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Texas AG Ken Paxton sues Biden administration over new rule to prevent LGBTQ discrimination
(Houston Chronicle) Texas Republican leaders are pushing back on the Biden administration’s new rules that bar schools from discriminating based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Gov. Abbott orders TEA to ignore Biden’s Title IX revisions protecting LGBTQ+ students
(NBC Dallas) Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) and Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) are pushing back on President Joe Biden’s recent revision of Title IX, which includes safeguards for LGBTQ+ students.
Multiple dead as officials report dozens of overdoses in Austin on Monday
(KVUE) So far, officials said at least four people have died in 30 suspected overdose cases. Initially, officials said the calls started between Sixth and Eighth streets, but that the situation escalated to all parts of Austin.
Texas Health Insurer Makes “Cash Call” to Districts with May 1 Renewal Deadline
(RiskManagers.us) With the announcement to districts by the Texas Schools Health Benefits Program (TSHBP) that member districts must pay an additional monies per employee per month (PEPM) that are enrolled in the program, many member districts are rethinking their membership in the program. Unfortunately, they may be up against an imminent deadline. TSHBP requires districts to tell them by May 1 if they wish to opt out of the program.
Texas Map Reveals Areas With Most High School Dropouts
(Newsweek) That analysis found that Kenedy County—which only has a population of about 350—had the highest percentage of high school dropouts, at 66.8 percent.
Texas GOP and UT-Austin leaders shift from championing free speech to policing protesters’ intentions
(Texas Tribune) The arrest of dozens of Pro-Palestinian demonstrators since last week has left First Amendment advocates asking who gets to enjoy speech protections in Texas.
Dozens more arrested at UT-Austin as police use pepper spray, flash bangs to break up protests
(Texas Tribune) The arrests mark the second time in less than a week that police have broken up a pro-Palestinian demonstration. This time protesters tried to set up an encampment on campus.
Austin photojournalist faces felony charge after arrest during UT protest, affidavit says
(KXAN) According to an active arrest warrant affidavit, Carlos Sanchez, 43, faces a charge of assault on a peace officer, a second-degree felony.
500+ faculty members sign letter of no confidence against UT president over protests, DEI
(Austin American-Statesman) More than 500 University of Texas faculty members have signed a letter of no confidence against President Jay Hartzell after the school’s police response to a peaceful pro-Palestinian protest on campus Wednesday and the April 2 termination of 49 staff members in former diversity, equity and inclusion positions.
‘Free Palestine’: AISD high school students stage walk out to protest Israel-Hamas war
(Austin American-Statesman) As protesters gathered at the University of Texas on Monday in a continuation of pro-Palestinian demonstrations from last week, students at some Austin high schools walked out of class to show their own frustration with the Israel-Hamas war, which has reportedly left more than 30,000 people dead in Gaza.
Dallas ISD: Human error behind gun getting inside Wilmer-Hutchins High School
(NBC DFW) “That weapon made it through the back check and the metal detector. So as a human error, a failure there,” said Albert Martinez, Police Chief, Dallas ISD.
Dallas ISD Increases Campus Security Following Shootings
(Dallas Observer) More police visibility on campus, increased personnel for arrival and dismissal, retraining staff on backpack searches, wands and metal detectors, and reworking daily schedules to maximize the number of staff available for active monitoring are all going into effect during the last month of the school year, the district said.
School leaders reflect on three incidents of gun violence involving North Texas students in three weeks
(NBC DFW) After recent gun incidents in North Texas schools, NBC 5’s Wayne Carter talked to school leaders in the area about how they are working to make safety improvements for students.
Gun Violence Continues as Texas Fortifies Schools
(Government Technology) Even with the raft of new security mandates, violence continues to hit campuses and schools are struggling in their role as a battleground in society’s intractable fights. North Texas — like so many communities — contends with a proliferation of guns, retaliation between gangs and a shortage of mental health resources.
Klein ISD says it is ‘disgusted’ by recent string of teacher arrests: ‘One is too many’
(Houston Chronicle) At least four teachers have been arrested this school year for allegations of child porn, assault of minors and most recently, a sex trafficking arrest that earned the attention of Gov. Greg Abbott, who blasted the district in a recent tweet that advocated school vouchers. After initially declining to comment on the issues last week, a Klein ISD representative said Friday that “there is no ‘normal’ number (of teacher arrests); one is too many.”
Cy-Fair ISD may eliminate nearly half of its librarians as district tackles $138M budget shortfall
(Houston Chronicle) Just over 40 of the Cypress-Fairbanks ISD’s 92 librarian positions may be eliminated as the district attempts to close a $138 million budget shortfall for the 2024-2025 school year, according to librarians who were called into a meeting Friday. A district proposal to close the deficit includes cutting 200 instructional specialists and 254 teaching positions.
Bryan ISD addresses budget as Texas schools brace for financial squeeze ahead of 24-25 academic year
(KBTX) The Bryan Independent School District is among those addressing these obstacles head-on as they prepare for the 2024-2025 academic year.
‘Entire math department is gone’ | Employees at IDEA Public Schools on leave due to incomplete records
(KVUE) The charter school system said Monday afternoon that during an audit last week, its human resources team identified some incomplete employee records in the State of Texas’ systems for clearing new hires. IDEA called the issue an administrative error and said it was “not the fault of the affected employees.”
Great Hearts employees back at work after compliance concerns resolved
(San Antonio Report) An undisclosed number of teachers working at Great Hearts Texas, a charter school with locations in San Antonio, returned to work on April 19 after being placed on administrative leave for several days.
Ahead of crashes, an audit found Pre-K 4 SA wasn’t adequately screening bus drivers
(San Antonio Report) A city audit published April 4 found that Pre-K 4 SA, the city’s early childhood initiative, didn’t have adequate screening procedures in place for its bus drivers. Pre-K 4 SA contracts with Star Shuttle, Inc. to provide morning and afternoon transportation services for students in the program, which serves roughly 2,000 students.
5 things you need to know about state conservators in Socorro ISD
(El Paso Matters) Last week, the Texas Education Agency formally announced two conservators who are being assigned to help correct a series of problems in the Socorro Independent School District. Here’s what you need to know.
How Tiktok is becoming an indirect political tool in the Texas Republican runoffs
(Austin American-Statesman) Even before the just-enacted federal law that bans popular social media platform TikTok from the United States unless it is severed from its Beijing-based parent company, some Republican Texas House members battling to survive the May 28 runoffs have sought to link their opponents to the app because one of its major investors has become a financial player in their races.
Following ransomware attack, Tarrant Appraisal District extends filing deadlines
(WFAA TV) TAD said online services had been restored after a March ransomware attack compromised the personal information of about 300 Tarrant County residents. After the attack, the appraisal district’s website continued to have issues.
Report: Texas Community College Students Struggling to Make Ends Meet
(Inside Higher Ed) A new survey from Trellis Strategies finds a majority of two-year students in Texas have run out of money during 2023, but one-third of students have not spoken with their college about their issues.
Carroll ISD Superintendent announces retirement
(Community Impact) Carroll ISD Superintendent Lane Ledbetter announced his plans to retire in a community email April 26.
Fort Worth father spreads mental health awareness after teen son’s suicide
(NBC DFW) In a three-day span, two Keller ISD students died by fatal gunshot wounds, according to Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Records.
Judson ISD now will let middle schoolers who fail reading or math advance to next grade
(San Antonio Express-News) More than 1,000 middle school students failing math or reading in Judson Independent School District will be able to advance to the next grade level under a new policy approved by the board this month.
Resigned Prosper ISD board member running again after criminal case against him no-billed
(Dallas Morning News) The former Prosper school board president who resigned after he was arrested on a charge of indecency with a child is running for reelection after a grand jury declined to indict him.
Mom asks Richardson ISD classmates to help make non-verbal son’s new school transition smooth
(NBC DFW) 8-year-old Aidan Wise has Down Syndrome. Next year, he’ll be going to a new school without his old friends.
‘We win’: UH students continue unofficial LGBTQ+ graduation tradition despite Texas DEI ban
(Houston Landing) Although there wasn’t a formal stage and guests could barely hear “Pomp and Circumstance” play, authenticity was not lost Saturday evening at the University of Houston’s first student-run, spring Lavender Graduation.
Proposed wastewater plant by Central Texas elementary school sparks opposition, possible change
(KXAN) A state lawmaker has gotten involved, as have local city leaders.
Residential, commercial property valuations jump in El Paso
(El Paso Inc.) Total taxable values jumped 15.9% from 2023 to 2024, from $48.8 billion to $56.6 billion, according to a CAD presentation given to City Council last week.
Rice University students launch app to help patients navigate, save money on healthcare
(Fox 26 Houston) The Healthcare Navigator is aimed at helping patients be better informed about their care, shop around, and perhaps even avoid unnecessary procedures.
‘Different way of learning’: UT-Arlington unveils immersive simulation room for nursing students
(Arlington Report) The simulation system will allow nursing students to immerse themselves into various training scenarios to hone their educational skills.
Beloved teacher’s aide reported missing found dead in Frisco, police say
(NBC DFW) A Frisco officer and Plano Police detective arrived and found the missing woman’s car. Doyle’s body was discovered inside with “no signs of foul play,” police said.
THRU Project: Transforming the future for foster youth in Bexar County
(WOAI San Antonio) The organization served 289 people last year through their programs, between the ages of 14 and 25.
Lena Pope to shut down Fort Worth charter school in August
(Forth Worth Report) Chapel Hill Academy, a public charter school operated by the Fort Worth-based nonprofit Lena Pope, will close its doors permanently. Increasing variety of school options, funding woes and a declining enrollment led to the academy’s closure, officials said in an April 26 statement.
Uvalde Parent Obliterates Police Response to Texas University Protest
(The New Republic) Brett Cross pointed out the striking difference to the police response during the Robb Elementary School shooting.
Texas fortified campuses after Uvalde, but gun violence affecting schools continues
(Dallas Morning News) Recent shootings impacting North Texas high schools highlight the safety issues that still exist on campuses.
Livestock show secretary admits to nearly $200,000 embezzlement scheme
(U.S. Attorney’s Office) A 67-year-old Sandia resident has pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud as part of a scheme to defraud the Nueces County Junior Livestock Show (NCJLS), announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. The scheme resulted in a loss of approximately $172,069.17.
Campuses across Texas had pro-Palestinian demonstrations. Why did only UT-Austin crack down?
(Texas Tribune) School officials say it’s because campus rules were broken.
Critics lash out at Gov. Greg Abbott for journalist’s arrest at UT protest
(San Antonio Current) Texas progressive groups and a San Antonio U.S. Congressman lashed out at Gov. Greg Abbott Thursday for the arrest of a journalist during a pro-Palestinian protest at the University of Texas at Austin the day before.
Texas Tech University student organizations hold protests to support Gaza ceasefire
(Fox 34) A Muslim student organization at Texas Tech is joining thousands across the nation in protest of the war in Gaza, which followed The Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel. The non-violent demonstration began on campus Friday morning and lasted through the afternoon.
The New ‘Texas Antisemitism Lottery’ Should Pay Out Big In Lawsuit Awards And Settlements – OpEd
(Eurasia Review) The police and Abbott have had their day at UT. And they may keep suppressing speech similarly at colleges across the state. Next should be their comeuppance. Lawyers are busy now communicating with victims of the speech content targeting crackdown and preparing court action.
Colleges don’t have to refund tuition because COVID moved classes online, Texas Supreme Court rules
(Texas Public Radio) “Hogan cites no precedent in which a student in his position has obtained monetary damages from a school in the event of the campus’s unexpected closure for any reason — much less its forced closure at the hand of the government,” the opinion reads.
What Will Texas Do to Protect Female Students From Biden’s Title IX Rewrite?
(Texas Scorecard) The new version would add “gender identity” as a protected class.
Texas Attracted California Techies. Now It’s Losing Thousands of Them
(Texas Monthly) The “Texas Miracle” loses some of its magic as Oracle announces it’s moving its new HQ out of Austin and Tesla lays off nearly 2,700 workers.
Tesla factory exempts itself from Austin environmental regulations through new Texas law
(Austin America-Satesman) Tesla, Austin’s largest private employer, no longer needs to follow the city’s environmental regulations at its sprawling factory campus in eastern Travis County after it successfully applied to disannex the site under a new state law.
Former credit union manager admits to embezzling over $200,000 from elderly client accounts
(U.S. Attorneys Office) Gloria Hall was employed at Prairie View Federal Credit Union (PVFCU). Hall admitted she was able to and did access at least two elderly customer accounts and misappropriated $211,563.12 of their funds for her own personal gain.
Texas man’s job history before sex abuse conviction highlights background check gaps
(KXAN) Texas lawmakers passed a plan demanding a solution that warns schools and other child welfare agencies of state workers fired or reprimanded for misconduct. The do-not-hire search engine would pull thousands of disciplinary records from four state agencies, but we found lawmakers did not appropriate enough funding to complete it, and critical information would be missing under current plans.
Klein ISD troubles are earning the attention of Gov. Abbott and causing parent confidence to plummet
(Houston Chronicle) Klein ISD has had a rough April. First, a Klein Cain High School cosmetology teacher was arrested on allegations of child trafficking and compelling prostitution of three teens reported as runaways. Then, Gov. Greg Abbott blasted the 54,000-student northwest Harris County district.
HISD Scrambles As it Admits Its EOY Assessment Data is Wrong [UPDATED]
(Houston Press) In the midst of contract negotiations, Houston ISD sent out an email today saying that end of year performances summaries have been “incorrectly calculated.”
HISD Central Office employees could see layoffs, role changes in the coming weeks
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD plans to notify employees “in the weeks to come” if their positions will be eliminated or changed during the 2024-25 academic year due to budget cuts.
Houston ISD SAT and ACT Scores Drop Amid Controversial Performance Ultimatum to Principals
(Hoodline) Amid a backdrop of decreased performance on SAT and ACT scores, Houston ISD saw a dip during the 2022-2023 academic year – a worrying trend paralleled at both the state and national levels. The district’s average scores on the SAT dropped to a composite score of 935, while ACT scores sagged slightly to an average composite of 23.8, according to a Houston Chronicle report.
Pay raises for teachers? Austin school board weighs tax increase amid budget shortfalls
(Austin American-Statesman) Staring down a $30 million budget deficit for the 2024-25 school year, Austin school board members are considering asking district voters to authorize a higher property tax rate to give employees pay raises and to hire additional on-campus workers.
Keller ISD board approves $3.2M land purchase to prevent hotel next to Basswood Elementary
(Community Impact) Keller ISD’s school board approved the purchase of land next to Basswood Elementary because of concerns about an extended-stay motel that was set to be built there.
Leander ISD considers 2% staff pay raises for 2024-25 school year
(Community Impact) District administration presented their recommendation for the 2% pay increase at an April 25 board of trustees meeting as the district projects a $15 million budget shortfall for fiscal year 2024-25.
Coastal Bend school leaders seek ways to advocate for schools
(Corpus Christi Caller-Times) For five hours Friday, superintendents and school board representatives from across the region met for an advocacy summit, discussing the best ways to ensure public education priorities are taken seriously by lawmakers in 2025.
Website ranks TSTC’s automotive and auto collision programs best in US
(myRGV) College Factual recently placed Texas State Technical College at the top of its list of 2024 Best Mechanic and Repair Technologies Associate Degree Schools in the United States.
UISD school bus accident under investigation
(KGNS) According to United ISD officials, a vehicle bumped into one of their school buses at the intersection of Marcella Avenue and Calton Road. At the time of the incident, the bus was transporting eleven special needs students from Amparo Gutierrez Elementary School.
Texas tops nearly every ranking, including best state for business, again
(Center Square) Texas was again named the Best State for Business – for a record-breaking 20 years in a row this month – and TIME Magazine recognized Gov. Greg Abbott as one of the 100 most influential people in the world.
These are Texas’ top 10 high schools, according to US News
(Fox 4 KDFW) When it comes to the top high schools in the U.S., Texas is home to some of the best, according to a new report.
3 Texas Teachers Arrested in 3 Days for Sex with Students
(Texas Scorecard) Two of the three accused teachers were also football coaches. A fourth teacher was fired for alleged sexual misconduct but has not been charged.
Deion Sanders revives Texas vs. Florida high school football argument
(Houston Chronicle) Which state produces the most NFL talent? It depends on how you measure the talent.
San Antonio moves closer to giving Alamo Cenotaph to Texas, just in time for costly repairs
(San Antonio Express-News) Under proposed changes to the city’s lease agreement for a public-private Alamo makeover, the Texas General Land Office, which last year secured $400 million from the Legislature for the project, will own the Cenotaph through a title transfer from the city.
Texas A&M University hires CNN, Dallas Morning News professionals to journalism faculty
(Houston Chronicle) Texas A&M University will double its full-time journalism faculty ahead of the fall semester, forging ahead after a hiring scandal tainted the program’s much-anticipated revival and raised major concerns about recruitment at the institution.
Exclusive: $25 million lead gift from Mays Family Foundation will fund Texas A&M graduate building
(Houston Chronicle) On Friday, A&M announced another $25 million from the Mays Family Foundation, which serves as the lead gift toward constructing a third building within what is now the Mays Business Education Complex.
Driverless semis will soon carry freight along Texas highways
(AP) In less than nine months, Aurora Innovation Inc., an autonomous transportation company, will launch up to 20 driverless trucks carrying loads on Texas highways for partners such as FedEx, Uber Freight and Werner.
These 3 Texas universities among most prettiest campuses on Architectural Digest list
(Austin American-Statesman) They are: Baylor (#14), Rice (#16), Southern Methodist (#25).
Black women in San Antonio taking charge in fight against high maternal mortality rates
(San Antonio Report) Years before she was pregnant, Head knew she wanted an environment where she would be believed and in control during her birthing experience. Too many times, she’d seen Black women be dismissed for their pain, be given interventions to rush a birth and be labeled.
Roosevelt H.S. closed Friday due to credible threat; 2 students hurt leaving football practice
(Fox 4 Dallas) Dallas ISD canceled classes at Roosevelt High School in East Oak Cliff because of a credible threat. The late-night announcement came hours after two students were wounded in a drive-by shooting while leaving football practice.
Texas Republicans have tried to rein in property taxes for five years. Has it worked?
(Texas Tribune) Many homeowners saw a significant tax cut last year, per a Texas Tribune analysis.
Charges dropped against most UT Austin protesters
(Dallas Morning News) Many of those arrested were seen leaving the Travis County Jail on Thursday as charges were dropped against 46 individuals after defense attorneys raised concerns about “deficiencies” in charging documents known as arrest affidavits, Travis County attorney Delia Garza said Thursday.
“This Would Have Been a Peaceful Gathering:”: Behind the Scenes of the UT Protest
(Texas Monthly) Students protesting Israel’s war in Garza say they were demonstrating peacefully at the Uniersity of Texas at Austin when police tackled and arrested them.
‘We asked for help’: Text messages reveal why DPS was called to help patrol UT protest
(Austin American-Statesman) University of Texas President Jay Hartzell told a state lawmaker that he and other officials sought law enforcement help from the state leading up to a large pro-Palestinian protest Wednesday that led to more than 50 arrests because “our police force couldn’t do it alone,” according to text messages obtained by the American-Statesman.
Was that really necessary?
(Daily Texan) These unnecessary arrests affirm what much of the campus community has pointed out for months: the University and Gov. Greg Abbott intentionally utilize intimidation tactics to avoid controversial discourse on campus.
North Texas Students Join Pro-Palestine Protests Spreading Across College Campuses
(Dallas Observer) Students at UT Dallas and UT Arlington have staged demonstrations in support of Palestine this week, joining the nationwide trend of campus protests.
New pro-Israel student organization raises $18,000
(Daily Texan) “Having this will allow us to exist for the next year and afford events and all the ideas that we have to come this Fall,” said Ben Sherman, founder of the organization.
HISD backtracks on offering $2K retention incentives to certain teachers due to budget constraints
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD told teachers Thursday that it would no longer be offering the promised retention incentives of up to $2,000 to teachers who continued to work in schools outside the New Education System next year.
