As the 2024–25 school year begins, educational service centers across Texas will continue to work to provide services to school districts.

School districts served by ESC Region 11 include Argyle, Arlington, Carroll, Denton, Fort Worth, Grapevine-Colleyville, Keller and Lewisville.

Clyde W. Steelman Jr. is the Executive Director of ESC Region 11. Steelman recently answered questions from Impact on the community via email explaining the history and services of Education Service Centers in Texas. He also provides insight into how the ESCs are funded.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

What is an Education Service Center?

In 1967, the Texas Legislature directed that the State Board of Education provide, through rules and regulations, for the establishment and operation of regional educational service centers. Twenty regional service centers were established to provide services to school districts throughout the state.

Where does the funding for an ESC come from?

ESCs do not have the authority to levy taxes or issue bonds and are funded through grants and contracts. Revenue comes from three main sources: state funds, federal funds and contracts with school districts.

How many school districts, charter and private schools, students, district employees and teachers are served in the region?

In ESC Region 11 we offer the following courses starting in the 22-23 school year:

• 10 counties
• 76 school districts
• 17 public charter school districts
• 105 Charter School Sites
• 160 private schools
• 79,027 teaching staff
• 597,543 students

How often does Region 11 offer opportunities for professional development?

ESC Region 11 offers professional development opportunities every day throughout the year. The frequency of these opportunities may vary by region and specific needs, but in general ESCs offer:

• Workshops and seminars
• Specialized training
• Conferences
• Tailored on-demand training
• Online courses and webinars

These professional development opportunities aim to address current educational trends, new teaching methods, and other relevant topics to help educators improve their practice and increase student learning outcomes.

Have you noticed any trends in the needs of school districts over the past five years?

Over the past five years, we have found that the needs of school districts have continued to evolve. Through our collaboration with various educational groups, including school superintendents, directors of instructional services, and our School Superintendents Advisory Committee, we have been able to effectively identify and address these needs. These groups play a critical role in determining the training and support their districts will need in the coming year and help guide the direction of our initiatives in line with TEA and legislative priorities.

While specific needs may vary, common themes have emerged that reflect broader trends in education. These trends guide our efforts to provide our districts with relevant and timely training and resources.

Learn more

Further information on ESC Region 11 can be found at www.esc11.net.