Reported Elsewhere
or to websites offering free trials.
TexEdNews neither condones nor endorses the accuracy of this news feed.
Aug. 31, 2026
Texas says high school police certifications don’t show student ‘readiness’. San Antonio districts disagree
(San Antonio Report) Texas has changed how high schools measure “college, career and military readiness,” and two law enforcement certifications — county jailer and telecommunications — are now classified as low-value Tier 3 credentials. San Antonio-area school officials say the ranking could discourage districts from offering law enforcement programs, even though students show strong interest and the jobs can provide solid careers. Rather than dropping the programs, districts such as North East, Southside and San Antonio ISDs are looking at pairing law enforcement certifications with dual-credit courses or other credentials so students can earn more college, career and military readiness (CCMR) credit.
North Texas charter school leans on virtual learning to keep campus open through new state law
(CBS Texas) As a result of new legislation, Treetops School International charter school in Euless reopened grades 7-12, but with some changes.
San Antonio ISD closed schools to avoid state intervention, but it might not matter
(San Antonio Report) San Antonio ISD and Judson ISD could still face state takeovers despite closing schools with long histories of failing grades. Under Texas law, schools with five consecutive unacceptable ratings can trigger state intervention, and TEA has ruled that the failing records of SAISD’s Carvajal Elementary and Judson’s Park Village Elementary will transfer to the schools that received most of their students. That means Barkley-Ruiz Elementary in SAISD and Hartman Elementary in Judson must improve their ratings next year to avoid possible state sanctions.
Austin ISD could lose local control. Do state takeovers work?
(Austin American-Statesman) Austin ISD could face state intervention after 2 schools received five consecutive failing ratings. Experiences in Houston, Shepherd and Marlin offer mixed results. Related:
Judge Rejects CAIR-Backed Bid To Reinstate Fort Worth ISD Principal Appointee After Sharia, BLM Posts
(Dallas Express) A federal judge has denied Shayma Alzubi’s request for immediate reinstatement as principal of Western Hills High School, finding at this stage that Fort Worth ISD did not take an adverse employment action when it reassigned her to a higher-paying district role. The ruling is the latest development in a controversy first reported by The Dallas Express on May 26 after DX obtained social media posts tied to Alzubi’s Facebook account and requested comment from the district. The posts addressed Sharia, Black Lives Matter, DACA, Palestine, and FWISD’s COVID-19 mask policy. Related:
- OpenAI partners with Fort Worth ISD on ChatGPT for teachers. Questions remain (Fort Worth Report)
3 students stabbed at Socorro ISD’s Americas High School; 14-year-old suspect in custody
(KTSM) Three students were injured Friday morning in an isolated knife attack near Americas High School in the Socorro ISD, according to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office. El Paso County Sheriff’s Office Commander Jerome Washington said a call was received at about 8:31 a.m. regarding a person with a knife near the high school and the baseball field. Socorro ISD police officers arrived within minutes and found three students suffering from stab wounds. The suspect is facing three counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Additional charges may be forthcoming as the investigation continues.
Richardson ISD teacher arrested on felony online solicitation charge, placed on leave
(Fox 4 KDFW) Berkner High School teacher Michael Ralph Fouse was arrested Thursday on a third-degree felony charge of online solicitation of a minor. Richardson police said detectives began investigating Fouse on Aug. 20 after receiving a tip from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. The investigation remains ongoing.
Sinton PD launches investigation into non-verbal student found on busy roadway, CPS confirms probe into Sinton ISD
(KRIS) The Sinton Police Department is investigating last week’s incident involving an 8-year-old non-verbal student who left school and was found on a busy roadway.
Muleshoe ISD Teacher Arrested for Sexual Misconduct With Student
(Texas Scorecard) Allegra Mora was charged in June with improper relationship between educator and student. Mora was a teacher in the Muleshoe Independent School District at the time of the alleged offense, which occurred during the 2025-26 school year. Amarillo Mug Shots learned of the case and obtained records from the Bailey County Sheriff’s Office and Texas Department of Public Safety.
Andrews ISD teacher arrested for felony solicitation charge
(KMID/KPEJ) Christopher Legget Cleveland, an Andrews ISD faculty member was arrested by Andrews ISD Police officers Friday afternoon on a charge of Online Solicitation of a Minor, a Third Degree Felony in connection with an investigation in Arlington, Texas.
Texas teen allegedly posted anonymous school threat. FBI found her at a bus stop
(Houston Chronicle) A 14-year-old Texas student who allegedly tried to hide her identity on social media while posting a school threat online apparently wasn’t hidden enough for the FBI.
2 top local high school football recruits transfer, UIL decision looms large
(Dallas Observer) Are Texas laws making top athletes want to leave the state before they get to college?
DeSoto’s Pregame Handshake Snub Exploded In Their Face With a Brutal 38-0 Beatdown
(NewsBreak) DeSoto High School captains flat out refused to shake hands with St. Thomas Aquinas before their national showdown Saturday night, and boy, did that decision come back to bite them HARD. The Texas powerhouse, four-time UIL state champions, flew all the way to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., only to stir up some serious bad blood right at the coin toss. Their captains wouldn’t even acknowledge St. Thomas Aquinas’ captains, a move that immediately ignited a firestorm of criticism across social media.
Inside the New $27 Million Texas High School Football Stadium That Opened Friday Night
(Sports Illustrated) Argyle ISD’s new 7,500-seat stadium features a two-story press box, 60-foot scoreboard and room to expand as the fast-growing district adds another high school.
How women’s flag football is emerging as one of the country’s fastest-growing sports
(KBTX) Women’s flag football is gaining momentum in Texas, with 20 college teams already competing, including 17 varsity and three club programs. Prairie View A&M’s club team is highlighted as an example of players hoping to reach the 2028 Olympics, while Texas-Arlington is preparing to become the state’s first Division I varsity program in 2027. The UIL is also surveying Texas school superintendents about interest in adding girls’ flag football, which could expand the sport at the high school level.
Former TCU safety Jacob Fields charged with aggravated assault after locker room altercation
(Dallas Morning News) Former TCU safety Jacob Fields is facing an aggravated assault charge after a locker room altercation with an ex-teammate. Fields was booked into the Tarrant County jail Sunday and is being charged with aggravated assault causing serious bodily injury.
Texas A&M researchers explore AI to strengthen math teacher preparation
(Texas A&M) A five-year, $2 million National Science Foundation-funded project will explore artificial intelligence’s potential to foster more flexible, creative approaches to teaching math.
