Our History

Celebrating 50 Years Strong

The Association for Compensatory Educators of Texas (ACET) traces its roots back to the fall of 1972. The idea for a state organization dedicated to compensatory education emerged during a federal programs workshop in Washington DC, attended by Charles Thornal, Bea Smith, Dr. Roscoe Smith, and Mike Lehr. Click below to read more about ACET’s origins.

Informed Leaders = Quality Programs

ACET’s efforts to keep its members informed and engaged have led to the development of high-quality compensatory education programs. Learn about ACET’s history in educating legislators, providing valuable insights, and fostering collaboration with the Texas Education Agency.

Keeping members
informed & engaged

From its inception, ACET aimed to keep members informed about statewide in-service activities and updates on state and national federal programs. This included changes in legislation, regulations, and exemplary practices.

Engaging legislators &
Empowering members

Members were encouraged to invite local and state representatives to ACET conferences, providing an opportunity to educate legislators on compensatory education. The Fall 1978 conference featured workshops like “How to Influence Legislation” and “How to Write a Proposal.”

acet & the roll
out of title i-a

In December 1978, ACET Officers and Regional Directors received insights from an experienced legislator on influencing the legislative process. Supported by the Texas Education Agency, ACET became a key source of information and technical assistance for Title I programs in Texas.

collaboration & growth

The Association assumed the role of information disseminator. Members of ACET worked closely with the Texas Education Agency to provide educators valuable information at its conferences. By 1979, ACET had 350 members and its membership continues to grow.

Echoes of Excellence: ACET Artifacts

Explore the rich history of ACET through timelines, program booklets, agendas, and first- hand accounts.