The concept of High-Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM) is gaining recognition for its positive impact on student learning. In Texas, HQIM are defined as resources that comprehensively cover the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), align with evidence-based instructional strategies across subjects, and cater to the diverse needs of students, including those with disabilities, English learners, and gifted and talented students. These materials facilitate frequent progress monitoring, offer implementation support for teachers, and provide both teacher and student-facing materials at the lesson level. HQIM are crucial for ensuring students engage deeply with grade-level content and benefit from strong instruction, resulting in improved outcomes. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) establishes HQIM through the Instructional Materials Review and Approval (IMRA) process, with a focus on aligning with state standards and supporting rigorous instruction. Additionally, Texas Open Education Resources (OER) are aligned with HQIM standards and undergo SBOE approval to ensure quality and accessibility. This comprehensive approach underscores the significance of HQIM in fostering equitable access to high-quality education in Texas. 

The Relationship Between HQIM and OER 

High-quality instructional materials (HQIM) will be defined by the Instructional Materials Review and Approval (IMRA) process set up by House Bill (HB) 1605. All materials will require official review in the IMRA process by the State Board of Education (SBOE) to be approved as HQIM. 

Open Education Resources (OER) are materials where the underlying intellectual property can be used freely. Texas OER developed by TEA are materials where the state either owns the underlying intellectual property or it can be freely used and modified by the state in perpetuity. 

Current pilot materials meet the working definition of HQIM, and in the future all Texas OER, if approved by the SBOE, will be defined as HQIM under the IMRA process.