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Sept. 11, 2026
A Texas Cheer Squad’s Performance Set To The Sounds Of 9/11 Has Everyone Talking
(BuzzFeed) The video of the Lumberton ISD High School cheerleaders doing a routine to audio from the day the towers fell has been viewed more than 18 million times.
Parents say they won’t support closing failing Austin ISD schools to avoid state takeover
(KUT) Austin Mayor Kirk Watson is urging parents from two middle schools to ask the state to close the campuses to avoid a total takeover of the Austin Independent School District, but some parents have already said they won’t sign a petition because they have fought for resources for years and have felt ignored.
Houston ISD partners with 10 pre-K centers to boost enrollment. See the list
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD has partnered with 10 pre-K centers to boost enrollment and reach students earlier in their education, according to documents from the board of managers’ September meeting. HISD’s state-appointed board of managers approved the final list of child care centers in the partnership at its meeting Thursday, making the centers public for the first time since the partnership was announced earlier this year. Related:
Mansfield ISD principal resigns during investigation for “concerning comments,” district says
(CBS Texas) A North Texas principal has resigned after her school district opened an investigation into allegations that she used inappropriate language, CBS News Texas has learned. In a statement to CBS News Texas, Mansfield ISD said the investigation began last week regarding allegations of concerning comments made by Principal Elizabeth Hostin at Linda Jobe Middle School. The investigation was underway when the principal independently submitted her resignation.
Police: Former Manor ISD teacher ‘forcefully grabbed’ special needs students
(KXAN) The Manor Independent School District Police Department accused a now-former teacher at Presidential Meadows of hurting students with special needs. In an arrest affidavit, police report that an investigation found no less than 23 “overly aggressive physical encounters” between Pamella Craig and 5 students over 11 days. Police said Manor ISD-owned cameras caught several incidents in a classroom, including moments where Craig “forcefully” grabbed students by the upper arms, jerked them off the floor or a chair and caused them to cry. Related:
7 On Your Side finds a dozen East Texas districts running daily route buses without A/C
(KLTV) From nosebleeds to nausea, heat on some East Texas school buses is taking a toll.
Former Galena Park ISD employee charged with indecency with a child
(Fox 26 Houston) Michael Lynn Jackson Jr., 35, was arrested on Wednesday and charged with Indecency with a Child. He was booked into the Harris County Jail. According to court records, Jackson was a Special Education Aide at North Shore High School for over one year. He resigned from his position in late July.
Four students hospitalized after ingesting gummies at San Antonio charter school, Bexar County Sheriff’s Office says
(KENS) Four students were taken for medical evaluation after ingesting gummies alleged to have THC at Harmony School of Innovation Thursday afternoon, BCSO said. The students between the ages of 10 and 13 were taken to the hospital for evaluation after ingesting the gummies and reported feeling unwell. One additional student ingested the gummies, but was not taken to the hospital, school officials said. Deputies are still investigating to see how the students were able to get ahold of the gummies and how the candies got into the school.
Sherman ISD school staff swings into action to care for ailing player
(KTEN) Sherman Middle School football player Vance Govan suffered heat exhaustion during practice, struggling to breathe and stand before a teammate alerted coaches. Staff quickly placed him in an ice bath, gave him electrolytes, and called 911. Coaches and the trainer stayed by his side at the hospital until he was discharged, comforting his mother, Courtney Govan, who wasn’t present when it happened. The family, new to Sherman, said the staff’s care reassured them they’d made the right choice moving there. Coach Steven Wade said he treats all his roughly 350 players like his own kids.
As AI raises stakes of cyberbullying, Alamo Heights mother turns tragedy into change
(KSAT) Alamo Heights mother Maurine Molak lost her 16-year-old son David to suicide after a year-long struggle with cyberbullying and online gaming addiction, before AI-driven harassment even existed. She channeled her grief into advocacy, co-founding David’s Legacy Foundation and helping push Texas lawmakers to pass David’s Law in 2017, which requires schools to address cyberbullying in conduct policies and notify parents of victims or aggressors. Experts now say AI has made cyberbullying faster, more graphic, and harder for parents to catch, with local advocates noting a rise in AI-generated deepfake nude images that can spread through a school in minutes. Molak points to emerging laws criminalizing the sharing of non-consensual images as a needed next step. Alamo Heights ISD says it has strengthened training and support for families and educators in response.
Court Records: Cy-Fair ISD mother charged with hitting her son, threatening to shoot up his school
(KTRK) A Cypress-Fairbanks ISD mother is facing two criminal charges after school administrators reported seeing her hit her young son at Moore Elementary and later threaten to shoot up the school, according to court records. Although the charges were filed months ago, records show she has not been arrested.
University of Houston investigating ‘concerning’ video with faculty member, talk of child sexual exploitation
(Houston Public Media) The University of Houston said it is investigating after an adjunct faculty member appeared in an apparent To Catch a Predator-style social media video Thursday, the university confirmed in a statement to Houston Public Media. “The video involves discussion of child sexual exploitation and child sexual abuse materials. UH Police responded to the place where the video was being made in progress,” the spokesperson said. “UHPD is currently conducting interviews and gathering more information related to this situation.”
Police searching for suspect in attack at UT San Antonio football game at Alamodome
(KENS) Police are seeking a suspect in an assault at the UT San Antonio vs. UT Rio Grande Valley game, leaving a victim with facial injuries. Video of the incident, which has circulated widely online, shows a fight break out between a UTSA Roadrunners fan and an 18-year-old UTRGV student who attended the game to support the Vaqueros.
Texas Southern University breaks ground on 3 new buildings in first phase of $1.7B campus transformation
(KHOU) TSU broke ground Thursday on the Catalyst for Urban Transformation, Health and Wellness Center and Nabrit Science Center. The three projects mark the first phase of TSU’s 2025-2035 campus master plan, a $1.7 billion roadmap unveiled in July that calls for 20 projects over the next decade.
Ex-La Vega football star Malachi Wright trying to pick up the pieces of his life after murder case dropped
(KWTX) Malachi Wright, a former La Vega football star with NFL dreams, spent over four years in jail on a murder charge before it was dismissed in 2024 due to weak, conflicting witness testimony. His co-defendant pleaded guilty and got prison time, but Wright was released with his name still clouded by suspicion. Now 25 and running a small business, he’s speaking out about the toll the wrongful accusation took on him — and the fact that, unlike exonerated prisoners, he gets no compensation since he was never convicted.
El Paso ISD launches Cougar Care Center under Community Schools initiative
(KFOX) The El Paso Independent School District celebrated the opening of a new family resource hub that aims to connect families with basic needs and support services across the district’s Franklin Feeder Pattern. District officials said the center will offer services based on community needs, including food, hygiene, and clothing resources, English and citizenship classes, and other family supports. The new center is part of EPISD’s broader Community Schools initiative, which aims to connect students and families with resources intended to remove barriers to success.
City of Amarillo tax rate errors raise questions with millions at stake
(High Plains Pundit) Amarillo taxpayers will have to wait a few more days to learn what the city’s property tax rate could look like after errors were discovered in calculations being used during the 2026-2027 budget process. The Amarillo City Council has scheduled a special meeting for 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 14, where they are expected to discuss recalculated property tax figures and consider a proposed tax rate for maintenance and operations and debt service.
Texas SNAP application backlog skyrockets as enrollment sinks
(Dallas Morning News) Federal changes to SNAP eligibility may be hurting food-insecure Texans.
Second measles case of 2026 confirmed in Travis County
(KVUE) Austin Public Health officials say an unvaccinated infant was likely infected while traveling abroad.
City of Dallas to Dedicate New Football Field at Thurgood Marshall Park to Honor Longtime Coach Who Led Oak Cliff’s Redbird Raiders for More Than 40 Years
(Texas Metro News) Coach Earl Thompson, who spent more than four decades mentoring young athletes, was inducted into the Texas Black Sports Hall of Fame and the Prairie View Interscholastic League Association Hall of Fame. He died earlier this year.
Sept. 10, 2026
Austin mayor releases plan to prevent Texas from taking over the school district
(Austin Current via Texas Tribune) In an effort to keep the Austin school district independent, Mayor Kirk Watson is pushing to close two chronically-failing middle schools that triggered the state’s takeover law. He’ll need parents’ help to do it. Watson’s plan, released in his newsletter Wednesday morning, cites a little-known state rule that would give weight to a parent petition asking for the schools’ closure.
Edinburg CISD to solicit forensic audit as district faces $15M deficit
(myRGV) The Edinburg CISD school board voted Tuesday to solicit requests for qualifications (RFQ) for an independent forensic audit that sparked a discussion on what the scope of the audit should include. The solicitation for an independent forensic audit comes to the board with the district amidst a $15 million deficit in the proposed budget for next fiscal year.
