This report covers TEA’s HB 3 in 30 video on the Blended Learning Grant Program, which covers the basics of blended learning, origin and overview of the grant program, implementation, and next steps. The video can be found here.
This report is intended to give you an overview and highlight of the discussions on the various topics the committee took up. It is not a verbatim transcript of the hearing, but is based upon what was audible or understandable to the observer and the desire to get details out as quickly as possible with few errors or omissions.
- Blended learning is a combination of face to face instruction with online learning.
- The Blended Learning Grant Program has two options for interested districts: Math Innovation Zones (MIZ) and non-math blended learning pilots.
- MIZ focus on K-8 math improvement and aims to have 8th grade Algebra I readiness.
- Non-math blended learning pilots uses MIZ model to test what works in ELAR, science, social studies, and other subjects.
- Fall 2019 starts the planning phase of the program.
- The application is open currently and will close on November 4, 2019.
- Up to 25 districts have the opportunity to receive planning grants of up to $125,000 for MIZ and non-math blended pilots.
- Up to 10 self-funded districts will be accepted into MIZ and eligible for execution grants.
- Spring of 2020 starts the execution phase of the program.
- Up to 35 execution grants of up to $100,000 will be awarded to MIZ and non-math districts based on an evaluation of district and school plans.
- All LEAs are eligible to apply to the BLGP and TEA will evaluate applications based upon program requirements.
- To dedicate a BLGP project manager at the district-level and allocate 50% of their time for life of the project. ESCs may apply as PM for one or more districts.
- The district will be required to implement the Feeder Pattern Approach in a subset of grades in year 1 and grow to full feeder pattern implementation in 3 years.
- Will need to use a research-backed high-quality online software program.
- TEA will evaluate applications based upon program priorities.
- Feeder patterns with schools with a majority of students approaching grade level and at least 15% meeting grade level in the proposed subject.
- Feeder patterns with schools with a high percent of students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
- TEA will evaluate applications based upon the attributes of school districts representing a strong fit for the BLGP.
- School districts show a commitment to blended learning and a willingness to allow innovation.
- The project manager is results-oriented and strategic-thinking to effectively implement the program.
- The Blended Learning Grant Program is a process to design, launch, and sustainably implement a high-quality program in a feeder pattern within 4 years.
- The district must meet BLGP requirements in planning before submitting their BLGP plan.
- During the execution phase, the district must meet BLGP requirements in execution while submitting execution evidence.
- After the four years, the district will submit an outcomes report on impacts of the BLGP program.