HISD is eyeing a multibillion-dollar bond election. Here’s who stands to benefit the most
(Houston Landing) As HISD officials consider the possibility of asking voters to approve a multibillion-dollar bond in November, many of the district’s youngest learners stand to benefit the most from new and renovated campuses.
Former Fort Bend ISD employee isn’t to blame for bond shortfalls, report says
(Houston Public Media) Administrators blamed a former employee for failing to share updated cost estimates. But a new report found that their failure to account for inflation led to budget overages.
Austin Community College Trialing Free College Program, Will Others Follow?
(Forbes) This pilot program will pay the $87 per credit hour for all 2024 high school graduates for three years. The college has committed funds to pay tuition for the next five years of entering classes.
San Antonio teacher background checks cleared after clerical error
(MySA) All teachers placed on leave were back at work within a week.
Hutto ISD Superintendent Raúl Peña resigns
(Community Impact) A reason for Peña’s resignation was not provided by the district.
Grapevine-Colleyville ISD revises FY 2023-24 budget that results in a $5.46M shortfall
(Community Impact) Revisions included a $40.1 million shortfall in revenues offset by a $34.6 million shortfall in expenditures.
NISD approves staff raises, plans to adopt deficit budget
(The Messenger) The compensation plan includes a minimum 2 percent midpoint raise, and many veteran teachers will see salary adjustments to increase overall compensation for total years of service. Veteran staff who have worked for NISD for more than five years will receive a longevity stipend. The new starting teacher salary is now $61,500.
Carroll ISD classrooms to have more students in 2024-25 school year after adjusting ratios
(Community Impact) Adjusting the ratios would save the district $1.6 million over the 2024-25 school year.
Tomball, Magnolia school districts maintain enrollment despite alternative schooling options
(Community Impact) Tomball and Magnolia ISDs were among the districts in northwest Houston with the lowest student transfer rates for the 2023-24 school year, Texas Education Agency data shows.
Socorro ISD projecting $41 million budget shortfall next school year
(KVIA) In a meeting last night, the district’s chief financial officer said the shortfall was projected in a preliminary budget.
New School Lunch Rules Will Change Menus. (Chocolate Milk Still Allowed)
(Education Week) The U.S. Department of Agriculture unveiled final nutrition standards for school meals Wednesday that include a new, gradual limit on added sugars.
Biden Signs TikTok Ban Into Law. What That Means for Schools
(Education Week) President Joe Biden signed legislation Wednesday banning TikTok, if its China-based owner doesn’t sell its stake in the company within the next nine months.
Conroe ISD Keeps Gender Confusion Book on Shelves
(Texas Scorecard) The book “Lily and Dunkin” contains an online resource where adults can talk with minors about how to change genders.
Texas GOP Exploring Options to Close Primary Elections from Democrat Interference
(Texas Scorecard) Texas GOP Chairman Matt Rinaldi announced the creation of a new working group ahead of the party’s convention next month to explore both “legislative and extra-legislative avenues” for the party to close the primary elections, as the legislature has repeatedly failed to do so.
Thousands of Denton ISD students will get free breakfast and lunch, once federal funding is approved
(KERA) Denton school board members voted unanimously Tuesday to apply for a federal program that will cover costs for breakfast and lunch for all students at 10 of its campuses for four years.
UTRGV-Edinburg CISD Collegiate High School completion delayed
(myRGV) “Because UTRGV being that they own the property and … the building, they don’t usually obtain a building permit, but in this case, it was written into the agreement that they obtain the permit and so that added some days to the project.”
Dallas’ head of IT resigns; Bill Zielinski oversaw recovery from 2023 ransomware attack
(Dallas Morning News) Dallas’ chief information officer, who in recent years oversaw the city’s response to a ransomware attack and an employee deleting millions of electronic police records, is resigning.
Texas ranks 14th among most gambling-addicted states, study finds
(Austin American-Statesman) But for a state that doesn’t have legal gambling, there seems to be a gambling habit. According to WalletHub, Texas is ranked in the top 20 most gambling-addicted states.
Rice students launch free menstrual product initiative to combat period poverty on campus
(Houston Chronicle) The freshman joined a student commission to increase menstrual product accessibility on campus, and within months, they installed free menstrual product dispensers in 56 women’s and gender-neutral restrooms at Rice. The university has since committed to keeping the machines stocked.
This East Texas town hasn’t held a city council election in at least 18 years
(Texas Tribune) In Kennard, City Council members have been appointed after previous members retired or died.
Texas State researchers aim to improve reusable wastewater for drinking
(Community Impact) Prolonged droughts and little rainfall threaten to dry up Central Texas groundwater systems, but direct potable reuse—a purification method that creates drinking water from treated wastewater—could be a solution.
Arlington Bowie High School shooting: 17-year-old suspect, 18-year-old victim identified
(Fox 4 KDFW) Arlington police said Howard shot and killed 18-year-old Etavian Barnes around 3 p.m. Wednesday just as the dismissal bell was about to ring. School resource officers got there immediately and found Barnes lying on the ground near a portable building on campus. They said he’d been shot five or six times.
Texas school districts violated a law intended to add transparency to local elections
(Texas Tribune) The Texas Tribune and ProPublica analyzed 35 Texas school districts that held trustee elections last fall and found none that posted all of the required campaign finance records.
Column: Opting Out of the STAAR Test Requires a Law Degree Or Iron Will
(Houston Press) Opting out of STAAR, parents face a maze of objections.
Updated: Every Texas School District Book Ban
(Dallas Observer) The new report, “Banned in the USA: Narrating the Crisis,” reveals that there were 4,349 instances of book bans recorded by PEN America during the 2023 fall semester.
Poll: Likely Texas voters oppose school vouchers, but support Gov. Abbott’s border policies
(WFAA-TV) A majority of likely voters opposes Governor Greg Abbott’s push to let parents have tax dollars to send their children to private schools, according to a new survey from the Texas Hispanic Policy Foundation.
Police arrest more than two dozen pro-Palestine protesters on UT-Austin campus amid tense standoff
(Texas Tribune) A student walkout at the University of Texas at Austin in support of Palestine turned chaotic Wednesday when police officers tried to disperse protesters using horses and riot gear, resulting in the arrest of at least 34 people. Two members of the media were arrested.
Greg Abbott Under Fire Over Police Response to Protesters
(Newsweek) The police crackdown caused a mixture of anger and support across social media, with many taking aim at Abbott.
Students in San Antonio and Austin join nationwide protests supporting Palestinians
(Texas Public Radio) Dozens of protesters gathered at the University of Texas at San Antonio’s main campus on Wednesday for a “Gaza Solidarity Action” organized by the Party for Socialism and Liberation San Antonio and Students for Justice in Palestine UTSA. It was the latest in a wave of demonstrations sweeping college campuses across the U.S.
Students allege free speech violations at UTSA march for Palestine
(San Antonio Report) The UTSA demonstration was far more muted than those gripping television screens across the nation, however, with roughly 100 students and organizers saying they were constrained by university staff directives to refrain from using loudspeakers, or even mentioning the name of the country Israel — something the university denies.
UT-Arlington students protest ongoing Israel war in Gaza
(Fort Worth Report) The signs read “UTA for Palestine,” “Ceasefire now” and “Stop arming Israel!”
Here’s what the law says about protesting on Texas college campuses
(Texas Tribune) Free speech experts and advocates say students can generally peacefully protest, regardless of their viewpoint. However, colleges and authorities may still enforce some restrictions and criminal laws to maintain peace and order.
Woman pleads guilty after student brings meth to East Texas school as ‘candy’
(KETK) Prosecutors said the investigation started on Dec. 5, 2019 when a student at Fredonia Elementary in Nacogdoches reportedly brought meth to school, offering it to other children as “candy.”
Spring Branch ISD’s latest move to tackle tight budget: More out-of-district transfers
(Houston Landing) In an uncommon move designed to help close a budget crunch, Spring Branch Independent School District will allow 150 students living outside its boundaries to attend three schools next year through a lottery process.
Investigators: Former Fort Bend ISD superintendent, top deputies to blame for bond shortfall
(Houston Landing) Budgeting misses by former Fort Bend Independent School District superintendent Christie Whitbeck’s administration were the primary cause of a major shortfall in the district’s 2023 bond program, according to investigators hired to review the shortfall.
Study: Texas’ Financial Transparency Has Worsened Since 2019
(Texas Scorecard) A new study by Truth in Accounting shows that Texas’ record of publishing transparent and accurate government financial information has worsened over the past five years.
Proposed policy changes spark concern for LGBTQ students in Dripping Springs ISD
(Community Impact) For about an hour, Dripping Springs ISD community members spoke during public comment at an April 22 board meeting about an item that was postponed that night—policy changes that would remove language referring to the LGBTQ community in the district’s nondiscrimination policies.
One person seriously injured after downtown-area crash involving school bus, officials say
(KENS-TV) One person was seriously injured Wednesday morning when a car that might have been involved in a road rage incident struck a Pre-K 4 SA school bus, setting off a chain reaction involving a total of eight vehicles, officials say. No children were on the school bus at the time of the crash, which happened just after 8 a.m. on Highway 90 at Interstate 35
AISD stalls vote on $440K family resource centers contract after applicants violate rules
(Austin American-Statesman) The Austin school district has postponed a school board decision to pick an organization to run five family resource centers in district campuses after staff members said both applicants violated rules about communicating with the board or staff members.
Texas is facing a child care crisis. More than 30 groups are asking lawmakers to do more
(Houston Public Media) The nonprofits and early education advocates sent a letter Monday to the Budget Conference Committee, which is made up of members of the Texas Senate and House. The committee hammers out the details for the final version of the state’s next two-year budget.
EPA Announces Latest Grant Program Prioritizing Electric School Buses
(School Transporation News) The student transportation industry has another 652 million reasons to adopt electric school buses.
Electric vehicle convoy tours south Texas, stops in Laredo
(KGNS) Electric vehicles are making waves in south Texas as a convoy, including an electric school bus, travels across the region. They’re shining a light on the need for more charging stations and funding for electric vehicles in cities, schools, and businesses.
Will Fort Worth ISD’s next budget be balanced? Questions remain
(Fort Worth Report) Fort Worth ISD is still adding up numbers to determine whether it will have a balanced budget for the 2024-25 school year.
Farmers’ Almanac predicts ‘sizzling’ summer in Texas. How accurate is it?
(Austin American-Statesman) The almanac, which has been predicting weather (with varying accuracy) since 1818, recently released its extended weather forecast for the upcoming summer, titled “Summer Soaker Ahead.”
Why DPS is seeking a retrial after ex-Texas trooper, Army Reserve captain won $2.5M suit
(Austin American-Statesman) The Texas Department of Public Safety is seeking a retrial after being ordered by a jury to pay $2.5 million in lost wages to a former DPS trooper who became sick from toxic burn pit exposure during his Army Reserve unit’s deployment to Iraq in 2007 and 2008.
TWU extends free tuition to STEM-focused charter school students
(KERA) Texas Woman’s University announced this week that it has partnered with Harmony Public Schools to offer high schoolers a shot at enrolling at TWU tuition-free.
University of St. Thomas students left frustrated following meeting with president
(Houston Chronicle) University of St. Thomas students who are upset about deep cuts in the communication program said Monday that they left a two hour meeting with the school president with no resolution to their frustration, the administration.
Harris County once projected a $5.1 million surplus. Now it’s a $15.7 million deficit. What happened?
(Houston Chronicle) Harris County is on track to end the current fiscal year with a $15.7 million deficit, driven largely by lower than expected property tax revenue and the increasing costs of operating the criminal justice system, according to the county’s chief budget officer.
Rice University receives $90M award to develop education research hub
(Houston Chronicle) The U.S. National Science Foundation has awarded Rice University $90 million to build the country’s largest education research hub, aiming to advance teachers’ knowledge of student learning strategies and boost outcomes for people from diverse backgrounds.
College of the Mainland to launch dental hygiene associate degree
(Community Impact) College of the Mainland is now accepting applications for its new dental hygiene associate degree program, which will begin this fall.
NEISD teacher, football coach arrested for improper relationship with student, SAPD says
(KSAT) Andrew McCown, 27, is a teacher and coach at Roosevelt High School in the North East Independent School District. According to SAPD, in March, the district notified police that one of their teachers was involved in an improper relationship with a 17-year-old student.
Richardson ISD students start lemonade stand to raise $400 for bus driver
(Fox 4 KDFW) The students from Big Springs Elementary raised more than $400 with a lemonade stand for James Fonteno, or Mr. James, as the kids know him.
When It Comes to Texas Public Schools, Jesus Is Already in the Building
(Texas Monthly) There’s a misconception that schools bar the door to anyone who wears a cross or carries a Bible,” said Brian Woods, deputy executive director for advocacy at the Texas Association of School Administrators.
Some Texas Republicans float trans teacher ban after Gov. Greg Abbott slams cross-dressing in school
(San Antonio Express-News) Deer Park Republican Rep. Briscoe Cain replied to Monicelli’s post, saying, “Perverts should not be teachers.” Texas GOP Chairman Matt Rinaldi said Abbott was “exactly right.” And former state Sen. Don Huffines — who unsuccessfully challenged Abbott in the 2022 primary but took credit for the governor’s push to the right on a number of key issues — also chimed in.
What you need to know about threats at schools
(Texas Tribune) Texas lawmakers have mandated new school safety policies including armed guards at every public school campus, classroom panic buttons and more staff training.
Texas A&M athletics lays off more than a dozen staff members
(The Eagle) Texas A&M’s athletic department laid off more than a dozen staffers Tuesday, including several high-ranking administrators.
Like an old SNL sketch, county clerk helps Bexar DA in ‘makin’ copies’ to comply with Paxton rule
(Texas Public Radio) The Bexar County clerk will cover the $1million of funding needed for the district attorney to comply with a mandate from the Texas attorney general. AG Ken Paxton wants DA Joe Gonzales to digitize the hard copies from 50,000 felony and misdemeanor criminal cases dating back to 2021.
Investigation into Fort Bend ISD bond shows leaders failed to adjust for inflation between 2022, 2023 proposals
(Community Impact) A law firm’s investigation shows Fort Bend ISD’s $132.6 million shortfall for its May 2023 bond was primarily caused by administration leaders not adjusting major project costs for inflation when the bond was delayed from the November 2022 election.
Facing a $138M shortfall, Cy-Fair ISD trustees contemplate budget cuts
(Houston Chronicle) Among the cuts being recommended are bus transportation for some students, 200 professional support staff positions and 254 classroom teaching positions. The district could also consider asking voters to approve a tax rate increase.
Round Rock ISD addresses budget deficit crisis for 2024-25 school year
(CBS Austin) Chief financial officer for Round Rock ISD, Dennis Covington says as it stands today, the school district faces a more than $22 million deficit for next year, down from over $30 million just a month ago.
TX school districts say bonds won’t increase taxes. Ballots say otherwise. What’s the deal?
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Will property taxes increase or not? The key lies in the difference between property tax increases and property tax rate increases.
UTD students protest war in Gaza alongside other student bodies
(NBC DFW) More than 100 UT Dallas students were among the voices calling on university officials to hear their demands.
Anti-Israel campus protests are spreading: California, Texas brace after activists overrun Columbia, Yale
(Fox News) UT-Austin, UCLA and Johns Hopkins among the newest protest grounds after sparks from Ivy League schools
Texas Supreme Court blocks payments under Uplift Harris
(Houston Public Radio) The Texas Supreme Court on Tuesday issued an administrative stay to temporarily block Harris County’s “Uplift Harris” guaranteed income pilot program from going into effect, granting a request filed earlier in the day by Attorney General Ken Paxton.
Former AG Holder targets Texas Supreme Court seats after Wisconsin flip
(Center Square) A group run by former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder in the Obama administration is targeting Texas Supreme Court seats in the 2024 election after taking credit for flipping the Wisconsin Supreme Court.
More School Workers Qualify for Overtime Under New Rule. Teachers Remain Exempt
(Education Week) School districts will be required to offer overtime pay to more employees under a federal rule finalized by the U.S. Department of Labor Tuesday, but teachers will remain exempt from the regulation.
New Title IX Rule Has Explicit Ban on Discrimination of LGBTQ+ Students
(Education Week) LGBTQ+ students will receive explicit legal protection from sex discrimination and harassment under a long-awaited revision of Title IX rules the Biden administration released Friday, April 19, nearly two years after it originally proposed the overhaul.
Prosper ISD fine arts programs see 183% growth in student involvement since 2016-17 school year
(Community Impact) The data provided shows secondary student involvement has grown to 13,997 students in 2023-24—a 183% increase since the 2016-17 school year.
Migrants indicted in Texas over alleged border breach after judge dismissed charges
(AP) A Texas grand jury indicted more than 140 migrants on misdemeanor rioting charges Tuesday over an alleged mass attempt to breach the U.S.-Mexico border, a day after a judge threw out the cases.
Property tax company Ownwell refuses to defend itself from charges by competitors
(Dallas Morning News) I want to warn you about a property tax company that is blanketing North Texas homeowners with deceptive marketing.
Demand from large-scale users could strain Texas power grid, ERCOT chief says
(Dallas Morning News) A growing number of industrial-scale users could strain the Texas power grid, setting the stage for a massive buildup of transmission lines across the state, ERCOT’s chief announced Tuesday.
Why University of Texas at Austin Researchers Made Compostable Sequins and Recruited Designers
(Women’s Wear Daily) Instead of having material researchers just holed up in labs tinkering with new theories and concepts, the University of Texas at Austin enlisted some of them to join forces with other faculty, students and alumni in the school’s division of textiles and apparel.
Hydrogen Research Project Opens at University of Texas
(Power) The project was developed as part of the “Demonstration and Framework for H2@Scale in Texas and Beyond” project, supported by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technologies Office. This first-of-its-kind hydrogen proto-hub is considered a significant leap forward in the clean hydrogen economy.
Historians discover Mission San José was a stop on the Underground Railroad
(San Antonio Report) The National Park Service on Monday announced that new research has uncovered that enslaved African Americans sought freedom at Mission San José in the 1800s — the first of several sites connected to the U.S. slave trade to be identified in San Antonio.
Hays CISD substitute teacher “will not be invited back” after controversial assignment
(CBS Austin) The substitute, who was suspended last Friday, had reportedly assigned students to perform a puppet show involving murder or death scenes, with one group depicting a mass shooting.
Texas Democrats Lose Latest Attempt to Force Universal Voting By Mail
(Texas Scorecard) On Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court denied Democrats’ request to hear arguments intended to force Texas and other states to accept universal voting by mail.
‘Gut Wrenching:’ Blue Ridge High senior says school pulled her valedictorian title one month before graduation due to ‘miscalculation.’
(WFAA-TV) Maya had already written her valedictorian speech, and her family from out of the country had paid for flights to come to hear her read it. Perhaps most importantly she’d already enrolled at the University of Texas, with the belief her first year would be free due to a scholarship awarded at state universities to valedictorians.
Klein ISD whistleblower alleges retaliation over sex trafficking claims
(Fox 26 Houston) The former Klein ISD teacher is planning to file a lawsuit against the district after she says her own daughter was sex trafficked by a fellow teacher, and she says she ended up without a job after blowing the whistle.
Subpoena shows FBI asked Progreso for payroll data
(ValleyCentral) “Pursuant to an investigation being conducted by FBI as to (a) possible federal violation, you (sic) hereby requested not to disclose the existence of this subpoena,” according to the seven-page document, which Progreso released under the Texas Public Information Act. “For any such disclosure could impede the investigation and thereby interfere with the enforcement of law.”
Can schools give student addresses to strangers? A private eye says one Fort Bend campus did
(Houston Landing) By his account, private investigator David Weed walked into a Fort Bend ISD middle school in February, asked for the addresses of Arcola City Councilmember Ebony Sanco’s two children and received it on the spot.
Seattle hospital won’t turn over gender-affirming care records in lawsuit settlement with Texas
(AP) Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is dropping a request for a Seattle hospital to hand over records regarding gender-affirming treatment potentially given to children from Texas as part of a lawsuit settlement announced Monday.
