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Texas education leaders unveil Bible-infused elementary school curriculum
(Texas Tribune) Elementary school curriculum proposed this week would infuse new state reading and language arts lessons with teachings on the Bible, marking the latest push by Texas Republicans to put more Christianity in public schools.
HISD unveils historic $4.4B bond for school upgrades and tech, marking the largest in Texas
(Houston Chronicle) Much of the bond, $2.05 billion, would go to school upgrades. The district defined this as rebuilding, renovating and modernizing facilities. The district identified more than 40 campuses with “urgent facility needs.”
NAACP Houston, elected officials condemn HISD bond, call for federal investigation into district
(Houston Chronicle) Leaders of Houston’s NAACP branch spoke out Thursday against the more than $4 billion bond that state-appointed HISD leaders are expected to ask voters to approve and repeated their calls for state and federal investigations into possible wrongdoing in the district.
Ysleta ISD expects to lose 1,000 students, face $13.9 million budget deficit for coming year
(El Paso Matters) The Ysleta Independent School District is expected to adopt a $404.9 million budget with a $13.9 million deficit for the coming school year as it struggles to keep up with rising costs and more than three decades of declining enrollment – including an estimated 1,000-student loss next school year.
Carroll ISD officials expect budget shortfall
(Community Impact) The district will operate with a $8.5 million budget shortfall going into next year, David Johnson, assistant superintendent for financial services at Carroll ISD, said.
Grapevine-Colleyville ISD staff examine budget shortfalls
(Community Impact) Derick Sibley, Grapevine-Colleyville ISD chief financial officer, said there is a $5.46 million shortfall in the projected fiscal year 2023-24 budget, while the proposed FY 2024-25 budget contains a $454,453 budget shortfall.
Federal jury orders Beaumont ISD to pay $3.85 M in connection with 2019 sexual assault of two middle school students
(KBMT-TV) A federal jury last Friday found the Beaumont Independent School District and a former substitute teacher liable in connection with the 2019 sexual assault of two middle school students. The jury awarded $3.85 million to the two plaintiffs, who were 13 and 15-years-old at the time they were assaulted, according to the Beaumont Examiner who covered the trial.
Following arrest of former educator, Scotty’s House shares how to discuss sexual assault with kids
(KBTX) The incident allegedly happened last year at the International Leadership of Texas K-8 campus on Longmire Drive. Hernandez Grimaldo was a 6th grade Spanish teacher at the College Station charter school at that time.
Here’s what Texas Republicans and Democrats are saying about Donald Trump’s guilty verdict
(Austin American-Statesman) For Texas Republicans, the prosecution of former President Donald Trump was “a sham.” For Democrats, the guilty verdict was a testament to the rule of law.
City of Sunset Valley lost thousands in ‘phishing scheme’ in connection with city event
(KXAN) On April 10, 2023, the city reported to police that the suspect used the fake email account to “solicit and obtain an ACH payment” for $12,000, the report said. The suspect said they were an event planner for the annual Sunset Valley Arts Fest, according to police.
FEMA approved nearly $44M in assistance after severe April, May Texas storms
(Community Impact) After severe weather caused extensive damage and flooding in the Greater Houston area and surrounding counties since April 26, nearly 24,000 individual assistance applications have been approved by the Federal Emergency Management Agency for Texas disaster survivors who applied for federal assistance.
Collin College shutting down 4 programs due to low demand
(Community Impact) “The number of graduates and the number of students that have demonstrated interest in enrolling in course sections in these programs are extraordinarily low,” said Jon Hardesty, Collin College vice president of academic affairs.
Longview City Council decides to abandon City Swim Center
(KLTV) It’s currently located at Pine Tree High School, but is closed for the season due to repairs.
Bitcoin firm, Texas university partner for $5M endowment fund
(CoinTelegraph) On May 31, Austin, Texas-based crypto services and custody company Unchained unveiled a new partnership with the University of Austin.
To comply with DEI law, UNT counsel edits faculty policy regarding academic freedom
(KERA) University officials removed a reference to “diversity, equity and inclusion” from the policy regarding academic freedom and responsibility.
Pro-Palestinian demonstrations at UT-Austin open rift among Jewish students
(Texas Tribune) Some Jewish students see the protests as inherently antisemitic. Others say Jewish history and values make them empathize with Palestinians.
Fronteras: ‘We don’t have to watch DACA go away’ — United We Dream helps young undocumented immigrants navigate a complex system
(Texas Public Radio) The immigrant-led advocacy group United We Dream is fighting for the fair treatment of the 11 million undocumented immigrants in the U.S., including DACA recipients.
HILCO REAL ESTATE SALES ANNOUNCES BANKRUPTCY SALE OF 23,500± SF FORMER SCHOOL ON 37± AC IN HOUSTON, TEXAS
(PR Newswire) The multipurpose facility, the site of the former Holy Trinity Episcopal School, sits on a 30-acre parcel with an additional, adjacent seven acres available for purchase.
WTAMU receives $6 million budget for food animal production research
(KFDA) West Texas A&M University received an extra $2 million by Texas A&M University Systems and state legislature for its Food Animal Production Center, raising the budget from $4 million to $6 million.
Classroom to career: How Trimble Tech’s pharmacy program helped one Fort Worth senior find her path
(Fort Worth Report) Trimble Tech High School, located in the heart of Fort Worth’s Medical District, offers a medical curriculum, including Martinez’s pharmacy program. The program involves hands-on experiences in a facility equipped with a seven-bed patient ward, nurse’s station and an ambulance cabin.
WTAMU signs contracts with publishers to offer free digital textbooks
(KFDA) Free digital textbooks will be available to all West Texas A&M University students after the university signed contracts with textbook publishing companies McGraw Hill and Cengage.
Midland College will be offering the new Mental Health Technician Program in August 2024
(CBS 7) Midland College is hoping that the new Mental Health Technician program will help avoid a shortage of behavioral health workers in the area.
Dalhart City Council approves $150,000 grant for Frank Phillips College
(KFDA) “The grant is for us to implement, to start up a diesel mechanic program here at our college, which is a high demand, high need area. That is why the grant was developed,” said Joe Livingston, director at Dalhart Economic Development Corp.
Music professor retires from Rice following allegations of inappropriate conduct with female students
(Houston Public Media) William VerMeulen is accused of engaging in inappropriate behavior with female students during his tenure as a professor of horn at Rice University’s Shepherd School of Music.
Martin High School student wins Ford truck as part of ‘Drive 4 Sames Perfect Attendance’ program
(KGNS) Each Laredo ISD high school had four finalists vying for the top prize.
‘One size does not fit all’ when addressing vaping by college students
(Texas A&M Health) Study findings at a Hispanic-serving university suggest that prevention and quitting programs should consider the specific needs of different groups.
UTEP Proposes Major ‘Uplift’ to Iconic Sun Bowl
(UTEP) To fund the project, UTEP has asked El Paso County officials to add the Sun Bowl Uplift project to a capital improvement bond that will be brought to voters in November. The estimated cost of the project is $99 million.
Houston is having a pediatric mental health crisis. Texas Children’s Hospital is bolstering behavioral health program in response
(Houston Chronicle) Texas Children’s Hospital is bolstering behavioral health programs for children and teens to combat a pediatric mental health crisis that has persisted in Houston and across the United States.
Klein ISD student charged in cyberattacks that caused massive disruption of STAAR testing for over 24,000 students
(KHOU-TV) According to court documents, the 18-year-old Klein Forest High School student confessed that he was behind the April 16-17 attacks that disrupted state-mandated testing for 24,279 students. All Klein ISD campuses were impacted, the district said. Keontra Lamont Kenemore is charged with electronic access interference, a third-degree felony.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott predicts victory for his ‘school choice’ plan after a strong primary season
(Dallas Morning News) Though he was not on the ballot, Gov. Greg Abbott was a big winner in Tuesday’s Republican Party runoff elections.
Off to the races: Texas Republicans, Democrats set candidates for November election
(Austin American-Statesman) The field for the November general election in Texas is set after Republicans and Democrats finished nominating their candidates for state offices Tuesday, with some incumbents narrowly defeating intraparty challengers and others falling to their opponents in the primary runoff elections.
After bruising runoff, Dade Phelan pivots toward fight to remain Texas House speaker
(Dallas Morning News) Minutes after declaring victory in a bruising primary runoff, Dade Phelan confidently predicted that he would be reelected as the speaker of the Texas House in next year’s legislative session.
Children Win the Texas Election Runoffs | Editorial
(Wall Street Journal) The victories put the lie to the narrative that rural voters don’t want school choice. They also show that determined leadership can defeat the teachers unions that spent heavily against the pro-choice candidates.
Texas secessionist group could get a ‘boost’ from new state GOP leadership
(KERA) At its annual convention in San Antonio last week, the Texas Republican Party and its platform moved further to the right— and under the radar, a secessionist group gained two supporters in the party’s leadership.
