PBS stations devote hours of air time to Texas students' education

Texas PBS stations set aside hours of daily programming time to air educational programming aligned with the Texas Education Agency (TEA).

The joint At-Home Learning Initiative put the 10 different PBS viewing areas in collaboration with TEA. They aim to aid school districts and public charter schools in establishing at-home learning and instructional continuity during the COVID-19 pandemic, TEA reported.

“This joint initiative between TEA and PBS stands to benefit all students as they work each day to navigate uncharted waters and continue to do their best to learn and grow as students and individuals,” Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath told TEA.

The PBS affiliates preempt regular weekday programming to air grade-level-appropriate programming. The initiative features shows like Peg+Cat, NOVA and American Experience. This educational programming airs each weekday.

The At-Home Learning Initiative divides programming into three age groups: Pre-K through third grade, fifth through eighth grades and high school. The PBS stations reach 96% of the state’s student-age population. The free programs for each age group air at specific times throughout the school day.

Students can find additional educational materials on PBSLearningMedia.org, including interactive lessons and media galleries. TEA provides resources for school districts online as well.

“PBS stations are dedicated to providing educational programs so offering our daytime schedule to help teachers, parents and students continue learning was very important to us,” Texas PBS Executive Director Kierstan Schwab told TEA.