Newly released documentary alleges former Keller ISD trustee ‘begged’ crew to not air interview
(Fort Worth Report) A film crew hired by a Netherlands-based broadcasting channel called Evangelische Omroep — or EO for short — visited the school in February to film an interview for an episode titled “Texas – War on Woke” with Sandi Walker, a Keller ISD trustee who later resigned. Show host Tijs van den Brink said during the April 14 episode that the aftermath of the visit had “traumatized” Walker and that the show had decided not to broadcast her interview per her request.
Granbury School Bond Opponent Arrested Over Campaign Bus Permit
(Texas Scorecard) “No Bond Bus Tour” driver Steve Biggers said the Hood County sheriff’s department has been “weaponized” against citizens speaking against the bond.
Texas politics leave transgender foster youth isolated — during and after life in state care
(Texas Tribune) Support once afforded LGBTQ+ foster kids has vanished and a culture of silence has blanketed the agency tasked with raising children growing up in the system.
Governor Abbott Announces $34 Million Behavioral Health Campus Project In Uvalde
(Governor’s Office) Governor Greg Abbott today announced a $34 million project to build a behavioral health campus in Uvalde dedicated to providing on-site care to children and adults experiencing mental health crises in 32 counties in the surrounding area. The new behavioral health campus is expected to open in summer 2025, with construction slated to begin this summer.
With 36th Consecutive Month of Positive Growth, Texas Leads Nation in Job Creation
(Texas Insider) Through March, Texas has added more than 2.3 million jobs during Governor Abbott’s time in office.
DCCE changes have no effect on curriculum, disability services despite misinformed concerns
(Daily Texan) The Daily Texan has clarified which DCCE programs are impacted and the law’s effects on curriculum.
‘I still am grieving’: Staff move forward following University layoffs
(Daily Texan) “It was a little bit humiliating because you’re in this room with 30 people and we’re all finding out the same news,” said the staff member, who is still working through the semester.
Special Report: Where Texas stands on book bans in school libraries
(KWTX) While book bans in the United States go back centuries, in recent years, they have become more and more common, especially in public schools, and Texas is one of the states leading the effort to regulate books.
Hays CISD approves $4.7M purchase of 30 school buses, seatbelt retrofitting
(CBS Austin) One month after a crash involving a Hays CISD school bus killed two people and injured dozens more, the district is taking steps to increase safety on its buses.
Nearly 1 in 3 HISD schools tested positive for high lead levels. Did yours? Explore the data
(Houston Chronicle) Nearly a third of Houston ISD campuses tested positive for high lead levels in 2023, according to a recent assessment of district facilities.
Beaumont ISD board approves new rebranded stadium name
(12 News Now) Beaumont ISD joins 24 other districts in Texas that have sold the naming rights to their stadiums.
Cy-Fair ISD Board hears opinions on balancing the budget amid $38 million deficit
(Click 2 Houston) A big discussion Monday night at Cy-Fair ISD as the board is considering drastic measures to balance the budget.
Fort Worth ISD could close these seven middle schools. Here’s why and what to know
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Although finalized plans are still months away, some residents in the Fort Worth Independent School District are getting a first glimpse of what school consolidation could look like in their neighborhoods.
Longview ISD board hears update on status of Wellness Pointe Clinic services, expansion plan
(KLTV) The clinic is located in an office near LHS administration. Wellness Pointe CEO Chad Jones reported it’s presently serving eight students on campus and 26 Longview residents who are treated off campus.
Facilities plan update highlights campuses in need of updates, decline in enrollment
(Community Impact) Boundary adjustments, the environmental impact of artificial turf and potential upgrades to Dragon Stadium are all recommendations included in a recent update to Round Rock ISD’s long-range facilities master plan provided in April.
Prosper ISD officials OK 3.5% raise in 2024-25 compensation plan
(Community Impact) Prosper ISD leaders have approved the largest pay raise in the district’s history.
Texas Risk Pools
(RiskManagers.us) If a risk pool is profitable, the members get the advantage of reduced rates. But if the pool is unprofitable, the MEMBER DISTRICTS may be faced with assessments (additional contributions) regardless of what they tell you.
In one Texas county, elections officials shoulder new costs and burdens to appease skeptics
(Texas Tribune) Brazos County election officials are responding to demands from skeptical residents by expanding hand counts and ordering special paper
TSTC Electrical Lineworker student thankful for skills acquired for future job
(myRGV) Former U.S. Marine Oswaldo Arriasola, an Electrical Lineworker and Management Technology student at Texas State Technical College, hopes that soon he will get the attention of potential employers in the Texas workforce.
Children at Risk works to break the cycle of teen violence
(Fox 26 Houston) The non-profit Children at Risk walks us through some of the problems they’ve identified and how they truly fight for the rights of children to make a difference.
No arrests in 10-year-old murder of Chinese language teacher
(Fox 7 Austin) Grace Chen was prominent in Austin’s Asian American community and was adored by her students.
Health app developed by adults with autism for entrepreneur challenge
(KXAN) Cameron Erb, a student at the nonPariel Institute in west Austin, recently lost 50 pounds. “I’ve struggled my weight for most of my adult life,” he said while discussing the app he and his classmates recently developed. The app, called “Linked Heartbeats” aims to help people find an easier path to health.
Measles On The Rise, Health Experts Say, and Houston Isn’t Immune
(Houston Press) This uptick in measles infections has not hit Texas yet.
Gov. Greg Abbott Wants to ‘End’ Trans Teachers Expressing Their Gender Identities
(Rolling Stone) Texas Gov. Greg Abbott suggested that he wants to end transgender and gender nonconforming individuals from expressing their gender while teaching in the state.
Gov. Abbott ‘certain’ school vouchers will pass next session
(Fox 4 KDFW) “I’m very confident. After March the 5th [primary elections] we had 74 ironclad votes. You need 76 to get a bill passed. In these runoffs, we’re going to win far more than just two races of candidates who support school choice. And so I feel certain school choice is going to pass this next session.”
Republican infighting, battle over Texas speakership results of national political trend
(Austin American-Statesman) Republicans vying for a seat in the Texas House are looking to settle a political score during next month’s primary runoff, but in the lead-up to the partisan showdown a game plan for revamping the chamber’s procedures in favor of the GOP is already underway.
Layoffs and upheaval at Texas universities spur fear as lawmakers continue DEI crackdown
(Texas Tribune) In his first public comments since the University of Texas at Austin laid off around 50 employees that used to work in diversity, equity and inclusion programs, President Jay Hartzell tried to explain the fragility of the moment.
UT records show 59 jobs lost April 2, not all in former DEI positions
(Austin American-Statesman) Records obtained by the American-Statesman show 10 more people were terminated from the University of Texas on the same day 49 people were dismissed as a result of the state’s ban on diversity, equity and inclusion programs at universities.
UT hosts dedication ceremony for Harkey Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies
(Austin American-Statesman) The University of Texas held a dedication ceremony Friday for the Harkey Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies to recognize a gift from alumnus John Harkey and his wife, Peni Barfield.
Students plan affinity graduations in just months after University of Texas ban
(KXAN) The Latinx graduation organizers and other student groups received help from UT “ex-students” association Texas Exes, which is hosting two-hour graduation celebrations for graduates and their families.
University financial aid office makes updates to financial aid portal
(Daily Texan) It includes new features like a breakdown of students’ financial aid packages, a financial aid to-do list and a simplified document-upload system.
Rally, security upgrades one week after shooting at Wilmer Hutchins
(NBC DFW) One week after a student shot another student at Wilmer-Hutchins High School in Southeast Dallas, students held an assembly on school safety.
North Texas schools want $2.5B for safety, upgrades and more
(Dallas Morning News) Cedar Hill ISD is among a dozen area school districts seeking voter support to generate funding for safety improvements, technology, new campuses and stadium upgrades. The propositions are up on the ballot for North Texas schools this May.
‘No Bond Bus Tour’ Drives Home Message to Granbury ISD Voters
(Texas Scorecard) Update: On Friday evening, April 19, Hood County sheriff’s deputies arrested the “No Bond Bus Tour” driver, Steve Biggers, on charges related to the vehicle’s recently obtained temporary permit. According to multiple sources, deputies intercepted the bus on its way to a scheduled stop, told Biggers the paper tag was improperly affixed to the bus, and accused him of tampering with a government document.
Houston ISD formally authorizes superintendent to explore 2024 bond election
(Community Impact) The decision to authorize Miles to explore a potential bond election came without any public discussion.
Lake Travis ISD considers creating workforce housing options for staff
(Community Impact) By establishing a public facility corporation, or PFC, LTISD could own and lease a property to a developer who would run the day-to-day operations of an affordable, multifamily housing development.
Austin ISD Fields Criticisms of Plan to Replace Nonprofit
(Austin Chronicle) They are questioning an Austin ISD contract-bid process that threatens to remove a respected nonprofit partner, Austin Voices for Education and Youth, from five of the six schools where it currently works.
Budget tightens as growing percent of students leave Leander ISD
(Community Impact) Over the past decade, a growing number of students have transferred out of Leander ISD as several charter school districts expand their footprint in the Cedar Park, Leander and North Austin area.
St. Thomas students air claims of abuse, lack of support from administration in 10-minute video
(Houston Chronicle) University of St. Thomas officials said they have launched an inquiry into the communication department after a video by students alleged the program lacks adequate class offerings and is not worth the tuition.
Laredo female coaches come together, find their seat at the table through THSCA program
(KGNS) The Texas High School Coaches Association is looking to expand its “Seat at the Table” program in hopes of building up female coaches across the state.
Texas high school baseball teams play 23-inning game
(ESPN) On Saturday, Midland (Midland, Texas) defeated Odessa (Odessa, Texas) 4-3 in a game that fell just two innings shy of the national record for the longest American high school baseball game of all time. But Midland’s victory over Odessa still managed to finish tied for the third-longest high school baseball game, per the National Federation of State High School Associations.
When Did Blue Cross of Texas Begin Brokerage?
(RiskManagers.us) Back in the 70’s Blue Cross of Texas sales reps were captive agents. Or were they?
Arlington school to be named after beloved soccer coach who died from COVID-19
(Fox 4 KDFW) Sam Houston High School soccer coach Joey Rodriguez passed away after a battle with COVID-19 in 2021.
Children undergoing bariatric surgery keep the weight off for over 10 years
(StudyFinds) “There are long-term benefits to completing bariatric surgery before the age of 22,” explains Sarah Messiah, PhD, MPH, senior author of the study and director of the Center for Pediatric Population Health at UTHealth School of Public Health-Dallas, in a media release.
Shooting at high school prom after party in Fort Worth leaves 1 dead, 2 injured
(NBC DFW) The woman who owns the home where the shooting happened said the event was a celebration for Arlington Heights High School students.
Students reportedly told to perform murder in puppet show assignment; Hays CISD investigating sub
(KXAN) The district said in a statement that, “Students report that the substitute assigned them to perform a puppet show in which at least one puppet had to be murdered. Additionally, one group of students reports that their performance would have involved a mass shooting, though it is not clear if that was the specific assignment or a scene created to meet the parameters of the assignment.”
Average home appraisal increased just 2.4% this year, but some taxpayers won’t feel the relief
(San Antonio Report) But those increases mean that many taxpayers are still playing catch-up this year, thanks to the state law that limits how much the taxable value of your homestead can rise each year by deferring market value increases above 10% to future years.
Massive robotics tournament brings STEM-focused youths from near and far to GRB
(Houston Chronicle) Tens of thousands have descended on the George R. Brown Convention Center this week in one of the biggest youth robotics competitions in the world.
Rural Texas towns report cyberattacks that caused one water system to overflow
(AP) A hack that caused a small Texas town’s water system to overflow in January has been linked to a shadowy Russian hacktivist group, the latest case of a U.S. public utility becoming a target of foreign cyberattacks. The attack was one of three on small towns in the rural Texas Panhandle. Local officials said the public was not put in any danger and the attempts were reported to federal authorities.
Texas opens new psychiatric hospital in San Antonio
(San Antonio Report) Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) celebrated the grand opening of the new $357 million San Antonio State Hospital at its 349-acre Southside campus earlier this month.
Future students sign letters of intent to attend TSTC in the fall
(myRGV) Each student received a $1,000 scholarship to use toward their college educations.
Huffman ISD Accuses AG’s Office of Election Interference in Response to Electioneering Lawsuit
(Texas Scorecard) The district is under fire for a leaked recording of Superintendent Benny Soileau encouraging staff to support anti-school choice Republicans.
‘Worse than COVID’: 41% fewer Texas students completed FAFSA this year
(Dallas Morning News) Texas saw one of the most dramatic drops in high schoolers completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid as the nation contends with a rocky rollout of the new FAFSA.
US legislators call on Texas universities to save funds for students affected by FAFSA glitch
(Daily Texan) Ten members of the United States Congress signed an open letter to Texas universities on April 8 urging them to provide additional funds to students affected by a glitch in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form that prevented some from having their applications processed.
Texas is struggling to diversify its mental health workforce as the state becomes less white
(Texas Tribune) More than 40% of the state’s population is Hispanic, but its mental health provider population is more than 80% white.
EPISD investigation rejects claims of wage theft
(El Paso Matters) An independent investigation found the El Paso Independent School District did not steal wages from several speech language pathologists as alleged by union leaders, according to a report released Wednesday.
TEA appoints 2 conservators to help oversee Socorro ISD
(El Paso Matters) The Texas Education Agency appointed two conservators on Thursday to manage the Socorro Independent School District after a state investigation exposed widespread failings for improperly graduating students, failing to disclose a trustee’s potential conflict of interest with a vendor, and paying $283,000 in unauthorized stipends.
As STAAR testing is underway, some Houston ISD parents are opting their children out
(Houston Public Media) A community leader in Houston claims some parents are choosing to opt out of the standardized tests in protest of the TEA’s takeover of HISD.
Opinion: Texas public school students, teachers deserve the legislature’s support
(Corpus Christi Caller-Times) As Texas’ strong economy continues to propel the state into an economic powerhouse across the country and world, it is imperative we support the next generation of doctors, entrepreneurs, welders, mechanics, and teachers in our public schools.
Gov. Greg Abbott is among TIME 100 list of most influential people in 2024. Here’s why
(Austin American-Statesman) One of the world’s most influential people is leading Texas, according to TIME magazine.
Why It Will Now Be Easier for Educators to Sue Over Job Transfers
(Education Week) In a case followed closely in the education community, the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday ruled that employees challenging a transfer under the main federal job-discrimination law must show that change causes some harm in term or condition of employment but that the harm need not be “significant.”
Gov. Abbott advances efforts to combat antisemitism in Texas
(The Center Square) The chair of the board of regents for each Texas public university system is required to report to the governor’s office examples of compliance within 90 days.
UT Austin students protest school’s DEI layoffs amid state ban
(NBC News) Some 200 students at the University of Texas at Austin disrupted a virtual faculty council meeting conducted by university president Jay Hartzell on Monday to oppose the school’s decision earlier this month to lay off nearly 60 employees who worked in diversity, equity and inclusion-related positions on campus.
Underpaid@UT announces decision to unionize
(Daily Texan) Underpaid@UT, a group of graduate students fighting for living wages, announced their decision to unionize on April 3.
Disability History Night speakers reflect on civil rights, accessibility on campus
(Daily Texan) “I can’t tell you how many times I would go to class and I had to wait outside in the cold (and) rain for somebody to come by and open the door. Now I come to the University, and as soon as I got to the (Texas) Student Union, I pushed a button and the door opened.”
School resource officer describes fentanyl problem at Allen High School, saves lives
(CBS News) For Johnson, who’s been assigned to Allen High School for just more than a year, it’s already the third time he’s had to use Narcan to resuscitate a student on the campus.
Northwest ISD approves resolution in support of teachers facing harassment
(Fort Worth Report) Across Tarrant County school districts during the last few years, educators have faced consequences for inflammatory social media posts toward Black people, white people and immigrants.
Cy-Fair ISD board to consider 2024-25 budget cut recommendations
(Community Impact) Selling alcohol at the Berry Center and eliminating some district-level positions are among the top ideas in a list of cost-saving measures Cy-Fair ISD’s budget reduction advisory committee ranked by priority earlier this month.
Plano ISD projecting 4.6% increase to department budgets for 2024-25
(Community Impact) Plano ISD is projecting a 4.6% increase to department budgets heading into the 2024-25 school year, according to a staff presentation during the district’s April 17 board of trustees meeting.
Weslaco ISD projects balanced budget, teacher raises
(myRGV) Unlike most Texas school districts scrambling to balance their deficit budgets for next year, Weslaco ISD is expecting a balanced budget with multiple projects, additional teachers and raises.
Bastrop ISD awaits possible $4.1 million in delinquent taxes
(Community Impact) Bastrop ISD collected $92.1 million in current and delinquent taxes in 2022. As of this March, more than $4.1 million in taxes was unpaid in BISD.
‘A Universal Prevention Measure’ That Boosts Attendance and Improves Behavior
(Education Week) Inside a locked room at Colleyville Middle School that staff members use for professional development, a “data wall” offers a glimpse of each of the school’s 600-plus students.
Bats to Cats: Texas State, Austin Community College announce ‘seamless’ transfer program
(Austin American-Statesman) The program — called “Bats to Cats,” for the schools’ mascots, the Riverbat and the Bobcat — aims to increase the number of successful transfers and graduations by offering guaranteed admission to Texas State and more communication between the two institutions.
Texas A&M International University celebrates highest spring enrollment by releasing the ‘Quacken’
(KGNS) With all their ducks in a row, the university decided to invite its students and staff members to join in on the fun by spreading messages of encouragement and taking a rubber ducky from the fountain.
UNT to launch new degree program; Bachelor of Arts in Commercial Music
(NBC DFW) The program will focus on the business and production of commercial contemporary music.
Jackson School of Geosciences unveils climate system science major for fall 2024
(Daily Texan) The program is the first of its kind in Texas and one of the only undergraduate degree programs focusing on climate science in the country, according to the School. Current students can register for climate system science-specific courses for fall 2024.
2nd-grader allegedly assaulted at North Texas school by staff member, police investigating
(CBS Dallas) A second-grade student reported that a teacher at International Leadership of Texas Saginaw (ILTexas) grabbed him by the neck and shoved him into a wall.
Texas A&M basketball player arrested, charged with sexual assault
(KWTX) College Station police arrested a Texas A&M student and charged him with sexual assault for an incident that occurred on Oct. 14.
Del Valle ISD looking to hire 90 teachers
(KXAN) “Math and science has always been a huge need and now English, language arts, secondary teachers is a big need,” said Del Valle ISD Superintendent Annette Tielle.
Houston, Harris County get two year extension to distribute Hurricane Harvey relief funding
(Houston Public Media) According to the GLO, about 900 households were displaced and were not offered relocation assistance under former mayor Sylvester Turner’s tenure.
Following death of beloved HEB ISD trustee, district seeks to fill her seat — if not shoes
(Fort Worth Report) “Rochelle was Joy,” Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD board member Fred Campos said of fellow board member Rochelle Ross. “She’s just a short little bundle of joy, and she had so much energy.”
Appeals court denies rehearing Texas’ controversial book rating law
(Houston Chronicle) The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals voted 9-8 not to rehear the case after a three-judge panel ruled that the law, known as the Reader Act, was unconstitutional.
Appeals court blocks $100,000 daily fine for Texas’ troubled foster care program
(Texas Tribune) A federal appeals court on Wednesday temporarily halted a $100,000-per-day contempt fine slapped on a Texas health and human services official earlier this week for her agency’s routine neglect of investigations into allegations of abuse and neglect by children in the state’s beleaguered foster care system.
Why does Texas want to kill guaranteed income, but fund school vouchers?
(Houston Chronicle) So, what’s the difference between these two publicly funded state programs?
North Texas school district’s career prep programs motivate the next generation
(CBS News) Over the past 12 years, Grand Prairie ISD has gone from 11 Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs to more than 30, with enrollment increasing by approximately 10 percent every year.
Good luck finding any info about those county appraisal board elections
(Off The Kuff) I noted that at least fifty Texas counties are having these elections in May, all for the first time ever. And that made me wonder, how much does anyone know about these elections and who is running in them?