Education Advocates Continue to Blast Voucher Program
(Houston Press) As the Texas comptroller seeks to double funding for the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) voucher program to $2 billion, education advocates say new data undercuts claims it helps low-income families leave struggling public schools. Groups including the Texas Center for Voucher Transparency and the Houston AFT argue the $1 billion program is largely subsidizing families already in private school rather than expanding access for low-income students, and a review of 221 voucher-accepting schools found many use religious criteria in admissions, don’t publicly post full tuition costs, and can deny “right fit” students despite advertising services for disabilities. The Texas State Teachers Association opposes the funding increase, warning that public schools are cutting programs while state dollars flow to private and religious schools with limited transparency. Related:
Nacogdoches ISD works to avoid potential TEA takeover as district improves accountability grade
(CBS19) Nacogdoches ISD is working to improve student performance at three elementary campuses that remain under scrutiny after receiving multiple failing accountability grades as district leaders try to avoid a potential state takeover. Nacogdoches ISD Superintendent Grey Burton said the district was aware of the situation before the latest ratings were released and has been preparing for the challenge since last school year.
Students, parents voice concerns over AI use in Fort Worth ISD schools
(Fort Worth Report) Incorrect science diagrams, figures with six fingers and unrecognizable animal pictures on AI generated slides were just some of the concerns presented by parents and students who say they are frustrated by how AI is being used in Fort Worth classrooms. The Fort Worth school district is one of the 55 schools across 20 states partnering with OpenAI to take part in its ChatGPT for Teachers program. Four other Texas school districts are part of the program, though Fort Worth is the only district in Tarrant County participating. Related:
- Tax rate remains level as Fort Worth ISD expects bigger shortfall amid frozen appraisals (Fort Worth Report)
- Wearable panic buttons coming to staff in Fort Worth school district (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
- Fort Worth ISD to report up to 14 additional teachers for contract abandonment (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
- Fort Worth ISD earns grant to create, expand business and entrepreneur classrooms (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
Pampa ISD enrollment continues to decline as district adds hybrid program
(KVII) Pampa Independent School District’s student enrollment has declined each year for the past 11 years, a trend that school leaders say is affecting funding and staffing. District officials said declining enrollment is a challenge for Pampa ISD and other rural school districts across Texas because state funding is tied to enrollment and daily attendance. This school year, Pampa ISD introduced a hybrid program designed to give students and families more flexibility while allowing the district to continue tracking attendance.
Socorro ISD weighs virtual academy to keep students, funding from leaving district
(KFOX) Socorro Independent School District leaders are moving closer to launching a full-time virtual learning program for high school students, an effort aimed at giving families more flexibility while also keeping students — and state funding — in the district. The Board of Trustees received an update during a briefing on a proposed Socorro Virtual Academy, which would offer an online option within SISD rather than requiring families to look outside the district.
Judson ISD begins a pivotal year with hopes of quickly boosting academics
(San Antonio Express-News) Judson ISD started the 2026-27 school year facing a critical deadline: two campuses have just one year to improve academics or risk triggering state takeover, after new state A-F scores released in August pushed the district closer to that threshold. Interim Superintendent Ann Dixon, who started in late June, has a short timeline to enact districtwide changes, including major staffing reassignments made before the school year began. The district is weighing measures other struggling districts have used, from flooding campuses with new resources and data tools to closing schools or handing operations to a third-party turnaround organization.
Part of Trinity University’s education department mandated to comply with K-12 education codes
(Trinitonian) In mid-July, the Texas Education Agency required all Educator Preparation Programs — including Trinity University, previously exempt as a private institution — to sign a “State Law/Prohibition Attestation” by Sept. 1, extending public-school-style restrictions on discussing “controversial” issues and advocacy activities to Trinity’s teacher-certification programs, with faculty personally liable “under penalty of perjury.” Critics, including UT San Antonio’s AAUP chapter, called the form coercive and vaguely worded, warning it could chill discussion of topics like race and gender. Trinity’s provost said the requirement is under review; department head Angela Breidenstein, the sole required signee, declined to comment.
Texas A&M accelerates $33.5M virtual production facility in Fort Worth
(Fort Worth Report) The 30,000-square-foot facility would house a studio, labs, classrooms and offices — the third piece of Texas A&M’s downtown expansion.
Phony food vendor allegedly conned over $253,000 out of Hidalgo County Head Start Program
(Progress Times) The Hidalgo County Head Start Program allegedly paid an imposter masquerading as a representative of its food service provider $235,457.20 in 2024, continuing to pay the fraudster even after being alerted about the likely theft. The Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office arrested Susan Ware, 57, of Cucamonga, California in May of 2025 and charged her with felony theft in the second-degree for allegedly misappropriating the program’s funds. Ware, also known as Janet Johnson, allegedly tricked Hidalgo Head Start into diverting more than a month’s worth of direct deposits for legitimate food and beverage deliveries to herself instead of Labatt Food Service, the program’s actual vendor.
Project Safe Schools: Federal grand jury charges former Muleshoe ISD high school teacher with enticement offense for alleged sexual relations with a minor
(U.S. Attorney’s Office) A federal grand jury in Lubbock returned an indictment Wednesday charging former Muleshoe ISD high school teacher Allegra Fey Mora, 28, with enticement of a minor for allegedly having sexual relations with one of her students. Mora was arrested earlier this year.
Plano ISD Principal To Appeal Firing for Failure To Report
(Texas Scorecard) A Plano principal fired for failing to report sexual misconduct allegations appears to be challenging the district’s decision to terminate her contract for cause. Brinker Elementary Principal Jennifer King was placed on administrative leave in July after she was accused of failing to report allegations that 2nd-grade teacher Paul Campbell was sexually abusing female students in his classroom.
Socorro ISD educator arrested, accused of sexually assaulting 14-year-old he met on dating app
(KFOX) A Socorro ISD educator was arrested after a 14-year-old boy told detectives he had been sexually assaulted over several months by someone he met through a dating app, according to a criminal complaint affidavit. Armando Guadalupe Saucedo, 37, is accused of sexual assault of a child. Saucedo is listed on the Socorro Independent School District as an Educational Diagnostician in the Special Education Department.
Second former Manor ISD employee arrested on injury to a child charge
(CBS Austin) Manor ISD confirmed Tuesday that a second former employee at Presidential Meadows Elementary has been arrested on a charge of injury to a child, in a case the district says is unrelated to a separate recent arrest involving another former employee at the school. The district said it is limited in what it can release because of employee and student privacy rights.
Balmorhea ISD substitute teacher arrested after alleged inappropriate relationship investigation
(NewsWest9) A 22-year-old Balmorhea ISD substitute teacher has been arrested on a improper relationship between student and teacher after an investigation. According to an affidavit obtained by NewsWest 9, the Reeves County Sheriff’s Office investigated allegations of inappropriate conduct involving 22-year-old Meranda Jasmin Valerio a former substitute teacher with BISD and a former student during the 2025-2026 school year and into the summer.
Callisburg ISD teacher arrested, accused of solicitation of a minor
(KXII) A Callisburg ISD teacher has been arrested, accused of soliciting who he allegedly thought was a teenage girl. Collinsville Police told KXII 12 News that they arrested Spencer Brewer at his Collinsville home Wednesday afternoon. Brewer is employed as a 4th grade math teacher in Callisburg. The arrest came as part of a sting operation conducted by a third party that posed as a 13-year-old girl, according to police. They called Collinsville police when they made contact with Brewer.
Cy-Fair ISD mom demands answers after 7-year-old put on wrong bus, left outside for hours
(KPRC) A Cypress-Fairbanks ISD second-grader at Tipps Elementary was mistakenly put on a school bus instead of her after-school program on Sept. 8, leaving her alone outside for nearly three hours until a neighborhood friend helped her get home. Her mother, Rataja Pruitt, filed a formal complaint demanding an investigation and accountability after the school initially couldn’t locate the child. The district said a substitute staff member’s procedural error caused the mix-up and that it’s reviewing dismissal procedures, but Pruitt says the apology isn’t enough.
Student brings bullets to Winona ISD Elementary, school officials say
(KLTV) A student brought bullets to Winona Elementary Wednesday, according to a notice from the district superintendent. According to a notice to parents, two students told officials another student had shown them three .22-caliber ammunition shells in a plastic bag. While administrators and a counselor were discussing the situation with the student, the student admitted to throwing the shells outside, where they were found, the notice said. The superintendent said there was no firearm involved, and there was no threat to the safety of our students or staff.
Spring ISD staff member placed on leave after alleged off-campus conduct
(KPRC) A Westfield High School staff member has been removed from campus and placed on administrative leave following allegations involving off-campus conduct, according to Spring ISD. Additional information about the employee was not released.
$10M verdict in defamation case is ‘distracting,’ Trinity Valley School head says
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) The $10 million verdict issued last week against Fort Worth’s private Trinity Valley School is distracting and unsettling, Head of School Ben Courchesne said in a statement emailed to parents Tuesday. “Trinity Valley has received the jury’s decision, and the Board is reviewing the outcome with counsel and with the school’s insurance providers,” Courchesne wrote.
Bexar County spent big modernizing elections. It’s still stuck with a system that ‘destroyed’ voter confidence
(San Antonio Report) Bexar County has poured money into new voting equipment, poll pads, and a wait-time website ahead of the Nov. 3 midterms, but its switch to a private voter registration vendor is delayed until January, leaving it stuck with the state’s TEAM system, which Elections Administrator Michele Carew says has “destroyed” voter confidence due to lost data and tracking failures. The county meets the legal minimum for polling locations (301) but still lacks staff to expand further, and Carew expects long lines again despite mixed signals on turnout.
