House Bill 3, passed during the 86th Legislative Session, requires all Kindergarten through 3rd grade teachers and principals of those grades to begin the Texas Reading Academies training before the 2022-23 school year.  The goal is to increase teacher knowledge and implementation of evidence-based practices to positively impact student literacy achievement.  The basis of the academies is not grade-level content, but on the Science of Teaching Reading.

There are two models for academy training.  The Comprehensive model is completely based on face to face training over the course of multiple days throughout the summer and following school year.  The cohort based model is presented by a Reading Academy Cohort Leaders and also includes on-site instructional coaching during the school year.

The Blended model is delivered completely in an on-line platform through Canvas.  Districts are encouraged to use Professional Learning Communities as participants work through the modules in the training.  Participants are also required to submit artifacts based on the learning acquired through the modules.  Blended Academy Facilitators at the ESC will be able to assist with technical issues and will also score the artifacts submitted, based on a rubric.