Texas parents can track teacher misconduct with new online TEA tool. Here’s how

The Texas Education Agency announced that it is offering a new interactive online tool that provides access to teacher misconduct reports, agency investigations, State Board for Educator Certification actions and Do Not Hire Registry placements, as well as a resource center to provide guidance for dealing with misconduct in schools.

The database, called the Educator Misconduct Dashboard, provides parents and the public with information involving any conduct that may violate student safety or professional standards, the TEA said.

“Transparency and public trust in our education system are central to ensuring our schools can accomplish their core mission of educating the next generation,” Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath said in a news release. “This dashboard and associated resources reflect our commitment to ensuring the safety of all students and the integrity of those privileged to serve in our classrooms.”

The dashboard has access to the state’s Do Not Hire Registry, a public database listing individuals ineligible for employment in Texas due to misconduct or criminal history. The list currently has more than 4,000 names registered.

In addition, parents and teachers can learn about how to detect signs of neglect or abuse and report it on the website’s Student Protection Resource Center. Texas law requires school employees to report any suspected abuse or neglect within 24 hours.

According to the press release from the Texas Education Agency, the tool was created as a “one stop hub” with all critical information in one place.

“These resources reflect our commitment to transparency and fostering trust in our schools,” TEA Inspector General for Educator Misconduct Levi Fuller said. “The dashboard gives communities access to critical information, while the resource center brings together the tools and guidance school systems need to respond quickly and appropriately when concerns arise.”