How the new Letourneau University air dome impacts athlete performance
(KLTV) LeTourneau University’s new air dome provides a space for athletes to better their performance beyond the competition.
Rice University has expanded to almost 9,500 students. Can its close-knit culture survive the growth?
(Houston Chronicle) New dorms, hundreds of faculty hires and a record freshman class are transforming the once-quiet campus while Rice tries to preserve its intimate culture.
Houston City College faces $107 million deferred maintenance backlog, new report shows
(KTRK) Houston City College says it has invested over $100 million in deferred maintenance since 2020, but a new report shows the college system still has about $107 million in maintenance needs across its aging facilities. The issue comes as HCC reports record enrollment and academic achievements. The college recently surpassed 100,000 students across 19 campuses in the Houston area.
Apparently everyone wants to go to the University of Houston
(Houston Chronicle) The school set a new freshman enrollment record for the third year in a row.
Student Parents in Texas Unaware of Key Supports
(Inside Higher Ed) Priority registration and campus liaisons can ease barriers for student parents. New Trellis Strategies research finds many in Texas don’t know they exist.
Fort Worth zoning commissioners tap brakes on Keller ISD sale of 100 acres
(Fort Worth Report) A proposed industrial development on about 100 acres in far north Fort Worth/Alliance owned by Keller ISD has been delayed after drawing strong opposition from nearby homeowners and members of the Fort Worth Zoning Commission.
Federal funding could bring aviation training to Laredo schools
(Laredo Morning Times) A youth aviation program inspired by one Laredo pilot’s experience learning to fly as a teenager could expand to local high schools with help from a $5 million federal aviation workforce initiative.
Texas A&M Health Says School Cell Phone Ban Allows Teachers to ‘Reclaim Lost Attention’
(Texas Scorecard) Texas A&M Health reports that Texas’ new limits on cell phones for students during the school day are allowing teachers to “reclaim lost attention.” According to A&M’s research, despite initial anxiety from teachers, parents, and students about the new statewide requirement, concerns quickly abated leaving teachers more energy to focus on educating students.
‘They need to see themselves’: Dallas leaders examine educational challenges facing Black students
(Dallas Morning News) Black students must see themselves represented in education and find support in their community, North Texas education leaders said at a Thursday discussion.
Sunnyside community blindsided by Houston ISD’s decision to end park lease for construction
(Houston Chronicle) Sunnyside community members were shocked to discover that Houston ISD is ending its lease of Grimes Park to the city of Houston as it builds a new career and technical education center, according to the city parks department.
‘Sexist’ dress code sparks revolt at Humble ISD middle school
(Houston Chronicle) A student-led petition with more than 800 signatures is challenging dress-code enforcement at Creekwood Middle School in Humble ISD, arguing that girls are disproportionately targeted and that rules are applied inconsistently.
County treasurers, tax assessors ask Texas lawmakers for guidance on the end of penny production
(KXAN) County tax assessors and treasurers are asking Texas lawmakers for guidance on how to handle cash payments as pennies become harder to obtain after the U.S. Mint stopped producing them. Officials say Texas law requires counties to make exact change, creating costly administrative problems when residents overpay by even a few cents. They want lawmakers to establish a uniform policy for all 254 counties, potentially requiring a constitutional amendment.
More than 1.2 million Texas voter registrations are flagged. Here’s what voters should know
(KERA) The designation doesn’t mean a voter is ineligible. Here’s how to check your registration and make sure you’re ready to vote.
August 28, 2026
Public schools in bind over new Texas law allowing students to leave class for Bible study
(CBS Texas) A new Texas law requires public schools to allow students to leave campus for up to five hours a week for privately funded religious instruction, including Bible study. The law has created challenges for districts trying to accommodate the programs without appearing to endorse or support a particular religion. The Christian nonprofit LifeWise is launching programs in several North Texas communities, but districts including Denton, McKinney and Plano have pushed back against claims of partnerships or concerns about scheduling and school resources. Experts warn districts could face legal problems if they use public funds or resources to support the religious programs.
Lake Worth ISD sets 5-year goals to double third-grade reading, math proficiency
(Fort Worth Report) State-appointed Lake Worth ISD leaders want to more than double the share of third graders meeting grade level in reading and math within five years.
6 Austin schools passed in 2026. Now they’re one F away from possible TEA action
(Austin American-Statesman) In an Aug. 13 letter, TEA said six schools would inherit four years of unacceptable ratings, and questioned the timing and rationale for the Parades Middle School closing. Related:
Carroll ISD reduces screen time for all grade levels
(Community Impact) The Carroll ISD board of trustees unanimously approved updates to the 2026-27 Academic Planning Guide and Grading Guidelines, including a new educational technology policy that reduces screen time across all grade levels.
Alief ISD marks historic milestone with opening of first all-girls campus
(Fox 26 Houston) Alief ISD celebrated the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for The Young Women’s Leadership School, its first-ever all-girls campus. The school serves sixth and seventh-grade students, affectionately known as “Diamonds,” with a focus on sisterhood, leadership, and STEM education. As the third all-girls public campus in the Houston area, it aims to empower young women through college prep and entrepreneurship.
Fort Worth ISD scales back Bonnie Brae Elementary applied learning after expansion promise
(Fort Worth Report) Fort Worth ISD students who moved into Bonnie Brae Elementary after their school closed will receive the hands-on learning their families were promised, according to district leaders. But the entire school won’t move to an applied learning curriculum, which asks students to learn core lessons through applications in the real world, as previously planned.
911 call captures tense moments after Lake Travis football player collapsed
(Houston Chronicle) A newly obtained 911 call captures the tense moments after 17-year-old Odin Hensley collapsed during football practice at Lake Travis High School earlier this month, with a caller calmly guiding a dispatcher through the teenager’s condition as paramedics raced to the field. Hensley would die from complications related to his collapse two days later.
Beaumont ISD reverses course, decides to continue placing an ambulance at all home varsity games
(KFDM) An ambulance parked outside Beaumont ISD’s Doggett Family Stadium during West Brook’s season-opening football game Thursday night drew attention after the district said a day earlier it would no longer station a dedicated ambulance at games. Beaumont ISD has made the decision to continue having a dedicated ambulance on site at all home varsity football games. BISD had sent a statement to KFDM on Wednesday, saying it was planning to utilize City of Beaumont Fire and EMS to respond to any emergency, as they do for the general public, but no longer have an EMS unit on site. Acadian had been providing that service. A number of people posted on our Facebook page that they felt not having an ambulance on site would create an increased risk for young athletes and potentially fans.