Texas Democrat who joined GOP in supporting ban on gender-affirming care for minors loses primary
(AP) Rep. Shawn Thierry’s defeat followed four terms in which the Houston lawmaker typically joined her fellow Democrats on major issues, including voting against aggressive immigration measures demanded by Republican Gov. Greg Abbott and a ban on diversity programs on college campuses.
Texas revamps Narcan distribution following delays, unpredictable supply
(Texas Tribune) Texas has tapped more than $45 million in federal funds to get the overdose-reversing drug into the hands of law enforcement, members of the public. But the program has been plagued by supply issues, delays and lack of communication.
Garland ISD cancels Thursday classes, forcing early end to school year
(Fox 4 KDFW) Tuesday’s severe weather caused widespread damage across North Texas, especially in Garland, where thousands were left without power.
At least 9 Houston ISD schools closed, 8 others monitored for ‘power-related issues’ after storms
(Houston Chronicle) The struggles come as thousands of students in the district were slated to take end-of-year tests.
The Uvalde Foundation for Kids tab for donations still live on website following closure
(WSMV4) WSMV4 Investigates started asking The Uvalde Foundation for Kids questions in early May after discovering it was not doing the school patrols it promised in Nashville or anywhere else in the country.
Texas teacher turnover is through the roof. Here’s how we can set them up to succeed | Opinion
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) As a former educator, I know first-hand that this job requires deep preparation: learning to teach curriculum and appreciating the delicate skills required to mold young minds and the complexity of today’s classroom, particularly in high-poverty schools and high-need subject areas.
Explicit videos of former Lamar CISD teacher shot inside elementary school, activists say
(KHOU-11) They said one video shows the teacher stripping inside a classroom and the other was shot in a bathroom during school hours.
Houston ISD principals question resignation requests as district moves forward with firings
(Community Impact) Several Houston ISD principals have spoken out against the district following board managers’ decision to move forward with a slew of principal and teacher terminations at their May 23 meeting.
Today on Texas Standard: Texas students could soon be taught Bible stories in public schools
(Texas Standard) Proponents of a new elementary school curriculum redesign depict the lessons as context for classical literature, while critics accuse the plans of smuggling Christian ideology into the classroom.
The Woodlands students win $50,000 for microplastics filtration system
(Fox 7 Austin) Two high school students from The Woodlands were awarded a $50,000 prize at an international science and engineering competition for creating a filtration system to remove microplastics from water.
College Station ISD reviews public comment policy after statement made at recent board meeting
(KBTX) College Station ISD leaders are reconsidering how the public interacts with them during board meetings after speakers at a recent meeting heavily criticized a staff member. Now, the board is considering a policy that allows people to voice their concerns without publicly attacking staff. School leaders emphasize the right to bring concerns but seek to ensure it is done respectfully and that all other options have been exhausted.
Fort Worth ISD pulls plan to close middle schools, moves forward with campus renovations
(Fort Worth Report) More than five hours into their May 28 meeting, Fort Worth ISD board members pulled a proposal that would have consolidated seven district middle schools into three.
‘It really is like leaving home’: Families, teachers say goodbye to closing San Antonio ISD schools
(San Antonio Report) At the 13 schools closing for good over the summer as part of San Antonio Independent School District’s effort to downsize amid falling enrollment, end-of-the-year ceremonies held an extra layer of meaning for current students, former students and educators.
Beaumont ISD holds farewell event for former Central High School campus ahead of June demolition
(KBMT-TV) The campus, which is set to be demolished in June 2024, housed Central High School, Beaumont High School and Beaumont Charlton-Pollard High School.
Oil Executives Fuel Trump’s $40MM Texas Fundraising Haul
(RigZone) Donald Trump raised $40 million from oil executives and other deep-pocketed donors in Texas, marking Wednesday’s haul as one of the most profitable days for the presumptive Republican nominee seeking to close a fundraising gap with President Joe Biden.
Texas Regulators Bust Arkbit Capital Crypto MLM Fraud
(CoinXposure) Arkbit Capital is the target of a cease-and-desist order from the Texas State Securities Board for its fraudulent cryptocurrency cloud mining operations.
Texas House runoffs bring wave of GOP incumbent defeats, give Abbott votes for school vouchers
(Texas Tribune) Six of eight GOP incumbents lost their races. Gov. Greg Abbott declared he “now has enough votes to pass school choice.”
Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan survives challenge in District 21 GOP runoff election
(Austin American-Statesman) Phelan, in his second term as speaker and his fourth term as a state representative from Beaumont, defeated newcomer David Covey 50.7% to 49.3%, according to unofficial vote totals by the Texas Secretary of State’s Office.
Texas officials compromised ballot secrecy as they increased election transparency
(Texas Tribune) In limited instances, the choices some Texas voters make can later be identified using public, legally available data.
The Bible in Public Schools Isn’t Even the Wildest Plank of the Texas GOP Platform
(Esquire) They also have it out for voting rights, but at least there’s good news for the UFO curious.
Principals of Neff, Herod elementary schools locked out of their Houston ISD accounts
(Houston Chronicle) With only a handful of days left before classes dismiss for the school year in Houston ISD, the principals of Herod Elementary School and Neff Elementary School were locked out of their district accounts and reassigned to work from home. The reassignments come after Neff Elementary School Principal Amanda Wingard and Herod Elementary School Principal Jessica Berry were abruptly asked to resign earlier this month. It is unclear how many principals were targeted for removal this month, which the district tied to its views of principals’ performances.
San Antonio ISD cancels classes at two schools due to HVAC failures
(San Antonio Report) High classroom temperatures caused by HVAC system failures at SAISD’s Bonham Academy and Mark Twain Dual Language Academy led to class cancellations on Tuesday
Are Mesquite ISD PTAs Going Away or Here To Stay? It Depends Whom You Ask
(Dallas Observer) With only a week of the school year left, Mesquite ISD PTAs were instructed to spend their remaining funds and disband.
Cutting Jobs, Closing Campuses and Raising Pay: North Texas School Districts Struggle
(Dallas Observer) Across North Texas, school districts are looking to the fall school year with a shared concern: As student enrollments drop, budgets are getting tighter. For Fort Worth, Richardson, Irving and Plano ISDs, low enrollment has led to discussions of campuses being shuttered. In Dallas ISD, a newly approved budget will result in hundreds of central and campus-based positions being cut in the next school year.
Hutto ISD approves 4% pay increase for teachers in FY 2024-25
(Community Impact) Hutto ISD trustees approved pay raises for all staff members May 22, with teachers set to receive a 4% increase in their compensation for fiscal year 2024-25.
Dallas ISD teacher who walked out with students during gun violence protest won’t return
(Dallas Morning News) Tiree Dean taught English at Wilmer-Hutchins High School, where a student shot another teenager in the leg during class last month.
Schools closed for a second day after North Texas storms
(Fox 4 KDFW) Garland ISD canceled classes again on Wednesday. Irving ISD also canceled all classes and activities for Wednesday, citing the ongoing power outages and Dallas County’s disaster declaration. Grand Prairie ISD said it may have to postpone its high school graduation ceremonies. Dallas ISD said all high school campuses will be open Wednesday for band and dance camps. All other on-campus activities have been canceled. Carrollton Farmers Branch ISD’s summer staff members were asked to work from home on Wednesday.
Former Marfa Substitute Teacher Gets 30 Years in Prison for Producing Child Sexual Abuse Material
(U.S. Attorney’s Office) According to court documents, investigators found that Sonya Conchita Murillo, 33, a former substitute teacher for the Marfa Independent School District, possessed child sexual abuse materials, including videos depicting Murillo sexually abusing a prepubescent child.
Mexican American Studies growing exponentially in schools, no thanks to Texas | Opinion
(San Antonio Express-News) The organizers of the online Mexican American Studies Teachers’ Academy at the University of Texas at San Antonio Teachers’ Academy June 17-21 say its teacher- and professor-led coursework is growing with the support of their administrations and, sometimes, without it.
Retired teacher warns of group’s effort to ‘censor’ libraries in Valley schools
(myRGV) Like many residents, a retired schoolteacher is questioning a pastors’ group push demanding Rio Grande Valley school districts “summarily” remove books deemed “inappropriate” from their library shelves.
UT Tyler’s radio station, KVUT 99.7, ceases operations
(Longview News-Journal) “This move aligns with our core mission and allows us to reinvest in our academic programming, offering more educational opportunities to students, particularly in our Department of Communication,” said UT Tyler College of Arts and Sciences Dean Neil Gray.
‘People’s lives are at risk,’: Ascension ransomware attack going on nearly three weeks
(KXAN) It’s been nearly three weeks since Ascension Seton hospitals had a ransomware attack. As a result, computer systems are down.
It’s primary runoff election day in Texas. Here’s what we’re watching.
(Texas Tribune) Here’s four things we’re watching.
School choice programs have been wildly successful under DeSantis. Now public schools might close.
(Politico) Now as those programs balloon, some of Florida’s largest school districts are facing staggering enrollment declines — and grappling with the possibility of campus closures — as dollars follow the increasing number of parents opting out of traditional public schools.
President Joe Biden Remembers Uvalde In Campaign Ad
(Huffington Post) A new Biden campaign ad has been released honoring the victims of the Uvalde, Texas, mass shooting in 2022 while criticizing former President Donald Trump on gun control.
