TEA adopts MISD-created counseling tracking tool

MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) – The Texas Education Agency recently announced plans to standardize monitoring for counselor compliance with the state’s 80/20 Rule. The State said it will use a tracking document created by Midland ISD Mental Health Coordinator Taylor Harris, which has been used by the district for the past two school years.

“We are honored that the TEA has chosen to adopt our tracking document as the standard for districts across Texas,” said Harris. “We are committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of our students, and I am proud to have helped contribute to that effort across the state.”

Earlier this year, the TEA audited school districts across the state of Texas to verify compliance with the Rule. MISD said it submitted its monthly log that tracks counselors’ time allocation, in accordance with TEA guidelines. The TEA then reached out to MISD in June to request permission to use the log as a model for other districts across Texas.

MISD said the TEA 80/20 Rule ensures school counselors dedicate 80 percent of their time to direct services for students, such as counseling, guidance lessons, and academic interventions. The remain 20 percent can be spent on indirect service, including administrative tasks and program planning.

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