Nearly 1,500 layoffs hit North Texas healthcare, foster care and logistics companies
(Dallas Morning News) Three North Texas companies announced significant layoffs, adding up to nearly 1,500 job losses, according to WARN Act filings registered Tuesday with the Texas Workforce Commission, including more than 1,000 workers from one local healthcare company.
Iranian hackers claim credit for massive Texas AT&T outage. AT&T says no way
(Houston Chronicle) A group of Iranian hackers claimed responsibility for a widespread AT&T outage that left hundreds of Texans without service Monday, but AT&T says it has no evidence to support that claim.
Laredo commission tracks youth drug trends, cocaine spike in wastewater
(KGNS) The Laredo Drug and Alcohol Commission is addressing a rise in youth substance use and a spike in cocaine detected in wastewater. Laredo Police Department Assistant Chief Ricardo Gonzalez said he has seen an increase in THC and vape pen use among younger people. Webb County is among the top five counties in the country where a specific drug was found in wastewater, according to the commission. The samples come from city wastewater treatment plants.
Lack of players forces Hull-Daisetta ISD to end varsity football season
(KBMT) Hull-Daisetta ISD has canceled the remainder of its varsity football season because it does not have enough available players, Superintendent Tim Bartram announced. While the varsity season is ending, Hull-Daisetta officials are working to create a junior varsity schedule for the remaining players.
Sept. 9, 2026
TribCast: How Texas schools will teach about Islam
(Texas Tribune) In this week’s episode, the podcast crew discusses the state’s new social studies curriculum, and the concerns from Muslims that it portrays their religion as violent.
TEA is pushing for more third-party groups to run struggling schools. Does it work?
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Morath said more districts should use third-party groups to help guide improvement. Data is mixed.
New $1,700 education tax credit could help students. Why San Antonio schools are holding back
(San Antonio Express-News) Taxpayers can receive up to $1,700 for donations supporting K-12 scholarships, but San Antonio public schools are waiting to see whether they can benefit.
Fort Worth ISD parents frustrated with new state-appointed leadership
(Fox 4 KDFW) Parents of children in Fort Worth ISD met before Tuesday’s school board meeting to express their frustration with the district’s state-appointed leadership. The parents at the meeting wore T-shirts reading “unacceptable,” and claimed the new leadership has created a “culture of fear” for students and parents. During the Fort Worth ISD school board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Peter Licata highlighted the gains the district has made since the takeover.
Drones are being installed in schools across the nation. Here’s why a Texas-based company believes they will save lives
(KHOU) The Austin-based company says its remotely operated drones can respond to school shooting threats within seconds and could soon expand to Texas campuses.
“AI slop” in the classroom? Houston ISD parent questions errors in children’s worksheets
(KPRC) A Houston ISD mother says parents should not have to fact-check every worksheet their children bring home. The district’s AI guidebook requires staff to review AI-generated material for errors and bias, but questions remain about how those rules are enforced.
Texas school buses use more than 700 railroad crossings that lack safety gates
(CBS Texas) Every school day, hundreds of buses carrying children to school throughout Texas cross railroad tracks that are not protected by safety gates. A CBS News Texas investigation identified 704 railroad crossings used by school buses where federal records do not show gates. Nearly 300 of them have a history of crashes, including 29 where at least one person was killed.
Lewisville ISD Principal Sanctioned for Failing to Report Teacher-Turned-Murder Suspect
(Texas Scorecard) Heather Shorter received a one-year SBEC suspension for failing to report allegations against teacher Andrew McGann, who was later arrested for a double murder in Arkansas.
New hearing denied in fight over Texas law that gave undocumented students in-state tuition
(Texas Tribune) A federal appeals court denied an advocacy group’s request Tuesday for a new hearing in its effort to defend the Texas Dream Act, a longstanding state law that allowed some undocumented students to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities.
Texas A&M executive arrested on child sex abuse charges
(KBTX) Darvis Griffin, 55, Texas A&M’s executive director of information technology, is behind bars, charged with a first-degree felony that carries a possible sentence of 25 years to life in prison. He was arrested Sept. 3 by Texas A&M University police on a warrant out of McLennan County, charged with continuous sexual abuse of a young child. Much about the case remains unknown. Before joining the university, Griffin worked as chief technology officer and assistant superintendent of technology for Waco Independent School District. Related:
- Wow! Over 650 Students at Texas A&M are Preparing to Enter the Catholic Church! (Catholic News World)
- Scooters could be banned from Texas A&M campus as regents say crashes rise 37% (KBTX)
- Texas A&M Welcomes New Maritime Training Ship to Galveston Campus (Maritime Executive)
- Texas A&M University Vashisht College of Medicine signs Space Act Agreement with NASA (KCEN)
Texas Tech chancellor addresses AI partnership, calls for regulation
(KCBD) Texas Tech University System Chancellor Brandon Creighton addressed the university’s partnership with Nvidia during his “State of the System” address on Tuesday afternoon. To support its growth and research capabilities, Texas Tech is bringing in what Creighton calls the most powerful AI chip in the world. The system is investing $25 million into Nvidia’s Blackwell Ultra 8300 AI platform. It’s expected to power an AI factory on campus focused on military applications and health care. Creighton says there are well-founded concerns about AI and data centers, and says technology should help solve those problems.
‘The Excel of the 21st century’: Why Tarrant County universities are turning to AI degrees
(Fort Worth Report) Texas Wesleyan’s new bachelor’s degree pairs AI with the humanities. The University of Texas at Arlington is taking a business route, replacing its business analytics degrees with bachelor’s and master’s programs focused on solving workplace problems with AI.
UNT receives $20M gift to launch new college focused on Artificial Intelligence
(WFAA) The Sinha College of Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Analytics will focus on preparing students to build, govern and apply AI responsibly at UNT.
Midwestern State University set to unveil AI engagement officer
(KFDX/KJTL) Artificial intelligence is making its way into a new role at Midwestern State University, focused on reconnecting with alumni. She doesn’t have an office, she doesn’t need a lunch break, and soon she will be having conversations with a thousand former Mustangs at once. Her name is Mara, MSU’s new AI engagement officer.
University of Houston-Downtown launches research center to unite Houston-area police data, help solve crimes
(Houston Chronicle) The Center for Crime, Urban Research and Education, or C-CURE, aims to partner with agencies in the Houston region and help them spot crime patterns and craft policy solutions.
Texas State University sets new records with 7% enrollment increase
(Community Impact) Texas State University received a record-breaking number of applications for the 2026-27 school year, with a total of 83,479 applications. Heading into the fall semester, the university set 11 additional attendance records as it continues to grow year over year.
UT Austin expands national security curriculum, programs
(Daily Texan) UT Austin is expanding national security education with new hires, fellowships and majors across multiple colleges, it announced in multiple August news releases. The University hired more than 20 faculty to work in the School of Civic Leadership, the Clements Center for National Security, the LBJ School for Public Affairs, the College of Liberal Arts, the Strauss Center and the Center for Humanities.
El Paso school districts to retrofit, purchase buses to meet state’s new seat belt law
(El Paso Matters) Texas school districts have three years to ensure all their school buses are equipped with lap-and-shoulder seat belts, costing the districts millions.
Texas mom pushes for mandatory autism training in courts after daughter’s case
(KTXS) A Breckenridge mother named Bridges is bringing her daughter’s story to the Texas Capitol to push for mandatory autism training across the justice system, after her daughter’s own experience going through a forensics interview and legal process. Bridges said she began researching after learning that nine out of ten autistic girls will be sexually assaulted, and that no state currently mandates autism training in its judicial system. She argues that without accommodations or trained personnel, the process — forensic interviews, feeling interrogated — is traumatizing and can trigger meltdowns that undermine victims’ ability to participate effectively.
Former Somerset Academy Collegiate charter teacher indicted on multiple charges, records show
(KSAT) Jesse Orta, 34, is accused of improper relationship between educator and student, and possession of child pornography. According to the indictments, the improper relationship accusations include sexual contact with two students between Nov. 1, 2023, and March 1, 2024.
Alamo Colleges police officer faces family violence charges, records show
(KSAT) An Alamo Colleges police officer is on administrative duty after she was arrested on multiple family violence charges earlier this summer, KSAT Investigates confirmed. San Antonio police confirmed officers arrested Kimberly Ann Villarreal, 31, in July 2026.
Texas childcare waitlist grew as families struggled to afford care
(Dallas Morning News) AP data shows Texas’ waitlist topped 93,000 children as parents cut essentials and worked longer. Related:
Tarrant Appraisal District biennial appraisal schedule for residential property to continue in odd-numbered years
(Fort Worth Report) Board members voted 5-4 to continue using the plan despite concern that it produced less equitable taxation.
Inadvertent Harm From State Veterans Property Tax Exemptions
(Texas Signal) In most cities, the veterans property tax exemption accounts for very little financial burden. But for cities like Killeen and El Paso, which are next to major military installations like Fort Hood, that burden can be extraordinary.