Nacogdoches ISD, commissioners consider civic center for football practice under new UIL heat rule
(KTRE) Nacogdoches ISD is asking the county to allow its football team to use the civic center for practices when extreme heat prevents outdoor workouts under new UIL rules. County commissioners voted to explore the arrangement, although civic center officials raised concerns about scheduling, safety and whether the county’s other school districts (and other sports and marching bands) would also seek access. Nacogdoches ISD said it has discussed the possibility of an indoor athletic facility but has no current plans to build one.
Former Bowie ISD High School administrator arrested at new school district
(KFDX/KJTL) Authorities in Cooke County arrested the former principal of Bowie ISD High School after formal charges were filed against her by a Montague County grand jury. Joanne Marie Keeler, 50, was arrested and booked into the Cooke County Jail on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, and charged with failing to report child abuse or neglect. Keeler served as the principal of Bowie High School from the beginning of the 2022-23 school year until she resigned in March 2026. Following her departure from the Bowie Independent School District, she was named Vice Principal at Valley View ISD Elementary School.
Students relocated to stadium after middle school evacuation in Carrollton
(CBS Texas) Students at a Carrollton ISD middle school were relocated to a stadium for dismissal after the campus was evacuated and officials determined the building was unsafe to re-enter. Bailey Clampitt, a Carrollton city spokesperson, said a gas leak reported during construction work inside Blalack Middle School prompted the evacuation. “A building alarm was activated, and at the recommendation of the Fire Department, students and staff did not re-enter the campus,” Clampitt said, noting that all children were safe.
Seguin High School students were instructed to evacuate after bomb threat, district says
(KSAT) Seguin ISD High School students were forced to evacuate after dismissal Thursday due to a reported bomb threat, according to Seguin ISD.
Bond set for student accused of school threat against IDEA Elsa
(ValleyCentral) Alessandro Ayala, 17, was arrested by the Elsa Police Department on Wednesday and charged with terroristic threat causing serious bodily injury. The Elsa Police Department reported that an IDEA Elsa Academy teacher reported the alleged threat on Tuesday. According to police, the teacher reported that the student, later identified as Ayala, told other students that he made a verbal threat about bringing a firearm to school and having a list of individuals.
Victoria teen charged after social media school threat prompts FBI investigation
(Crossroads Today) Last week, a 14-year-old girl was arrested by the Victoria County Sheriff’s Office after authorities said she made a school threat on social media. The girl was arrested at a bus stop near a local middle school and charged with terroristic threat.
Growing pains: Texas Tech addresses challenges due to record enrollment
(KCBD) As Texas Tech University celebrates record-breaking enrollment, it’s working through the growing pains of making space for nearly 46,000 Red Raiders. Texas Tech President Lawrence Schovanec said the university projected about 2,000 additional students would start classes this year, but they ended up with closer to 4,000 students enrolled. While the record-breaking enrollment is exciting, students say they are feeling the squeeze. Related:
Accused drunk driver in custody after hitting Conroe ISD school bus
(KBTX) On Aug. 26 at about 4:01 p.m., the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office dispatch received a 911 call reporting that a Conroe ISD school bus had been rear-ended by a Jeep in a subdivision. Deputies say the Jeep’s two occupants fled the scene on foot, and one was reportedly carrying a firearm. The driver of the Jeep, Larry Roman Valencia, 28, was captured and arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated, possession of a controlled substance, and tampering with evidence. The passenger remains at large, but investigators have identified him and are seeking an arrest warrant.
SMU Bars CAIR-Texas ‘Unapologetically Muslim’ Youth Symposium From Campus
(Dallas Express) Southern Methodist University will not allow a CAIR-Texas-promoted Muslim youth leadership symposium branded “Unapologetically Muslim: Youth in Action” to take place on its campus after reviewing the planned event and citing what the university called the State of Texas’ “current designation of the symposium’s organizer.”
Baylor notifies campus of tuberculosis case found in Waco community
(KWTX) The Waco-McLennan County Public Health District has confirmed an active tuberculosis case in the greater Waco community, according to a notice sent by Baylor University on Aug. 26 that cited information from the health district.
University of Houston receives $5M anonymous gift to research homelessness in Houston
(Community Impact) The University of Houston will use a $5 million anonymous donation to study the region’s response to homelessness, according to the university. UH announced the launch of the Institute for Housing, Homelessness and Health, or IH3. The initiative will study how housing, health and other systems interact. University officials announced IH3 at the Aug. 26 Houston City Council meeting and said the partnership with the city and other organizations aims to make homelessness “rare” and “brief.”
Amarillo College plans reset of Innovation Outpost with new workforce training focus
(High Plains Pundit) Amarillo College is planning a reset of its Innovation Outpost, shifting its focus toward shorter, customized workforce training developed directly with Amarillo-area employers.
Spikes Under The Lights captivates at AT&T Stadium, puts volleyball’s growth on full display
(Dallas Morning News) Looking for proof that women’s college volleyball has surged in recent years? You don’t need to look further than AT&T Stadium on Thursday night. The organizers of Spikes Under The Lights set a tall task that would’ve been impossible just years ago: bring college volleyball to one of the largest NFL stadiums in the country with a $1 million cash prize and draw fan bases from nearly a thousand miles in each direction for an exhibition tournament.
Will a Coalition of ‘MAGA Moms’ Rally Behind Gina Hinojosa’s Bid for Texas Governor?
(Texas Observer) Some conservatives say they won’t give Governor Greg Abbott a fourth term after what he’s done to the public education system in Texas.
Travis County expands access to afterschool care
(Community Impact) Travis County is expanding afterschool care this fall by adding funding and seats through its Raising Travis County initiative to address a major shortage, with more than 1,100 kids currently on waitlists. The county says it has invested about $52 million so far in child care and afterschool programs, supporting thousands of children and teens through providers such as the YMCA, Boys & Girls Clubs, and school districts.
Some people think of the GED as the easy way out. Experts say that’s not the case
(Texas Standard) Lindsey Arasanagi, vice president of adult education at the Literacy Coalition of Central Texas, said the GED is harder than most people realize. “The stigma around it is definitely there within our community,” she said. “Our students coming in have to retrain and reframe those thoughts around what they’re doing and how hard it is and how much commitment and time it takes.” Colin Melton, a GED student at the coalition, says part of the difficulty is trying to make up for years of learning in a much shorter time span.
