Public School Teachers and Probationary Contract Issues

Texas has three types of teacher contracts: probationary, term, and continuing, and a probationary contract can last up to four years for new teachers, including when an educator was previously employed by the district but returns after a two year lapse. A probationary contract teacher during their probationary period and while in probationary contract status faces different legal standards than a term contract teacher or a continuing contract teacher, and questions about returning to probationary status can also affect the analysis. Term contracts require good cause for nonrenewal as defined in district policy. We defend against both performance-related and conduct-related nonrenewal allegations, analyzing evaluation instruments, improvement plans, and district policies for compliance with the Texas Education Code.