Del Valle ISD seeks delay to comply with HB2 certification changes; district proposes partner supports

Del Valle ISD on Jan. 6 presented an information item outlining an application to request relief from immediate certification changes following House Bill 2 and to provide a phased approach so current teachers can obtain state certification.

Ms. Murillo told trustees the state is phasing in universal certification for core subjects through 2029 and that the application would give the district a runway to support currently uncertified teachers. "House Bill 2 fundamentally changed the District of Innovation landscape," she said, explaining the district may need flexibility to retain and support staff while they complete certification requirements.

Murillo reported district figures: 789 teachers on record and 23 who are uncertified in foundational subjects (about 3 percent of foundational subject teachers). The district proposed an internal milestone to move 1.5 percentage points of uncertified teachers toward full certification each year and named Region 13 and iTeach as partner organizations to provide courses, mentorship and supports.

Trustees asked whether long-term substitutes or substituting practices would affect compliance. Ms. Murillo said long-term subs do not change compliance for hiring; the application is focused on newly hired staff in foundational subjects and the supports for currently employed teachers. She also noted the application window closes March 2, 2026, and the item will return for action at the board’s Jan. 20 meeting.

Ending: The board did not vote on the application at the Jan. 6 meeting; the item will be on the Jan. 20 agenda for potential action.