Divided Harris County Commissioners Court approves highest property tax rate in modern history
(Houston Chronicle) Harris County commissioners voted 3-2 Tuesday to adopt the highest county property tax rate in modern history in a bid to bridge a more-than $180 million projected budget deficit.
Texas’ smartest schools? See who produced the most National Merit semifinalists
(Houston Chronicle) These schools are home to Texas’ top test-takers.
Sept. 8, 2026
State education board finalizes anti-Islamic rewrite of Texas social studies lessons
(Texas Tribune) State Board of Education members on Friday approved a rewrite of what Texas high schoolers learn in social studies, disregarding pleas from Muslims who testified that schools should teach how people of Islamic faith positively contributed to world history. The final votes conclude years of debate over how social studies lessons should broach race and religion.
After rescoring STAAR exams, 11 Texas districts seeing A-F grades improve
(Texas Tribune) About a dozen districts will see a bump in school accountability ratings on Tuesday after a manual rescoring of thousands of STAAR tests improved some results, the TEA said Friday. The affected districts consist of Chester, Crandall, Daingerfield-Lone Star, Floydada Collegiate, Forney, Fredericksburg, Galveston, Jim Hogg County, Odem-Edroy, Southwest and Walnut Bend ISDs, agency spokesperson Jake Kobersky said.
As classes start, thousands more students gone from San Antonio public schools
(San Antonio Express-News) Across the 18 San Antonio area districts that shared enrollment numbers with the Express-News this fall, a combined 9,000 fewer students have registered than had last year.
Bracing for enrollment losses, San Antonio charter schools combine central offices
(San Antonio Express-News) The School of Science and Technology is bringing Compass Rose Public Schools under its umbrella.
Houston ISD executive who led Mike Miles’ school autonomy plan resigns after three years
(Houston Chronicle) Orland Riddick joined Houston ISD on the day of the state takeover and helped lead its school autonomy strategy. Now he is leaving with a payout. Under the resignation agreement, Riddick will receive the remainder of his salary for the month of August at his 2025-26 salary rate; a payout of his unused leave and vacation days; and any incentive compensation he earned for his performance last school year. Riddick earned $246,844 last school year; at that rate, he earned about $20,570 a month. Related:
The highest-earning superintendent in the state leads a North Texas district. It’s probably not the district you think
(WFAA) Compensation for Texas superintendents can surpass corporate CEO salaries. Dr. Gayle Stinson of Birdville ISD leads the way with $551,576/year.
School fund showdown: Southeast Texas superintendent fires back at House hearing
(KFDM) Barbers Hill ISD Superintendent Dr. Greg Poole is defending the district’s education foundation after tense questioning from Texas lawmakers about money directed to the nonprofit, its investments, and his daughter’s former job with the firm managing its portfolio. Poole told the House Select Committee on Governmental Oversight at the Texas Capitol on August 26 that the foundation’s investment fund is worth approximately $250 million.
Laredo ISD board rejects tax rate increase after tie vote
(KGNS) The Laredo ISD board of trustees held the line on taxes after a proposed rate increase failed on a tie vote. Trustees met Thursday, Aug. 20, to consider a tax rate increase of about five-and-a-half cents. District leaders said the increase would have cost the average homeowner less than two dollars a year and would have helped pay off bond debt sooner. Several trustees pushed back, citing concerns about the impact on families in higher-valued homes. Because of the tie vote, the tax increase failed. Officials say that could leave the district $2.2 million short of what they had planned to collect. The board instead adopted a lower rate of $1.07.
South San Antonio ISD still must hold board elections under takeover. Only 3 people signed up, including ‘suspended’ trustees
(San Antonio Report) Two familiar faces from South San Antonio Independent School District, currently under state takeover, are planning their comebacks to the school board. Although they’ll have no power on the dais.
Former Waco charter teacher sentenced to 20 years in prison in sexual assault of young girl, inappropriate touching of student
(KWTX) Former Premiere High School charter teacher Octavio Sanchez was sentenced to 20 years in prison Friday in the sexual assault of a young child, for inappropriate behavior with a student and for violating his bond conditions.
‘It’s very painful’ — Manor father speaks out after teacher’s arrest in alleged child assault
(KVUE) A Manor family is demanding answers after a teacher allegedly assaulted their 9-year-old son at school last week. Michael Nathan, 47, a former English teacher at Presidential Meadows Elementary School, was arrested and charged with injury to a child. Manor ISD confirmed Nathan is no longer employed by the district. According to an arrest affidavit, Nathan allegedly grabbed the child by his backpack while he was walking past him. Investigators say Nathan then allegedly pulled the child back into the school, slammed him against the wall, pinning the 9-year-old with his arm, and the child reported having trouble breathing and neck pain.
Southwest ISD resource officer arrested for child endangerment, resigns from position at district
(News4SA) Melanie Miriam Gonzales, 23, a now former-Southwest ISD school resource officer, was arrested Sunday after San Antonio police responded to a 3:45 a.m. report Sunday of a crying child left alone in a hallway on the Southeast Side. Officers found a 5-year-old boy who said he’d been left alone; he was unharmed. Gonzales returned hours later and was arrested, then charged with abandoning or endangering a child without intent to return, a state jail felony.
Educators Resign After Admitting Misconduct, Still Free to Teach
(Texas Scorecard) A husband and wife who taught in the Killeen Independent School District resigned after admitting to sexual misconduct involving their own child years earlier, but both remain free to teach in Texas.
“I Haven’t Seen Anything Like This In A Long Time”: 100-Degree Chaos Causes Spectators To Collapse At Texas Longhorns Season Opener
(Total Pro Sports) Paramedics rushed stretchers into Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium during Saturday’s season opener. The 2:30 p.m. kickoff collided with temperatures above 100 degrees in Austin. Hunter Schuler posted a photo of hundreds packed under the concourse for shade. Spectators sat on concrete stairs and filled the tunnels instead of the bleachers.
Man arrested at Texas A&M football game after police catch him secretly recording woman
(KBTX) An arrest report from Saturday’s Texas A&M football game reveals a disturbing incident on the third deck of Kyle Field, where a Brazos County man was caught allegedly taking non-consensual “upskirt” videos of a female fan. Manuel Ramirez, 61, was arrested on September 5, 2026, and charged with Invasive Visual Recording, a state jail felony in Texas.
Family demands answers, woman faces felony after child found trapped on Forney day care bus for hours
(NBC DFW) A 5-year-old girl in Forney fell asleep on an Arka Montessori after-school daycare bus on Aug. 14 and was left trapped inside for about two hours in triple-digit heat, only discovered after staff couldn’t find her when her sister came for pickup and her mother heard banging from inside the bus. The girl was treated at a hospital for dehydration and has since recovered. Forney police confirmed one arrest has been made, and the family’s attorney says Texas law requires every child to be accounted for during childcare transport.
Trinity Valley School should pay $10M in damages to former employee, jury decides
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) A federal jury on Friday ordered Trinity Valley School (a private school) to pay former HR director Carrie Skains just over $10 million after finding the school defamed and retaliated against her for speaking up about sex discrimination tied to the Trent Muse piano teacher abuse scandal.
The Dallas Public Library is getting rid of English classes. A volunteer calls the cuts ‘baffling’
(KERA) The Dallas Public Library is cutting its adult education programs, including classes for English language learners, as the city tries to deal with a $51 million budget shortfall. Similar resources will now be much harder to find, especially for undocumented students, one library volunteer said. The Dallas Public Library’s classes didn’t ask participants for identification. Undocumented students now have few options, said Kathy Wooten, who was a volunteer English teacher this summer at the Hampton-Illinois Branch Library.
McAllen ISD educator spearheads new driver’s license designation
(myRGV) Just in time for September’s Deaf Awareness Month, Texas residents can now add a deaf or hard-of-hearing designation to their driver’s license or ID card, a change that took effect a few months ago. The option is meant to improve communication between law enforcement, first responders, or hospital staff and Texans who are deaf or hard of hearing. It originated with McAllen ISD’s Liza Lara, director of the Regional Day School Program for the Deaf, who pointed out at a conference with first responders that state IDs and driver licenses had no way to indicate someone is deaf or hard of hearing. Lara helped write and advocate for House Bill 3132 during the 2023 legislative session, which led to the new designation.
Houston-area teacher creates a ‘fart corner’ for students in her fourth-grade classroom
(Houston Chronicle) On the top shelf of a bookshelf in Valecia Broussard’s classroom sits a bottle of Lysol spray with a yellow construction paper sign above it. In all capital letters are the words “fart corner.” It’s the Alvin ISD teacher’s first year with an area specifically for students to pass gas without interrupting class, and it’s been a success beyond her classroom. A video of Broussard showing her fourth–graders how to use the corner has more than 6.3 million likes on TikTok.
Friday, Sept. 4, 2026
Comptroller requests doubling Texas school voucher program to $2 billion
(Texas Tribune) Texas’ chief financial officer requested that lawmakers double the amount of money available for the state’s private school voucher program, resulting in a total of more than $2 billion. In the appropriations request for 2028–29 biennium, Texas Comptroller Don Huffines asked the Legislature to raise the program’s base funding by $1 billion so more families can use taxpayer money to cover private school or home schooling costs.
