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SBOE-Approved and Classroom Libraries are funded by IMRA and EMAT

kids reading just right reader decodable books

Texas State Board of Education (SBOE) Funding Process 

Did you know your Texas school can receive extra money to buy decodable books? The funding provided for Texas schools is referred to as the Instructional Materials Technology Allocation (IMTA).

Learn how to access funding using the Educational Materials Allocation (EMAT) online ordering system to purchase high-quality instructional materials (HQIM) like Just Right Reader Decodables, available in both English and Spanish.

This article will guide you through the process. 

Key Takeaways:

  • Ordering Just Right Reader decodable books with Instructional Materials Technology Allocation (IMTA) funding

  • Overview of the Texas State Board of Education (SBOE) and Educational Materials Allocation (EMAT) Online State Ordering System for Instructional Materials Review and Approval (IMTA) Funding

  • Download theHow to Order Science of Reading Decodables with IMTA Funding

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) uses many acronyms to describe the state process for selecting, approving, and accessing funding. Let’s review them!

Let’s Review the Acronyms  TEA = Texas Education Agency is the State Agency for Education in Texas.  SBOE = State Board of Education governs the public education system and approves the HQIM for Texas.  HQIM - High Quality Instructional Materials meet rigorous standards and are 100% aligned with TEKS and ELPS.  TEKS = Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills  ELPS =  English Language Proficiency Standards   IMRA = Instructional Materials Review and Approval is the process when SBOE reviews and approves HQIM.   IMTA  =  Instructional Materials Technology Allocation is the funding provided for Texas   EMAT = Educational Materials Allocation is the online ordering system for Texas to  request and access funding for HQIM

SBOE Approval and EMAT for Texas

Texas educators can feel confident requesting access to allIMRA-approved materials, because only the resources that fully align withTEKS andELPS are approved forIMTA funding.

The SBOE is fully committed to student success by providing schools access to the highest quality learning materials through a rigorous selection process. This ensures that top-tier resources are easily accessible and affordable to schools and districts throughout the state.

What is the Educational Materials Allocation Tool (EMAT)?

TheEMAT is a valuable online platform that simplifies the purchasing process. Requesting access is easy. Through this system, Texas schools can request and access an additional$80 per studentannually to support the purchase of HQIM. This ensures transparency in spending, so it is compliant with state and federal regulations.

Tracking through the EMAT offers several key benefits:

  • Equitable Access:  EMAT ensures all students, regardless of background, have access to high-quality, TEKS-aligned resources, bridging the achievement gap.

  • Data-Driven DecisionsEMAT empowers districts to make informed purchasing decisions based on research and data.

  • Simplified Process:  EMAT simplifies the ordering process, saving districts valuable time and resources, while still granting access to HQIM. 

IMRA Review Process for IMTA Funding

The IMRA process plays a crucial role in determining which instructional materials are eligible for IMTA funding. To guarantee the best learning experiences for Texas students, instructional materials undergo a rigorous evaluation process focused onimplementation and learningquality. The SBOE then votes on approval through a well-defined rubric and vetting of publishers and educational providers. 

Reading/Language Arts Implementation Quality. Sections: Intentional instructional design, progress monitoring, supports for all learners.

Implementation Quality - Reading/Language Arts 

Reviewers check that the course, unit, and lesson level materials are well designed. They look for ways to monitor student progress and help educators teach all learners effectively.

Reading/Language Arts Learning Quality. Sections: Phonics Rule Compliance, Foundational Skills, Knowledge Coherence, Text Quality and Complexity, Evidence-based Tasks and Responses

Learning Quality - Reading/Language Arts 

Materials must also explicitly instruct foundational skills aligned with thelatest reading research. Reviewers value student engagement in reading, writing, and speaking with complex texts. All reading passages must be high-quality and grade-level appropriate. This includes fact checks, physical/electronic specifications, parent portal compliance, and public feedback. 