HISD employees making over $200K have tripled under Mike Miles. Here’s the top 25 earners
(Houston Chronicle) Miles’ 12-person cabinet, along with select central office administrators and senior schools directors, round out HISD’s 25 highest earners. Notably, 37 employees now earn at least $200,000, up from just 12 last year, according to Texas Education Agency staffing data.
UT President: “The legislative climate toward higher education is moving”
(CBS Austin) In his first public remarks since more than four dozen University of Texas Austin faculty members were laid off in the implementation of Texas’ ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, UT President Jay Hartzell says the “the legislative climate toward higher education is moving.”
How UT and Austin Community College are helping tackle semiconductor workforce needs
(Austin American-Statesman) Sreenivasan said UTeach, a program that prepares STEM-interested undergraduates to be teachers, has added semiconductors to the program. Reinhart said she is also working on involving K-12 education partners.
‘Gut Wrenching:’ Blue Ridge High senior says school pulled her valedictorian title one month before graduation due to ‘miscalculation’
(WFAA) Last week, Maya said her principal called and said there’d been a miscalculation. She was actually third in her class, he said, and would no longer be valedictorian.
Hispanic residents in Texas have poorer health than those in other states, study finds
(Dallas Morning News) Hispanic Texans experience some of the most profound inequities in health care compared to Hispanic people living in other states, according to a new report released Thursday. The study measures racial and ethnic disparities in the nation’s health care systems.
Local leaders focus on school safety and security at summit in Richardson
(NBC DFW) Some of the country’s most experienced school safety experts are in town to attend the Region 10 Education Service Center’s ‘Safety First’ Summit.
Magnolia ISD considers teacher raises, possible tax rate election amid early 2024-25 budget talks
(Community Impact) At an April 15 workshop meeting, the Magnolia ISD board of trustees discussed teacher raises and a possible voter-approval tax rate election ballot initiative, known as a VATRE, for the 2024-25 school year.
Car strikes Lumberton ISD school bus Wednesday morning, no major injuries
(12 News Now) Lumberton Police are investigating after a car struck the rear of the bus at about 6:25 a.m. Wednesday morning near the intersection of Paradise Dr and southbound U.S. Highway 69.
‘I will sue you’: Austin City Council public comment rules in limbo after judge ruling
(KXAN) If you’ve been to an Austin City Council meeting, chances are you know who Bill Bunch is. He’s one of the more regular speakers at City Hall and the executive director of the Save Our Springs (SOS) alliance.
Walmart issues apology for Uvalde, Texas T-shirt amid social media backlash
(The News Tribune) Walmart has issued an apology for selling a T-shirt that read, “Where the heck is Uvalde, Texas” amid social media backlash.
Texas, other states face 911 emergency phone service outage
(Houston Chronicle) Residents in some Texas cities were affected by emergency phone service outages Wednesday, along with other states, according to media report.
Anthony ISD to receive national award for its efforts to combat vaping among students
(KVIA) Anthony ISD installed vape sensors throughout undisclosed areas in Anthony Middle School and Anthony High School in September 2022. The vape sensors are designed to activate upon detection of vape emissions by sending a notification to administration and safety personnel. Th
Wilmer-Hutchins High School shooting raises safety concerns for Dallas parents, students
(KERA) More thorough bag checks, more state funding and better care for Black Dallas youth are among some of the solutions community members want to see in the wake of last week’s Wilmer-Hutchins High School shooting, in which one student shot another in the leg Friday morning.
Wilmer-Hutchins High School shooting suspect brought 38-revolver handgun to campus: arrest affidavit
(Fox 4 KDFW) Ja’Kerian Rhodes-Ewing, 17, is facing two charges after police say he brought a Pink Lady Handgun 38-revolver handgun to school last Friday, according to an arrest affidavit.
Texas Permanent School Fund adopts ‘ESG skeptical’ stance for shareholder votes
(Houston Chrnicle) The Texas Permanent School Fund on Monday adopted a new “ESG skeptical” policy that will dictate how its managers vote in corporate elections, further broadening the state’s war against so-called environmental, social and governance investment policies.
Will Tesla lose its tax incentives, rebates because of Austin layoffs?
(KXAN) For years, Tesla has received millions of dollars in tax rebates and incentives from both Travis County and Del Valle ISD for its Gigafactory.
Hackers post roughly 300 Tarrant County property owners’ private personal information to dark web, Tarrant Appraisal District says
(WFAA-TV) The 300 people whose information was potentially compromised were notified, according to the TAD.
Texas appeals $100K a day contempt fine in long running foster care litigation
(Texas Public Radio) Lawyers for the state of Texas Tuesday appealed a $100,000 a day fine levied by a federal court
The border schools on the front line of the immigration crisis: Migrants breach New Mexico middle school campus twice trying to outrun cops as Texas high school fends off 100 illegal crossers
(Daily Mail) In the last two months, a middle school in New Mexico has seen migrants walk onto its campus twice, while a Texas high school this week caught a mob of 100 trying to cut a fence near its classrooms.
Which school buses in Central Texas are equipped with seatbelts?
(Fox 7 Austin) Here are the numbers (some buses were purchased without seatbelts and were later retrofitted with seatbelts):
HISD scrapped its controversial principal screening after backlash. But teacher screenings remain
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD teachers at about half of the district’s campuses will learn on May 6 whether they are eligible to keep their jobs under a proficiency screening process, even after the district reversed course on using a similar process for principals following community backlash.
Round Rock ISD proposing 1% raise for employees, bonus tied to student enrollment
(Community Impact) In a proposal for the district’s compensation plan in the upcoming year, administrators are recommending the board of trustees approve a 1% increase, with some adjustments to the overall pay structure, as well as an employee bonus if enrollment jumps ahead of projections shared in March.
HHSC reimbursement reduction could cost McAllen ISD $961,000
(MyRGV) With an informal appeal filed and denied, the district filed a formal appeal and is waiting for a response from Texas Health and Human Services Commission.
Clear Creek ISD trustees approve increased staffing for Special Services department
(Community Impact) Clear Creek ISD’s board of trustees at its April 15 meeting approved adding 16 full-time equivalent, or FTE, employees for the Special Services department.
Central Texas School Districts use different strategies to help students on STAAR test
(Fox 44) We’re in the middle of STAAR testing and school districts in our area have made instructional changes in the classroom to help students meet the mark.
Latinx Community Affairs to hold Latinx graduation ceremony after loss of University funding
(Daily Texan) The Latinx Community Affairs student organization, formerly a University-sponsored organization, will hold their annual Latinx graduation ceremony after reaching its fundraising goal, the organization announced in an Instagram post Tuesday.
Student calls in false shooting report at Dallas ISD middle school
(Fox 4 KDFW) Police responded to a shooting call on Tuesday afternoon at an Oak Cliff School that turned out to be a prank.
Editorial: State conservatorship of IDEA charter schools should remain focused on administrative issues
(myRGV) We trust they will respect IDEA’s proven classroom performance and avoid any temptation to dictate changes in the classroom.
North Texas schools are reshaping classroom discipline following the COVID-19 pandemic
(WFAA-TV) Change is not easy, and the pandemic made that clear.
Lone Star College reassures students amid financial aid process delays
(Community Impact) Errors stemming from updates on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid process have the potential to delay school funding for the about 20,000 Lone Star College students who rely on it, college system leaders said.
San Benito mass tuberculosis tests clear students, staff
(myRGV) The San Benito school district’s mass tuberculosis testing has cleared students and staff after a case turned up at the high school late last month.
More than 2 million Texans lost Medicaid coverage in past year, at double the national rate
(Houston Chronicle) Texas continues to disenroll Medicaid recipients at one of the highest rates in the country, part of a broader trend that has seen state health departments across the nation move unqualified recipients off their rolls after a surge in enrollment during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Racism in health care system may contribute to deaths of Black pregnant Texans
(Texas Public Radio) Texas is among the worst states in the country for maternal mortality, and Black Texans die at higher rates than their white counterparts from pregnancy-related causes.
“Maternal Health Bill of Rights” introduced by Harris County at the second Maternal and Child Health Conference
(Houston Public Media) Harris County Public Health is introducing a “Maternal Health Bill of Rights” to bring awareness to high maternal and infant mortality rates in the Houston area.
Round Rock ISD high school coffee shops reopen
(Community Impact) After closing in 2020 due to staffing shortages, on-campus coffee shops at Round Rock ISD’s McNeil, Round Rock and Westwood high schools are back up and running.
North Texas woman teaching girls about cars hopes it has big impact on their lives
(Fox 4 KDFW) A North Texas woman who calls herself the ‘Grease Girl’ is opening up the doors of her auto shop to some young women.
Shallowater High School announces groundbreaking partnership with Amarillo College
(KLBK) Shallowater High School is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Amarillo College, introducing a pioneering Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) partnership tailored for high school students.
Texas held in contempt over child welfare failures
(Texas Public Radio) Texas will be forced to pay $100,000 a day in fines until it comes back into compliance with two court orders dealing with investigations of facilities associated with foster children with intellectual disabilities who are permanent wards of the state.
Advocates say new videos inside Texas temporary foster housing raise concerns
(KXAN) Advocates are pointing to new pictures and videos filmed inside two temporary housing locations for some Texas foster children as evidence that longstanding issues in the state’s child welfare system persist.
Superintendent explains new La Joya ISD policy on employees holding elected positions
(ValleyCentral) “It’s just to ensure that what has happened here in the past doesn’t repeat itself,” said Superintendent Marcey Sorensen.
Students walk out of Wilmer-Hutchins High School, protest lack of security on campus
(NBC DFW) NBC 5 was outside the school when 50 to 100 students began leaving the building. Students who stopped to speak with NBC 5 said they were concerned for their safety and that the people hired to keep the campus safe weren’t doing their job. Two teachers joined in with students and walked out of school also critical of school leaders.
Teacher charged after allegedly having sex with 15-year-old in a Cy-Fair HS classroom, records show
(ABC 13 Houston) Records show 29-year-old Kayden Burbank is charged with a felony count of improper relationship with a student.
Hays CISD board approves plan to accelerate having all buses equipped with seat belts
(Austin American-Statesman) The Hays school district board of trustees unanimously approved a plan Monday to streamline efforts to have all buses equipped with seat belts weeks after the fatal bus crash in Bastrop County that led to the death of a prekindergarten student.
$1 million lawsuit filed against concrete pump truck driver, company after deadly bus crash
(KXAN) A mother of a child involved in the deadly Hays CISD bus crash on March 22 – where a concrete pump truck veered into oncoming traffic, struck the bus and caused it to roll – has filed a lawsuit against the driver, Jerry Hernandez, who admitted in a police report he had used cocaine within 24 hours of the crash, his company, FJM Concrete Pumping, LLC, and the owner of the company.
Biden administration agrees to provide $6.4 billion to Samsung for making computer chips in Texas
(AP) The Biden administration has reached an agreement to provide up to $6.4 billion in direct funding for Samsung Electronics to develop a computer chip manufacturing and research cluster in Texas.
University adds more semiconductor opportunities to match area’s growing need for talent
(Daily Texan) The new Master of Science in Engineering program will offer education in semiconductor science and engineering starting in fall of 2025 and aims to give students more hands-on experience.
Humble ISD Title IX report on Troy Kite alleges he fostered an inappropriate ‘locker-room’ atmosphere
(Houston Chronicle) A months-long Title IX investigation alleges that Humble ISD Athletic Director Troy Kite made a slew of inappropriate comments about his coworkers, fostering a “locker-room” atmosphere that included at least one sexual reference to his relationship with the superintendent, who he married last year.
Audit finds AISD has significant work left to do with special education. What we learned
(Austin American-Statesman) The audit, conducted by Houston-based Stetson & Associates Inc., points to an inadequate data system for tracking special education services, clear compliance and quality problems districtwide, and the need for more respectful relationships with parents.
Lawmaker behind new Texas DEI ban expects universities to still ‘strive for diverse outcomes’
(Houston Chronicle) In an interview, Creighton discussed the changes he’s seen since the law took effect Jan. 1 and what he hopes to hear from administrators when they address lawmakers next month.
UT-Austin program cuts come with attempts to regain politicians’ trust after DEI law, president says
(Houston Chronicle) A University of Texas at Austin shakeup that led to the laying off of 49 employees – many of whom were previously reassigned from Diversity, Equity and Inclusion positions – was partly driven by a desire to protect the long-term outlook of the institution as conservatives have increasingly lost trust in higher education, President Jay Hartzell told faculty on Monday.
‘An act of resistance’: UT Indigenous students to host large powwow off campus amid SB 17
(Austin American-Statesman) Next Sunday, after months of planning and fundraising without help from UT, the collective will hold an all-day powwow off campus as a sacred celebration of culture and togetherness.
Faith-based film crew whose visit to Keller ISD school sparked controversy releases documentary: ‘God, Jesus, Trump’
(WFAA-TV) On Sunday, Netherlands-based Evangelische Omroep (EO), an Evangelical broadcast television network, released its new episode of ‘God, Jesus, Trump!’
Patrick move to eliminate Texas property taxes would destroy public schools (Opinion)
(Houston Chronicle) Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s fantasy of abolishing property taxes would set the state up for financial failure and end public education as we know it by placing a greater burden on low- and medium-income Texans.
REVEALED: ‘We’re trying to throw the whole freaking system in the trash,’ [Tenessee] school voucher sponsor says
(WTVF) The lead sponsor pushing school vouchers in the Tennessee state House says his goal with Tennessee’s public education system is to “throw the whole freaking system in the trash,” according to a recording obtained by NewsChannel 5.
Criticism mounts against Texas Gov. Abbott’s executive order on campus antisemitism
(Higher Ed Dive) The state AAUP conference recently pushed back against the directive, saying it uses overly broad language and singles out certain student groups.
Killeen ISD outsources substitute teacher management program
(Killeen Daily Herald) The Killeen school board unanimously voted on Tuesday to approve an exclusive contract with ESS South Central, LLC for substitute staff placement, effective immediately.
WFISD looking to make teacher pay more competitive
(KAUZ) Many important items were on Wichita Falls ISD’s school board meeting agenda on Monday, April 15, but the main issue highlighted was teacher pay.
Georgetown ISD starts Grow Your Own program for uncertified teachers
(Community Impact) Aspiring educators with a bachelor’s degree, but no teaching certification, will soon have a new inroad to the classroom in Georgetown ISD after trustees approved an amendment to the District of Innovation plan.
Willis ISD approves $1,500 teacher raises
(Community Impact) At its April 10 meeting, the Willis ISD board of trustees unanimously approved a $1,500 salary increase for teachers and counselors for the 2024-25 school year. First-year teachers will begin at $56,00
Former Grapeland ISD employee arrested over inappropriate photo
(KTRE) Joshua Jeremaine Kincade, 44, of Neches, was arrested on April 9 on a charge of displaying harmful material to a minor.
Tyler ISD announces app allowing parents to view child’s online activity on school-issued devices
(CBS 19) Not only will parents be allowed to monitor school issued devices, parents will also be allowed to use the app on two additional devices in the home.
UT Athletics pledged $10M to address homelessness. But the money may go elsewhere
(Austin American-Statesman) The $10 million pledge “to help fight systemic homelessness,” announced by University of Texas athletic director Chris Del Conte in February, seemed to come out of nowhere.
Charge against former Henderson ISD booster club president dismissed
(KLTV) The motion to dismiss states the “booster club does not believe it is in the interest of the organization or anyone else to prosecute further…money was repaid next day and [it’s] difficult to determine if this was truly that far from the norm and custom of the organization.”
West Texas university working to repatriate Native American remains housed in its research collection
(Texas Public Radio) According to a federal government filing published Thursday, Sul Ross State University’s Center for Big Bend Studies has determined that Xoxi Nayapiltzin, who grew up in Alpine and has Indigenous heritage, is ancestrally connected to five people whose remains were unearthed during a construction project in 2006.
East Texas baseball coach who creates league focused on diversity and kids with disabilities
(KLTV) Every player gets to shine on the field, from getting introduced to having walk-up music, an experience that felt far from reach for some parents.
Why coaches like Todd Dodge returned to Texas high school football after brief retirement
(Dallas Morning News) Dodge is one of several Texas high school football coaches who have recently unretired. Highland Park football coach Randy Allen unretired in 2018.
Student shot, wounded classmate at Wilmer-Hutchins High School in Dallas, officials say
(Dallas Morning News) The shooting happened in a classroom, and the wounded student was shot in the upper thigh, a non-life-threatening injury, officials said. The student suspected in the shooting is in custody, officials said.
Dallas school shooting: Dallas ISD investigating how gun got into Wilmer-Hutchins High
(Fox 4 KDFW) The high school has metal detectors and the district has a new policy this year that requires students to have a clear backpack. A teacher intervened to get the suspect away from the school building and police took him into custody by the football field about 30 minutes later.
Great Hearts teachers put on leave after TEA review of fingerprint submissions
(San Antonio Report) An undisclosed number of teachers working at Great Hearts, a charter school with locations in San Antonio, have been placed on administrative leave after the Texas Education Agency found that background paperwork, including fingerprinting, had been improperly filed with the state.
CDC warns that measles spike poses a ‘renewed threat’ to the disease’s elimination
(Texas Public Radio) A spike in measles cases, largely caused by people not getting vaccinated, poses a “renewed threat” to the declaration in 2000 that the highly contagious airborne disease had been eliminated in the United States.
Houston teen sex trafficked on Bissonnet, says she was victim in former Klein ISD teacher trafficking case
(Fox 26 Houston) A Houston teen and her mother spoke exclusively to FOX 26 after seeing Kedria Grigsby, a former Klein ISD cosmetology teacher, was arrested for solicitation of prostitution and sex trafficking on April 8.
La Joya ISD board approves policy barring employees from public office
(MyRGV) The agenda item states employees of the district are prohibited from becoming a candidate to any public office, being an elected public officer within Hidalgo County or any other county in the state that has direct or indirect contractual relationships with La Joya ISD. It also prohibits employees from holding an elected public office that would conflict with his or her position with the district.
TxDOT to hold committee-led review of fatal Hays school bus, concrete pump truck crash
(Austin American-Statesman) State highway officials will conduct a committee-led review of the contributing factors to last month’s wreck involving a Hays school district bus and a concrete pump truck that killed two people, including a prekindergarten student aboard the bus.
In wake of Hays CISD crash, district commits to having seatbelts on all in-service buses
(KXAN) In a letter to parents, the district promised a meeting on Monday that will touch on its seatbelt plan for school busses.
Student, 15, injured after sports car collides with North Texas school bus: officials
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) An Ellis County Co-Op school bus was headed north on Farm to Market Road 55 near Goodwyn Road around 4:30 p.m. when a Maserati Ghibli traveling south veered into the bus’s lane.
No students injured after Tyler ISD bus driver hits parked car
(KYTX) Tyler ISD spokesperson Jennifer Hines said the bus driver experienced a unique medical episode. He is receiving treatment from medical personnel, but he will be OK.
VERIFY | If a school bus has seat belts, do students have to buckle up while riding the bus?
(KENS 5) So yes, it is true. Texas state law states if a school bus has seat belts, all students must wear a seat belt while riding the bus.
Its growth has stalled. Its funding is crunched. Now Northside ISD faces an $84 million deficit
(San Antonio Express-News) And like every Texas district, Northside will be operating amid two harsh realities, the drying up of federal pandemic funding and the lack of any immediate prospect that the Legislature will use its substantial surplus to boost state education funding before next year’s regular session.
Richardson ISD staff expect operating cost increases in upcoming budget
(Community Impact) During the April 4 board of trustees meeting, David Pate, assistant superintendent of finance and support services, presented the expected increases, which fall under three categories: insurance, instruction and operation.
Leander ISD data shows improvements in recruiting, retaining staff
(Community Impact) The improvements follow a couple years of increased vacancies amid a nation- and statewide teaching shortage; however, some vacancies still exist in the district, LISD officials said.
Investigators: Humble superintendent’s husband made sexual remarks, created hostile workplace
(Houston Landing) Former Humble Independent School District athletics director Troy Kite, who is married to district Superintendent Elizabeth Fagen, created a hostile work environment by frequently making “unprofessional and sexually explicit comments” about his co-workers before his retirement this week, investigators hired by the district concluded in recent months.