Houston ISD Mike Miles’ charter network faces layoffs, $14M deficit after tripling footprint
(Houston Chronicle) One of Texas’ most high-profile charter school networks could soon begin laying off staff amid a multimillion-dollar budget shortfall, throwing its future into question just as more and more districts have turned to it to avoid a state takeover. The Texas branch of Third Future Schools, founded by Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles, is facing a $14 million deficit, forcing it to cut many of the 700 new employees it hired this year.
School librarians hesitant to discuss books, order more amid Texas battles to restrict titles, they say
(Texas Tribune) Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s latest push to restrict what students can access adds to Texas school librarians’ angst, the educators said.
Texas Parental Rights Debate Moves From Policy to Enforcement
(Texas Scorecard) While a new state law expanded parental authority, advocates suggest Texans need clearer remedies for families who believe government agencies have overstepped.
Texas Schools Embraced Technology, but What Is the Cost?
(Texas Scorecard) Texas schools pour millions into digital instructional materials each year, yet new research is raising concerns about whether more screen time actually benefits students.
Embattled Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City trustee Matthew Short resigns as school board seeks replacement
(Focus on San Antonio) Matthew Short has resigned as a Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District trustee, nine months after his election to the board. Short’s brief tenure as a school board member was marred by controversy, as fellow trustees twice voted to censure him, and Short sued the school district and its top two leaders. But more recent revelations about Short spurred SCUCISD officials to contemplate removing the beleaguered board member from public office.
United ISD board meeting ends after walkout over financial advisor vote
(KGNS) A United Independent School District board meeting ended abruptly after two members walked out, breaking quorum and leaving a vote on a new financial advisor unresolved. The walkout came moments before the board was set to vote on which firm should manage the district’s finances. Without a quorum, the meeting had to adjourn. Three firms were under consideration.
Coahoma ISD school board to investigate claims of financial mismanagement
(NewsWest9) Coahoma Independent School District announced Tuesday that the school board would meet for a special session on Sept. 8 in response to community concerns about financial impropriety. In a statement by Board President Dr. Kandy Alaman and District Superintendent Brad Cox, the district says it received a formal complaint last Friday about no-bid contracts and noncontractual salary increases. The district emphasized that board members take such allegations seriously and were addressing the complaint properly.
‘Us vs. them’: Parents confront Fort Worth ISD superintendent, leaders over growing trust gap
(Fort Worth Report) Following Superintendent Peter Licata’s recent engagement sessions, Fort Worth ISD parents hope he repairs community relationships.
DOCUMENTS: Winnsboro ISD board president knew of alleged abuse by coach, concealed phone information from investigators
(CBS19) Arrest documents allege Winnsboro ISD Board President Brandon Green was aware that a student was the victim of an unlawful relationship with an educator and attempted to hide messages connected to a Texas Rangers investigation. Green was arrested Aug. 5 on charges of failure to report child abuse and tampering with evidence. His arrest came after five other people connected to Winnsboro ISD had been arrested since as early as June 2025.
Magnolia ISD teacher mistakes thunder for gunshot, prompting lockdown, district says
(KTRK) A clap of thunder mistaken for a gunshot prompted a multi-school lockdown and a multi-agency police response, according to Magnolia Independent School District officials. The district said that a teacher at Williams Elementary called 911 shortly before 1 p.m. on Thursday and reported hearing gunfire. According to MISD, the teacher, whose classroom is located in an interior room with no exterior windows, did not know a thunderstorm was moving into the area.
Former Manor ISD teacher charged with felony after allegedly slamming student against wall
(KVUE) Michael Nathan, who formerly worked as an English teacher at Presidential Meadows Elementary School, is facing a charge of injury to a child.
Sheriff: Bushland ISD student admitted posting ‘Cat in the Hat’ threat video as joke
(KVII) The Potter County Sheriff’s Office identified a Bushland ISD student as the suspected owner of an account that posted a potential threat toward multiple other students. The student admitted posting the video and told investigators it was intended as a joke, according to the sheriff’s office. The student, who was not identified because of their age, is charged with making a terroristic threat, a third-degree felony. The report was made Monday and was connected to the current “Cat in the Hat” TikTok trend, Sheriff Brian Thomas said. The sheriff’s office immediately began investigating and conducted several interviews before identifying the student.
Former Canyon ISD Randall High student gets 60 days for bomb threat
(KFDA) Cesar Alcocer, a former high school student at Randall High School in Canyon ISD, was sentenced to 60 days in jail Thursday after pleading guilty to making a false bomb threat in 2024. Police determined the reported bomb in a school bathroom was a hoax and later identified Alcocer as the person who made the threat. Alcocer previously reached a plea agreement that placed him on probation, but a violation in March led to stricter conditions. After his release, he will remain on probation and must participate in behavioral treatment.
El Paso police apprehend man at Jefferson Silva High School
(KVIA) El Paso police apprehended a man at Jefferson Silva High School Thursday. El Paso ISD said a man allegedly running away from law enforcement entered the high school’s grounds. Officers apprehended him. “At no time were students or staff in danger, and campus operations continued safely,” EPISD said.
Texas A&M System removes courses on LGBTQ, ethnic studies and climate change from core offerings
(Texas Tribune) Students at 11 Texas A&M University System schools will see fewer classes related to LGBTQ literature, climate change and women writers meet graduation requirements under a proposal to remove more than 200 classes from general-education course lists. System regents voted Thursday to scale back the classes that qualify after a review prompted by a new state law that requires public university boards to examine what classes undergraduates must take regardless of their majors.
UT Austin proposes cutting more than 100 ‘narrow’ courses from core, starting this spring
(Austin American-Statesman) UT courses on slavery, race, sexuality and environmental history are among those that could stop counting toward UT’s core.
Dallas breaks ground on long-awaited police training center at UNT Dallas as leaders seek additional funding
(NBC DFW) The current academy still operates out of a warehouse the city leased as a temporary location in 1990.
SMU Volleyball Head Coach Sam Erger Suspended for ‘Impermissible Communication’
(Sports Illustrated) The Mustangs’ head coach served her suspension during the team’s recent road trip.
Why this South Texas university is getting national attention
(KIII) Texas A&M University-Kingsville is getting national recognition for its work serving students from rural communities across South Texas. Washington Monthly ranks Texas A&M-Kingsville fifth in the country on its inaugural Best Colleges for Rural America list.
Trump administration pushes to remove tax exemption for private colleges with DEI policies
(AP) The Trump administration is proposing a new rule that would strip private schools and colleges of their tax-exempt status if they provide targeted help to students based on their race, a significant escalation in the White House’s campaign to eradicate diversity programs directed at Black, Hispanic and other minority students. The Treasury Department proposed the change Thursday in a new regulation that, if made final, would kick in after May 2027.
Coach of second-winningest high school football program in Texas abruptly resigns
(USA Today) Mart ISD head football coach and athletic director Chris Lancaster has resigned after just one game into the 2026 season. The second-winningest program in Texas’ illustrious high school football history, Lancaster joined the Panthers in 2025, leading the program to a 7-6 record. This year, they opened the season with a 40-0 home loss to Whitney.
Viral Handshake Snub Drew National Backlash. Now DeSoto’s Coach Is Telling His Side
(Sports Illustrated) DeSoto ISD High School football coach Claude Mathis is explaining the controversy after three of his four captains declined to shake hands with St. Thomas Aquinas players before their nationally televised season opener, an incident that sparked widespread criticism. Mathis said his players had been subjected to racist comments before the game, although Sports Illustrated could not independently verify that claim. DeSoto apologized for the players’ actions, calling them poor sportsmanship and saying the incident would be used as a learning opportunity. The controversy was compounded by DeSoto’s 38-14 loss after St. Thomas Aquinas led 38-0 at halftime.
Corpus Christi ISD middle schools return to previous schedule amid ongoing bus delays
(KIII) Corpus Christi ISD middle schools will return to an 8:50 a.m. to 4:10 p.m. schedule Sept. 21 as the district works to address ongoing bus delays and improve transportation. The change comes after CCISD moved middle school start and dismissal times earlier ahead of the school year in an effort to better manage demands on the district’s bus system.
As Houston ISD schools battle heat, parents say they struggle to get answers on AC issues
(Houston Chronicle) As HVAC problems continue during Houston’s extreme heat, parents say they’re relying on one another, not the district, to understand which classrooms are affected.
Grand Prairie ISD parents push for permanent fix after AC fails in classroom
(NBC DFW) Parents at Grand Prairie Fine Arts Academy are pushing Grand Prairie ISD for a permanent solution after several classrooms have struggled with inadequate air conditioning. One parent said temperatures in a music classroom have exceeded 84 degrees, making it difficult for students to learn. The district says the HVAC problems are tied to damage to the school’s geothermal system following a 2024 water-main issue and that it is working with the city on repairs, but additional damage has delayed the process.
