Domain IV: Fulfilling Professional Roles and Responsibilities
TEA weights Domain IV at about 20%. It covers working with families (011), colleagues and professional growth (012), and legal and ethical requirements and the structure of Texas education (013). Several tested laws changed in 2025 and 2026. For worked examples, named traps and full explanations, see the PrepPass TExES PPR EC–12 Study Guide.
Families
Treat families as partners: contact them early and positively, communicate regularly in a language they understand, run evidence-based conferences that end in a shared plan, and connect families with school and community resources. Texas law gives parents access to records and teaching materials, full information about school activities, and notice within one school business day of a suspected crime against their child.
Professional practice
Collaborate through horizontal and vertical teams and mentoring, use appraisal feedback (T-TESS) to set goals, and reflect on evidence of student learning. Classroom teachers renew a standard certificate every five years with 150 clock-hours of continuing professional education.
Law, ethics and the Texas system
Report suspected child abuse or neglect yourself to DFPS or law enforcement within 24 hours; telling a supervisor does not satisfy the duty. Follow the Educators' Code of Ethics, including new standards effective August 2, 2026; protect student records under FERPA; know IDEA and Section 504 essentials; and follow test security procedures. Know the roles of TEA, the SBOE, SBEC, regional service centers, school boards, superintendents and principals.
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