Celina ISD works to repair tornado storm damage and help its impacted students
(NBC DFW) “It really does seem as though the tornadic activity was kind of building itself over our schools and then really came and truly touched down,” said Tom Maglisceau, Superintendent of Celina ISD.
Windthorst tornado hits homes and school bus barn
(KAUZ) The Windthorst ISD Bus Barn saw damage as well with it’s roof was torn apart.
Several North Texas schools cancel, delay classes after severe storms
(CBS Dallas) Storms are moving through North Texas, bringing damaging winds and flooding with it. Storms are moving through North Texas, bringing damaging winds and flooding with it.
Leander ISD board reinforces policy around campus visits by trustees
(Community impact) At a May 23 meeting, Leander ISD trustees reinforced policies around when a trustee can visit a campus, following concerns that Place 7 board member Paul Gauthier created fear and disorder through surprise visits.
How a San Antonio school frozen in the winter will fight the heat
(MySA) While the season of freezes is well behind the district for now, another major concern is on the horizon: The scorching heat of late May and the start of each school year, through August and early September. However, the district has both short-range solutions in place and long-term solutions in the works.
Ousted Houston ISD principals speak out, saying forced resignations were unwarranted
(Houston Public Media) Several community protests have been staged in recent weeks after beloved principals and teachers were forced out by the administration of state-appointed superintendent Mike Miles.
I asked you to give the HISD takeover a chance. But we’ve seen enough. | Opinion
(Houston Chronicle) As a former Houston ISD parent and school board member, I initially encouraged Houstonians to be open to the state takeover and its potential benefits for our kids.
Here’s what we know about Cy-Fair ISD’s budget reduction plans for 2024-25
(Community Impact) Cy-Fair ISD officials plan to eliminate 618 positions ahead of next school year due to an impending shortfall in the 2024-25 fiscal year budget.
Mothers ask Texas GOP to take Delta-8 off the shelves, keep cannabis illegal in the state
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) “We’re trying to ban all the Delta THC variants that are in our smoke shops, gas stations, and vape shops, they’re poisonous to our children,” Adams said. “We’re also here to ask Texans to hold the line. We don’t want to expand any more marijuana policies here to become like California, Colorado.”
Texas cheerleader holds private graduation ceremony with her family after she was stripped of valedictorian title over bizarre ‘miscalculation’
(Daily Mail) Her family, including members traveling from Guatemala and Switzerland, decided not to attend the schools commencement and held their own on Thursday where Maya was recognized as the top student.
Thousands of Texans are falling behind on their energy bills as power demand hits all-time highs
(Latin Times) The heat has been scorching in Texas as of late. Amid this reality, a recent survey of Texans by Payless Power found that one third of state residents said they paid their electric bills late at least once during the year, while 7% said that their accounts had been referred to a collections agency.
TSTC online program trains students to help others break cycle of chemical dependency
(myRGV) Students in Texas State Technical College’s online Chemical Dependency Counseling program receive support, guidance and training from licensed chemical dependency counselors on how to help people break the cycle of substance use disorder.
Publisher of Call of Duty, maker of AR-15 style rifle and Meta named in wrongful death lawsuits by families of Uvalde victims
(CNN) The suits, which accuse the companies of “grooming” the Robb Elementary School shooter, come after 19 families of students and teachers killed at the school announced on Wednesday that they settled a lawsuit with the city for $2 million.
Texas state senator criticizes Abbott as ‘piece of s–t’ for not publicly mentioning Uvalde shooting
(Fox News) State Sen. Roland Gutierrez, a Democrat representing Uvalde, sounded off Saturday morning over the governor’s failure to mention that tragic day.
San Antonio-area schools issued hundreds of suspensions to homeless students — likely breaking state law
(San Antonio Report) Hundreds of students experiencing homelessness across the San Antonio region have been suspended from school in recent years for scuffling, persistent misbehavior and other minor infractions.
Uvalde Foundation For Kids closes ‘due to lack of financial support’
(WSMV4) “The Uvalde Foundation For Kids, a national nonprofit student advocacy and school violence prevention organization formed in response to the May 2022 Uvalde, Texas school shooting – has now announced its closure due to lack of financial support. All national chapters and offices will be closed immediately,” the nonprofit said.
Proposed Texas GOP platform calls for the Bible in schools, electoral changes that would lock Democrats out of statewide office
(Texas Tribune) Republican Party of Texas delegates voted Saturday on a platform that called for new laws to require the Bible to be taught in public schools and a constitutional amendment that would require statewide elected leaders to win the popular vote in a majority of Texas counties.
Governor uses El Paso school fight video to push for controversial voucher program
(KFOX 14) Governor Greg Abbott used a video of a student school fight to advocate for his proposed school voucher program.
How Texas’ School Funding Scheme Contributed to Austin ISD’s Massive Budget Shortfall
(Austin Chronicle) AISD’s budget problem is much worse than the district initially predicted.
HISD principal who was forced out of dream job shares story
(Houston Chronicle) After reviewing the resignation paperwork, Herod Elementary School Principal Jessica Berry found that, if she signed, she would not be able to take any legal action against the district, would not be able to file any internal complaints or grievances against any district employee and would not be able to seek another job in the Houston Independent School District.
HISD parents, teachers demand leadership resignation after job cuts and terminations
(Houston Chronicle) Families and staff members filled in the area in front of City Hall’s reflection pool to protest, among other items, a series of terminations of principals and teachers whom the district deemed low performing. The protest was one of many held by the HISD community in recent weeks.
Attorney backs Texas school district over Biden administration’s Title IX changes: ‘We expect to win’
(Fox News) “We want and we expect to win the lawsuit and have these rules, this regulation be determined to be unconstitutional because it is unconstitutional,” Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF) President and CEO Kristen Waggoner told Fox News Digital.
Houston high school grads are driving award-winning research and reaching Olympic-level aspirations
(Houston Chronicle) Tens of thousands of the Houston region’s 1.3 million students are preparing to graduate high school this month. Collectively, they have created companies, participated in award-winning college-level research and trained to reach Olympic-level aspirations.
Rice University students held divestment protests. Here’s how they went
(Houston Chronicle) They knew administrators were watching but kept up their protests. As many colleges and universities across the country broke up pro-Palestine demonstrations for alleged violations of their policies, resulting in more than 2,000 arrests, Rice administrators cautiously allowed them to continue protesting at the entitled “Liberated Zone.”
Affidavit: Lufkin High vandals caused $16K worth of damage
(KTRE) All five suspects in the Lufkin High School vandalism from last week were booked into the Angelina County Jail on Thursday and documents state the brand of flour they used gave them away.
College Station babysitter receives 40 years in prison for shaking, throwing infant
(KBTX) On Thursday, Berta Lopez-Vasquez pleaded guilty to injury to a child causing serious bodily injury. Police reports say Lopez-Vasquez shook and threw a baby, less than a year old, against a wall when the child would not stop crying.
Lone Star College invests $500K into Montgomery campus’ biotechnology program
(Community Impact) The Lone Star College-Montgomery Biotechnology Institute will be expanding its offerings and upgrading equipment to meet growing employment demand, according to a May 21 news release from LSC.
HISD Board Backs Up Miles and OKs Massive Principal and Teacher Firings
(Houston Press) The Board of Managers voted in another lengthy session that started Thursday afternoon and went into the wee hours to fire every teacher, principal and custodian that Superintendent Mike Miles wanted them to. Be they longtime HISD employees, teachers or principals of the year, loved by parents and students, or guardians of high-performing schools — it didn’t matter.
When will HISD teachers get renewal contracts? District officals say June 1
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD expects to finish sending teacher contracts by June 1, leaving educators waiting until almost the last day of school to know whether they can return next academic year.
Dallas school trustees pass budget that cuts hundreds of staff positions
(Dallas Morning News) The Dallas school board approved a roughly $1.9 billion budget Thursday that cuts hundreds of central staff and campus-based positions, while still providing a pay bump for teachers.
Fate of lawsuit filed by Black Texas student punished over hairstyle in hands of federal judge
(AP) A federal judge did not issue an immediate ruling on Thursday after hearing legal arguments over whether to dismiss a lawsuit filed by a Black high school student who has alleged racial and gender discrimination over his months long punishment by his Texas school district for refusing to change his hairstyle.
Goals outlined for Carroll ISD civil rights negotiations
(Community Impact) As Carroll ISD parents and students wait for the district to negotiate with the Department of Education Office of Civil Rights over an ongoing civil rights investigation, the groups have outlined the resolution they hope to achieve.
MAP: Which school districts have increased teacher pay for the 2024-25 school year?
(KXAN) There are 58 districts in the KXAN viewing area, from Mason ISD in the west to Fayetteville ISD in the east. So far, 18 of those districts have announced new salaries for the upcoming school year.
Pastors’ group demands Valley schools remove ‘inappropriate’ books
(myRGV) A pastors’ group is standing behind a new state law and is requesting Rio Grande Valley school boards remove a list of books they describe as containing graphic sexuality from their library shelves. And if they don’t get their way, the group is threatening to file lawsuits.