Plainview ISD cancels homecoming vendors, citing backlash
(Plainview Herald) Plainview ISD canceled outside vendors at homecoming, saying negativity, accusations and misinformation shifted focus from students. PISD made a separate post on the district’s Facebook page encouraging fans and community members to support the football concession stand during games, noting that “the concession stand is operated by Plainview FFA … and the money raised directly supports its students and programs.”
Liberty Hill ISD warns of unauthorized sponsorship solicitations
(KVUE) Liberty Hill ISD is warning businesses and the community to use caution if approached by third-party organizations regarding sponsorship requests on behalf of schools, athletic programs or student organizations in the district. In a letter sent to families and staff on Thursday, the district said it has become “aware of concerns from a local business regarding solicitations from a Dallas-based company identifying itself as Campus Box Media.”
Inside Arlington ISD’s $65M South Davis Elementary rebuild plans
(Arlington Report) The initial design is based on the nature and trees surrounding the campus.
Better Business Bureau warns of high school sports streaming scams
(KTBS) As students return to the classroom, officials with the Better Business Bureau are warning fans to watch out for fraudulent high school sports streaming schemes.
Thousands of Texas families are waiting for help paying for childcare — and the list is growing
(Texas Public Radio) The number of Texas families waiting for financial assistance to help pay for childcare has grown drastically in recent years. Tori Mannes is president and CEO of ChildCareGroup, which manages the federal childcare assistance program in Dallas County, said the growing list reflects a real affordability problem.
Sept. 3, 2026
UIL weighs streaming options for 2026 Texas football state championships without Victory+
(Dallas Morning News) The UIL is seeking a new broadcast partner for the 2026 Texas football state championships after Victory+ dissolved. In a prepared statement to The Dallas Morning News, the UIL said it “will make a formal announcement once a decision is made” to ensure Texans will be able to watch the state championships.
Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD trustee repeatedly falsified teaching applications — and kept getting hired, records show
(KSAT) KSAT Investigates began digging into Matthew Short’s background after we first broke the story of his employment dispute with Judson ISD. This week, a Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD meeting agenda shows the board will decide on Short’s future as a trustee.
13 Austin ISD candidates are running for school board seats that may lose power
(Austin American-Statesman) Despite the looming threat of a state takeover of Austin Independent School District — which would sideline the district’s elected trustees — 13 people are vying for five spots on the school board in the Nov. 3 election. It’s the first time since 2014 that every Austin ISD trustee race is contested, even as candidates face uncertainty about the extent of their powers.
‘We are here with a purpose’ — Marble Falls ISD pushes back on proposed H-1B teacher ban
(KVUE) Marble Falls ISD says H-1B teachers help fill critical bilingual positions. Gov. Greg Abbott is pushing to ban them from Texas public schools.
Some Southeast Texas schools will be closed on Thursday following Tropical Storm Edouard
(KBMT) Several Southeast Texas school districts are closing their doors for Thursday or in some cases beyond after being battered Tuesday evening by Tropical Storm Edouard.
Classes cancelled for two Grand Prairie ISD schools Thursday following water main leaks
(WFAA) Classes are canceled Thursday for students at Grand Prairie High School and the Fine Arts Academy because of a water line leak outside the high school, the district says.
Parent removed from Fort Worth ISD meeting while seeking answers about teaching methods
(WFAA) “I used the F bomb or dropped the F bomb one time,” Daniel Woolford said. Related:
El Paso ISD audit flags financial and oversight failures in Andress High School band
(KFOX) An El Paso ISD audit found serious financial and oversight problems in the Andress High School band program, including allegations that district purchasing rules were bypassed and that the school’s principal did not provide sufficient oversight.
EXCLUSIVE: Richardson ISD Filter Flags Trump – Glitch, Rule, Or Censorship?
(Dallas Express) Richardson ISD is facing questions after a parent alleged that the district’s internet filtering system blocked her son’s search for President Donald Trump while allowing searches for former President Joe Biden, former Vice President Kamala Harris, and Jeffrey Epstein. Richardson ISD did not respond by the publication deadline.
Denton ISD refinances existing bonds, saves taxpayers more than $6M
(Community Impact) Denton ISD announced Sept. 2 it has refinanced its voter-approved bond debt, saving DISD taxpayers $6.75 million and shortening the debt lifespan by eight years. The district refinanced $15.85 million of outstanding voter-approved bond debt, which is now expected to be paid off by 2030 instead of 2038, according to a news release.
Two former Marfa ISD educators indicted
(Big Bend Sentinel) A Presidio County Jury indicted two former Marfa ISD teachers charged with improper contact with students. Juan Tarango Martinez — 55, of Marfa, was indicted on charges of indecency with a child/sexual contact and improper relationship between an educator and a student after allegedly fondling a Marfa ISD student. Rebecca Romjin Ontiveros — 26, of Marfa –– was indicted on charges of improper relationship between an educator and a student for allegedly developing a sexual relationship with a high school teen.
Potential ‘gang-related’ activity being investigated at Austin ISD Akins ECHS
(Fox 7 Austin) In a letter to parents and staff, Akins Early College High School has confirmed that a recent fight is believed to be gang related. The letter was first sent out by Akins Principal Carman De Leon on Tuesday. It states that last week, Austin ISD Police began an investigation into a fight that happened in the Akins cafeteria on August 25. The letter goes on to state that the individuals involved were charged with riot, a class B misdemeanor, and the incident is believed to be gang related.
1 hospitalized after Chapel Hill ISD bus crash
(KETK) One person was transported to a local hospital after a Chapel Hill ISD school bus and an SUV crashed on Wednesday.
Karmelo Anthony’s attorneys outline appeal timeline, $250K fundraising effort
(NBC DFW) Karmelo Anthony’s family and attorneys said they remain hopeful as they prepare to appeal his murder conviction and 35-year sentence in the 2025 stabbing death of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a track meet. Anthony’s parents, legal team and supporters gathered at a church in far southeast Dallas to discuss the appeal and announce a new online fundraiser with a $250,000 goal to help offset legal costs.
Liberals Hate Aggies, Conservatives Loathe Longhorns, and Other Football Insights From Texan Voters
(Texas Monthly) In a new poll from the Texas Public Policy Foundation, we learn that members of the electorate butt heads even when it comes to which team’s fans they most despise.
Texas A&M System could cut dozens of core courses, including race, gender and climate classes
(Houston Chronicle) The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents will consider cutting dozens of courses from the core curriculum across 11 universities on Thursday, in response to a state law requiring all general education classes to be “foundational.” Among the proposed deletions are various courses about women and gender; climate and the environment; as well as Black and Latino history, literature and culture.
Bezos Academy opens largest Texas preschool at TWU with tuition-free model, officials announce
(WFAA) A new $6 million preschool in Denton will offer free, full-day early childhood education to up to 120 children.
Tarrant County College gives presidents dual roles to improve coordination, fiscal responsibility
(Fort Worth Report) Tarrant County College is giving campus presidents additional districtwide responsibilities to improve coordination and reduce administrative costs as the college faces tighter finances and changing workforce demands. Zarina Blankenbaker’s promotion to provost Sept. 1 is the latest move to give Tarrant County College presidents multiple leadership roles.
McLennan Communtiy College’s bet on career prep paid off. The state funding model that inspired it fell short.
(Waco Bridge) McLennan Community College connected more students with career-focused programs under a new state funding formula. Now a $3.1 million state shortfall has left MCC’s taxpayers to make up the difference.
Education Service Center Region 2 reopens after renovation to better serve Coastal Bend schools
(KRIS) Education Service Center Region 2 has reopened its downtown Corpus Christi facility following a significant construction and remodeling project, better equipping the organization to serve the educational needs of the Texas Coastal Bend region.
Four years after Robb Elementary shooting, longtime memorial caretaker seeks volunteer
(News4SA) Four years after Robb Elementary shooting, 70-year-old longtime memorial caretaker Teresa Nera seeks volunteers to take over the task of taking care of the memorial. She’s hoping to find six dedicated families to take up the task.
Morton ISD scraps football game following local tragedy
(EverythingLubbock) Morton ISD has decided to cancel Thursday’s JH scrimmage as well as Friday’s varsity football game at Olton. This comes in light of the shooting that took place in Morton, Texas, Sunday, August 30.
Richardson ISD adjusts football game schedule due to expected heat
(WFAA) Games at the 9th grade, JV, and Varsity levels are being pushed back to avoid being played in the most intense heat.
‘The glue that holds Ysleta together’: At Lower Valley high school, generations still come home to Hutchins Stadium
(El Paso Matters) Ysleta ISD High School enters its centennial year with a defending district champion and a renovated Hutchins Stadium, part of districtwide football field upgrades.
Federal crackdown closes 100+ truck driving schools, including 13 in Texas
(NBC DFW) More than 100 truck driving schools have been ordered to close, including 13 in Texas, as the federal government cracks down on truck drivers who are not proficient in speaking English.
Sept. 2, 2026
State education board advances anti-Islamic rewrite of Texas social studies lessons
(Texas Tribune) The preliminary votes occurred after hours of debate Monday and Tuesday, with final decisions expected Friday.
