LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) – (News release from Texas Tech University)
The Texas Tech University System (TTU System) officials today (Monday, Dec. 1) announced new course content oversight standards and a formal review process as a first step to ensure full compliance with state and federal law, Board of Regents policy, and Chancellor directives authorized by Senate Bill 37. The guidance outlines expectations for classroom instruction and establishes a consistent process for faculty.
The directive reinforces the Board of Regents’ statutory responsibility to review and oversee curriculum – a responsibility reaffirmed through SB 37 – ensuring that Texas public institutions remain focused on their fundamental mission: educating students, advancing research, and preparing the next generation of Texas leaders. The new framework supports faculty by providing direction and guardrails, while preserving academic freedom to teach, analyze, and debate ideas within the bounds of the law.
“The mission of the Texas Tech University System is to educate the next generation of Texas leaders and to drive innovation that strengthens our state and nation,” said Chancellor Brandon Creighton. “These new guidelines reflect that mission by giving our faculty clarity, consistency, and guardrails that protect academic excellence. The purpose of this framework is to support both strong academic freedom and the accountability needed to maintain excellence. I applaud the decisive support given by the Board of Regents to ensure our universities remain focused on what matters most – educating students, advancing research, and positioning the TTU System to lead the nation. As Chancellor, I stand ready to work with our institutions to ensure swift and clear implementation.”
To strengthen compliance efforts, TTU System officials have also released a Course Content Review Process for faculty to utilize, which outlines a path to submit materials for review by department and university leadership, as well as the Academic, Clinical and Student Affairs Committee of the Board of Regents.
“The Board’s responsibility is to safeguard the integrity of our academic mission and maintain the trust of Texans,” TTU System Board of Regents Chairman Cody Campbell said. “The Board welcomed the clarity provided by Senate Bill 37, which reaffirmed the Regents’ role in curriculum oversight. This new framework strengthens accountability, supports our faculty, and ensures that our universities remain focused on education, research, and innovation – core commitments that position the TTU System for continued national leadership.”
Following the distribution of this guidance, faculty should ensure that course content aligns with state standards on race- and sex-based discrimination and with laws recognizing two sexes. Faculty may continue to examine or critique disputed ideas, but should not present prohibited concepts as endorsed or require students to affirm those ideas.
“The strength of any university rests on the caliber, dedication, and integrity of its faculty,” said Creighton. “The Texas Tech University System is fortunate to have talented faculty who understand the importance of their work and the lasting impact it has in shaping the lives and futures of our students.”
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