The Texas Association of Community Schools (TACS) is an organization that has been active in Texas since 1951.  For the first 25 years we were known as the Texas Association of Small Schools and housed in the Texas Education Agency building.  In 1976 the association changed its name to the Texas Association of Community Schools and became independent.  In 1977 TACS purchased a permanent headquarters.

The Texas Association of Community Schools (TACS) represents public school districts with 12,000 ADA and below. This means our membership comprises the small, mid-sized and rural school districts in Texas.  There are 954 public school districts eligible for institutional membership.

• Work for the improvement of instruction in the community schools of the state. TACS defines a “community school” as a school district with fewer than 12,000 students in average daily attendance or with only one high school. This value is exemplified by sponsoring the Academic Challenge each year where high school students compete for over $75,000 in scholarships.
• Provide means by which educators may seek self-improvement by participate in professional growth programs. This value is exemplified through TACS-sponsored conferences.
• Support legislation which will enhance the opportunities and abilities of community schools to provide quality education programs. This value is exemplified by advocating for community schools before legislative committees and by working with individual legislators.
• Cooperate with other organizations dedicated to such purposes. This value is exemplified by working with other educational organizations, and, at times, serving as a buffer to ensure a strong voice for education in the Capitol. 

• Facilitate advocacy efforts.
• Coordinate professional development opportunities.
• Foster membership and corporate partnerships.
• Provide student-focused opportunities for member districts