Child Care Associates invested in hydration stations. Now Tarrant County toddlers can get their own water
(Fort Worth Report) Child Care Associates is equipping pre-K children in its centers with the ability to pour themselves a drink of water without the support of a teacher. Through the introduction of 115 automatic water dispensers and easy-to-access disposable cups at 15 of its centers, the nonprofit is looking to alleviate dysregulation — defined by the Child Mind Institute as being overwhelmed by feelings — in their children.
August 27, 2026
Gov. Abbott orders higher ed agency to help create three-year bachelor’s degrees
(Austin American-Statesman) Gov. Greg Abbott directed the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to create a plan to bring three-year bachelor’s degrees to Texas. In a Wednesday letter to higher education Commissioner Wynn Rosser, Abbott pitched three-year degrees as a way to make higher education more affordable, efficient and attainable for Texans amid a growing need for a college-educated workforce.
Here’s what Greg Abbott, Gina Hinojosa say about education priorities in Texas governor’s race
(Texas Tribune) From school takeovers to college affordability, the Democrat and Republican are rolling out their education priorities ahead of November’s election.
Lawmakers Scrutinize Barbers Hill ISD’s Massive Education Foundation
(Texas Scorecard) The House Select Committee on Governmental Oversight scrutinized Barbers Hill ISD’s controversial education foundation Wednesday. House members questioned nearly $100 million directed to the foundation, its real estate investments, and potential conflicts of interest.
In the era of vouchers, school districts are trying their best to reel in new students
(Dallas Observer) North Texas districts are now advertising for their lives amid campus closures and vanishing enrollment.
New TEA ratings reveal deep gaps for North Texas low-income students
(Dallas Morning News) North Texas students from low-income families have a hard time accessing quality education, according to a Dallas Morning News analysis of new school ratings data released by the Texas Education Agency. In the North Texas counties of Dallas, Collin, Denton and Tarrant, only 8% or 35 of 437 schools graded A in the latest TEA accountability ratings had a high share of students from poor families.
How a national Christian group influenced a new Texas law requiring public schools to allow Bible classes
(CBS Texas) Texas now requires public schools to let students leave for parent-approved religious instruction during the day, a practice pushed by LifeWise Academy. Supporters call it parental freedom; critics warn it favors Christianity, cuts into class time, and raises church-state separation concerns amid a broader push for religion in public schools.
Meta to pay Texas $1 billion in child safety case
(Texas Tribune) As part of Texas’ settlement, the tech giant behind Facebook and Instagram will apply stricter age verification measures and institute a daily two-hour limit for teens.
Mike Miles says his Houston ISD exit could be coming sooner than you think
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles says he expects the district’s state intervention could officially end at the close of the 2026-27 school year- and suggested his own time leading the district could end soon after. “Get out of here as fast as possible. That’s my exit strategy,” Miles said during an appearance Tuesday on Hello Houston when asked about his plans for leaving the state takeover. Miles later clarified that he has a contract extending four more years, but added he expects a newly elected HISD school board to choose its own superintendent once the state intervention ends. Related:
Killeen ISD cuts spending, rolls back tax rate
(Fox 44) The KISD board has adopted a general fund budget some $17.6 million dollars less than last year, meaning a lower tax rate and smaller deficit. In their Tuesday night meeting, the KISD Board of Trustees adopted a General Fund near $502.9 million and reduced its planned General Fund deficit from approximately $4.2 million the prior year to $1.4 million.
Edinburg CISD super gets $335K annual contract; discusses dire financial situation
(myRGV) The Edinburg CISD board decided in a 4-3 vote to approve a three-year contract for new Superintendent Angela Dominguez, who is taking the helm of the district that is in financial distress.
Canutillo ISD launches $4 million private network for digital learning, security
(KVIA) Wednesday, the Canutillo Independent School District broke ground and formally launched a private fiber network to help with digital learning. CISD Superintendent Josue Borrego said the network is a $4 million modernization move. The district said the private network will give students access to high-speed, reliable connectivity.
Pflugerville ISD pauses Flock Safety cameras as city ends contract
(KVUE) The district said in a letter to families Wednesday that it removed all cameras from its high schools and the Pfield athletic complex.
Northside ISD joins list of school districts partnering with OpenAI
(San Antonio Report) Artificial intelligence company Open AI is partnering with a growing number of school districts in Texas, including one here in San Antonio. Northside Independent School District confirmed it will be using ChatGPT for Teachers, an artificial intelligence chatbot made by OpenAI specifically for school systems and educators. Related:
- Northside ISD explores how to better support breastfeeding teachers (San Antonio Express-News)
Fort Worth ISD cancels all outdoor activities, practices amid Texas wildfire
(Dallas Morning News) Fort Worth ISD canceled all outdoor after-school activities and practices Wednesday, as wildfires scorch thousands of acres across Texas. Related:
Austin ISD’s vaccination rates have risen dramatically amid a nationwide dip
(KUT) After a yearslong decline, the school district brought vaccination rates up for some shots by more than 20% last year. District health leaders credit the change to a range of targeted efforts.
Education technology industry to advocate for responsible digital usage in classrooms amid proposed screen time limitation
(Spectrum) A new nonprofit, Responsible Technology in Education, will advocate for more thoughtful use of technology rather than eliminating it, while teachers’ union leaders say screen use should be left largely to educators’ discretion.
Some schools being ‘begged’ to move football games to Thursday due to ref shortage
(Everything Lubbock) Texas is facing a shortage of high school sports officials, prompting some schools to consider moving football games from Friday to Thursday so enough referees are available. South Plains coaches say the shortage is driven in part by the way officials are sometimes treated by players, coaches and fans.
Beaumont ISD ends on-site EMS at football games, outlines response plan for injuries
(KFDM) The district said EMS crews will “no longer” be stationed at its games and other athletic events, but medical staff will still be on hand. For all home varsity football games, Beaumont ISD said a doctor will volunteer on site to provide immediate medical expertise, along with at least one BISD athletic trainer.
Alice ISD delays opening of $38 million football stadium, moves Friday game to Beeville
(KIII) Coyotes fans will have to wait two more weeks to see Alice’s new $38 million Sky Dome after construction delays forced Friday’s game to move.
Hays CISD introduces sliding scale athletics fees for 2026-27 school year
(Community Impact) Families of student-athletes in Hays CISD will be required to pay athletics fees this year to help offset budget cuts and keep non-varsity teams running. Athletics fees will not replace or cover other costs to participate in the sport. Rather, fees go directly into the district’s budget.
San Antonio nonprofit urges free teen heart screenings after recent student-athlete deaths
(KSAT) August Heart Foundation has provided free screenings for 15 years after the passing of local athlete August Koontz.