Former El Paso school district administrator sentenced to prison for kidnapping, rape
(El Paso Times) Jeffrey Steven Clay, 51, was sentenced April 4 to 30 years in prison on one count of kidnapping and 10 years on another count of transportation for illegal sexual activity, federal court records shows.
New vaping law lands hundreds of North Texas students in alternative school
(Dallas Morning News) More than one-fifth of students assigned to such campuses in eight Dallas County districts were there because of e-cigarettes, according to discipline records analyzed by The Dallas Morning News.
Even More Disgruntled Speakers Turn Up at Thursday’s HISD Meeting
(Houston Press) The object of their wrath? Houston ISD Superintendent Mile Miles who sat there through most of the 190 public speakers who came to complain about the dismantling of libraries, who did or did not want Wharton and Helms with their dual language programs to become magnet schools, and relaying even more reports of teachers saying they are planning to leave the district, tired of what they see as a hostile, bullying workplace.
Which Texas public colleges are most popular among Houston high school graduates? Explore the data
(Houston Chronicle) As Houston’s Class of 2024 students are making decisions about where they will attend school this fall, the Houston Chronicle has taken a dive into Texas public university data to see which schools were the most popular for Bayou City high schoolers in recent years.
Texas’ diversity, equity and inclusion ban has led to more than 100 job cuts at state universities
(AP) A ban on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in higher education has led to more than 100 job cuts across university campuses in Texas, a hit echoed or anticipated in numerous other states where lawmakers are rolling out similar policies during an important election year.
Texas psychologists’ board pushes back on costly new national licensing exam, considers crafting a cheaper state test
(Texas Tribune) Faced with a nagging mental health provider shortage, the state psychologists’ licensing board is looking into whether the state should devise its own exam to get professionals licensed more quickly.
Fact brief: Did Fort Worth ISD remove more than 100 books from schools in 2023?
(Fort Worth Report) Fort Worth ISD pulled 120 titles from school libraries in August 2023 to review whether they are developmentally appropriate for students.
A Conroe ISD Teacher Is Taking The Fight Against Book Removals Into Their Own Hands
(Houston Press) A Conroe ISD teacher, along with several community members, has decided to take advantage of the diastrict’s direction to file complaints opposing book reconsiderations.
Superintendent salaries at Houston’s largest suburban school districts. Here’s what to know
(Houston Chronicle) Houtson ISD’s appointed superintendent Mike Miles has been hogging the headlines since the Texas Education Agency put him in charge of the state’s largest — but shrinking — school system last year. But several other Houston-area superintendents oversee nearly as many students and aren’t household names.
Hutto ISD projects $850K in recapture payments to state for 2024-25
(Community Impact) In this workshop, Caleb Steed, HISD’s Chief Financial Officer, shared that the district’s anticipated payment to the state of excess property tax revenues is projected to increase from $570,000, anticipated to be paid for the 2023-24 fiscal year, to $850,000 for the 2024-25 fiscal year.
McAllen ISD coach suspended following recruiting of Mexico player
(MySA) Border city school districts are under a microscope after one of their coaches made headlines across the region. The former head coach at Nikki Rowe High School in McAllen has centered Rio Grande Valley athletic discussions for months following his relief of duties due to his recruiting tactics that traveled borders.
Texas Tech Asst. Professor Jairo Fúnez-Flores reinstated after investigation into social media comments
(KCBD) A statement released by Texas Tech University President Lawrence Schovanec and Texas Tech University System Chancellor Tedd L. Mitchell on Friday called the statements “hateful, antisemitic, and antithetical to our Code of Ethics,” but affirmed the university’s commitment to free speech and the First Amendment, saying that the investigation “did not find evidence of a violation of Texas Tech policy for discriminatory harassment.”
Free speech issues complicate Rice University’s ‘D’ rating on ADL’s antisemitism report card
(Houston Chronicle) Rice University is grappling with a “D” rating on the Anti-Defamation League’s antisemitism report card, which several rabbis have also flagged as sending an incomplete picture of Jewish life at the college.
Texas leaders, advocates build momentum on pre-K, child care ahead of Legislature
(Dallas Morning News) Representatives of more than a dozen Texas cities and a handful of state groups gathered in Fort Worth on Thursday to kick off the Momentum Early Learning Summit, a two-day event to discuss how they can better support children, parents and the workforce.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick lists housing affordability, fighting antisemitism on campus among 2025 priorities
(Texas Tribune) Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick put improving housing affordability, fighting antisemitism on college campuses and examining charitable bail organizations among 57 items on a to-do list for senators before the next legislative session begins in January.
Nearly 70K fewer Texans fill out FAFSA forms, sparking concern among advocates
(Houston Chronicle) Almost 70,000 fewer Texas high school seniors have submitted the Free Application for Federal Student Aid forms often required to get money for college than this time last year – a trend that advocates for college access fear could bode poorly for fall enrollment.
Texas Removes 1.3 Million Children From Health Care Plan
(Newsweek) Texas dropped 1.3 million children from Medicaid, according to recent data from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF).
Racism kept these Mexican Americans from a Texas golf club. They won the state championship anyway.
(NBC News) The new movie “The Long Game” recounts the true story of the winning San Felipe High School golf team and the war veteran denied entry to a golf club who formed the team.
UT Dallas students say diversity program layoffs send mixed signals
(Fox 4 KDFW) Students say they are confused by the purpose of the DEI ban.
Critics warn schools are skirting Texas DEI ban after university shuffles DEI officials to other departments
(Fox News) Texas A&M University responded to a state law banning diversity, equity and inclusion on college campuses by giving the department head a raise before reassigning her and other employees to other departments. It sparked concerns schools are attempting to further “embed” the controversial practice at Texas universities despite the law.
More DEI restrictions loom as Texas schools cut jobs
(CBS Austin) Amidst news of dozens of job eliminations in at least two Texas public universities in the last two weeks, Republicans could be looking to further restrict diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in higher education.
‘Who’s going to be fired next’: Texas university, legislative leaders decry DEI ban layoffs
(KERA) University professors and state legislative leaders say mass layoffs at the University of Texas at Dallas and UT Austin because of the state’s new law prohibiting DEI offices in public colleges are having a “chilling effect.”
‘It’s worth taking a stand’: A look at two student protests that influenced UT’s history
(Daily Texan) Here are the stories of two lesser-known student protests that left lasting impacts on campus.
Texas schools, including Bryan ISD, face budget challenges amid federal cuts and state funding delays
(KBTX) As federal funding dwindles and state funding remains delayed by Governor Abbott’s push for school vouchers, school districts across the state are faced with difficult budget decisions heading into the 2024-2025 school year.
‘A little bit confused’: HISD board tables Chinese university partnership vote
(Houston Landing) Houston ISD’s board of managers opted to delay a vote Thursday on a proposal to establish a partnership with a Chinese university after Superintendent Mike Miles’ administration failed to answer some board members’ questions about the controversial program.
Fort Bend ISD trustees vote against changing library policy until further review
(Community Impact) The Fort Bend ISD board voted 5-2 to postpone any potential policy revisions to district library policy until after board workshops on the topic allow members to gather input from district librarians and other administration professionals.
New Texas A&M College of Engineering Dean discusses Space Engineering Degree
(KBTX) “It is our mission to educate the next generation of problem solvers, not just for space, but also for all the challenges that we face [around] the globe.”
A $9.4B loss: Texas restaurants, businesses pursue child care reform with economic lens
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) The various industries behind the Employers for Childcare Task Force say they are all enduring similar issues around employee turnover and understaffing that are directly tied to the lack of accessible, affordable and quality child care in the state
Fort Worth mayor, state leaders push for better early education policies
(Fort Worth Report) Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker, Education Commissioner Mike Morath and Texas Workforce Commission Chairman Bryan Daniel discussed how the state can unleash the full potential of early education.
Texas’s First College for Black Women Lies in Ruins. Can It Find a New Purpose?
(Texas Monthly) In a small East Texas town, Mary Allen College offered opportunity to thousands of Black women, and later men, for nearly nine decades. It’s been shuttered since 1977, but efforts are underway to restore it.
Fort Bend ISD trustees address TEA complaint of former superintendent retirement
(Houston Public Media) Fort Bend ISD trustees have responded to a Texas Education Agency complaint, alleging that they violated the Texas Open Meetings Act while negotiating a separation agreement with the former superintendent.
Hegar: Nicotine case jeopardizes young Texans’ health, state revenues | Opinion
(Austin American-Stateman) The Texas Supreme Court is considering a lawsuit filed by a subsidiary of tobacco giant Reynolds American Inc. that could potentially cost hundreds of millions of dollars in lost state tax revenue and, more importantly, determine whether we can continue to protect Texas youth from certain nicotine products under the state Health and Safety Code.
Challengers sign ‘contract with Texas’ to push the legislature more conservative
(KXAN) Conservative candidates running to unseat Republicans in the Texas House joined with some of the most conservative representatives in signing the “Contract with Texas,” a commitment to procedural changes like eliminating Democratic committee chairs that they say will make the House more efficient in passing conservative priorities.
Texas Tech Public Media cuts spark concern among university faculty
(Current) Layoffs and programming cuts at Texas Tech Public Media have sparked concerns about the station’s future among faculty members at its licensee, Texas Tech University.
Texas county agency attacked by Medusa ransomware gang
(SC Media) Texas-based Tarrant County Appraisal District was admitted to be compromised by the Medusa ransomware operation in an attack late last month, with the ransomware group warning of the exposure of almost 218GB of stolen data within six days should the government agency refuse payment of a $100,000 ransom, reports The Record, a news site by cybersecurity firm Recorded Future.
San Angelo ISD to host online transportation auction
(KLST) Ever wanted to own a school bus? How about 11? If so, the San Angelo Independent School District’s upcoming online auction is for you.
Growing Trend in Public Education: Four Day School Weeks
(School Transportation News) Four-day school weeks are gaining popularity nationwide to save money and recruit new teachers.
How do Texas schools stack up in the SEC? All 16 colleges ranked academically by US News
(Austin American-Statesman) Those who attended the NCAA’s Southeastern Conference schools often have pride in what their college football team can do in a season. But what about academically?
Person arrested after threat prank on Austin Community College campus: police
(Fox 7 Austin) ACC says that on Wednesday night, at the Highland Campus, someone entered a room wearing a ski mask and made threatening remarks.
Appeals court pauses injunction allowing Arcola council member to participate in meetings
(Houston Public Media) The mayor of a small town in Fort Bend County can decide whether a city councilwoman can participate in meetings for now. That’s thanks to the latest ruling from an appeals court in a contentious legal battle.
Klein ISD community demands answers after teacher, son arrested for sex trafficking
(Fox 26 Houston) In a Thursday morning press conference, Quannell X and Dr. Candice Matthews revealed a possible whistleblower who reportedly informed the school about the alleged involvement of Grigsby and her son in sex crimes a year ago.
SAISD agrees to pay AT&T $300K over phone dispute at old headquarters
(News 4 SA) The News 4 I-Team has learned the San Antonio ISD will have to pay AT&T $300,000 after the phone company claimed service was not disconnected at SAISD’s former headquarters. AT&T had initially billed the district more than $2 Million.
Some South Texas school employees could be barred from holding elected office after fraud investigation
(Texas Tribune) A state-appointed board of managers overseeing the La Joya Independent School District is set to consider the policy this week.
Dallas ISD student files civil rights complaint alleging antisemitic bullying
(KERA) According to the complaint, the Hillcrest High School student was called names like “dirty Jew,” heard other teens praise Hitler and reported swastika drawings to administration. The complaint alleges the harassment took place “in plain sight” at school, often with teachers present.
7 GOP Senators Urge 5th Circuit to ‘Vacate’ FCC’s School Bus Wi-Fi Ruling
(Communications Daily) The 5th U.S. Circuit Appeals Court should reverse the FCC’s ruling authorizing E-rate funding for Wi-Fi on school buses by interpreting the Communications Act “in accordance with its ordinary meaning,” Senate Commerce Committee ranking member Ted Cruz (Texas) and six other Republican senators wrote in an amicus brief Tuesday.
Tomball ISD leaders expect $9.1M shortfall for FY 2024-25 budget
(Community Impact) Tomball ISD is expected to face a $9.1 million shortfall for the fiscal year 2024-25 budget, which would include a 2% pay raise for employees, district leaders said April 8.
Texas Association of University Professors confirms at least 66 faculty members terminated in DCCE mass firings
(Daily Texan) The University fired 66 faculty members in its mass firing on April 2, the president-elect of the Texas Conference of the American Association of University Professors confirmed at a joint press conference on Wednesday.
‘An overreaction’: Black lawmakers, advocates denounce UT schools’ layoffs due to DEI ban
(Dallas Morning News) Laying off staff in the wake of Texas’ DEI ban is an overreaction and discriminatory, some legislators and advocacy groups said during a news conference Wednesday.
Humble ISD accepts retirement of district official following Title IX investigation
(Community Impact) Humble ISD trustees voted to accept the retirement of Troy Kite, the district’s executive director of the University Interscholastic League and fine arts, during the board’s April 9 meeting.
HISD might ask taxpayers to back a multibillion-dollar bond. Is there time for community input?
(Houston Landing) Houston ISD officials are considering asking taxpayers to approve a multibillion-dollar bond in November, but Superintendent Mike Miles’ administration has yet to go through a widely used process to involve the community — and may be running short on time to do so.
Panhandle schools concerned with Texas Education Agency’s decision on STAAR test grading
(KFDA) Many school districts are concerned with the Texas Education Agency’s decision to implement computerized grading for the redesign of the STAAR test.
Arlington ISD expects 4 in 10 students to perform math on grade level. Trustees have questions
(Arlington Report) The district expects 31% of its eighth graders to meet grade level on the upcoming State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness math test — a 3-percentage-point increase from last year, according to a presentation for trustees at the April 4 board meeting.
Clear Creek ISD remains optimistic about enrollment challenges as new programs grow
(Community Impact) As Clear Creek ISD faces declining enrollment—and various problems associated with less students—officials remain optimistic about the district’s future due in part to various programs and incoming housing projects that could help bolster the district in the years to come.
Report shows Round Rock ISD teachers paid up to 2% higher than market median
(Community Impact) A new study of compensation for Round Rock ISD employees shows teachers in the district are paid 1%-2% above the local median salary during the 2023-24 school year.
EPA Announces 2024 Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles Grant Program
(School Bus Fleet) The funding opportunity is expected to include at least $400 million for projects in regions that haven’t yet met air quality standards under the Clean Air Act.
Area colleges invest more than $180M to meet workforce needs
(Community Impact) Texas State University at Round Rock, Austin Community College at Round Rock and Texas State Technical College in Hutto are spending over $180 million combined to expand programs in health care, technology, manufacturing and skilled trades.
LeTourneau University proposes constructing inflatable dome for athletics
(KLTV) An indoor athletic facility may soon be popping up in Longview. LeTourneau University is proposing an indoor climate-controlled track facility.
School enrollment in Central Texas: How have the numbers changed in recent years?
(KXAN) KXAN is keeping track of enrollment data from the Texas Education Agency in 58 school districts and more than 20 open charter schools across the area.
Pearland student awarded national scholarship for food accessibility advocacy for special needs students
(Community Impact) Glenda Dawson High School graduate Kennedy Hoyt was awarded the National Society of High School Scholars’ Notorious RBG Women of Tomorrow Scholarship for her work in improving how special needs students are supported at Berry Miller Junior High in Pearland.
Many men don’t finish college. This North Texas school is trying to reverse the trend
(KERA) The Dallas College program aims to get more men to graduate at a time when enrollment is dropping, and men are far less likely to complete college than women.
Mesquite teacher accused of having improper relationship with student arrested
(Fox 4 KDFW) 32-year-old Cesar Jimenez of Midlothian was arrested on Wednesday.
New childcare facility at Texas A&M-San Antonio helps student parents earn degrees
(Texas Public Radio) The program is specifically for parents enrolled in evening classes, open from 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM, Monday through Thursday.
US Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee Said Moon Is Planet and Made Up of ‘Gases’?
(SNOPES) Lee did indeed make the erroneous statements quoted above, as evidenced by footage from a livestream of the event shared on her own official X account. However, after the eclipse, she posted that she had misspoken and intended to say the sun is made up of gases.
‘Criminal and disgusting’ | Gov. Greg Abbott points to arrest of Klein ISD teacher in latest promotion of school voucher plan
(KHOU-TV) The governor shared a post on X from Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez who said his office and the Klein ISD police arrested Kedria Grigsby, 42. Grigsby is a cosmetology teacher at Klein Cain High School who is now charged with three counts of trafficking of a child and three counts of compelling prostitution of juveniles.
New details reveal Klein ISD teacher recruited high school students for prostitution
(KHOU-TV) Prosecutors said they anticipate more victims to come forward and more charges to be filed.
Family sues after Lake Travis ISD determined peanuts in allergic student’s locker was not bullying
(KXAN) The family of a former Lake Travis High School football player is suing the Lake Travis Independent School District, including the superintendent and athletic director, after fellow football players put peanuts in their son’s locker.
Antisemitic bullying at Dallas high school alleged in federal civil rights complaint
(Dallas Morning News) The complaint, co-filed by StandWithUs, was filed as American campuses are grappling with reverberations of the Israel-Hamas war.
HISD considers ‘Confucius Institute’ partnership amid GOP ire over Chinese government ties
(Houston Landing) Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles wants to partner with a Chinese university to provide language and culture lessons in the district, a once-popular model that dozens of schools and universities have recently abandoned amid conservative criticism about links to the Chinese Communist Party.
Mike Miles says HISD may backtrack on plan to add English-only track at two popular immersion schools
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD’s appointed Superintendent Mike Miles said Monday that he will ask the district’s Board of Managers to walk back plans to add English-only pre-kindergarten tracks at the Helms and Wharton dual-language schools at the board’s monthly meeting on Thursday.
Most 18-year-old Texans aren’t signed up to vote despite a law requiring voter registration in high schools
(Texas Tribune) When David Dzul approached his principal about setting up a voter registration drive on campus in 2019, he quickly realized why voting participation rates are so abysmal among his peers.
‘Horrified and heartbroken’: Hays school bus crash raises safety concerns after deadly crash
(Austin American-Statesman) A collision involving a Hays school bus last month that left two people dead, including a five-year-old, has sparked concern among parents about the safety of school buses, especially after having learned that the vehicle carrying students and teachers from Tom Green Elementary lacked seat belts.
UT Dallas to close Office of Campus Resources and Support, eliminates 20 jobs
(Austin American-Statesman) The University of Texas at Dallas is closing its Office of Campus Resources and Support effective April 30 and eliminating about 20 associated jobs as part of the school’s reevaluation of its services after Senate Bill 17, a state law that went into effect in January banning diversity, equity and inclusion offices at public universities, President Richard Benson announced Tuesday.
Fort Bend ISD proposal would’ve given the superintendent the power to pull books from libraries
(KTRK) The debate over what can be found on Fort Bend ISD library shelves is expected to linger into the summer.
FBISD officials able to further reduce projected 2023 bond shortfall to $77.3M
(Community Impact) FBISD staff was able to reduce the $103.5 million shortfall reported in the March board meeting by continuing to work with contractors on project details and getting additional input from vendors to gain more accurate cost projections, FBISD Director of Design and Construction Daniel Bankhead said at the April 8 board of trustees meeting.
That shrinking feeling: SAISD says tough budget decisions will include cuts or freezes
(San Antonio Express-News) The San Antonio Independent School District issued a warning that its board will have to make “tough decisions” in the next few weeks while developing a 2024-25 budget.
Humble ISD trustees to release Title IX report on superintendent’s husband
(Houston Chronicle) Humble ISD trustees voted Tuesday to accept the retirement of the superintendent’s husband, Troy Kite, and to release the findings of a lengthy Title IX investigation that, alongside multiple related Title IX cases, cost the district more than $500,000 to mediate.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sues Harris County over its guaranteed income program
(Houston Public Media) The program, which will provide nearly 2,000 households with an income below 200% of the federal poverty level with $500 monthly payments for 18 months, violates the Texas Constitution, according to Paxton.