IMTA Funds For Just Right Reader Through EMAT

The state of Texas JRR is a Texas based company,  aligned to TEKS, high quality literacy resources were created for Texas by Texas educators.

Just Right Reader is very proud to have been included on the Texas SBOE IMRA-approved list for IMTA funding! Texas schools can now use IMTA-provided fundsto purchaseJust Right Reader Decodable Books in English and Spanish. This extra funding will make a big difference in the lives of Texas students.

Our decodable books, developed in collaboration with Texas educators, meet the unique needs of the state. The custom titles, reflecting Texas's unique culture and history, align with TEKS and ELPS. Each decodable book features diverse characters and storylines to which all students can relate.  

Read moreOur article,Texas Approved by SBOE: Just Right Reader Decodable Books, provides further insight into the Texas IMRA-approval.


TEKS-aligned Just Right Reader Classroom Libraries 

Let’s explore the SBOE-Approved Science of Reading literacy resources available for order. These resources are evidence-based, easy to implement, and family friendly.

500+ Decodable Books Available for IMTA

We offer over 500 decodable books for Kindergarten, First, and Second Grade. Each grade level has an English and Spanish Classroom Library specifically designed for Texas students. Our engaging books are filled with vibrant illustrations, captivate young minds, and inspire a love of reading. Kindergarten, 1st Grade and 2nd Grade Just Right Reader Libraries

Each book features diverse characters and is complete with a lesson plan and research-based activities. We cover the five Pillars of Reading:phonemic awareness,phonics,vocabulary,fluency, andcomprehensionto accelerate achievement and bring joy to every classroom.


TEKS-aligned Scope and Sequence 

Just Right Reader English Phonics Progression for TexasJust Right Reader's phonics progression complements existing curricula. The scope and sequence aligns with the phonics programs used in your Texas classroom. Our intentional instructional design incorporates a spiraling approach gradually introducing and reinforcing foundational skills.  As students make progress, they will move to the next skill. 

Our decodable books are perfect for small-group instruction and independent reading. They provide structured phonics practice to support all learners, including English Language Learners and struggling readers. Our resources are also accessible and meet ADA compliance standards.

TEKS-aligned Assessment and Progress Monitoring

Just Right Reader Kindergarten, 1st Grade and 2nd Grade Assessment Materials

Each grade level and subject area can apply data-driven decision-making to effectively measure student learning and inform instruction. Each unit, lesson, objective, and assessment is designed to measure student progress toward mastery in English and Spanish, aligned with Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). 


Support for Texas Educators and Families

Resources for Teachers and District Leaders and Resources for Families and CaregiversAt Just Right Reader, we aim to make it easy. Texas teachers, district leaders, and families will have all the tools they need to deliver effective, engaging, and TEKS-aligned literacy instruction with the Texas Resource Hub. We strive to be a true Texas partner in your literacy journey.

Our comprehensive resources include:

  • professional development 
  • detailed guides 
  • engaging video lessons


How to Get Additional Just Right Reader Products?

It's important to note that you can also purchase additional Just Right Reader materials, such as theTake-Everywhere Literacy Packs. These products are available through IMTA disbursement request.

If approved, you can order and receive any products from the Just Right Reader catalog.

QR Code to Just Right Reader Science of Reading Instructional Materials and Resources Made For Texas Catalog

Who Can Access EMAT and Order Instructional Materials in Texas?

Each district can designate up to six users with EMAT access and authorized login credentials. They must also complete the necessary training before ordering. To learn more about EMAT access and eligibility in your district, please contact your EMAT district administrator.

At Just Right Reader, our passion for literacy excellence fuels everything we do. This is why we are 100% committed to supporting Texas schools and helping you secure EMAT state funding. 


Download the How to Order Science of Reading Decodables with IMTA Funding

 

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Just Right Reader

Just Right Reader promotes effective literacy instruction, personalized learning, and school-to-home partnerships to foster a lifelong love of reading.

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