Parents Banned From Corpus Christi ISD Property After Heated Middle School Confrontation
(KIII) A video spread on social media shows an angry parent at Dorothy Adkins Middle School on Monday following a dispute involving students. CCISD Police Chief Kirby Warnke says what began as a verbal altercation between students quickly escalated when parents became involved. Warnke says everyone involved in the confrontation has now been banned from CCISD properties. The police chief says the investigation is still underway and criminal charges could eventually be filed.
14-year-old girl taken into custody after bringing a loaded firearm onto Willis ISD HS campus
(KPRC) A 14-year-old student was taken into custody after bringing a loaded firearm onto the campus of Willis High School on Wednesday morning, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) said. Deputies say the incident occurred at 10:40 a.m., when a school administrator encountered students skipping class while conducting a bathroom check. According to MCSO, a subsequent search of one of the student’s backpack revealed a loaded firearm. The student, a 14-year-old girl, was taken into custody.
Driver, passenger arrested after fleeing crash involving Conroe ISD school bus
(KPRC) Two arrests have been made following a hit-and-run involving a Conroe Independent School District school bus Wednesday afternoon, according to Conroe ISD. District officials said the school bus was transporting students home from Campbell Elementary School when it was rear-ended by a vehicle. Officials said the driver and passenger in the vehicle ran from the crash, but were later captured by law enforcement officers who responded to the crash scene. One of the suspects was reportedly found with a gun in their possession. Two students were checked out by EMS at the scene, but no transportation was needed.
Valley View ISD staff member arrested on campus Tuesday, the district reports
(WFAA) Valley View Independent School District has announced the arrest of a staff member on campus on Tuesday, according to a release from the district. In a statement, the district says the arrest is related to alleged conduct prior to the person’s employment with VVISD. The district said no students were harmed or placed in danger by the staff member’s employment, the circumstances leading up to the arrest, or the result of the incident.
TCU bans Star-Telegram over coverage of football locker room attack
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) TCU has rescinded the Star-Telegram’s credentials to cover Horned Frogs athletics over the newspaper’s coverage of an Aug. 13 locker room assault that led to the dismissal of senior safety Jacob Fields from the football team.
$45M building coming at UT Education and Research Center at Laredo
(Laredo Morning Times) The University of Texas Education and Research Center at Laredo is building a new multipurpose building at an estimated cost of $45 million. The project covers 57,000 square feet and includes a three-story higher education building on the UT Education and Research Center at Laredo campus. The building will include classrooms, labs, academic and staff offices and related support spaces.
In focus: UT Rio Grande Valley aiming to open School of Optometry in late 2027
(myRGV) The UTRGV School of Optometry, set to be the second public optometry school in Texas, is inching close to its 2027 fall start with tuition and fees approved along with a $41.3 million investment for new academic and clinical facilities.
Bexar County proposed budget blames $1.3B in property value loss on widows of disabled veterans
(San Antonio Report) During a recent presentation to the Commissioners Court, Bexar County’s Budget and Finance Department attributed a $1.3 billion property value loss in its upcoming budget to “the disabled veteran’s widows qualifying for their spouse’s exemption.”
Tarrant County task force finds 2 election violations among 193 allegations from the public
(Fort Worth Report) There is no evidence of widespread voter fraud, but county officials say the election integrity task force made elections more secure. Tarrant County Judge Tim O’Hare, District Attorney Phil Sorrells and Sheriff Bill Waybourn created the election integrity task force to make it easier for the public to report voter fraud.
Tarrant County employers no longer just wait for graduates. They’re helping teach them
(Fort Worth Report) Leaders from Tarrant County College, UT Arlington and Azle ISD share how employers shape what students learn before entering the workforce.
Fort Worth mental health nonprofit launches youth trauma and grief collaborative
(Fort Worth Report) A Fort Worth mental health nonprofit is expanding trauma and grief care into schools. Soar, the nonprofit branch of real estate investment firm M2G Ventures, has launched the Tarrant County Trauma and Grief Collaborative in partnership with the Dallas-based Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute. The organizations will aim to train 180 school and community clinicians over the next three years on how best to handle childhood grief, with the goal of serving 1,440 children.
August 26, 2026
Superintendent Mike Miles says Houston ISD’s state takeover could end after 2026-27 school year
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD’s state takeover could end after the 2026-27 school year, state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles said Tuesday. Miles, appointed as superintendent by the state in June 2023, said he believes the district has nearly met all the criteria needed to end the state takeover. Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath is expected to decide whether to begin the transition back to local control in June 2027. Related:
Tarrant County school board drops effort to keep legal fees hidden from public
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) The Grapevine-Colleyville school board has voted to dismiss three lawsuits filed against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton that aimed to block the release of records that district parents have long demanded be made public. All three lawsuits were related to invoices for legal fees the school district paid to attorney Tim Davis and the firms he worked for while he served as the school board’s counsel.
‘It was concerning’: Northside ISD parent worried Texas law could limit AP course instruction
(KSAT) A parent says a letter sent by the district created uncertainty about what students will learn and how they will be prepared for national exams.
Fort Worth ISD will reassign staff to address imbalance at schools across district
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) With district enrollment roughly 2,500 students below projection for the 2026-27 school year, Fort Worth ISD leaders announced Tuesday they will begin staff leveling and reassigning positions to adjust to the enrollment drop at several campuses. In a statement Tuesday, Superintendent Peter Licata said the district is beginning the process of adjusting district and campus staffing to match actual student enrollment. That will include reassigning teachers to different campuses that need additional support. Related:
- Fort Worth ISD promised applied learning at this school. Not all students are receiving it (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
Texas charter school teachers are nearly 7 times as likely to be uncertified, TEA data shows
(KSAT) Charter school teachers in Texas were nearly seven times as likely to be uncertified as teachers working in traditional public school districts, according to KSAT Investigates’ analysis of last school year’s data from the Texas Education Agency. Texas law requires districts to have certified teachers teaching core subjects, such as English, math, science, and social studies by the start of the 2029-30 school year. However, the Texas Education Agency said the law does not apply to charter schools, which operate under a different statutory framework than districts and are granted certain autonomies in exchange for increased accountability.
Opinion: Come and Take Them, Dan Patrick
(Texas Observer) An Abilene public school librarian has a message for the lieutenant governor and his book-banning crusade.
Why 39% of El Paso County homeowners will pay no school property taxes this year
(El Paso Matters) Thanks largely to expanded tax exemptions approved by Texas voters in 2025, two of every five homeowners in El Paso County have owed no school property taxes the past two years.