VERIFY: Yes, Texas education money can go toward out-of-state charter schools
(KHOU-11) Thousands of people across social media platforms questioned the legality of shifting Texas educational funds to go toward charter schools outside of the state. The comments included questions directly to KHOU are reaction to a news report alleging the charter school system, which current HISD Superintendent Mike Miles founded, used Texas education dollars to support charter schools in Colorado.
Plano ISD school closure plan concerns parents of deaf students
(Fox 4 KDFW) Parents say closing Davis Elementary School would rip apart the deaf and hearing culture that staff has carefully knit together over the course of decades.
Documents detail how Texas’ DEI ban is changing university campuses
(Texas Tribune) In an update to lawmakers, university system leaders expressed worries about how the ban might affect crucial applications for federal funds.
DeSoto AAU track coach charged with solicitation of 16-year-old athlete
(Fox 4 KDFW)) Police say Anthony Adkison sent sexually explicit messages to the 16-year-old, not knowing her father had possession of her phone.
North Texas Teacher Arrested for Assaulting 4-year-old Child
(Texas Scorecard) Linda Dueer was allegedly caught swinging the child against the wall and slapping him.
Leander ISD employee on leave following ‘inappropriate’ behavior during 8th-grade field trip
(KXAN) The school said there was an incident during a field trip where students reported the alleged inappropriate use of technology by a district employee.
Appeals court blocks fines against Texas for foster care failures
(San Antonio Express-News) A three-judge panel made clear that its order does not absolve the state of its responsibility to ensure timely and thorough foster care investigations. Instead, it pauses the $100,000 daily fines from a federal judge while the court considers the merits of the state’s argument against them.
El Paso court petition seeks removal of Canutillo ISD board president over DWI arrests
(KFOX 14) A petition was filed Wednesday with an El Paso County court to remove Canutillo Independent School District’s board president, based on three driving while intoxicated arrests dating back to 2013.
13 Investigates: Districts still need more officers as law calls for one per campus
(ABC 13) 13 Investigates found Texas school districts are still competing for qualified police officers to meet HB3’s mandate for one armed person per campus.
Uvalde families fought for gun safety reforms. Here’s what the Texas Legislature did
(Austin American-Statesman) On the second anniversary of the shooting, many of their requested policy initiatives remain unfulfilled and any forward movement is unlikely in the Republican-controlled state government.
Uvalde 2 years later: Where the investigation stands
(ABD News) In the two years since 19 students and two teachers were killed in the Robb Elementary School mass shooting, some families of the 21 victims killed continue to search for answers and seek justice.
How many school shootings have there been since Uvalde? Here’s what US data shows
(Austin American-Statesman) There have been approximately 652 school shooting incidents since Uvalde, according to the K-12 School Shooting Database, which was created and is maintained by David Riedman, a researcher who tracks gun violence in schools.
After protest, University of Houston student fees to fund athletics, more mental health services
(Houston Chronicle) University of Houston student fees will subsidize both athletics and new mental health resources next year, in what administrators called a “rare win-win” after students objected to President Renu Khator’s move to use such a high percentage of student fees for athletics.
Parker County mom charged after son’s gun used in shooting of 13-year-old
(Fox 4 KDFW) A Parker County woman has been arrested after her son’s friend got hold of a handgun and shot a 13-year-old in her home.
Dallas ISD teacher surprised with $10,000 on The Jennifer Hudson Show
(Fox 4 KDFW) In the past, Joe May Elementary School teacher Marcus Bornslatter, Bornslatter funded the supplies for his students out of his own pocket along with an online wishlist. Now, he has $10,000 to help with those supplies.
KIPP students jump in to help during two medical emergencies
(KXAN) Two students from KIPP Austin Collegiate are being praised after they jumped into action to help their teachers during two separate medical emergencies.
Lago Vista High School student dies after incident involving handgun
(KVUE) A Lago Vista High School student died after what the district said was an incident involving a handgun on Wednesday. There was no active threat to students, Lago Vista ISD (LVISD) said.
DEA Task Force cracks down on fentanyl dealers in Laredo
(KGNS) The DEA Overdose Task Force, formed in 2023 due to a rise in overdose deaths, has been cracking down on drug sales in Laredo. The task force, made up of six agencies, has put in over 12,000 hours to combat the issue.
Texas GOP convention kicks off with party leaders attacking Speaker Dade Phelan
(Texas Public Radio) Party Chair Matt Rinaldi, Lt. Gov.Dan Patrick and Attorney General Ken Paxton were the morning’s star speakers. All three of them called for a change of leadership in the Texas House.
The FBI kept investigating Ken Paxton after he beat impeachment. Will he face federal charges?
(Texas Public Radio) Paxton’s own attorneys have acknowledged the FBI is investigating him. But the federal government has not publicly confirmed the probe’s existence.
Southside playground’s $500K facelift prioritizes inclusivity, sparks imagination
(San Antonio Report) This summer, children of all abilities on San Antonio’s South Side will have access to a renovated playground at Arnold Park, with new equipment and shaded spaces encouraging social interaction and sensory and imaginative play.
Clear Creek ISD trustees approve computer coding course for all grades
(Community Impact) The district has awarded a contract of $110,000 with computer science curriculum program CodeHS Inc., according to district agenda documents.
Dripping Springs ISD implements braille course for visually impaired students
(Community Impact) o support a student with failing vision, the Dripping Springs ISD board of trustees approved a new course that teaches braille, a writing system used by the visually impaired.
Mariachi group returns to Dallas College
(NBC DFW) After a 4-year hiatus due to the pandemic, the Mariachi Leones returned this year to the Dallas College Mountain View Campus.
Cedar Hill elementary school teacher saves choking student’s life
(Fox 4 KDFW) Myla May’s last few weeks of second grade have been eventful and emotional. “I realize don’t eat while you’re talking, so I’ll never do that again.”
Link between e-cigarette use and early age of asthma onset in U.S. adults found through UTHealth Houston research
(UTHealth Houston) A significant link between the use of electronic cigarettes and earlier age of asthma onset in U.S. adults was reported by UTHealth Houston researchers today in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Network Open.
Paso del Norte Health Foundation awards UTEP $4.5 million grant; all-abilities playground to open at Ascarate Park
(El Paso Matters) Here’s how the UTEP Health initiative will help better prepare health care graduates; plus more playgrounds for children of different abilities are coming to the Borderland.
She counted on her school’s LGBTQ resources. Texas’ anti-DEI law took some of them away
(KERA) UT Arlington student Seraphine Pecson utilized some of her school’s LGBTQ+ resources before the program was scaled back because of Senate Bill 17.
New funding will extend self-advocacy program for Chinese American families of children with developmental disabilities
(Texas A&M Health) A researcher with the Texas A&M University School of Public Health has been awarded $780,250 to extend her advocacy work with Chinese American families that have children with developmental disabilities into the Houston metroplex and the seven-county Brazos Valley region of Texas about 90 miles northwest of Houston.
Uvalde families reach $2M settlement with city and say they are suing school district and 92 officers over shooting response
(CNN) Nineteen families of the students and teachers killed or injured at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, announced Wednesday they have settled a lawsuit with the city for $2 million, and announced they are suing 92 officers with Texas Department of Public Safety, the school district and individual employees.
Exclusive: Texas schools illegally suspended thousands of homeless students — and nobody stopped them
(Houston Landing) Stephen was one of thousands of homeless students banned from school despite the passage of a 2019 state law that made it illegal for school administrators to kick Texas’ most vulnerable children off campus for most offenses, a Houston Landing investigation shows.
Texas Education Agency Investigates Complaint into Houston ISD Superintendent
(Texas Scorecard) Education Commissioner Mike Morath issued a press release stating that he was referring the complaints to the complaint department, noting that “school districts have autonomy to engage with vendors to provide education services.
‘Shocks the conscience’: Federal magistrate chastises Lorena ISD principal over lack of action in teacher’s sexual abuse cases
(KWTX) In a blistering, 15-page report and recommendation to U.S. District Judge Alan Albright, U.S. Magistrate Jeffrey C. Manske said that Lorena Primary School Principal April Jewell’s “lack of executive action” in the wake of reports about teacher Nicolas Scott Crenshaw’s improper behavior around two of his female students “shocks the conscience.”
Student body-slammed and knocked unconscious by Garland ISD faculty, video shows
(NBC DFW) In a statement to NBC 5, a spokesperson for Garland ISD said, “A staff member intervened to prevent an altercation and protect all individuals involved to ensure the safety and well-being of all students.”
Texas-based organization raises concerns about policy and regulation of Artificial Intelligence in schools
(Houston Public Media) According to a nonprofit, 25% of children are using AI tools to complete or help with their homework.
Eanes ISD approves 2% pay increase for staff
(Community Impact) A $3.3 million shortfall is budgeted with the 2% increase.
Housing costs price families out of neighborhood schools, straining Richardson ISD budget
(Dallas Morning News) It’s a story repeated often among Forest Lane families — and in other corners of the Richardson school district. Across low-income communities in Texas, campus enrollment is susceptible to evictions and rent increases.
