Criminal Background Checks

Certain programs require students to submit to and satisfactorily complete a criminal background check review as a condition of admission and/or participation in education experiences. Students who refuse to submit to a background check or who do not pass the background check may be dismissed from the program. See the UTRGV Handbook of Operating Procedures for more information.

Additionally, many Texas school districts require applicants for student teaching or field experiences to undergo a criminal background check prior to placement in the school district. School districts may deny placement of students with a criminal background. If a school district denies a placement for this reason, the UTRGV Office of Student Teaching and Field Experiences may attempt to assist the student in obtaining a placement in an alternate district. Students should be aware, however, that if they are unable to obtain a placement they will not meet UTRGV’s requirements for a teaching degree or teacher certification. Additionally, The Texas State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) regulates the certification of educators to teach Texas public school children. Before an individual can be certified, SBEC must conduct a criminal background check to ensure an applicant’s suitability to interact with children. Working with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the agency conducts statewide criminal background checks on all applicants for educator certification. Students pursuing educator preparation should be aware that some criminal histories may lead to the denial of certification as a teacher. Students may obtain additional information from SBEC.