Katy ISD approves fiscal year 2026-27 budget with $25.7M shortfall
(Community Impact) Katy ISD’s fiscal year 2026-27 budget includes a $25.7 million shortfall. The approved budget includes a competitive compensation plan, health care program improvements and items aimed at prioritizing student and staff safety.
Clear Creek ISD trustees approve $23M shortfall for FY 2026-27
(Community Impact) Clear Creek ISD’s board of trustees unanimously approved a $432 million budget for fiscal year 2026-27 at its Aug. 24 meeting after hearing about financial pressures the district is facing. The financial pressures have resulted in a $23 million shortfall, according to district documents.
Sulphur Springs ISD says parents interfered with bus routes, prompting driver’s resignation
(KLTV) Sulphur Springs ISD says two incidents involving parents interfering with school buses put students and staff at risk, including one in which vehicles blocked a bus and a parent confronted the driver. Another parent reportedly followed a bus while recording it. The district said the incidents contributed to a bus driver’s resignation and warned parents that following buses, blocking their paths or confronting drivers is unacceptable. The controversy comes after the district changed its bus routes before the start of the school year.
State investigation, officer exodus raise new questions over Leander ISD police
(KXAN) A new school police department is facing questions about hiring, staffing and internal operations – but what’s happening in Leander ISD could be a preview of challenges facing school districts across Texas.
Austin Metcalf’s dad reacts to “gentlemen’s agreement” discussed at Karmelo Anthony appeal hearing
(Fox 4 KDFW) Jeff Metcalf, the father of the teen killed in the 2025 Frisco track meet stabbing, spoke for the first time since Karmelo Anthony’s motion for a new trial was denied. Metcalf said he wasn’t aware of the “gentlemen’s agreement” to keep Austin Metcalf and Anthony’s character out of the initial trial until Anthony decided against testifying. Anthony’s motion for a retrial was denied by a Collin County judge on Aug. 22. His case will now go through the Fifth Court of Appeals in Dallas.
Angleton ISD High School teacher arrested, accused of furnishing alcohol to minors
(KHOU) An Angleton ISD High School teacher was arrested Tuesday after being indicted on three charges stemming from an investigation that began with allegations of inappropriate relationships with students. Holly Schroedter Adams was indicted on one count of tampering with physical evidence, a third-degree felony, and two counts of purchasing or furnishing alcohol to a minor, Class A misdemeanors, according to the Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office. The charges follow a nearly yearlong investigation that began with allegations involving students at Angleton High School.
Royse City student charged after firearm brought to alternative learning center
(Royce City Herald-Banner) A juvenile student was taken into custody Tuesday after bringing a firearm to the Royse City ISD Alternative Learning Center, according to the Royse City Police Department. The student was taken into custody and charged with unlawful carrying of a weapon, a third-degree felony.
Employee placed on leave amid Andrews ISD investigation
(KMID/KPEJ) An Andrews ISD employee has been placed on administrative leave after being involved in a situation that occurred during the summer. Due to the ongoing investigation, Andrews ISD did not comment on any specific details of the situation as they look to protect the privacy and rights of those involved.
Texas suspends licenses of four at Plano autism center over failure to report suspected child sexual abuse, agency says
(CBS Texas) Four behavior analysts at a Plano autism treatment center had their state licenses suspended after regulators said they failed to report suspected sexual abuse of a 4-year-old child by two center employees. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation issued emergency suspension orders Aug. 17 against four professionals tied to Apara Autism Center.
Ross Fire explodes to over 80,000 acres in North Texas, forcing evacuations and school closures
(CBS Texas) A wildfire that sparked near Ross in Palo Pinto County on Monday afternoon has grown to at least 80,000 acres and was 12% contained as of early Wednesday, forcing evacuations in neighboring Jack County and affecting local schools, officials in North Texas said. Jacksboro ISD delayed the start of school Tuesday by two hours, while Perrin-Whitt CISD canceled classes for the day. Related:
This Texas effort to prevent schools from ‘passing the trash’ could go nationwide
(K-12 Dive) A U.S. Department of Justice initiative meant to prevent schools from “passing the trash” recently led to criminal charges against two educators and over $14,000 in civil penalties in a Texas district — and may eventually be scaled nationwide. The initiative announced last week, called Project Safe Schools, is meant to reduce districts’ hiring or concealment of sexual predators in schools and is a cross-agency collaboration between the Justice Department, the FBI, and other state and federal agencies.
Measles case confirmed in Dallas County after exposures in Allen, Fairview and Frisco
(Dallas Morning News) A Dallas County resident has tested positive for measles after visiting three North Texas locations while infectious, prompting health officials Tuesday to warn people who may have been exposed to the highly contagious virus. Dallas County Health and Human Services identified potential exposure locations in Allen, Fairview and Frisco.
Bryan ISD school bus with 24 students aboard involved in four-vehicle crash
(KBTX) A Bryan school bus was involved in a four-vehicle crash Tuesday afternoon, but no injuries were reported. The bus, a FedEx truck, and two other vehicles were involved in the crash on Boonville Road. There were 24 children on the bus at the time. The cause of the wreck remains under investigation.
Texas school district expects $13 million in utility savings through campus modernization plan
(The Cool Down) Canyon Independent School District in Texas is considering a campus modernization plan that could curb utility waste and save millions of dollars over time, serving as a reminder that energy upgrades can help protect school budgets while also lowering resource use. District leaders say a facilities modernization effort now under development could lower Canyon Independent School District’s utility bills by about $13 million over 20 years.
Why some Texas school districts are adopting ‘pay to play’ athletic participation fees
(Dallas Morning News) At least six Texas school districts will charge students money to play sports this school year as they look to combat budget shortfalls.
Frisco ISD pushes back football game start times. Could more districts follow?
(Dallas Morning News) Frisco ISD has changed the time of its outdoor football games amid extreme heat warnings in North Texas. Games on Thursday, Aug. 27 and Friday, Aug. 28 at Kuykendall Stadium and Toyota Stadium have been changed from 7 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Games at Ford Center will remain at 7 p.m. Other districts could follow suit to account for the triple-digit temperatures this week. The National Weather Service is urging North Texans to practice heat safety.
Another Texas high school football standout loses eligibility battle
(USA Today) Another Texas high school football player has been ruled ineligible for the 2026 high school football season. According to Stephen Garcia of the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal —part of the USA TODAY Network — Frenship standout running back Bo Davis is ineligible for the upcoming high school football season after he transferred from Lubbock High to Memorial earlier this year. The UIL State Executive Committee upheld a district ruling that Davis transferred schools for athletic purposes. He is the latest high-profile Texas player to be ruled ineligible this year, following cases involving two five-star recruits.