Arlington ISD proposes $29M general fund deficit for first draft of 2024-25 budget
(Arlington Report) Arlington ISD trustees agree more work needs to be done on the district’s general fund budget for the 2024-25 academic year, but they remain hopeful.
Bastrop ISD predicts balanced budget, tax rate cut for FY 2024-25
(Community Impact) Dina Edgar, Bastrop ISD’s chief financial officer, offered a balanced budget proposal for fiscal year 2024-25, including a tax rate of $1.06 per $100 valuation, at the school board meeting May 21. The new rate would be a decrease from the previous year’s tax rate of $1.07 per $100 valuation.
Fort Bend ISD proposes balanced budget, identifies $21.15M in unmet needs
(Community Impact) Fort Bend ISD isn’t proposing a fiscal year 2024-25 budget shortfall like other Houston-area school districts, but it doesn’t mean the district isn’t facing financial challenges, district officials said.
Federal Appeals Court Halts Palo Pinto County’s Rules Against Political Signage
(Texas Scorecard) A federal appeals court halted a Texas county’s new rules restricting political signage just one day before early voting started for the May 28 primary runoff election.
Few Hispanic men are teachers. These Fort Worth ISD students want to help change that
(Fort Worth Report) A TCU program called Maestro wants to boost the number of Hispanic male teachers in Texas and the nation.
Texas has the most spellers in the 2024 Scripps National Spelling Bee. Here’s a list
(Austin American-Statesman) According to the Scripps National Spelling Bee guide, Texas has the largest representation with 20 national competitors. California and Ohio are next with 17 each, followed by Florida, Illinois and New York with 13 each.
Texas election chiefs face pressure to get details right after judge orders new election in close race
(Texas Tribune) Some of the problems that prompted a judge to order a new election in a 2022 Harris County race occur often, especially in high-turnout elections, election officials said.
The Progressive Outreach In Rural Texas
(Texas Signal) For years, it seemed almost a given that numerous races in rural Texas would go uncontested, and whatever candidate had Republican on the ballot would automatically win. Now, a major organization is trying to challenge that dynamic, and pouring in resources to ensure that rural counties can have a fighting shot at electing the best candidate, regardless of party.
Toyota mulls over $500 million investment into Texas plant
(Texas Public Radio) The more than half-a-billion-dollar expansion would create more than 400 jobs. The county’s package reportedly includes a 10-year, 100% tax abatement worth $14.7 million.
Texas A&M System wants a network of power plants on its land across the state
(Texas Tribune) The Texas A&M University System on Wednesday invited developers to submit proposals for building a network of gas-fired power plants on university-owned land around the state. Called “peakers,” the plants are designed to turn on for short periods when the state power grid is strained.
Carrollton Juvenile Overdose Defendant Who Ignored Deaths Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison
(U.S. Attorney’s Office) The first defendant charged in the Carrollton juvenile fentanyl overdose scandal – which claimed the lives of at least four North Texas teenagers – was sentenced today to 20 years in federal prison, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton.
Exclusive: A&M associate professor accused of breaking into student’s apartment
(KBTX) Exclusive: A&M associate professor accused of breaking into student’s apartment.
Fort Worth Baptist seminary professor indicted in federal investigation
(Fort Worth Report) Federal lawyers indicted a former Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary employee of obstructing justice in a sexual misconduct case, the Department of Justice announced May 21.
Texas ranch aims to make balloon releases illegal after deer found with horrific injuries
(Houston Chronicle) Texas ranch owners are condemning balloon releases after their deer reportedly suffered some nasty injuries as a result.
6 things to help you understand UTEP’s NSF grant suspension
(El Paso Matters) The National Science Foundation recently suspended what could have amounted to a $160 million grant to the Borderland over the next 10 years, pending an investigation.
Texas-sized renovation in the works for library’s special history collection
(San Antonio Report) A renewed space for the tens of thousands of rare and historic documents at the San Antonio Public Library is underway.
College students in Austin, Texas, have dwelled in windowless rooms for years − here’s why the city finally decided to ban them
(The Conversation) As a professor at UT’s School of Architecture, I see this ban as a belated but welcomed development.
New occupancy limits in College Station highlight Texas A&M students’ housing woes
(Texas Tribune) A new rule underscores the challenges college students face when looking for affordable housing — and how cities struggle to provide it.
Innovative solution to increase college enrollment happening in San Antonio
(San Antonio Report) After months of strategic discussion facilitated by UP Partnership, Future Ready Bexar County partners UTSA and San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) announced one of these innovative projects — a co-designed direct admission pathway that aims to remove barriers for SAISD students who want to pursue a college degree at UTSA.
In 75th lawsuit against Biden, Paxton sues to stop new gender identity guidelines for employers
(Texas Tribune) Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton aims new lawsuit at Biden Administration to halt compliance of gender identity mandates in the workplace.
Southlake Carroll ISD files lawsuit challenging Title IX changes meant to protect LGBTQ+ students
(WFAA-TV) Southlake’s Carroll ISD filed a lawsuit Tuesday challenging the Biden administration’s recent changes to Title IX that extended protections to LGBTQ+ students, court records show.
Grapevine-Colleyville ISD board denounces changes to federal Title IX regulations
(Community Impact) Grapevine-Colleyville ISD board members unanimously denounced the Biden Administration’s new Title IX rules, which are set to take effect Aug. 1.
Hood County Denounces Biden’s Title IX Changes
(Texas Scorecard) The county’s resolution calls on local school districts to consider alternatives to accepting federal funds.
Uvalde CISD police chief to resign after one year on the job
(KSAT) Gutierrez’s resignation will be presented for board approval on June 17, and if approved, his last day will be June 26.
Uvalde Police Department’s Facebook page says it ‘does not allow comments.’ Is it legal?
(Austin American-Statesman) New York resident Michael W. Palmer sued the city and Uvalde Police Department for $500,000 in April for their restriction on comments on their Facebook pages, according to the Uvalde Leader-News.
Fewer Houston-area school closings after the storm are set for Wednesday
(ABC 13 Houston) Houston ISD (23 campuses), Cypress Fairbanks ISD (5 campuses), and four campuses each in the Galena Park and Spring Branch ISDs.
Greg Abbott gives $2.3 million to GOP runoff candidates who back his ‘school choice’ plan
(Dallas Morning News) Abbott’s contributions, made since the March 5 primary, included 10 Republican incumbents and challengers whose support he’s counting on to pass a “school choice” bill during the 2025 legislative session.
San Antonio experimented with giving people $5,108, no strings attached. They spent it on housing and school supplies for their kids.
(Business insider) San Antonio is one of several cities nationwide piloting guaranteed basic-income programs.
ACLU complaint alleges Princeton ISD discriminated against LGBTQ+ group
(KERA) The administrative complaint claims that the school district northeast of Plano likely violated the U.S. and Texas constitutions by refusing Princeton TX Diverse (PTX Diverse) access to campus facilities.
DISD Seeks LGBTQ Clinic’s Advice on ‘Gender Support’
(Dallas Express) Dallas ISD sought the advice of an LGBTQ-centered clinic on how to better enable “youth transitioning,” according to internal communications obtained in an open records request by The Dallas Express.
Teacher at San Antonio’s North East ISD accused of using racist language during class
(San Antonio Current) NEISD officials said the district fired a middle school teacher after she allegedly used the N-word during a class discussion.
Teacher keeps job after EPISD parents raise concern over testing irregularity investigation
(El Paso Matters) A Lundy Elementary School teacher, bolstered by parental support, kept her job Tuesday after the El Paso Independent School District Board of Trustees voted 4-3 not to terminate following a district investigation into “testing irregularities” during a third-grade STAAR test.
Fight at Socorro ISD Middle School goes viral on social media
(KVIA) The video shows a teacher was caught in the middle of the fight and thrown to the ground.
North Texas school districts face millions in budget cuts, closures & layoffs to fend off deficits
(KERA) Richardson ISD’s not alone. Many districts in North Texas, from Irving and Plano to Fort Worth and Arlington, face shortfalls of $30 million or more, leaving school closures and layoffs as solutions. Two Irving elementary schools will close next year; Fort Worth ISD is also looking at closures amid falling enrollment.
Georgetown ISD approves pay raises for teachers and staff
(CBS Austin) Georgetown ISD’s Board of Trustees approved a compensation plan for the 2024-2025 school year that includes raises of 3.5% for teachers and librarians, 2% for other staff, increased starting salaries, and stipends for Special Education teachers.
Plano ISD is considering closing these 4 schools
(Fox 4 KDFW ) Plano ISD is considering closing two elementary schools and two middle schools by the 2025 school year. District leaders say it’s needed to deal with changing enrollment.
Clear Creek ISD trustees approve $970.6K for secure vestibule project at Bay Elementary
(Community Impact) Clear Creek ISD’s board of trustees approved funding that totaled $970,580 for a secure vestibule project at Bay Elementary at its May 20 meeting.
