updating Texas Education Agency (TEA) school facilities standards, and establishing new safety and security design requirements for school construction and renovation projects. We continue to be actively involved in the ongoing effort to establish new rules for operational standards to improve school safety and implement minimum requirements for physical upgrades and functionality for existing buildings.

Continuing to improve the safety of school facilities will require funding for building upgrades and renovations necessary to comply with new minimum state standards of school safety for instructional facilities. Both new and renovated school facilities will need sufficient funding for building upgrades and the required testing, monitoring, and staffing needed for upgrades to be effective. Schools will also need support for ongoing maintenance.

We are committed to promoting best practice standards for the design and construction of school facilities and supporting improved educational outcomes through better design.