University of Houston-Victoria expands Nonprofit Center to Katy
(Community Impact) Through a new partnership with the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce announced in late-February, the Nonprofit Center will expand into the Katy area, providing workshops, boot camps and development programs. UHV has a Katy campus at 22400 Grand Circle Blvd., Katy.
Friendswood ISD board of trustees ratifies electricity contract process
(Community Impact) The item passed April 8 will allow the superintendent, or someone designated by the superintendent, to execute a proposed electricity supply contract, as long as the contract has a 10-year period and rate of up to $0.06 per kWh, according to agenda documents.
Fact brief: Does Fort Worth ISD require parental consent for students to access its mental health services?
(Fort Worth Report) Parental consent is necessary for Fort Worth ISD to provide mental health services to students.
City Council OKs purchase of EPISD school for police command center
(El Paso Matters) The El Paso City Council approved purchasing a vacant school from the El Paso Independent School District – the second in less than a year, this time for a police command center.
Space cadet: Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee tells schoolkids that moon is a ‘planet’ and ‘made up mostly of gases’
(New York Post) Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee (D-Texas) stunned attendees at a high school solar eclipse event Monday by claiming the rock-solid moon is a “planet” that is “made up mostly of gases” — before adding she still wants to be “first in line” to learn how to live there.
CEO-led effort to simplify public procurement could be a billion-dollar boon to local business
(San Antonio Report) One local effort to help small businesses win more public contracts looks like a slam dunk; another is trying to walk a fine line that may ultimately satisfy no one.
District attorney makes plans to challenge Paxton’s proposed reporting rules
(San Antonio Report) The Bexar County District Attorney’s Office will hire a law firm to explore the possibility of challenging Attorney General Ken Paxton’s proposed rule requiring reporting on certain criminal cases from large counties in Texas.
CBP officials stop another way to smuggle in fentanyl: hamburgers
(The Center Square) U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at El Paso area ports of entry seized a large amount of drugs being smuggled into the country in novel ways. One female was caught hiding fentanyl inside her body, another in a hamburger.
Checking in on the University of Texas at Austin’s Original Waste Diversion, Sustainability Promise 10 Years Later
(Waste Advantage) For the 2022-23 fiscal year, which ran from September 2022 to August 2023, the campus diversion rate was 31% — a third of the original goal declared over a decade ago.
Klein ISD teacher and son arrested, charged with recruiting juvenile students for prostitution
(Fox 26 Houston) Police believe that Grisby helped her son by recruiting troubled juveniles from the local high school by offering them a place to stay, which would be a hotel.
Texas will use computers to grade written answers on this year’s STAAR tests
(Texas Tribune) The state will save more than $15 million by using technology similar to ChatGPT to give initial scores, reducing the number of human graders needed.
Spring ISD trustees nix 2% administrator salary cuts in split vote
(Community Impact) A vote from Spring ISD’s board of trustees to cut district administrator’s salaries by 2% failed April 4 as the district faces an estimated $25 million budget shortfall for fiscal year 2024-25.
At Houston’s most expensive private schools, tuition exceeds $30K for the 2024-25 year
(Houston Chronicle) Last year, at least 16 private schools in the area charged tuition over $30,000, and now at least three more have joined the list.
Texas Democrats call on colleges to set aside financial aid money for immigrant families affected by FAFSA glitch
(Texas Tribune) Texas Democrats in Congress are appealing to colleges to set aside financial aid funds for students who have not been able to complete the new FAFSA form because their parents do not have Social Security numbers.
Pflugerville ISD Daycare Teacher Accused of Injury to a Child
(Texas Scorecard) A YMCA teacher who worked inside Pflugerville Independent School District has been arrested and accused of injury to a child after multiple instances were caught on surveillance video.
Texas lawmakers call for hearing over ‘potential violations of state law’ in HISD
(Houston Chronicle) In a letter to House Speaker Dade Phelan (R-Beaumont) on Friday, Houston lawmakers requested the House Committee on Public Education plan a hearing to address “credible reports of concerning developments” in HISD since the Texas Education Agency (TEA) appointed Superintendent Mike Miles and nine board of managers to take over district operations in June 2023.
HISD’s special education department is improving — but it’s still lagging on a key metric
(Houston Landing) With the first year of Miles’ tenure nearing its end, HISD has made significant progress in restructuring its approach to special education, though it’s still struggling to translate those changes into better instruction for students with disabilities, a Houston Landing review has found.
Most Tarrant County students aren’t at grade level. This new campaign wants to change that
(Fort Worth Report) The Sid W. Richardson Foundation, Parent Pass and The Miles Foundation are launching Go Beyond Grades, a campaign that wants to better inform parents about their students’ academic standing and equip them with resources to help.
House Lawmakers Propose ‘Contract with Texas’ to End ‘Liberal Dysfunction’
(Texas Scorecard) The letter, signed by 13 members and members-elect, notes that while Republicans hold every statewide office and both chambers of the legislature, Democrats have held an outsized role in determining policy in the Texas House.
Students stage #NOTOURTEXAS demonstration following DCCE dissolution, staff layoffs
(Daily Texan) Hundreds of students and staff holding posters filled a section of Speedway in a silent demonstration on Monday to protest the University’s response to Senate Bill 17.
25 years after fatal bonfire, Texas A&M considers bringing student tradition back
(Texas Tribune) A university system regent has sought input from the victims’ families about restoring the tradition, which was suspended after the 1999 tragedy.
Project Raíces looking for participants for next round of sessions
(KTRE) Any teacher in Lufkin and Nacogdoches ISD — and any parent who has a student in Lufkin or Nacogdoches ISD — who is emergent bilingual is encouraged to apply for the program that aims to teach the skills and techniques to support children who are learning English in addition to their native language.
Fort Bend District Attorney’s Office launches new court program alternative for young adults who lack support
(Houston Public Media) Participants will have their charges dropped after fulfilling the program’s requirements.
A+ Charter Schools, Inc. Selects Varsity Tutors for Schools to Provide Students With Additional Learning Resources
(BusinessWire) A+ Charter Schools, Inc. today announced a partnership with Varsity Tutors for Schools, a Nerdy (NYSE: NRDY) company and the leading platform for live online tutoring, to provide all district students with access to the Varsity Tutors for Schools platform at no cost to the A+ Charter Schools, Inc., students or families.
International group can send your used glasses to places in the next eclipse path
(KXAN) This allows people who live in the path of a future eclipse to safely view the celestial phenomena, without needing to buy a new pair for just a single use.
How Are Texas School Districts Outside TRS ActiveCare Faring These Days?
(RiskManagers.us) The short answer is “Not too good.”
Exclusive: How a Right-wing Texas Think Tank Ducked its Property Taxes
(Texas Monthly) For the past decade, Texas Monthly has learned, the think tank hasn’t paid a single dollar in taxes on its lavish, limestone-fronted, six-story headquarters, just two blocks from the Capitol in downtown Austin. The building’s appraised value is $18 million.
Trump and wealthy Texas Republicans want to oust House Speaker Phelan. David Covey is their man
(Houston Chronicle) The high-dollar, much-watched and often nasty contest is widely viewed as a referendum on Phelan, who has faced attacks from his party’s right flank for more than a year.
Uvalde mothers urge change at gun violence panel at SMU
(Dallas Morning News) These Uvalde mothers said they speak to breathe life into Jackie, Lexi and Tess’ legacy. They want to make sure the world doesn’t forget who they were and could have been.
New organization aims to promote ‘honest’ Texas history
(Texas Public Radio) The stated goals of the Alliance for Texas History, a new historical association, are to focus on a 21st century approach for historical analysis, dialogue, and perspective of Texas history.
After DEI Cuts, This Sixth-Gen Austinite Is Losing Access to UT
(Austin Chronicle) “It feels like Jim Crow”
A new Texas law allows schools to hire chaplains as counselors. So far, only one school has opted into the program
(Texas Tribune) Many independent school districts, including the largest ones, do not allow chaplains to serve as counselors, which is now allowed under a new Texas law.
How Texas teens lost the one program that allowed birth control without parental consent
(Texas Tribune) Now, unlike in the other 49 states, Texas’ 156 Title X clinics must require parental consent for teens. It’s a radical rewriting of a long-standing federal program, and a huge shift for the clinics and the clients they serve.
HISD illegally suspended 1 in 10 homeless students last school year, new data shows
(Houston Landing) Houston ISD administrators illegally suspended roughly 1 in 10 students experiencing homelessness in 2022-23, causing them to miss about 3,000 days of classes, district officials confirmed to the Houston Landing.
HISD’s Mike Miles touted a ‘growth wall’ as a mark of progress. It could also shame students
(Houston Chronicle) “Linking students’ names with where they are in a growth chart or a particular area of growth would be problematic under FERPA,” said LeRoy Rooker, who is one of the country’s leading authorities on FERPA and served as the director of the Department of Education’s Family Policy Compliance Office for more than two decades.
5 things to know about Texas’ DEI ban
(Dallas Morning News) Here are must-know aspects of the new law, including exceptions to the law and the student impact.
University of Texas professors demand reversal of job cuts from shuttered DEI initiative
(AP) A group of professors demand that the University of Texas reverse course on job cuts this week related to the shutdown of a diversity, equity and inclusion program impacted by one of the nation’s most sweeping bans on such initiatives.
HISD says district did not see spike in teacher absences during ‘sick-out’ protest
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD officials say that the district did not see a significant spike in teacher absences Thursday after over 100 teachers reportedly called in sick to protest appointed Superintendent Mike Miles’ leadership.
Conroe ISD projects $17.72M shortfall for 2024-25 fiscal year
(Community Impact) The preliminary budget numbers include an estimated total revenue of $695.1 million and an estimated expenditure of $712.82 million, creating the $17.72 million projected shortfall, which officials said equates to about 200 positions.
John Sharp says San Antonio’s fast-growing campus is on track to be system’s second-largest
(San Antonio Express-News) Texas A&M University System Chancellor John Sharp predicts the fast-growing A&M campus on San Antonio’s South Side will move up several places in the next decade to become the second-largest of the system’s 11 universities.
Texas SOS pushes back against widespread disinformation about voter registration
(The Center Square) The Secretary of State and a voter registration expert in Texas have refuted widespread disinformation spread by YouTubers and anonymous social media accounts this week.
STC’s promise to make college accessible and tuition free starts next fall
(myRGV) Graduating high school students will have more time off to focus on their studies with the financial weight of tuition lifted off their shoulders with South Texas College’s Valley Promise program, which essentially gives students a tuition-free education.
Privately owned school bus crashes into La Marque home, two injured
(Click 2 Houston) Two people on board, the driver and their 13-year-old child, were hurt in the crash. They received minor injuries.
The Kinkaid School nearing $180 million goal in historic expansion campaign, the largest in Texas
(Houston Chronicle) The private school nestled on 34.5 acres in Piney Point Village is in the midst of a historic $180 million fundraising campaign, the largest of any private school in this region of the United States, according to the school’s Director of Advancement, Tom Moore.
Caldwell family seeks answers after student suffers burns to hands
(KBTX) A family in Caldwell is seeking answers after their child came home with second-degree burns on her hands.
Savoy ISD Greenhouse Project receives grant from Atmos Energy
(North Texas e-News) The procurement of a greenhouse would allow for the district to locally grow food that would benefit students and the Savoy community.
Georgetown ISD considering district of innovation exception for uncertified teachers
(Community Impact) One of three amendments to Georgetown ISD’s District of Innovation plan under consideration may allow for the hiring of teachers without certification as the district works to fill vacancies.
PSJA’s dual language program continues to flourish and impact community
(myRGV) Over the past 25 years, PSJA ISD has established the gold standard for a dual language program offering classes district-wide with over 14,000 elementary, middle and high school students in the program that is expecting its largest graduating cohort this semester.
Humble Atascocita High School relay team beats nearly 30 year track record
(Fox 26 Houston) A Houston area high school track team beat a nearly 30-year-old record set in 1998 by another Texas high school!
Of the top wealthiest cities in the country, three are in Texas
(The Center Square) In its America’s Wealthiest Cities report, which ranks cities by the number of millionaires, centi-millionaires and billionaires, Texas has greatest number of cities with the wealthiest residents. The majority live in Houston, followed by Dallas and Austin.
Grand jury indicts Denton ISD principals Texas AG Ken Paxton accused of electioneering
(Dallas Morning News) Two Denton ISD elementary school principals were indicted on misdemeanor charges by a grand jury Tuesday for allegedly conducting an electioneering scheme through their school emails, according to court records.
Escalation of “Electioneering” Crackdown: Denton ISD Principals Indicted for Alleged Criminal Election Interference (Opinion)
(Texas AFT) This latest escalation in the campaign against educators and school employees fulfilling their duty to promote civic engagement and using their voices to highlight the high stakes for public education in our elections threatens to have a profound chilling effect in communities across the state.
Houston ISD teachers stage protest over superintendent’s policy changes
(Community Impact) More than 100 Houston ISD teachers from at least 35 campuses called in sick on April 4 in a coordinated effort to protest changes implemented by Superintendent Mike Miles, according to an April 4 news release issued by protest organizers.
Tom Green Elementary teacher files $1M lawsuit against Hernandez, FJM Concrete
(CBS Austin) A Tom Green Elementary School teacher has filed a lawsuit in connection to last month’s deadly Hays CISD school bus crash that killed a 5-year-old and a Texas doctoral student.
Texas school bus crash report reveals fourth vehicle involved, new details
(Fox 7 Austin) A new TxDOT report reveals new details in the deadly school bus crash in Bastrop County that killed a Tom Green Elementary School student and a UT graduate student.
Austin ISD could raise taxes, cut positions to help with potential $60M deficit
(KVUE) With budget challenges ahead, the Austin Independent School District (AISD) is focused on which positions it can eliminate.
Author of Texas DEI ban says fired UT professors are “consequences of making a change”
(CBS Austin) In an interview with CBS Austin days after the University of Texas at Austin announced it was closing its Division of Campus and Community Engagement office and reports of as many as dozens of UT professors out of a job, all in compliance with the state’s ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, the author of that law said those firings are “consequences of making a change.”
‘#NOTOURTEXAS’: Students post signs following closure announcement of Division of Campus and Community Engagement, faculty layoffs
(Daily Texan) Students posted hundreds of flyers and sticky notes with the message “#NOTOURTEXAS” on buildings, poles and notable landmarks on campus and in surrounding areas around midnight Tuesday — but by noon the next day, only a handful remained.
EXCLUSIVE: City of Uvalde hired investigator with no active shooter training to investigate Robb tragedy
(KSAT) The Austin area investigator hired by the City of Uvalde in July 2022 to conduct an independent investigation into the Robb Elementary shooting has no active shooter response training.
To close or stay open? Ahead of the eclipse, Texas schools weighed logistical hurdles versus learning opportunities
(Texas Tribune) In the weeks leading to the eclipse, Texas school districts within the path of totality weighed safety and organizational hurdles to decide whether to close or stay open that day.
Public blasts Texas agencies, regulators for poor communication and oversight at wildfire hearings
(Texas Tribune) The Texas legislative committee investigating this year’s deadly Panhandle wildfires blasted state agencies and regulators for failing to communicate — and began hinting at possible legal changes it could propose as it wrapped up its work.
International film crew stirs Keller ISD debate over separation of religion, education
(Fort Worth Report) Tensions between parents and Keller ISD leadership remain nearly two months after a film crew visited Central High School for a show called “God, Jesus, Trump!”
AG Ken Paxton says Texas ‘did not make any concession’ during hearing on Senate Bill 4
(Austin American-Statesman) Attorney General Ken Paxton is defending his office after the state’s solicitor general during a court hearing Wednesday on Texas’ immigration policy said the state might have “gone too far” with Senate Bill 4, a policy that would authorize state and local law enforcement officers to arrest, detain and deport people suspected of entering the U.S. in Texas from Mexico without legal authorization.
HISD to mandate certain Career and Technical Education programs at high schools next year
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD plans to require all comprehensive high schools to offer at least two new Career and Technical Education programs in certain subjects during the 2024-25 academic year.
Dallas schools leader touts wins, calls out Texas lawmakers for not boosting funding
(Dallas Morning News) Dallas schools are heading in the right direction despite inaction from Texas lawmakers, Superintendent Stephanie Elizalde said during her annual State of the District address.
Former Texas House speaker says GOP megadonor Tim Dunn told him only Christians should hold leadership positions
(Texas Tribune) Former Texas House Speaker Joe Straus said on Thursday that Midland oil magnate Tim Dunn, one of the state’s most powerful and influential GOP megadonors, once told him that only Christians should hold leadership positions in the lower chamber.
Tarrant Appraisal District gives update on last month’s ransomware attack
(CBS Dallas) Discussions are ongoing with the Medusa ransomware group involved, according to board chair Vince Puente, as is a criminal investigation.
External report on heater failures at San Antonio ISD delayed again
(Texas Public Radio) In a video update released Thursday evening, Superintendent Jaime Aquino said the external report is coming as promised, and that they “anticipate receiving an executive summary” of that review “later this spring.”
Texas comptroller OKs incentives for $429 million Fort Worth project from Bell Textron
(Dallas Morning News) Bell is set to receive a 50% school tax abatement within Northwest Independent School District, which is in Denton County.
San Benito CISD attorney stands behind statements as insurance company investigates
(myRGV) The school district’s former contractor’s insurance company is contacting board members to clarify information surrounding its “investigation” into a $40 million bond-funded project entering the first year of a shutdown stemming from building foundation flaws.
Rocky superintendent exit, $133M bond shortfall define spirited Fort Bend ISD board races
(Houston Landing) “There has been a lot of distraction,” said Anderson, a former Fort Bend teacher. “It’s been comical, to say the least.”
Tearful boy ‘missing pieces of hair’ reveals abuse at home to teachers, Texas cops say
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) “Great work school personnel for noticing and moving this investigation forward,” officials said.
Family wants answers as teen remains on life support at Fort Worth hospital
(NBC DFW) Relatives of Daniel Tamayo suspect he overdosed on the way to school Monday.
Texas wind energy firms need more technicians. Can they drum up student interest without state support?
(Texas Tribune) The wind industry promises attractive salaries. But a lack of training programs and waning political support make it difficult to find new recruits.
Former EPISD administrator sentenced to 30 years
(KVIA) A former El Paso ISD administrator will spend the next 30 years in prison for kidnapping and transportation for illegal sexual activity. At the time of the crime, Clay served as the Executive Director of Analytics, Strategy, and Assessment and Public Education Information Management Systems at EPISD.
Child care centers across San Antonio eligible for property tax breaks
(San Antonio Report) The City of San Antonio on Thursday approved property tax exemptions for child care facilities, expecting to help alleviate financial burdens on child care providers and working families.
GISD expands application for incentive program to include ‘all student-facing teachers’
(Greenville Herald Banner) Previously, GISD was applying to offer the TIA to its highest performing core teachers, but at the district’s school board meeting last month, trustees unanimously approved expanding the application to include “all student-facing teachers” – so that those who teach special education, electives, vocational and other special courses could also be eligible for the cash incentive.
Tyler ISD reports improvements in both cyber, campus security
(KLTV) We have blocked over 48 million spam, marketing and potential phishing emails from our district in less than a year, so over 80% of our mail that comes in is junk,” said Cyber Security Coordinator Daryl Kisosondi.
FWISD school nurses recently completed over 22 hours of training. Here’s what that means to students
(KERA) The series is key to arming nurses with knowledge and skills to tackle prevalent health issues among students, according to Medical City Healthcare.
Friendswood ISD resolving fireproofing issues within district
(Community Impact) Following issues concerning fireproofing at Friendswood ISD’s new Performing Arts Center at Friendswood High School, officials from both the district and the city of Friendswood have confirmed they are working toward a solution.
Fort Bend ISD faces lawsuit for alleged abuse of child, district calls claims ‘unsubstantiated’
(Fox 26 Houston) Fort Bend Independent School District is faced with a lawsuit from a family who claimed their 7-year-old child was abused by staff at an elementary school.
Houston-area Hindu temple sued over alleged branding of 11-year-old boy
(Houston Public Media) A Houston-area Hindu temple has been sued by a man who claims his 11-year-old son was branded with a hot iron rod during a 2023 religious ceremony that included about 100 people.