McManus: SAPD has ‘capability and capacity’ to respond to mass shootings
(San Antonio Report) San Antonio Police Department Chief William McManus assured the committee that the department is prepared to respond to mass shootings — and will establish command if they are called to such a scene — but said prevention and on-site security measures at schools are largely beyond the department’s jurisdiction.
RRISD names Lauren Griffith interim police chief; Weiner on administrative leave
(Community Impact) Round Rock ISD has named a new interim chief of police, as Chief Dennis Weiner has been put on administrative leave.
North Texas school district sued after teacher allegedly assaults 4-year-old. Parents say the district didn’t report it
(CBS Dallas) A North Texas teacher is facing a felony charge for allegedly assaulting a pre-K student.That student’s parents have filed a lawsuit against the school district in Collin County, which they accuse of failing to report what happened to police. They shared a video with CBS News Texas that they say captured the violent attack on a 4-year-old boy.
Midland ISD responds to allegations from the Texas Homeschool Coalition
(CBS 7) Midland ISD has released a statement after the Texas Homeschool Coalition claimed that MISD is “pushing to prosecute” after a mother withdrew her son from the district. The district says this is a false accusation, and added that the article is part of a fundraising campaign by the THSC.
FEMA disaster relief: New aid, streamlined application process for storm victims
(Fox 26 Houston) For the thousands of people who have been devastated by this month’s floods and storms, new help is available from the Federal Emergency Management Administration.
Houston parents claim 1-year-old sustained second degree burns at daycare
(Fox 26 Houston) Houston police and Child Protective Services are investigating after a mother says her 1-year-old daughter got second-degree burns at her daycare.
UT Faculty Council resolutions condemn April 2 former DEI terminations, response to protests
(Austin American-Statesman) The University of Texas Faculty Council has formally condemned President Jay Hartzell’s terminations and demotions last month of more than 60 former diversity, equity and inclusion employees as well as the closing of the Division of Campus and Community Engagement, and it called on the school’s chief to reverse those decisions.
Taylor ISD investigates after students give each other tattoos at school
(KXAN) The Taylor Independent School District is investigating after some students gave each other tattoos at Taylor High School without school staff knowing, the district said.
Senior prank turned to damages, vandalism at Cedar Creek High School
(KXAN) A Bastrop ISD spokesperson said campus administration worked with the senior students for a “fun senior prank that would be monitored by school staff.” The district said a group of students took it beyond a senior prank.
Texas A&M University System joins Texas Nuclear Alliance
(KBTX) The Texas A&M University System announced it has joined the Texas Nuclear Alliance as a Founding Member and the Alliance’s first university system member.
KXII wins Regional Edward R. Murrow Award for coverage of Sherman HS theater controversy
(KXII) KXII is taking home the award for Excellence in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Television/Small Market category for its coverage of the Sherman High School theater controversy last year.
TWU flight training program reach deal with local academy for fall takeoff
(KERA) After the Friday vote, O. Finley Graves, the interim executive vice president of academic affairs at TWU, said Pioneers will take flight in the fall.
With $5M NASA Grant, University of Houston to Open Aerospace Engineering Research Center
(UH Newsroom) Center to Extend Human Presence on the Moon and Mars, Promote 21st-century Aerospace Engineering Education.
$4.5M Grant to UTEP Health Increases Nurses, Health Professionals
(UTEP Newsfeed) Paso del Norte Health Foundation matching grant will improve healthcare worker education, increase numbers of graduates and strengthen health research.
Ed Dwight, America’s first Black astronaut candidate, finally goes to space, 60 years later at age 90
(AP) Ninety-year-old Ed Dwight blasted off from West Texas with five other passengers on Sunday.
Houston weather: School closures, delays for Tuesday, May 21
(Fox 26 Houston) Closed: Channelview, Cypress-Fairbanks, Galena Park and Spring Branch ISDs. Some Houston ISD campuses remain closed.
36 Houston ISD schools closing Tuesday while all others will be open
(ABC 13 Houston) Heights High School and 35 other Houston ISD campuses are closing Tuesday as the district continues recovering from last Thursday’s destructive storm.
Grapevine-Colleyville school board votes to seek legal fees from former principal
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Grapevine-Colleyville school board voted unanimously to pursue former principal James Whitfield for legal fees after he unsuccessfully sued the district and board member Tammy Nakamura for disparaging him during a 2022 panel discussion. He alleged her comments violated a November 2021 settlement agreement.
Southlake schools officials want federal findings before considering resolution
(Dallas Morning News) Southlake school officials must see federal investigators’ findings of alleged civil rights violations before considering a proposed resolution, the Carroll ISD board president said late last week.
Donald Trump says he’d consider Ken Paxton for U.S. attorney general
(Houston Public Media) Trump told a reporter in Texas this weekend that Paxton is “a very talented guy.”
Texas’ Republican old guard mobilizes to protect Dade Phelan from the far right
(Texas Tribune) Phelan’s primary has emerged as a last stand for the Republican Party’s business-minded establishment against an insurgency primarily motivated by social and cultural issues.
They Voted Against Greg Abbott’s Controversial School-Voucher Plan. He Attacked Them as Weak on “the border”
(Texas Monthly) Ahead of the runoff elections, the governor is trying to paint a group of conservative Republican incumbents as untrustworthy liberals.
Texas school districts still struggling with armed guard mandate months after new law went into effect
(KVUE) Texas schools were mandated to have an armed guard, but there’s concern that there might be a greater risk to students.
Reality-based training facility opens, hopes to reach first responders across the state and nation
(KBTX) A new reality-based training facility in Montgomery County aims to ensure law enforcement across the state is prepared for active shooter situations.
San Antonio Congress member proposes $4.6M security project for North East ISD
(Community Impact) District 23 U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-San Antonio, recently said he submitted a $4.6 million community project funding request, which, if approved, could help shore up safety in North East ISD.
FWISD trustees shown poor condition of schools, urged to be transparent about closures
(Fort Worth Report) The presentation revealed that Fort Worth ISD’s middle schools face $130 million in deferred maintenance needs, with nearly half categorized as in poor condition.
Canutillo ISD anticipates $4.4 million deficit; layoffs not off the table
(El Paso Matters) The Canutillo Independent School District is anticipating a $4.4 million deficit during the 2024-25 school year despite making budget cuts and eliminating 100 primarily vacant positions this spring.
Klein ISD officials project roughly $0.02 decrease for FY 2024-25 tax rate
(Community Impact) Klein ISD officials are expecting a tax rate reduction of roughly $0.02 in the district’s fiscal year 2024-25 budget, which would mark the sixth consecutive year trustees have voted to lower the district’s tax rate.
More Central Texas school districts approve pay raises for the fall
(KVUE) San Marcos CISD approved a 3% raise, including a starting salary of $55,000 a year. Del Valle ISD approved a 3% increase and an increase of the minimum hourly wage to $18 an hour. Dripping Springs ISD approved a 1% increase for all pay grades across the board. For context, last year, San Marcos and Dripping Springs ISDs approved 3% raises, while Del Valle ISD approved a 6% raise.
Houston Landing live event: 4 takeaways from Mike Miles’ chat with 4 HISD seniors
(Houston Landing) The four students grilled HISD Superintendent Mike Miles on Thursday about stressed-out teachers, eliminated programs and campus-wide malaise at a forum hosted by the Houston Landing.
Two Years Later, I’ll Never Stop Fighting for Lexi
(Texas Observer) A mother who lost her daughter, and a photographer who embedded in the southwest Texas town, reflect on the Uvalde tragedy.
14-year-old arrested after threat against Royse City High School
(Fox 4 KDFW) Police say the 14-year-old made the threat while in class and was taken into custody.
Lake Travis and Eanes ISDs balance state, local policies in response to bullying
(Community Impact) LTISD and EISD have adopted similar policies that require campus administrators to investigate any reported incidents of bullying. If parents disagree with the district’s determination, they may challenge it through a multistep grievance process.
Fort Bend ISD to issue laptops to middle, high school students in 2024-25 school year
(Community Impact) Fort Bend ISD will use funds from the May 2023 bond to give every middle and high school student a laptop in the 2024-25 school year.
Merkel ISD reveals its plan for their newly acquired land at Sunset Mobile Home and RV Park
(KTXS) In December Merkel ISD notified the residents of Sunset Mobile Home and RV Park that they have until July 1st to vacate the premises. RV owner Ian Jones believes 6 months is not enough to leave the place he’s called home for the past 6 years.
Lone Star College’s first Spanish-language graduation fuses commencement with Latino culture
(Houston Chronicle) Nearly 100 Latino students from Lone Star College participated in the school’s first Spanish-language commencement in north Houston over the weekend, in a ceremony that allowed some families to watch their loved ones graduate in their native tongue.
New $305 million Austin State Hospital unveiled as Texas revamps psychiatric system
(Texas Tribune) The new 240-bed Austin State Hospital facility has been built on the existing 80-acre campus located about three miles north of downtown Austin. The Old Main Building, which opened 1861 has been designated a historic landmark. It will continue to be used for offices, when the hospital opens its doors later this summer.
