The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (Coordinating Board) adopts amendments to §§4.53 - 4.55 and 4.58 - 4.60, concerning Texas Success Initiative (House Bill 1244, 82nd Texas Legislature, Regular Session), without changes to the proposed text as published in the August 10, 2012, issue of the Texas Register (37 TexReg 5956).

Specifically, the amendments to §4.53 and §4.54 provide institutions of higher education with uniform definitions for terminology frequently used regarding developmental education programs and coursework, as well as clarify intent of exemptions. Amendments to §4.55 and §4.58 are based on best practices and stakeholder recommendations for improving advising, placement testing, and program outcomes. The amendment to §4.59 is a result of House Bill 1244 (82nd Texas Legislature, Regular Session) which directs institutions of higher education to determine when a student is ready to perform freshman-level academic coursework. The amendment to §4.60 is a result of Senate Bill 162 (82nd Texas Legislature, Regular Session) which directs the Coordinating Board to develop a statewide plan ensuring specific components of developmental education are addressed. Based on research and best practices, these amendments ensure consistency, effectiveness, and efficiency across all developmental education programs in Texas, with the overall goal to increase student persistence and success in certificate, transfer, and program completions.

No comments were received regarding adoption of the amendments.

The amendments are adopted under the Texas Education Code, §51.307, which provides the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board with the authority to adopt rules to implement the provisions of Texas Education Code, §51.3062, concerning the Texas Success Initiative.