Victory+ dissolved, will no longer broadcast Dallas Stars or Texas high school football games
(Dallas Morning News) Victory+ has been dissolved by its parent company and will no longer stream Dallas Stars or high school games, according to an email sent to multiple North Texas school districts with games the service was set to broadcast this season. Victory+ was the exclusive home for the UIL Texas high school football state championships, signing a five-year deal in a deal brokered by Dave Campbell’s Texas Football, the UIL’s marketing arm. As of yet, there is no news on what happens to the media rights for the championships.
Nearly 40% of Texas homeowners pay no school property taxes, Senate analysis finds
(Houston Chronicle) The share paying no school taxes jumped from 28% to 39% in a year, according to a analysis presented Tuesday by state Sen. Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston. Now lawmakers face a fight over whether Texas can afford to push the breaks further.
Tropical Storm Edouard: Houston-area school closures, delays Wednesday
(Fox 26 Houston) Tropical Storm Edouard is bringing heavy rain to portions of Southeast Texas. Some school districts are canceling classes on Wednesday. Related:
Texas rejected an AI-driven school’s bid to open a charter. Then the state approved it for the voucher program
(Texas Tribune) Alpha School quadrupled its Texas private school campuses. Most are eligible for state dollars through the new voucher program.
Austin ISD continues to add bus hubs as parents raise concerns about dangerous routes
(KUT) The Austin Independent School District changed its transportation system for high school students for the 2026-27 school year as part of budget cuts. Under the new system, the district replaced neighborhood stops with hubs at elementary schools, Cap Metro bus stops and community centers. Two weeks into the school year, some families are struggling with the change. Related:
- Nonprofits step in as Austin ISD budget cuts squeeze schools (Community Impact)
Nacogdoches ISD Superintendent releases statement as district faces state takeover threat if elementary schools don’t improve
(CBS19) Nacogdoches ISD could face a state takeover if two elementary schools fail to improve their academic performance. The schools have struggled with state accountability ratings, putting the district at risk of increased state intervention. District leaders say they are working on improvement plans and providing additional support to raise student achievement. Overall, Nacogdoches ISD received a C rating for the 2026 year, which was an improvement from the past three years of having a D rating.
Hard work and healing: Uvalde CISD interim leader now set to become permanent superintendent
(San Antonio Express-News) Juan Hinojosa is poised to become the permanent superintendent of the Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District after leading the school system for the last few months. Hinojosa was tapped to temporarily lead the district in March, a month after Superintendent Ashley Chohlis announced she was stepping down. On Thursday, trustees unanimously voted to name him the lone finalist for the district’s top job. “We have a lot of work to do ahead of us,” Hinojosa said at that meeting. “But as a team of eight, we’ll get there.”
From TikTok to checkers: North East ISD rethinks the phone-free school day
(San Antonio Express-News) The North East Independent School District last week welcomed students back to a new bell-to bell cell phone ban. Now, instead of scrolling on TikTok or Instagram during lunchtime, high school students can challenge their friends to checkers. San Antonio’s second-largest district implemented the updated device policy on the first day of school on Aug. 17 after spending most of the previous school year at odds with the state over the interpretation of a 2025 Texas law requiring public school districts to ban student cell phone use during the school day.
School principal says only ‘partial information’ received about alleged threat targeting North East ISD Serna Elementary
(KENS) San Antonio police arrested Nathaniel Carrasco, who’s accused of threatening, through an AI program, to carry out a mass shooting at the elementary school. But questions are now being raised about what information was shared with North East ISD and when.
After Houston ISD’s student’s death, a pedestrian bridge is coming to Milby High School in his honor
(Houston Chronicle) Nearly two years after 15-year-old student Sergio Rodriguez was struck and killed by a train near Milby High School, state officials broke ground Tuesday on a new $10 million pedestrian bridge to be built in his honor. Starting in January 2027, students will be able to use the new bridge to walk above the railroad crossing and get to school safely, state officials said Tuesday.
Texas State University expands free tuition program to include more first-time freshmen in 2027
(KVUE) Texas State University (TXST) announced Tuesday it is expanding its Bobcat Promise program to offer free tuition for more qualifying first-time freshmen. Beginning with the fall 2027 freshman class, students who graduate in the top 25% of their high school class and whose family’s adjusted gross income is $100,000 or less will qualify for free tuition and mandatory fees, university officials said.
This 17-year University of Houston professor wants academic freedom. She decided she had to leave Texas to find it
(Houston Chronicle) After 17 years teaching at the University of Houston, professor Annalisa Quaini, left Texas for Germany, saying growing political interference in higher education had eroded academic freedom. Quaini now teaches at the Technical University of Munich and says she expects greater professional independence and respect for academic research there. Her husband, Duy Lap Nguyen, took unpaid leave from UH, where he has spent 12 years teaching while studying modern Vietnam and Marxism, to move abroad with Quaini and their two young children.
Texas A&M University–San Antonio adds 6 teams this fall in largest athletics expansion yet
(San Antonio Report) The Texas A&M University-San Antonio Jaguars now compete in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics, or NAIA, in men’s golf, men’s and women’s basketball, softball, track and field and cross country.
$30 Million Gift Renames Baylor School of Education
(Fox44) Baylor University officially unveiled the new sign for its School of Education following a $30 million gift from the Moody Foundation earlier this year. A sign unveiling event was held on Tuesday, where President Dr. Linda A. Livingstone and Dean of Moody School of Education Dr. Shanna Hagan-Burke shared comments about the importance of this gift. The gift is the largest the Baylor School of Education has received in its 107-year-long history and marks a huge boost for an already successful program.
Lawsuit Says Islamic School Of Irving Failed To Call Police After Woman Reported Rape
(Dallas Express) The Islamic Center of Irving, which operates the Islamic School of Irving, faces a civil lawsuit alleging school officials failed to call police after a woman reported that a 14-year-old former student raped her while she cleaned the school. The 22-page petition, filed Aug. 24 in Dallas County’s 193rd Judicial District Court, seeks more than $1 million and a jury trial. The Dallas Express reached out to the Islamic School of Irving and Islamic Center of Irving for comment regarding the lawsuit and allegations but did not receive a response by publication deadline.
Fort Worth arts charter school takes no action against board chair as some parents protest
(Fort Worth Report) Leaders with the Texas Center for Arts + Academics will take no action against board chair Cheryl Bean as school parents demand her resignation following a now-deleted controversial social media post. Bean, the Republican Party nominee for a key Texas House seat in November, told the Fort Worth Report that she will remain as chair of the charter school. Bean said she had unanimous support from the board, but only one director confirmed support to the Report. The Texas Center for Arts + Academics, which held its latest meeting Aug. 31, governs the Texas School of the Arts and Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts, which offers dance, music and theater education to more than 1,000 children.
Gov. Abbott launches Project Watershed 250 to protect Texas water systems from cyberattacks
(KPRC) Gov. Greg Abbott and White House National Cyber Director Sean Cairncross announced the launch of Project Watershed 250 Monday, a new effort aimed at protecting Texas water and wastewater systems from cyberattacks. The project will connect Texas water utility providers with federal and private-sector cyber defense resources at no cost, according to the governor’s office.
Texas Legislature to consider funding formula that rewards student persistence and degrees tied to earnings
(El Paso Matters) A student’s drive to stay in college semester after semester could be a key funding metric for public universities under a proposed state performance-based model to be considered in the next legislative session. A University of Texas at El Paso administrator who helped formulate the proposal said student persistence is one the plan’s most unique – and important – aspects. John Wiebe, UTEP’s provost and vice president for Academic Affairs, served on the committee that developed the plan. He said the proposal, if adopted, would be the first time the Legislature used persistence as a funding metric.
Bexar County corrects record on new military widows’ tax exemption
(San Antonio Report) After Bexar County officials blamed a $1.3 billion property value loss on a new exemption for military widows during a recent budget session meeting, appraisal district data showed the financial impact was actually $24.8 million. In Tuesday’s Commissioners Court meeting, the county corrected the record.
Despite outrage, Tarrant County approves 30% reduction in voting sites for November
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Tarrant County will have 224 Election Day and 47 early voting polling locations for the November midterm election after numerous calls for more to be added to the original list.
What would 20 more years of Pre-K 4 San Antonio sales tax pay for?
(San Antonio Express-News) If San Antonio voters decide to extend sales tax funding through 2049, the city’s pre-K initiative will expand its programming to infants and toddlers. That’s part of Pre-K 4 SA’s “promise to voters,” said CEO Sarah Baray. The City Council last month voted 7-2 to put a measure on the Nov. 3 ballot that would reauthorize the 1/8-cent local sales tax that funds the program for 20 years. They did so before knowing how the program would use the revenue for that length of time – an unprecedented authorization period.
Permian Basin Contributes Over $100 Billion and Nearly 854,000 Jobs to the U.S. Economy
(Permian Strategic Partnership) The Permian Basin continues to grow rapidly, reflecting the region’s importance as an economic powerhouse for Texas, New Mexico and the country. This year’s Economic Report from the Permian Strategic Partnership (PSP) highlights the region’s essential role in supporting critical government functions such as road improvements, public schools and teachers, police and fire departments, community hospitals and universities.