Federal judge rules Texas’ drag ban is unconstitutional prohibition of free speech
(San Antonio Current) Tuesday’s decision reverses a separate court ruling earlier this year that allowed the Republican-backed law to go into effect.
Flock cameras are being used on college campuses; some students are not happy
(Dallas Observer) Public uproar over Flock cameras and other automated license plate readers (LPRs) has grown in recent months. Now, North Texas college students are taking their turn in speaking up.
TWU plans downtown Dallas college for students left out of higher education
(Dallas Morning News) Texas Woman’s University plans to establish a college in downtown Dallas that would offer an associate degree with a path to a bachelor’s degree for students who might otherwise not enroll in college, university officials said. The first cohort of about 150 students could begin in fall 2027, pending approval from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The college eventually could serve about 300 students, according to TWU’s proposal.
Waco ISD Police remember K-9 Dalton, the police dog who left paw prints on the community’s heart
(KXXV) Waco ISD Police Sergeant Larry Martinez said goodbye to his retired K-9 partner, Dalton, last week. Dalton served on the force from 2019 to 2024 and passed away at the age of 11. “He really was a good dog, and he did good things for the community,” Martinez said. Throughout his career, Dalton answered more than 800 calls and gave more than 50 K-9 demonstrations. He helped catch dangerous criminals, find two missing seniors and a missing child, and helped seize 70-plus pounds of illegal drugs.
East Texas school district sees benefits from banning energy drinks
(KETK) Diboll ISD has started the school year with a new rule, no more energy drinks on campus. The East Texas district’s ban on energy drinks is being credited with helping improve student health and classroom focus. District officials say the highly caffeinated beverages can cause increased heart rates, anxiety, jitteriness and difficulty concentrating, while high sugar content can contribute to longer-term health problems. The ban, which follows similar policies in other East Texas districts, prohibits students from bringing energy drinks onto school campuses.
Opinion: What Is the Weirdest High School Mascot in Texas?
(Texas Monthly) Is it the Unicorns? The Bobkittens? The Moguls? Nope, nope, and nope.
August 25, 2026
TEA printing delays leave Texas schools scrambling for Bluebonnet materials
(Houston Chronicle) The Texas Education Agency failed to deliver thousands of Bluebonnet workbooks and lesson plans to classrooms this month, leaving some school districts scrambling to print the materials themselves. The agency said demand for the Bible-infused curriculum it has pushed districts to adopt “significantly exceeded original expectations” and the vendor it hired was not able to print and distribute the materials on time.
What to know about state takeovers as Texas wrestles with the future of Austin public schools
(Texas Tribune) More districts across Texas are at risk of intervention by the state’s education commissioner. Here’s what that means for public schools.
San Perlita ISD closes campuses, offices due to rapid COVID-19 spread
(ValleyCentral) San Perlita Independent School District announced Monday that it will cancel school operations for two days due to a rapid spread of COVID-19 within the district. According to a news release, the district will close all campuses and offices on Tuesday, Aug. 25 and Wednesday, Aug. 26, as a precautionary measure to “help protect the health and safety” of students and staff. Classes are scheduled to resume on Thursday, Aug. 27. Classes began at San Perlita ISD on Aug. 10.
‘Couldn’t find a school’: Why only 76% of Texas’ school voucher recipients have used them
(Houston Chronicle). Nearly 25,000 Texas school voucher recipients declined the awards. Why didn’t families use them? Related:
A Texas Austerity Crisis Is Playing Out City by City, School by School
(Texas Observer) Texas’ local governments are facing growing fiscal pain. What’s that mean for the 2026 elections—and the 2027 session?
The Death of Government Transparency in Texas
(Texas Monthly) Our state once wanted residents to know what politicians were saying and doing behind closed doors. Now leaders are redacting most everything.
Fort Worth ISD Responds As Classroom Cameras Raise Privacy, Parental Notice Questions
(Dallas Express) Fort Worth ISD is facing questions about web cameras in classrooms after a Facebook page published screenshots it said were from district staff, including claims that ELEVATE teachers must keep the devices on throughout instructional time and grant administrators access to their Zoom links. The district told The Dallas Express that the cameras will provide live instruction, not surveillance, and will not record classroom instruction. Related:
Round Rock ISD anticipates $23.6M deficit for FY 2025-26
(Community Impact) Round Rock ISD is anticipating a larger-than-expected gap between revenues and expenses for the 2025-26 financial year as administrators work to close the books. Higher insurance costs, legislative impacts and property tax protests are behind a jump in the expected shortfall, RRISD’s new Chief Financial Officer Ludivina Cansino said in an Aug. 20 update. The district is expecting a $23.6 million shortfall that will reduce its fund balance to $43.2 million, Cansino shared in her presentation.
Little Elm ISD announces Little Elm Elementary will close
(WFAA via YouTube) Little Elm ISD announced that Little Elm Elementary will close at the end of this school year, citing a budget deficit and low TEA ratings.
Tyler ISD board adopts budget, approves decreased tax rate for 2026-27
(KLTV) The Tyler ISD school board approved a budget for the 2026-27 school year on Monday. The budget comes out to over $200 million and is roughly a $9 million increase to revenue and expenditures compared to the budget adopted during the 2025-26 school year. Tyler ISD Chief Financial Officer Kasey Russell said much of that $9 million change comes from teacher compensation increases. Russell said the district is in a good financial position.
Austin-area school district salaries: Who earned the most in 2025-26?
(Community Impact) Community Impact compiled compensation for superintendents, teachers, and staff at 15 public school districts in the Austin area to compare trends across the metro as budgeting season wraps up for most districts. According to the 2025-26 school year data from the Texas Education Agency, Lake Travis ISD had the highest-paid superintendent at $483,116, while Pflugerville ISD had the highest average teacher pay at $69,917.
Counting the costs: A running tally of every tax or rate increase San Antonians are facing this tight budget year
(San Antonio Report) Weeks out from the start of their new fiscal year, nearly all of Bexar County’s taxing entities are adjusting their budgets to account for a weakening economy that’s blown a hole in revenue projections — and might not turn around anytime soon.
New partnership aims to address rising healthcare costs for Georgetown ISD staff
(Community Impact) Georgetown ISD officials said the partnership with Next Level Medical is intended to address increasing healthcare costs.
