TEA, disciplinary action, and the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC)
The State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) is the agency responsible for the investigative and disciplinary process for TEA when a Texas educator faces misconduct allegations. SBEC jurisdiction includes teachers, librarians, counselors, educational diagnosticians, administrators, and paraprofessionals.
When first informed of misconduct allegations, you are immediately in a tough spot. You need to comply with the investigation to avoid further consequences, but you also need to protect your rights and your career. During a TEA-related investigation, you have rights and opportunities to defend yourself, beginning with your initial response at the district level and continuing if the allegations are referred to TEA/SBEC.
The process can be frustrating and confusing, with the potential for serious consequences. Even a less severe penalty can make it difficult to obtain or continue work as an education professional. Substantiated complaints against licensed educational professionals can result in significant penalties, including:
- Dismissal from an educator preparation program (EPP)
- Restrictions placed on the issuance, renewal or holding of an education certification
- Non-inscribed reprimand (not published to educator credentials)
- Inscribed reprimand (formal censure, published to educator credentials)
- License suspension
- License revocation
A professional license defense attorney can help you navigate the legal options available to you. The Bertolino team understands how to navigate SBEC and TEA disciplinary processes; you need Bertolino LLP on your side.