Ukrainian School of Austin serves growing community of refugee children
(Community Impact) Each Sunday, around 100 children gather at a private school in Bee Cave to attend the Ukrainian School of Austin—a free program dedicated to helping Ukrainian children preserve their language and culture.
Texas school district employees indicted amid ‘illegal electioneering’ allegations
(KFOX 14) Denton Independent School District employees Jesús and Lindsay Luján are accused of using their district-issued email accounts to encourage co-workers to vote in the state’s Republican primary elections.
NTSB opens investigation into deadly Hays CISD school bus crash
(CBS Austin) The NTSB sent a statement to CBS Austin stating it would not be sending a team or issuing any reports, findings, or conclusions, but rather gathering information that can be used in other school bus crash investigations they’re currently conducting.
UTSA to demolish Institute of Texan Cultures, house museum at Frost Tower
(San Antonio Report) UTSA President Taylor Eighmy said that the university remains committed to retaining and advancing the museum through its centennial in 2068, but that the demolition of the ITC building was key to that plan.
Texas, Biden administration take their battle over new immigration law to federal appeals court
(Texas Tribune) A federal appeals court heard arguments Wednesday from Texas and the federal government about whether it should continue blocking a new Texas law that would let state police arrest migrants suspected of entering the U.S. illegally.
HCC ordered to pay at least $281K in open records fight tied to $100M racial discrimination lawsuit
(Houston Chronicle) The order stems from litigation that Houston attorney Ben Hall filed in 2020, asking the court to force Houston Community College to release records he requested pertinent to a $100 million racial discrimination lawsuit against the college system.
HISD restores stipends for speech, debate teachers after previously removing them
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD has restored stipends for speech and debate sponsors for the 2024-25 school year after initially excluding them from the list of eligible employees.
Column: What’s Going to Happen to the STAAR Scores With No Test Prep?
(Houston Press) This year, however, there will be no STAAR test prep in many of the HISD schools.
Higher teacher pay, fewer central staff positions planned for Dallas school budget
(Dallas Morning News) Dallas school leaders expect to cut central staff positions ― while also raising teacher salaries — as they build a budget that accounts for enrollment declines and stagnant state funding.
Eanes ISD’s diversity, equity and inclusion committee shares student-led initiatives and more
(Community Impact) Eanes ISD’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion advisory committee has been making strides to increase cultural awareness across the district, despite pushback that is occurring at the higher-education level.
Texas counties, cities embrace new child care center tax credit even though few providers qualify
(Texas Tribune) Child care centers are struggling to make ends meet, and a new voter-approved tax credit is a first step toward boosting the flagging system, advocates say.
San Antonio welcomes new school for inclusive early childhood education
(San Antonio Report) The Rise School’s new campus at CHRISTUS Children’s Hospital in downtown San Antonio will welcome two classrooms of 12 students in August, each serving half typically developing students and half those with special needs.
UT researcher policy brief reveals continued struggle for childcare access in Texas
(Daily Texan) Texas is in urgent need of accessible and affordable child care, according to a recent policy brief by UT researchers in the LBJ School of Public Affairs.
North Texas Kids With Special Needs Build Confidence by Rock Climbing
(Dallas Observer) In indoor climbing gyms throughout Dallas-Fort Worth, kids with autism and other special needs are being included in an activity they might typically be excluded from.
UT Health San Antonio launches Be Well Institute for substance use research and treatment
(News Medical) The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UT Health San Antonio) is establishing the Be Well Institute on Substance Use and Related Disorders, a pioneering initiative dedicated to advancing research, education and evidence-based treatments.
National gun safety group taps San Antonio politico to lead its uphill Texas efforts
(San Antonio Report) To oversee an expansion of its work in gun-loving Texas, the Giffords gun safety group has chosen a San Antonio native with extensive experience in the state’s Republican-led legislature.
Texas cattle industry facing crisis after wildfires, avian flu hit panhandle
(Center Square) The Texas cattle industry face a crisis after the largest wildfire in state history caused the death of thousands of beef cattle and now dairy cows for the first time have been infected by a bird flu outbreak.
Egg Prices Could Rise After Massive Texas Plant Shuts Down
(Newsweek) The price of eggs could shoot up after Cal-Maine Foods, one of the world’s largest egg producers, was forced to halt operations at its facilities in Texas due to detection of avian flu at the plant, a development that could impact supply and cost, an expert told Newsweek.
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UT-Austin announces round of firings in latest step to comply with Texas’ DEI ban
(Texas Tribune) The University of Texas at Austin has laid off dozens of employees who used to work in diversity, equity and inclusion programs.
UT community upset after DCCE closure, staff layoffs
(Daily Texan) The Division’s termination means some programs previously housed under the DCCE, including the Women’s Community Center, will also be dissolved. Approximately 60 individuals were fired, including 40 former employees of the DCCE, according to a joint press release from the Texas American Association of University Professors and the Texas NAACP.
Influential conservative PAC wades into Texas Legislature primaries
(Texas Tribune) Club for Growth announced it will spend $4 million on a TV ad targeting five anti-school voucher Texas House Republicans.
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD officials prepare for budget cuts ahead of FY 2024-25
(Community Impact) Cypress-Fairbanks ISD is facing an estimated $68 million in budget cuts to reduce a projected $138.6 million shortfall in the fiscal year 2024-25 budget, Chief Financial Officer Karen Smith said during the April 1 board work session.
Montgomery County Adopts Citizen-Led Library Book Review Policy
(Texas Scorecard) The new policy puts citizens in charge of determining what taxpayer-funded library materials are appropriate for children and young adults.
Best private colleges in Texas
(KVIA) Stacker compiled a list of the best private colleges in Texas, using data from Niche released in 2024.
Austin Community College OKs free tuition program for eligible 2024 high school graduates
(Austin American-Statesman) The pilot program will cover the full $87 per credit hour fee for in-district 2024 high school graduates for three years and for an additional two years for students who decide to pursue a bachelor’s degree at ACC.
Brownsville ISD Teacher Incentive Allotment raises receive mixed reviews
(myRGV) Even as the Brownsville Independent School District trumpets $10 million to be paid to teachers through the Texas Education Agency’s Teacher Incentive Allotment, some teachers are questioning TEA’s system for distributing the funds.
Abbott’s order targeting antisemitism on Texas colleges violates rights, students say
(Dallas Morning News) Gov. Greg Abbott’s executive order to address antisemitism at Texas colleges is “a masked, targeted attack to slow the student movement for liberation,” two student groups singled out in the order said in a statement Monday.
Nearly 2,000 Texas residents to receive $500 a month from relief program. What to know
(Austin American-Statesman) According to the report, 1,928 families have been selected from an estimated 83,000 applicants to receive $500 per month for 18 months as part of the program.
Argyle ISD board of trustees considers leasing spot for AT&T cell tower
(Community Impact) The tower would be owned and maintained by New Cingular Wireless Personal Communication Service LLC over a five-year lease that would generate about $2,000 a month for the district, Director of Operation Tommy Ledford said.
Data shows Eanes ISD average teacher salary only 1% below median market value
(Community Impact) Strategies are in place for Eanes ISD to increase or build upon its teacher and staff salaries to compete with other districts in the market.
El Paso ISD announces 2024-25 initiatives: bilingual education, resource centers, algebra
(KFOX 14) El Paso Independent School District recently unveiled a slate of new educational initiatives to coincide with its 2024-25 school year registration, which opens Monday.
La Porte ISD receives National Recognition for music education
(Fox 26 Houston) La Porte ISD has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The National Association of Music Merchants Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education, according to a release.
Explainer: IDEA Public Schools is under TEA conservatorship. What does that mean?
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Last month, Texas Education Agency officials announced plans to place IDEA Public Schools, the state’s largest public charter school network, under state conservatorship after reports of financial mismanagement.
Texas maternal mortality committee can’t review abortion records, creating questions about data
(Houston Chronicle) For a decade, a Texas committee has counted and investigated maternal deaths in the state, producing legislative reports that help shape public health policy for new and expectant mothers.
Attorney General Ken Paxton Announces Educational Partnership Between OAG Cold Case and Missing Persons Unit and Texas State University School of Criminal Justice and Criminology
(Press Release) Attorney General Ken Paxton has announced a partnership between the Office of the Attorney General and Texas State University to facilitate educational opportunities and bring more investigative power to solving cold cases.
Ransomware Gangs Targeting Backups To Maximize Payoffs
(TechNewsWorld) The research, sponsored by Sophos and based on a survey of nearly 3,000 IT and security professionals across 14 countries, found that 94% of organizations hit by ransomware in the past year said that the threat actors attempted to compromise their backups during the attack.
Lindale takes step towards ending underage smoking, vaping
(KLTV) The Lindale City Council passed an ordinance on Tuesday night that will not allow any future vape or tobacco shops to open within 1,000 feet of a school, church, park or daycare.
Texas poultry facility to destroy 1.6 million hens after positive bird flu test
(KXAN) The Cal-Maine Foods, Inc. poultry facility in Farwell will need to destroy 1.6 million laying hens and 337,000 pullets at that facility, which is approximately 3.6% of the company’s total flock, due to U.S. Department of Agriculture poultry infections guidance. Pullets are young female chicks.
Hartzell dismisses Teaching Assistants’ final grievance
(Daily Texan) After the University dismissed two teaching assistants from their positions in November for sending a Canvas message about the Israel-Hamas war, they spent the next four months defending their case to the University. On March 13, they received an email from University President Jay Hartzell informing them he dismissed their efforts and grievances.
State Board of Education again delays discussion on whether to approve new Native studies course
(Texas Tribune) The Texas State Board of Education once again will delay voting on whether to approve an American Indian/Native Studies class, to the disappointment of supporters who have championed the material since 2020.
Employer of man charged in deadly bus crash did not perform background check before hiring, documents show
(KVUE) Documents show Jerry Hernandez had three positive drug tests. His employer also allegedly did not check his background before hiring.
Texas school bus crash: Truck driver was not allowed to drive at time of crash
(Fox 7 Austin) The concrete truck driver involved in a deadly school bus crash was not allowed to drive a commercial vehicle at the time of the incident in Bastrop County, according to the federal government.
1.7 million Texas households are set to lose monthly internet subsidy
(Texas Tribune) The program is slated to run out of money at the end of the month.
Mercedes ISD settles gender discrimination lawsuit with former super
(myRGV) Discrimination lawsuit filed by former superintendent Carolyn Mendiola against her former employer, Mercedes ISD, has been settled.
Years ago, Texas hustled to get kids on state health care. Now it’s kicking them off
(Texas Tribune) Texas’ recent unwinding of Medicaid and CHIP has been criticized, dropping more than a million people eligible for the health insurance programs. Decades ago, Texas officials got kids health insurance in record time.
Behind the scenes of Houston ISD teacher evaluation rollout: TEA called classroom observation approach ‘odd,’ liaison said training sessions ‘much larger than is recommended’
(Houston Public Media) TEA called Houston ISD’s classroom observation approach ‘odd,’ school staffers describe continuing confusion.
Person is diagnosed with bird flu after being in contact with cows in Texas
(AP) A person in Texas has been diagnosed with bird flu, an infection tied to the recent discovery of the virus in dairy cows, health officials said Monday.
‘Difficult Decisions Are Being Made’ as DISD Reassigns Staff and Teachers
(Dallas Observer) Dallas Independent School District Superintendent Stephanie Elizalde has been laying the groundwork for a district realignment for months, and some staff started feeling its effects this week. “We’re not going to have additional funds coming in,” a district spokesperson said. “This is a challenge that every district is facing.”
Loss of pandemic-era funding impacts Corpus Christi ISD after-school program ISD after-school program
(Corpus Christi Caller-Times) As pandemic-era education funding disappears, Corpus Christi ISD is bracing for impacts to learning loss recovery efforts like its after-school program.
North Texas ISDs Face Hard Choices
(Dallas Express) Officials in Richardson, Fort Worth, Plano, Keller, and Irving ISD are some of the latest to grapple with difficult decisions regarding budgetary constraints.
Texas school districts face tipping point with incoming budget cuts, measures taken to prevent resignations
(North Texas Daily) School districts across the state are bracing for substantial budget cuts and layoffs as they plan for the upcoming school year. The cripplingly insufficient financial support and politicization of state government funds has led to a decline of education and the elimination of critical resources for students.
‘It has been a great honor’: Uvalde Mayor Cody Smith abruptly resigns effective immediately
(Austin American-Statesman) Uvalde Mayor Cody Smith abruptly resigned from office Monday, citing undisclosed health concerns for his early departure after having secured the position in November in an election inextricably linked to the 2022 mass shooting at Robb Elementary School.
Civil rights organizations, UT’s Palestine Solidarity Committee condemn Abbott’s executive order regarding university free speech policies
(Daily Texan) Civil rights organizations and UT’s Palestine Solidarity Committee claimed that Gov. Greg Abbott’s executive order for state universities to update and enforce free speech policies is discriminatory and violates the First Amendment.
‘Stripped away’: UNT students of color, DACA recipients see resources ebb after DEI ban takes hold
(KERA) Some UNT students said the new state law that bans diversity, equity and inclusion programs sponsored by public universities has created confusion. They said they now must deal with the loss of funding, meeting spaces and resources, in addition to missing what had been a welcoming atmosphere.
Texas A&M University organizations react to Gov. Abbott’s executive order to revise university free speech policies
(KBTX) “We see it as a misrepresentation to justify a violation of our first amendment, and there’s no moral basis for this censorship,” said Karam Emran, Texas A&M Palestinian Solidarity Committee President.
UT extends enrollment deposit deadline for admitted students to June 1 amid financial aid delays
(Daily Texan) The University now allows admitted students to extend their enrollment deposit deadline to June 1 due to nationwide delays in processing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.
Student accused of terror threat towards Longview school arrested
(KLTV) A student is in custody after allegedly making a terroristic threat towards Pine Tree Middle School on Sunday.
Texas Tech awarded approximately $2.5 million from DOE for Cybersecurity Center
(KCBD) The project is part of a $15 million investment from the DOE to establish six university-based electric power cybersecurity centers across the country.
Goodwill to serve high schoolers from planned Career Resource Center in East Lubbock
(KCBD) Goodwill Industries of Northwest Texas is bringing a new store location and Career Resource Center to East Lubbock. CEO and President Robin Raney says the Pathways to Success Project will focus on helping high schoolers begin and maintain successful careers.
San Antonio could soon get its first crisis nursery
(San Antonio Report) The City of San Antonio is exploring options to create a “crisis nursery” — an overnight shelter for children at immediate risk of abuse or neglect — and is kicking off the process by identifying the overall need in the community and the city’s capacity to provide services.
Tesla Giga Texas is Austin’s largest private employer: Report
(TeslaRati) Tesla has been heavily involved in local Independent School Districts since before Giga Texas was built.
Texas Native American studies course further delayed, triggering frustration
(Dallas Morning News) State Board of Education chairman Aaron Kinsey, R-Midland, confirmed in a statement an initial vote on the American Indian/Native Studies course standards will not be on April’s agenda.
Texas school bus crash: Truck driver charged with negligent homicide
(Fox 7 Austin) The cement truck driver involved in the deadly crash with a Hays CISD school bus and another vehicle was charged and arrested on Friday afternoon at a residence in Bastrop County, Texas DPS said.
Nearly two years after the Uvalde massacre, here’s who has been reprimanded and where investigations stand
(Texas Tribune) “For the most part, we just feel like we’ve been let down,” said Jesse Rizo, an uncle to 9-year-old Jackie Cazares, who died during the May 2022 shooting.
Tuition rates at private Texas colleges are about to get a lot higher. Here’s by how much and when
(Houston Chronicle) A difficult economic outlook has forced several Texas universities to increase tuition for the 2024-2025 academic year, after many institutions around the country tried to hold their rates relatively flat during the pandemic.
Senate Education Committee is warning universities to comply with anti-DEI law. Here’s why
(Austin American-Statesman) The Senate Education Committee is holding a hearing in May for university system chancellors and general counsels to lay out how their institutions are ensuring that there are no DEI offices or training, no diversity statements in hiring and only merit-based employment offers with no considerations for race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin.
Citing ‘Significant Contribution,’ Dallas College Not Using HB 8 To Waive Tuition
(Dallas Observer) House Bill 8 will help Texas community colleges assist more new students, but not all college systems are using the new funds the same way.
Chronic absenteeism rises in El Paso schools post-pandemic
(El Paso Matters) While most El Paso schools don’t track their overall chronic absenteeism rates, some school leaders said average daily attendance has improved since the 2021-22 school year but has not returned to pre-pandemic levels.
Fort Worth ISD board approves contract to start closure of Forest Oak Sixth Grade
(Fort Worth Report) Facing a $40 million budget shortfall, decreasing enrollment and low student performance, Fort Worth ISD declared last week its intention to close a second school beginning in the 2024-25 school year.
DX Spotlights Troubled Dallas ISD Campus
(Dallas Express) While the Texas Education Agency continues to keep the latest accountability reports for the state’s public school systems under wraps due to a lawsuit, The Dallas Express is putting a spotlight on one of Dallas ISD’s underperforming campuses.
EPA Finalizes Emissions Standards for School Buses, Other Heavy Vehicles
(School Bus Fleet) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has finalized greenhouse gas pollution standards for heavy-duty vehicles, including school buses, for model years 2027 through 2032.
Digital Academy of Texas Now Enrolling for 2024-25 School Year
(Business Wire) Digital Academy of Texas (DATX), which offers tuition-free online education for students in grades 5-12, is now accepting applications for the 2024-2025 school year.
We asked 14 HISD students how school has changed under a year of Mike Miles’ leadership
(Houston Landing) With the better part of the school year in the books, the Houston Landing interviewed 14 HISD teens from 12 different schools — including five overhauled campuses — over the last three weeks to hear their first-hand accounts of the changes.
China Spring High School senior sinks half-court shot, wins $25K at Rockets game
(KWTX) Zach May made a half-court shot during halftime of the Rockets game against the Dallas Mavericks and won $25,000!
Former Palmview teacher faces life sentence after posing as teen, exploiting minor online
(ValleyCentral) Juan Carlos Munoz, 42, pleaded guilty to coercion and enticement of a minor, according to federal records.
Former Cy-Falls HS teacher sentenced to 9 years for having improper relationship with a student
(KTRK) Ennis Hernandez pleaded guilty to inducing a child into sexual performance and having an improper relationship with a student. In each case, he was sentenced to nine years, but both sentences must be served concurrently.
Former MacArthur High School Truancy Officer Arrested for Child Grooming
(Irving Weekly) On Thursday morning, Irving Police Officers arrested 32-year-old Miranda Julissa Montoya. Montoya is charged with Child Grooming and Sexual Performance of a Child.
Affidavit: Truck driver admits to cocaine use hours before fatal Hays CISD school bus crash
(Austin American-Statesman) The driver of the concrete truck that struck a Hays school district bus carrying 44 prekindergarten students on Friday, causing the deaths of one student and a driver behind the bus, said he only got three hours of sleep before starting his shift and had used cocaine earlier that morning.
UT Journalism professor speaks on loss of Ryan Wallace, victim in school bus crash
(CBS Austin) CBS Austin spoke on Thursday with Kathleen McElroy, a former UT professor of 33-year-old Ryan Wallace, the man killed in the Bastrop-Caldwell school bus crash last Friday.
Texas GOP officials condemn Charles Butt, chair of San Antonio’s H-E-B
(San Antonio Current) GOP officials in Brazoria, Harris, Trinity and Tyler counties passed resolutions last Saturday denouncing H-E-B and Butt for “advocating for policies contrary to the Republican Party of Texas platform,” reports right-leaning news site The Texan. Those policies include advocating against “election integrity,” sponsoring “drag queen shows for children,” providing food to the less fortunate and lobbying “against parents’ God-given rights and against empowering parents to choose the education that is best for their children.
More funding, staff needed to keep Fort Bend ISD in compliance with federal special ed requirements
(Community Impact ) Increasing student enrollment in Fort Bend ISD has led to an increase in the number of students requiring special education services, and the district is struggling to keep up with the demand, said Deena Hill, executive director of student support services.