54 Houston ISD campuses remain closed Monday days after damaging storm
(Houston Public Media) Aldine, Channelview, Cypress-Fairbanks, Gelena Park, Houston, Katy and Spring Branch independent school districts will remain closed on Monday.
2 students injured in storm-related bus incident, hundreds of campuses without power
(Click 2 Houston) Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles also mentioned that two students were injured in Thursday’s storms when a Westside High School bus traveling on the Hardy Toll Road was “picked up and dropped” by the storm. He said one of the students sustained a fractured shoulder and the second student had cuts and bruises from broken glass flying everywhere. The bus driver was not injured. Miles said the two students and the driver were the only people on the bus during the incident.om the district.
Round Rock school police chief out after accusing district of failing to report issues
(Austin American-Statesman) In a letter publicly released Friday afternoon, now former Round Rock school district Police Chief Dennis Weiner accuses district officials of failing to notify his department of pertinent police issues in a timely fashion.
Man convicted in 2021 Texas school shooting not to have 2nd trial, attorneys say
(Dallas Morning News) A man convicted of attempted capital murder in a 2021 shooting at an Arlington high school is no longer expected to face trial for a second time in the shooting after entering a plea agreement, according to defense attorneys and Tarrant County court records.
How Texas schools became the frontline in the culture war
(Texas Public Radio) The new book They Came for the Schools: One Town’s Fight Over Race and Identity, and the New War for America’s Classrooms looks at push to remove books from North Texas ISDs.
Seventy years after Brown v. Board ruling, school segregation persists in Fort Worth
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) In both the Fort Worth and Dallas independent school districts, segregation between Black and white students has remained relatively flat since 1991, according to the analysis. But both districts’ segregation rates are among the highest in Texas, according to the report.
Will federal negotiations with Texas school district turn the tide for DEI? | Commentary
(Chicago Tribune) When I graduated from Carroll Independent School District in 2004, I was one of only a few students of color at the time, so the students’ experiences hit close to home for me.
Design plans for Santa Fe school shooting memorial released Saturday during foundation event
(Houston Chronicle) The Santa Fe Ten Memorial Foundation unveiled the design Saturday for its memorial honoring those who died in the 2018 school shooting at Santa Fe High School.
Six years after mass shooting, wounded Santa Fe ISD police officer still fighting for benefits
(Click 2 Houston) Former Santa Fe ISD police officer John Barnes was critically wounded during the mass shooting at Santa Fe High School on May 18, 2018. Barnes was the first officer to confront the gunman and was hit with a blast from a shotgun, which shredded an artery in his arm. Barnes said he assumed he would receive some form of medical disability but later learned that was not the case.
How Texas School Districts Can Get Out Of The Health Insurance Business | Commentary
(RiskManagers.us) We recommend you consider joining a tax supported fully-insured government backed risk pool administered by recognized national health insurers including Blue Cross, United Healthcare and others. Federal tax dollars provide needed subsidies to lower health insurance costs for employees who qualify.
Muslim organization sues Abbott, colleges for suppressing speech
(Dallas Morning News) The Council on American-Islamic Relations, or CAIR, argues Abbott’s recent executive order addressing antisemitism specifically targets the free speech rights of Palestinian activists.
Video: Liberty Hill ISD police car passes stopped school bus
(KXAN) According to the viewer, this happens nearly every morning at the Highway 29 bus stop. “They did not have lights on [nor] did they turn on lights after passing,” the viewer said in an email. “I record every morning and afternoon because we have problems with people passing the bus all the time.”
Uncle of shooting victim Jackie Cazares reflects on first school board meeting as trustee
(Texas Public Radio) Newly elected Uvalde CISD school board member Jesse Rizo never imagined he would run for local office. After he lost his 9-year-old niece Jackie Cazares in the 2022 Robb Elementary School shooting, Rizo became a voice for the 21 victims. He was sworn in as a UCISD trustee earlier this month.
Incoming North East ISD board to grapple with budget shortfall, book bans
(San Antonio Report) Five trustees, including four new faces, were sworn into office for the North East Independent School District Board of Trustees this week — a changing of the guard for the seven-member panel, which conservative education groups targeted in all five electoral races earlier this month but were shut out.
Lake Travis ISD considers 1% compensation increase for 2024-25 school year
(Community Impact) “We’re trying to give our teachers and staff every bit we can,” Place 2 board member Lauren White said. “This is all we can do this year, and 1% is an insult, … but I do think that showing what we can do and working to stay on top is incredibly important.“
Teacher salary gap prompts Beaumont ISD to consider raises
(Beaumont Enterprise) Beaumont ISD employees will likely receive a pay increase in the coming months, according to a proposal laid out by district officials, but taxpayers likely will have to head to the ballot box first.
Pearland ISD to hire staff for 6 full-time positions for 2024-25 school year
(Community Impact) The positions will be to balance campus ratios, and for the district’s food service and bilingual services departments, according to district agenda documents.
Gun found at Coleman High School, suspect in custody
(KTSX) That suspect was taken into custody without incident, and the gun was secured by police. According to police, there was no active shooter at the school and no injuries reported.
Prosper ISD Parents Propose Single-member Voting Districts
(Texas Scorecard) “We believe this change will greatly enhance representation, ensuring that every area within our diverse district is fairly and adequately represented,” a group of local families wrote in an email to Prosper ISD trustees.
Early graduate excluded from Project Graduation celebration, feels punished
(KTSX) A Clyde High School graduate says she feels like she’s being punished for graduating early. The graduate attended summer school so she could finish early in September. Jocilynn Hazelwood is set to walk across the stage on May 23rd, but she says she won’t be allowed to celebrate with her friends at the Project Graduation ceremony.
VIDEO: The Frank Erwin Center officially comes down
(KXAN) The Drum is no more.
Midland ISD’s tuition-based Pre-K education
(Odessa American) Midland ISD will launch a brand new tuition-based Pre-K in the fall of 2024. This new opportunity is designed specifically for families who may not qualify for traditional Pre-K, but still desire expanded education for their young children. The monthly tuition for the program will be $350, and tuition will be collected from August through May.
Austin ISD implements new yoga program for mental health
(KVUE) Some teachers say they’ve already seen the program make a big impact, both on the staff and the students.
Carroll ISD to challenge Title IX changes protecting LGBTQ+ students
(KERA) The Carroll school board voted unanimously Wednesday night to “proceed with litigation against all necessary parties related to proposed changes to Title 9 and their effect on Carroll ISD,” the district said on social media.
Conroe ISD board votes to remove 3 items from biology curriculum
(Community Impact) The Conroe ISD board of trustees on May 14 agreed to remove several items from a biology textbook in its 2024-25 curriculum, but it retained several other items board members had objected to on topics such as COVID-19 and genetically modified organisms.
Charter company overseeing Mendez Middle School denies sending Texas school funds out of state
(Austin American-Statesman) Third Future Schools, which manages the Austin district’s struggling Mendez Middle School, is denying reports by Spectrum News that an investigation by the cable news company has uncovered millions in Texas public education money that the charter school company allegedly funneled to campuses it oversees in Colorado, where the charter network is based.
Fort Worth ISD to Return Sexually Explicit Books to Library Shelves
(Texas Scorecard) Months after the Fort Worth Independent School District closed down its libraries to review books, the district is now returning multiple books that were flagged by citizens.
HISD, other Houston-area districts cancel school Friday due to deadly storm
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD and several other public school districts have canceled classes on Friday due to severe storms Thursday evening.
Storm Prevents Presentation of HISD’s $2.1 Billion Budget, But Here Are Some Details
(Houston Press) A room full of Houston ISD parents, students and teachers got to shelter in place along with Superintendent Mike Miles and his administrators Thursday night when a tornado watch turned into a tornado warning and the Hattie Mae White administration building lost power, lights and the internet.
DISD Super Laments Likelihood of School Choice Passing
(Dallas Express) “It is very likely that private school subsidies are going to have the votes to pass,” Dallas ISD Superintendent Stephanie said, adding that since “we are all in the same sandbox,” public school leaders are “definitely going to have to ask to be a part of the conversations.”
Northwest ISD faces $14 million deficit, discusses raising tax rates
(Fort Worth Report) Without additional funds, the district faces a $14 million deficit in its 2024-25 budget, Chief Financial Officer Jonathan Pastusek told trustees during a May 6 board meeting. Superintendent Mark Foust and board President Steve Sprowls aren’t confident that the Texas Legislature will provide those funds come 2025.
Fort Worth ISD proposes first balanced general fund budget in 7 years
(Fort Worth Report) If the numbers hold and the budget is approved, this would be the first time in at least seven years that the school board adopts a balanced general fund budget, according to district officials.
Austin ISD Budget Woes Take a Turn for the Worse
(Austin Chronicle) As AISD Trustee Noelita Lugo said, “Damn, we are really in a tight spot.”
Grapevine-Colleyville ISD committee recommends lengthening school day for 2025-26 school year
(Community Impact) Adding minutes to the school day would give teachers more time to plan classroom lessons.
Waco ISD bus contractor announces layoffs
(KWKT Waco) This comes as the district has announced it is taking on running the bus system itself.