Sept. 1, 2026
Huffines: School Audits Could Lead to Prosecutions for ‘Nefarious Spending’
(Texas Scorecard) Texas Comptroller Don Huffines says school officials could face prosecution if upcoming state audits uncover fraudulent spending. The comptroller says his office is expanding its focus on government fraud as auditors prepare to investigate four Texas school districts.
School districts announce closures, preparations underway as Tropical Storm Edouard heads towards Southeast Texas
(KTRK) Multiple school districts across Southeast Texas announced on Monday that they would be closing schools on Tuesday ahead of Tropical Storm Edouard as it makes its way to the region.
‘Cat in the Hat’ TikTok trend prompts increased security at schools
(KHOU) Texas schools are responding to circulating posts on the threatening online trend. The trend involves edited or AI-generated images and videos featuring a threatening version of the Cat in the Hat character, according to the Falfurrias Police Department. Some of the posts circulating in Texas have named schools, communities, or students. Four school systems in Texas have posted safety updates on their Facebook pages in response.
How Clint ISD holds strong reserves as other El Paso school districts struggle
(El Paso Matters) Clint ISD adopted a balanced budget and the highest tax rate allowed without an election, while maintaining strong reserves and investing into facilities.
Fort Worth ISD Board of Managers launches “Car Line Blitz” to connect with parents, get feedback
(CBS Texas) Fort Worth ISD is in its first full school year under a state takeover, and district leaders are taking an unconventional approach to gathering parent feedback: meeting families where they already are, in school pickup and drop-off lines. “For the first time, we will be knocking on car door windows asking them to open their window, have a conversation with us, and discuss the importance of this survey with them,” said Board of Managers President Pete Geren. The effort is dubbed the “Car Line Blitz.” Fort Worth ISD board members will visit 13 campuses on Thursday and Friday to encourage parents to participate in a districtwide survey aimed at shaping the future of the school system.
As school libraries are pushed to remove books, a West Texas district stands by its library council
(Texas Standard) Lubbock ISD is defending its school library advisory council (SLAC) process as state and national conservative activists push for the removal of books they consider inappropriate. The district says its process complies with Texas’ Senate Bill 13: challenged books are temporarily removed while the council reviews them, and fewer than 150 challenges in two years have resulted in 10 books being permanently removed. The debate has intensified after Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick threatened legislative action against districts that do not remove books he considers harmful, while supporters of Lubbock’s process say it provides a structured way to balance parental concerns and access to books.
Leander ISD appeals penalties after TCOLE found it improperly vetted police officers
(KXAN) The Leander Independent School District has sent appeals to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) after the state licensing agency found the district’s police department did not properly vet officers, according to TCOLE. Earlier this month, TCOLE sent notices to the district recommending Leander ISD Police Chief Shā Rogers lose her peace officer license for a year. They also said the district could be fined $15,000.
DeSoto ISD responds to viral video, apologizes for not shaking football opponents’ hands
(WFAA) DeSoto ISD’s athletics directors says the captains’ decision not to shake hands before Saturday’s game “is not in our standard” and will be addressed.
Plano ISD parents push back on new rules shifting JV halftime band performances
(WFAA) Parents of Plano junior varsity band and drill team members are pushing back against changes this year that can push those band and drill team performances out of their normal halftime slot and instead happen after the football games are already over. In a letter dated Aug. 24, parents and students were informed that the UIL District Executive Committee (DEC) changed to a new Conference 6A alignment and that changes would come to JV halftimes that, in the past, were treated much the same as varsity games.
Controversial posts spark rally to remove board chair of Fort Worth charter school
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) A group of around 20 students and parents rallied in front of the Fort Worth Academy of Fine Arts on Monday to call for the resignation of Texas Center for Arts + Academics board chair Cheryl Bean, following a string of racially motivated social media posts. During the school board meeting that followed the rally, a dozen parents and community members spoke in support of, and against Bean.
Family of Houston ISD Milby High School student killed by train faces new fear after father’s ICE detention
(KHOU) The family of 15-year-old Sergio Rodriguez is preparing to attend the dedication of a new pedestrian overpass near Milby High School in his memory, months after the teen was struck and killed by a train while walking to school. At the same time, Sergio’s father, Marco Antonio Ortuno, is fighting to remain in the United States after being taken into Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody.
Man arrested after allegedly threatening to shoot up a North East ISD elementary school in AI chats, affidavit says
(KENS) A man has been arrested after officials say he told an AI chatbot about wanting to shoot up a North East ISD elementary school, court documents say. One quote from the chat included: “I’m getting a gun as soon as I can, and when Serna Elementary starts, I’m just gonna walk in there and start shooting up kids.”
Former North East ISD math teacher arrested, accused of child sex crimes, records say
(KENS) A former MacArthur High School teacher was arrested Sunday on four child sexual abuse counts, according to Bexar County court records. Paul Pearcy formerly taught at MacArthur High School, according to North East Independent School District. He resigned in 2024. “We were unaware of any alleged wrongdoing at the time of his resignation,” a NEISD spokesperson said.
Willis ISD IT employee arrested for online solicitation of minor
(KBTX) A Willis Independent School District IT employee was arrested Sunday following an investigation into an inappropriate relationship with a child, authorities said. Austin Gwaltney, 27, faces a charge of online solicitation of a minor, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. Detectives with the agency’s Special Victims Unit determined that Gwaltney and a 14-year-old former Willis ISD student had exchanged inappropriate photographs.
Channelview ISD disciplines student after school threat reported on social media
(Houston Chronicle) Social media rumblings about a threat against Channelview High School over the weekend led to disciplinary action against a student, according to Channelview ISD.
UT Arlington President Jennifer Cowley to step down, focus on teaching
(KERA) University of Texas at Arlington President Jennifer Cowley will step down after more than four years of leading Tarrant County’s largest four-year college with plans to now focus on teaching and research. Cowley announced the decision Aug. 31 in an email to students, faculty and staff.
Former Texas A&M University-Victoria Staff challenge work-from-home narrative
(Houston Chronicle) A retired former Texas A&M-Victoria employee says the administration has been “running off” staff since the school started its transition from the University of Houston System to the Texas A&M University System. The University previously described that process as one to ensure instructors had a more pronounced presence on campus. “It is a total cluster f**k and I couldn’t be happier to be the hell out of there,” the former employee told the Houston Chronicle.
TCU player hospitalized for 3 days with brain bleed after assault, warrant says
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) TCU wide receiver Dozie Ezukanma was in the hospital for three days with injuries including a brain bleed and a concussion after teammate Jacob Fields punched and kicked him in the head, according to an arrest warrant affidavit. Fields was allegedly unhappy about Ezukanma playing better than him in practice before the assault inside the football team’s locker room that led to Fields’ dismissal and arrest, a TCU police officer wrote in the affidavit obtained by the Star-Telegram.
Former employee, students react to UT Tyler employee buyouts
(KLTV) UT Tyler offered 952 employees voluntary buyout packages as part of efforts to manage budget reductions, but only 99 accepted them. A former employee who took the package said it was surprising to hear the university could not afford to keep all of its staff while enrollment was growing. Some students said they were unaware of the buyouts, while university officials said some positions will be eliminated and others may eventually be refilled.
Texas District Uses Multimodal Transportation to Stretch Limited Resources
(School Transportation News) Mesquite ISD is using a multimodal transportation strategy to cope with rising costs, bus-driver shortages and growing transportation needs for special education and students experiencing homelessness. The district uses traditional school buses when practical but turns to smaller vehicles and outside providers when they are more efficient or better suited to a student’s needs. Officials say the approach can save money, free up buses and staff, and ultimately help improve student attendance and access to school.
Powerful winds topple North East ISD Johnson High School band trailer during Friday storm
(San Antonio Express-News) Powerful winds toppled Johnson High School’s band trailer during a lightning delay at Friday night’s football game against Judson at Heroes Stadium, one of numerous incidents caused by a severe storm that swept through San Antonio.
Bullard ISD reviews dress code amid parental concerns over enforcement practices
(CBS19) Bullard ISD is reassessing its dress code amid parent concerns about enforcement, with calls for clearer, gender-neutral policies.
Texas hospitals expect to lose $27 million a day in Medicaid funding starting Tuesday
(Texas Tribune) Starting Sept. 1, the Trump administration will withhold about $9.8 billion in extra funding that helps hospitals cover the difference between Medicaid payments and the actual cost of services.
Lawsuit: Fort Worth council member owes Texas up to $1M, mismanaged food program
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) A ministry overseen by pastor and Fort Worth City Council member Chris Nettles is being sued by the state after officials alleged his ministry misused federal food program funding and owes more than $700,000 to the state. State officials filed a lawsuit Aug. 6 in Travis County District Court against Purpose Driven Ministries, alleging it owed the state $787,873 in “disallowed expenses” through the Child and Adult Care Food Program.
Montgomery ISD fishing team advisors reflect on decade of success
(Community Impact) Since its inception in January 2014, the Montgomery ISD fishing program has seen much success under the leadership of Toni Luedke and John Hooker. This success includes not only scholarships for its prospective students, but state championships and a strong team bond.