Spring Branch ISD parents raise $570K to fund programs cut in budget crisis
(Houston Chronicle) Former students, future SPIRAL parents and business donors. The SPIRAL parents were even able to set up a corporate matching program up to $100,000 in the last two days of the fundraiser.
Tone shift: Unified South San ISD board vows to reverse budget deficit
(San Antonio Report) The South San Antonio Independent School District board of trustees came together during one of the most unified meetings in years Wednesday night, just in time to hear what it will take to slash an estimated $4.4 million projected deficit and adopt a balanced budget by a September deadline set by the Texas Education Agency.
Go to jail? Why the Eanes school board asked a political candidate to stop using its logo
(Austin American-Statesman) The Eanes school district has decided not to file a temporary restraining order against a school board candidate after he agreed to stop using the district’s official logo in campaign materials.
Parental avoidance of toxic exposures could help prevent autism, ADHD in children, new study shows
(Science Daily) Autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may be preventable if parents avoid toxic exposures and adopt interventions such as environmental house calls, according to a published study led by researchers from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UT Health San Antonio).
Texas could require social media influencers to disclose paid political posts
(Texas Public Radio) Texas’ top campaign finance watchdog gave initial approval last week to a proposal that would require social media users to disclose if they are being paid to share or create political advertisements.
Pastors, Residents Speak Out Against Sexually Explicit Books at Fort Bend ISD Board Meeting
(Texas Scorecard) A group of pastors, parents, and community leaders concerned about explicit books in kids’ libraries confronted the Fort Bend Independent School District Board of Trustees this week.
What is a ransomware attack? This expert says Tarrant County should’ve seen this coming
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) In the throes of a ransomware attack, the Tarrant County Appraisal District is mulling over whether to pay the hackers’ $700,000 ransom demand.
Texas appeals court overturns voter fraud conviction for woman on probation
(AP) A Texas appeals court has overturned a Fort Worth woman’s voter fraud conviction and five-year prison term for casting an illegal provisional ballot.
McCombs dealership Native American statue now at San Antonio-area high school
(San Antonio Current) A representative of a Native American group said he’s frustrated a San Antonio-area school district is now displaying a statue of an Indigenous American man in a feathered headdress that was removed from a Red McCombs Automotive dealership last July.
New Alamo Colleges District program meant to increase access for student transfers
(Community Impact) District officials said the initiative will lead to the creation of a planning portal, which will facilitate a seamless process for ACD students seeking to transfer their credits to four-year colleges and universities where they can further pursue a degree.
UNT Will Offer an Industry-Focused Commercial Music Degree Aimed at Musicians Who Want To Make a Living
(Dallas Observer) The new degree program, which launches in fall of 2025, aims to combine artistry and entrepreneurship to produce business-savvy working musicians.
Texas State Employees Union calls on UT to raise University workers’ pay by $10,000 across-the-board
(Daily Texan) University workers called for a $10,000 raise for all full-time campus workers, and a proportional raise for part-time employees, at a rally outside the Tower on March 20.
Gender-based “Genderbread person” assignment at Santa Fe High School causing concern among parents, state officials
(Click 2 Houston) Parents are angry after a high school junior taking a college-level psychology class was given a gender-based assignment. They’re not the only ones sounding off; the issue has caught the attention of state officials. One state senator saying it’s illegal.
A Baylor Scientist Transforms Education for the Blind
(Texas Monthly) Inspired by his son, Bryan Shaw is leading a team that’s reenvisioning the college chemistry lab.
Hays CISD releases video from deadly Tom Green Elementary school bus crash
(Austin American-Statesman) Video obtained by the American-Statesman on Wednesday of the deadly Hays school district bus crash in Bastrop County last week shows a commercial concrete truck heading east on Texas 21 veer into the westbound lane of the highway, striking the school bus and causing it to completely roll over before landing on its side.
Local school districts explain why some school buses have seat belts and others don’t amidst safety concerns
(KWTX) Two separate school bus accidents in Texas, just days apart, have left many concerned about the safety of kids who ride the bus and wondering why not all school buses have seat belts.
Governor Abbott Appoints Weir To State Board For Educator Certification
(Governor’s Office) Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Bobbie Lynn Weir to the State Board for Educator Certification for a term set to expire on February 1, 2027. The Board develops certification and continuing education requirements and standards of conduct for public school teachers.
Appeals court keeps controversial Texas immigration law on hold
(CNN) A controversial Texas law that allows state officials to arrest and detain people they suspect of entering the country illegally will remain blocked while legal challenges to it play out, a federal appeals court said Tuesday.
Senate Committee to Oversee Universities’ Implementation of DEI Ban
(Texas Scorecard) The chair of the Senate’s Education Committee has outlined the process of how higher education institutions are to expel Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives in letters to the chancellors of Texas’ state-funded universities.
Gov. Abbott issues executive order fighting antisemitism at Texas colleges
(Dallas Morning News) Gov. Greg Abbott issued an executive order Wednesday aimed at fighting what his office called an increase in antisemitism at Texas’ colleges and universities.
To save money, Denton ISD freezes hiring and postpones opening of new elementary
(KERA) Because of budget constraints, Denton ISD officials have frozen 78 staff vacancies ahead of the 2024-25 school year and delayed the opening of Fred Hill Elementary School in Little Elm.
Third suspect pleads guilty in shooting of Paschal student at Fort Worth Whataburger
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Daniel Reed will spend 13 years in prison for his role in the 2023 shooting that killed one Paschal High School student and wounded another at a Whataburger near the Fort Worth campus.
Abbott’s Voucher Allies Land New State Education Roles
(Texas Signal Media Foundation) At the rightwing conference, Abbott also announced two new plum gigs for staunch voucher allies: State Rep. Brad Buckley and State Senator Brandon Creighton. Buckley and Creighton are now appointees to the Education Commission of the States (ECS). The Commission is over fifty years old and serves as an “interstate compact on education policy.”
Alamo Colleges lowers tuition for students who live outside Bexar County
(Texas Public Radio) Starting this fall, students who live in neighboring counties will pay $180 per credit hour instead of $225. The cost per credit hour for Bexar County residents will remain $109.
Once the Texas GOP’s ‘weak link,’ Attorney General Ken Paxton is growing more popular, powerful
(KERA) The outlook is now considerably brighter for Paxton, whose political stock continued its ascent this week when prosecutors agreed to drop the nine-year-old fraud charges if he fulfills the terms of a pretrial agreement. It was another major vindication for Paxton after the Senate acquitted him of the House’s impeachment charges last fall, bringing him one step closer to a political career devoid of legal drama and burnishing his reputation among the party’s most conservative flank as a fighter who has defied political “persecution.”
UT Austin semiconductor master’s program to launch in 2025
(Community Impact) The University of Texas at Austin officials announced March 20 that a new Master of Science in Engineering with a major in semiconductor science and engineering program will be offered next fall.
How Investment In Education R&D By Texas Policy Leaders Could Spur Economic Growth
(Forbes) Texas has a rich history as a leader in innovation. State policy leaders could help it have an even richer future as a leader in R&D education.
Former Donna High School students get probation for planning school shooting
(MyRGV) The two Donna High School teenagers who conspired to shoot up their school in 2022 pleaded guilty on Monday and were sentenced to 10 years probation, according to court documents.
Progreso mayor fired by school district after drug arrest
(Valley Central) The Progreso Independent School District fired Mayor Gerardo “Jerry” Alanis on Monday after he was accused of participating in a scheme to store drugs on campus. Alanis worked for the Progreso ISD Technology Department and coached the boys soccer team at Progreso High School.
Gov. Greg Abbott revives the Texas Space Commission in Houston
(Houston Chronicle) From inside the Johnson Space Center in Houston on Tuesday, Abbott officially revived the Texas Space Commission more than 20 years after it shuttered. The Republican leader introduced the newly appointed nine-member board of directors who will be leading the advancement of human space exploration in Texas. ) Text
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton cuts deal to have fraud charges dropped, trial canceled
(Texas Public Radio) Paxton must complete 100 hours of community service, take 15 hours of legal ethics courses and pay around $270,000 in restitution to his accusers.
Northside ISD defends selective raises, board votes to deny union grievance
(San Antonio Report) After a brief discussion in the executive session, the board voted 5-2 to deny the grievance, with union-backed Trustee David Salcido and Trustee Karla Duran voting against the motion.
‘We’re done’: Spring Branch ISD Board votes to keep name on building
(Houston Chronicle) Former Superintendent Duncan Klussmann’s name will remain on the Spring Branch Educational Center, the board voted unanimously Monday, after residents said they opposed the trustees’ proposal to remove his name after he published a critical op-ed in the Houston Chronicle.
Delayed financial aid forms trickle into UTEP, higher ed campuses
(El Paso Matters) The information that colleges and universities need to prepare financial aid offers for the millions of students who want to attend those institutions started to arrive at the campuses two weeks ago – about three months behind schedule.
North Texas School Districts, Facing Low Enrollment and Budget Shortfalls, Close Campuses
(Dallas Observer) Some school districts, including in Richardson, Irving, Plano and Fort Worth, lack millions of dollars and need higher enrollment, leaving difficult decisions to be made.
Round Rock ISD establishes plan for legislative advocacy
(Community Impact) RRISD approved on March 21 a plan outlining how the board may invite community members to participate in the formation of legislative priorities over the next three years, as well as engage in state and local level advocacy with the goal of working with legislators to identify creative funding solutions, as well as address concerns related to House Bill 3 and other priorities.
Irving ISD Board Approves Salary Increase for 2024-2025 School Year
(Irving Weekly) At the March 25, 2024 meeting, the Irving Independent School District (ISD) Board of Trustees made a significant decision regarding employee compensation for the upcoming school year.
Denton DA Fails to Respond to Voters’ School Electioneering Allegations
(Texas Scorecard) Texas Scorecard has contacted Johnson’s office three times regarding the case but has received no response.
PWN like a Pro
(Thompson & Horton LLP) Does your team write prior written notices that communicate clearly to parents and protect the district in case of a dispute? Or are the PWNs somewhat lacking?
Small nuclear reactors may be coming to Texas, boosted by interest from Gov. Abbott
(Texas Tribune) A nuclear power plant hasn’t been built in Texas in decades because of cost and public fears of a major accident. Now the governor wants to find out if smaller reactors could meet the state’s growing need for on-demand power.
Texas colleges risk millions if they break DEI ban, lawmaker says
(Dallas Morning News) Sen. Brandon Creighton, R-Conroe, announced Tuesday that he sent a letter to Texas university leaders reinforcing the expectations and oversight process of the ban he authored aimed at keeping diversity, equity and inclusion programs out of state schools.
UISD attendance dips amid threat concerns
(KGNS) United I-S-D schools remained on high alert on Tuesday, March 26 after a threat of gun violence surfaced on Monday, March 25. Across the district, attendance saw a decline as concerned parents opted to keep their children at home after the threat circulated on social media.
North Texas teacher changes name to Literally Anybody Else to run for U.S. president
(Dallas Morning News) Formerly known as Dustin Ebey, Else said he is deeply unhappy with 2024 presidential candidates Joe Biden and Donald Trump so he legally changed his name in January to make a point.
Cash App payment returned to North Texas teacher after she was left ‘penniless’
(NBC DFW) retired North Texas teacher said that her money has been returned to her after reporting that strangers somehow stole nearly $10,000 she had just taken out of her retirement fund.
Socorro ISD Superintendent Carman placed on administrative leave after audit presentation
(El Paso Matters) Monday’s meeting added to the turmoil surrounding El Paso’s second-largest school district: Carman is taking a new job as superintendent of a small Arizona school district, the district faces a $33 million budget deficit, and the Texas Education Agency is preparing to place one or more conservators to help oversee the district after a four-year investigation found numerous governance problems in Socorro.
Hackers demand $700,000 ransom from Tarrant Appraisal District, attorney says
(NBC DFW) An attorney representing the Tarrant Appraisal District says the agency received a ransom demand for $700,000 from a group of hackers taking responsibility for last week’s attack on their computer network.
Many Houston charter schools are violating state transparency laws. Here’s why it’s an issue
(Houston Landing) Many Houston-area charter schools are violating state transparency laws designed to make school governance and financial decisions open to the public, a pattern that has drawn minimal scrutiny from state officials.
A Faltering But Not Destroyed Pro-Union Firewall
(Texas Scorecard) Will Gov. Abbott’s efforts be spoiled by anti-school choice Parent PAC’s wildcard?
Texas Fund’s BlackRock Pullout Marks Latest Anti-ESG Broadside
(Chief Investment Officer) The Texas Permanent School Fund’s move to pull $8.5 billion from BlackRock Inc. is the latest eruption in an ongoing red-state backlash against asset managers’ environmental, social and governance investing. As a result, Wall Street managers are continuing to move away from the ESG label.
After Texas’s DEI Ban, College Students Are Reconsidering State Schools
(The Nation) “It seems as though we are taking a step back in reforming an ideal, equitable society,” says Samantha Alvarez, a freshman at UT Austin studying Public Relations. “Coming from a family of immigrants, knowing UT eliminated a scholarship program for undocumented students is both frustrating and saddening.”
EPCC pleased with early results of 8-week semester pilot program
(El Paso Matters) Jesus Flores, a multidisciplinary studies major at El Paso Community College, has completed four eight-week minimesters since the fall 2023 semester and said that he likes the courses because they are less stressful to him
Child and adult killed in fatal school bus crash identified by Hays CISD, DPS officials
(CBS Austin) Ulises Rodriguez Montoya, a pre-kindergarten student at Tom Green Elementary School in Buda, died in the crash on Friday, March 22 after the school bus he and 43 other classmates were riding in was hit head-on by a cement truck that swerved into their lane on Highway 21 near the Bastrop-Caldwell county line around 2 p.m. The driver of a car following behind the bus also died in the crash. He was identified as 33-year-old Ryan Wallace from Bastrop, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
School bus driver taken to hospital with injury following early morning crash in Fairfield, no students injured
(KCEN) According to Fairfield ISD, no students were injured in the crash, and the weather conditions likely were a factor in what caused the accident.
19% of Texas school districts, charters did not report bus crash data last year
(KXAN) The agency’s data shows that 233 districts and charters did not report school bus crash data for the 2022-23 school year. KXAN investigators discovered this following last week’s deadly bus crash in Hays CISD. (See also this earlier TexEdNews article.)
Arlington ISD faces layoffs with COVID-era ESSER grants coming to an end
(NBC DFW) About 275 staffers in the Arlington Independent School District will be out of a job at the end of the school year as the district cuts positions funded by expiring ESSER grants.
Did Crowley ISD trustee Mia Hall breach Texas Election Code? Attorney weighs in
(KERA) Crowley ISD trustee Mia Hall faces accusations of misusing public funds and school district resources for political campaigning.
Higher education in Texas: What lawmakers hope to tackle in the 89th legislative session
(Austin American-Statesman) With the 89th legislative session set to begin in January, Texas’ higher education is again in the crosshairs, with Republican and Democratic lawmakers having disparate views on postsecondary education, officials told the American-Statesman.
UTPB launches Direct Admissions program for high school seniors
(CBS 7) The University of Texas Permian Basin has launched a new direct admissions program with Ector County ISD and Midland ISD.
Largest gift in OLLU history will fund first-generation college students
(San Antonio Report) Our Lady of the Lake University is set to receive a $2.2 million grant from the Hector and Gloria López Foundation, the largest private gift in the history of the university.
How Visually Impaired Students Can ‘Get a Feel for Eclipses’
(Dallas Observer) Nontraditional methods can give the visually impaired a feel for the upcoming solar eclipse.
Round Rock ISD will not cancel school for April 8 eclipse
(Community Impact) Round Rock ISD will proceed with the school day as planned, district officials said, and will facilitate a viewing of the eclipse for all students on that day.
Texas district judge blocks Ken Paxton’s demands for PFLAG gender-affirming care records
(Austin American-Statesman) A Travis County state District Court on Monday blocked Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton from demanding information from a nationwide LGBTQ+ organization about its support for families seeking gender-affirming medical care for transgender youths, finding that there is “a substantial likelihood” that the nonprofit’s case against the state “will prevail after a trial on the merits.”
Concrete truck veers into Hays CISD school bus on field trip, killing child and adult
(CBS Austin) A Hays CISD school bus carrying 44 children and 11 adults was struck head-on by a concrete truck on State Highway 21 near Caldwell Road in Bastrop County on Friday afternoon, killing one child on the bus and an adult male in a vehicle following the bus.
GoFundMe raises over $50k for victims of fatal school bus crash in Bastrop County
(CBS Austin) A GoFundMe set up by the Community Leadership Team of Tom Green Elementary has raised over $50,000 for those affected by a fatal school bus crash in Bastrop County.
Driver killed after rear-ending Alief ISD school bus, no students injured, HPD says
(ABC 13 Houston) An Alief ISD spokesperson told ABC13 that the students on the bus were coming back from an out of city event.
TEA report exposes widespread failings at Socorro ISD
(El Paso Matters) The Socorro Independent School District violated the Texas Education Code by graduating students who did not meet requirements, failing to disclose Trustee Paul Guerra’s connections to a vendor used by the district, and paying $283,000 in unauthorized stipends, according to a report released Friday by the Texas Education Agency.
Is a ‘school choice’ proposal possible in Texas in 2025? How $12M influenced GOP primaries
(Austin American-Statesman) Major political donors, with the largest contributions coming from out of state, supporting Texas GOP primary candidates friendly to “school choice” proposals, or voucher programs, vastly outspent those donating to incumbents who oppose such proposals in 20 key Texas House races, according to an American-Statesman analysis of campaign finance data.
Over 1,200 students competed at the Texas Science and Engineering fair
(KBTX) This is Texas A&M’s 6th year hosting the Texas Science and Engineering Fair after A&M became the permanent home for the fair in 2019.
Mike Miles says community pushback, ‘new voices’ influenced reversal on HISD principal screenings
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD has made little progress in the past decade addressing long-standing inequities in higher education access for its high school graduates, according to data from the district’s latest postsecondary enrollment report.
Houston ISD has long reported racial disparities in college access. It got worse for 2022 graduates
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles admitted Friday that widespread community outrage around the planned use of a “proficiency screening” to appraise principals affected his decision to reverse course and remove the screening from the eligibility criteria for school leadership positions next year.
“Terms, Conditions, or Privileges”: Fifth Circuit Applies New Hamilton Standard to Find Potential Discrimination in School District’s Failure to Pay for Superintendent Leadership Academy
(Thompson & Horton LLP) As mentioned in our prior post about the Fifth Circuit’s August 2023 opinion in Hamilton v. Dallas County, employees no longer must allege discrimination in an “ultimate employment decision” to state a claim under Title VII. Instead, Hamilton established a new standard more closely tied to the statutory language of Title VII that allows employees to state a viable Title VII discrimination claim based on allegations that they faced discrimination in any “adverse employment decision.”
Ramadan finds greater recognition in America’s public schools
(San Antonio Report) Amaarah DeCuir, who researches Muslim student experiences, offers insights into how public schools can move toward greater recognition of the sacred Islamic month.
In inauguration address, President Tomikia LeGrande vows to bring Prairie View A&M ’eminence’
(Houston Chronicle) Prairie View A&M University inaugurated Tomikia P. LeGrande as its ninth president Friday, ushering in a renewed promise to improve student success and research innovation at the historically Black university.
Dallas ISD teacher is shaping the future of science education nationwide
(Texas Metro News) — Martin Osae, the Carnegie Honor Mathematics at West Dallas STEM School Program at Pinkston, has been selected to be part of the steering panel for the 2028 National Assessment of Educational Progress Science (NAEP) Assessment Framework project.
Houston Community College offering free technology certificates in partnership with Google
(Community Impact) — Through a partnership with Google, Houston Community College is offering a new “Grow with Google” technology certificate program for up to 500 students free of charge.
Cursive helps these Tarrant County students with their writing, confidence, reading
(Fort Worth Report) — Gary, 10, wasn’t learning cursive just for his signature. Instead, he and three of his fellow fifth graders wield the rapidly disappearing handwriting technique to boost their confidence at school, improve their reading and learn in a way that matches how they think.