Laredo mom speaks out against son’s school bullying
(KGNS) Maria Lanatta, mother of 6th grader Julio Lanatta at Cigarroa Middle School, revealed that the bullying initially began with hurtful words directed at her son’s appearance, gait, and disability, Caudal Regression Syndrome. However, the situation has escalated to physical violence, with Julio reportedly being struck multiple times on the head with a Chromebook by another student.
Nacogdoches elementary school teacher accused of injuring student
(KTRE) According to an arrest affidavit, Nacogdoches ISD police officers were notified about an incident that took place at Mike Moses Elementary on May 9. Video footage is said show Ronald Watson, 60, of Nacogdoches bumping into a student, allegedly causing pain to her ribs.
Muslim advocacy group sues Abbott saying university executive order violates free speech
(Texas Tribune) The organization is filing the lawsuit on behalf of Students for Justice in Palestine at the University of Houston, Students for Justice in Palestine at the University of Texas at Dallas, and the Democratic Socialists of America.
‘A Unique Challenge’: What English Learners With Disabilities Need
(EdWeek) Lizdelia Piñón, an emergent bilingual education associate for the Texas-based advocacy nonprofit Intercultural Development Research Association, or IDRA, knows all too well how important it is for families to advocate for their children. Her Spanish-speaking 11-year-old triplets require several accommodations for their autism, cerebral palsy, ADHD, and more.
Fort Bend ISD students re-awarded salutatorian and valedictorian spots after claims of ‘unfair’ graduation policy
(Click 2 Houston) Valedictorian and Salutatorian rankings are being restored at two Fort Bend ISD high schools after an investigation into class ranking policy.
National Alliance for Public Charter Schools Names Starlee Coleman as President and CEO
(NAPCS) Coleman is currently CEO of the Texas Public Charter Schools Association (TPCSA).
Texas A&M quickly shoots down inaccurate report about new restrooms
(KBTX) This marks the second time this week that Texas A&M has had to publicly address inaccurate statements shared by conservative-based groups on the web.
Former Edinburg football player avoids prison after tackling referee
(ValleyCentral.com) A former Edinburg High football player will spend a year on community supervision after tackling a referee in 2020. Emmanuel Duron pleaded no contest to a charge of assault causing bodily injury Tuesday morning after he was seen tackling referee Alfredo “Fred” Gracia during a playoff high school football game between Edinburg High and PSJA High.
HISD Superintendent Miles denies allegations of illegal financial practices at former charter network
(Houston Chronicle) Miles, in a late night email to “friends, partners and board members,” wrote that the story by Spectrum News in Dallas “badly misunderstands, or worse, intentionally misrepresents the financial practices of Third Future Schools.”
Nearly 1.7 million Texas kids are at risk of going hungry
(Texas Public Radio) A new report from the nation’s food bank network found the share of Texans as risk of going hungry went up again. Across Texas, 1 in 6 Texas households could not afford enough nutritious food in 2022, according the latest data that’s available, which amounts to nearly 5 million Texans.
Texas A&M University System refutes Title IX claims in article shared by Governor Abbott
(KBTX) The Texas A&M University System is working to separate fact from fiction after two articles they say inaccurately reflected their stance on recent Title IX changes were published, according to university officials.
Revisiting the protest movements at the University of Texas
(Texas Tribune) Protests have been a century-long tradition at UT-Austin, and The Daily Texan, the student newspaper, has faithfully covered and recorded these significant historical events.
Cases filed against 3 juveniles in connection to Northwest ISD attack plot
(Fox 4 KDFW) Fort Worth Police say cases against three juveniles have been filed in connection to an online list threatening violence against students and teachers.
13 Investigates controversial Texas crackdown on e-cigarette use in schools in HB114
(KTRK) ABC13 data requests show that, as of May 1, more than 1,300 students from our area’s largest school districts were sent to alternative schools this school year for e-cigarette violations. In HISD, 244 students; in Katy, 399; and in Cy-Fair ISD, 638.
Conroe ISD Trustees Table Discussions About A Potentially Copycat Gender Identity Policy
(Houston Press) Trustees tussled over creating a “gender fluidity” policy on Tuesday night.
Southlake parent groups urge Carroll ISD to amend civil rights violations
(KERA) Two Southlake parent groups are urging Carroll ISD Superintendent Lane Ledbetter to acknowledge the findings of a years-long investigation that found the district violated students’ civil rights.
New book looks at political tension in school districts like Southlake, Texas
(NBC News) NBC News’ Mike Hixenbaugh discusses his book “They Came For The Schools,” which looks at the conservative movement to police teaching of certain subjects at U.S. schools.
Financial audit into Socorro ISD finds inconsistencies with millions of dollars given as stipends
(KVIA) An investigation into SISD found inconsistencies with millions of dollars given as stipends and extra duty pay.
Conservators from the Texas Education Agency speaking to public following appointment to Socorro ISD
(KVIA) Fixing these systems in these finances is doable. It’s just going to make difficult decisions,” said Hinojosa, who is the lead conservator appointed to SISD.
Magnolia ISD approves staff raises, retention payments
(Community Impact) Magnolia ISD will give all nonteaching staff a 1% raise while teacher raises will be staggered based on years of experience.
Frisco ISD officials OK $963M budget with $30.8M potential shortfall
(Community Impact) Frisco ISD officials adopted a total budget of $963.78 million with a potential $30.81 million shortfall in the general fund for fiscal year 2024-25.
Lewisville ISD officials on track to reduce FY 2024-25 budget shortfall, discuss staff raises
(Community Impact) Lewisville ISD officials have exercised cost-reduction measures since projecting a $14 million budget shortfall in fiscal year 2024-25 in April. Taking these efforts into consideration, LISD officials estimated next year’s budget shortfall at around $8 million, Superintendent Lori Rapp said at a May 13 meeting.
Friendswood ISD board of trustees approves $1.75M change order for 2020 bond
(Community Impact) The priority for the band, choir and engineering building comes after the work schedule was altered due to officials suspending construction following the roof collapse in the boys gym at Friendswood High School last June, which killed a construction worker and injured three others.
TGSO sheds light on Wall ISD faculty arrest
(Concho Valley Homepage) During the investigation, investigators learned that the individual communicated via sexually explicit language describing sexual conduct, attempted to solicit sexually explicit photographs from underage females and provided a pornographic photographic image to a female child younger than 15 years of age.
Mom concerned after knife-threatening incident at North Texas school: “I want something done other than, ‘I’m sorry.'”
(CBS Dallas) The mother of the alleged victim says she was given a weak excuse from the school about why she wasn’t notified until the next day.
Arizona Superintendent Criticized For Having Texan Train School Board Members
(Arizona Independent News Network) The Arizona Department of Education (AZED) came under scrutiny for having a Texan train school boards in its most recent event. (Arizona Sate Superintendent Tom Horne) had tapped AJ Crabill, a Texan school district leader with the Effective School Boards Initiative, to lead a training session last week.
Musk’s SpaceX is quick to build in Texas, slow to pay its bills
(Reuters) Unpaid bills and finger-pointing among contractors, Reuters found, have led many construction-industry businesses to file liens against SpaceX properties in efforts to get compensated.
DACA recipients will now be eligible for federal health care coverage under new Biden rule
(NBC News) More than 100,000 young immigrants protected by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program will soon become eligible to receive federal health care coverage for the first time since DACA was implemented over a decade ago.
Terrifying video shows 9-year-old dodging bullets during Fort Worth drive-by shooting
(Fox 4 KDFW) The shooting injured six young people, including a toddler who was the most seriously injured.
Feds issue another cybersecurity alert
(Center Square) In a joint federal cybersecurity advisory, the Federal Bureau of Investigations, U.S. Department of State, and National Security Agency warned that the North Korean military intelligence agency, Kimsuky, is hacking email system vulnerabilities to “collect intelligence on geopolitical events, adversary foreign policy strategies, and any information affecting North Korean interests by gaining illicit access to targets’ private documents, research, and communications.”
36% of breached critical infrastructure organizations have paid off ransomware
(Security InfoWatch.com) Over three-in-ten US-based critical infrastructure organizations (36%) that have fallen victim to a ransomware attack have risked legal repercussions by paying a ransom.
Arlington ISD archery program named high school national champions
(NBC DFW) The program has won eight state championships in nine years and celebrated the NASP national title at the high school level on May 11
Students get first taste of new healthcare-focused high school launching this fall
(NBC DFW) Baylor Scott and White, Uplift Education and billionaire Mike Bloomberg are teaming up to create a school where there’s training in everything from how to be a surgical tech to pairing up with mentors at Baylor who are physicians.
Is yoga the key to keeping teachers in Austin ISD?
(KXAN) The district said the course gives teachers and students new ways of coping with stress.
UISD invites aspiring educators to ‘U-Teach, U-Transform’ residency program
(KGNS) United ISD is partnering with TAMIU for its “U-Teach, U-Transform” residency program which allows juniors and seniors in college to apply with UISD, so they can get experience in the classroom while attending classes at TAMIU.