Ponder ISD cancels classes on Tuesday due to town-wide boil water notice
(Fox 4 KDFW) Ponder ISD campuses are closed Tuesday, Aug. 25, following a town-wide boil water notice, with all school events and curriculum night canceled until further notice. The district has not announced if classes will resume on Wednesday.
Parents of Lindale ISD student who died after choking seek answers from district
(CBS19) Adrian Thompson’s parents seek answers and accountability from Lindale ISD after their 8-year-old daughter’s tragic death from choking at school.
Magnolia ISD declines to punish administrators over 2nd grade teacher abuse allegations
(KTRK) The parents of a Magnolia ISD student who says she was inappropriately touched by her second-grade teacher have once again failed in their quest to see school administrators punished. Tayla Craig and her husband’s grievance appeal was denied for a third time at a school board meeting Monday night. The district has long maintained it had no reports that former Magnolia Parkway Elementary teacher Jason Maldonado was engaging in sexual misconduct prior to 2025, when he was arrested and charged. But during public comments, multiple parents came forward to say they had reported Maldonado to school leaders as far back as 2022.
Garland school parking lot shooting leaves 2 men injured
(Fox 4 KDFW) A shooting Sunday night outside W.H. Bradfield Elementary School in Garland left two men injured, one critically. Responding officers found both victims lying in the school’s parking lot before 8:30 p.m. The shooter fled before police arrived, and authorities are still working to identify suspects and establish a motive.
Police: Student feud at San Antonio ISD’s Highlands High School leads to gunfire outside east-side home
(KENS) Police say a fight between students spilled into a San Antonio neighborhood, where masked teens opened fire. No one was hurt.
Faculty in uproar after Texas A&M-Victoria implements mandatory in-person policy
(Texas Tribune) A shift to daily on-campus requirements has Texas A&M University-Victoria faculty in an “uproar” at the start of this semester after years of remote work that allowed many of them to live more than two hours away, officials from a professor advocacy group said. Many professors live at least two hours away from the Gulf Coast-area campus and worked remotely for years, an advocacy group said. The new policy requires employees to work in person five days and 40 hours a week this school year, which officials said puts the campus in compliance with state law.
New hearing sought in fight over Texas law that gave undocumented students in-state tuition
(Texas Tribune) An advocacy group is seeking a new federal appeals court 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.
UT San Antonio welcomes thousands of students after cybersecurity breach attempt delays start
(KSAT) More than 42,000 students are starting the fall semester Monday at the University of Texas at San Antonio, including about 6,000 freshmen, after an attempted cyberattack delayed the first day of classes. The university told students and staff to reset their passwords after the attempted cyberattack.
Texas Tech enrollment tops 45,000 students for first time
(KCBD) Texas Tech’s enrollment stands at 45,812 students, an increase of more than 3,859 students from a year ago. This marks the fifth consecutive year of enrollment growth at Texas Tech. In the past two years, the university’s student body has grown by more than 12%.
Stories behind UT’s now-closed ethnic and gender studies departments
(Austin American-Statesman) Their names are gone from UT’s doors, but faculty and alumni say the academic communities they built will endure.
Austin Community College enrollment up 6 percent for 2026 as trade programs see gains
(CBS Austin) Thousands of Central Texas college students are heading back to class, and Austin Community College is seeing enrollment climb as it expands programs tied to high-demand trade careers.
Should UIL relax transfer rules after Jalen Brewster’s last-minute exit from Cedar Hill?
(Dallas Morning News) The nation’s top recruit blindsided Cedar Hill with a transfer to a powerhouse in Georgia over the weekend and is the latest in an alarming trend.
Somerset ISD community rallies around students after show animal mauling
(San Antonio Express-News) After a series of weekend wild-animal attacks at the Somerset Independent School District’s agriculture barn left around 20 show animals dead, community members are raising money to help the rural San Antonio district replace the animals that died and to help cover related expenses. Their efforts include a GoFundMe campaign that has raised more than $11,000 and (Facebook links) a raffle for two briskets and a plate sale planned for Saturday.
No students or staff injured in Navasota ISD bus fire Monday
(KXXV) The Navasota Independent School District says no one was hurt when a school bus caught fire early Monday. The district says a bus parked at the Circle T on Highway 6 and Spur 515 after a tire blew out. The empty bus later caught fire. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Childhood vaccination rates are falling, especially in Texas. Here’s what parents should know
(KERA) Childhood vaccination rates continue to decline, and a former North Texas congressman and physician says parents should no longer assume the children sitting beside their own are protected from highly contagious diseases.
5-year-old boy and father will be deported after ICE arrest on way to Austin soccer game
(KUT) Liam Tadeo’s father has chosen to return to Mexico with his son rather than risk the child being separated from his family. Liam was due to begin kindergarten in Austin this year.
Dallas to pay nearly $2 million on security for Republican midterm convention
(KERA) Dallas will pay an estimated $1.8 million for police officers to provide security at the Sept. 9/10 midterm Republican convention in September, city leaders were told Monday. Large conventions, not to mention ones that feature the president, generally require a police presence that can drive up overtime pay costs for the city, which is facing an overall $30 million budget shortfall.
August 24, 2026
Abbott’s H-1B Teacher Ban Would Hit Texas’s Most Latino Districts Hardest
(Latin Times) A campaign-trail pledge to purge foreign-visa teachers from Texas classrooms would fall hardest on the state’s largest Latino-serving districts — and can’t take effect until lawmakers reconvene in 2027. Abbott’s Democratic opponent this November, state Rep. Gina Hinojosa of Austin, argues the real story is a shortage his own policies helped create.
Beaumont ISD board ends corporal punishment; Supt. shares absenteeism concerns
(KFDM) Beaumont Independent School District trustees voted Thursday night to revise the district’s student discipline standards, including ending corporal punishment, as Superintendent Sandi Massey warned the board about what she described as serious attendance problems among teachers and students and major issues with how students were previously advanced through accelerated learning programs. District officials said the decision was not connected to the recent controversy in Port Arthur involving the paddling of a student, a case that has raised questions about the use of corporal punishment in schools.
El Paso ISD confirms central office staff, including superintendent, must sub eight days
(KFOX) El Paso ISD central office administrators are heading back to the classroom this school year under a new plan the district says could save millions while also reconnecting decision-makers with the campuses they serve. The district is requiring salaried central office employees to work as substitute teachers eight days during the school year, four days each semester. Hourly employees are not required to participate, and some staff may be exempt depending on how their positions are funded.
Nursery ISD staff takes on expanded roles amid budget challenges
(Crossroads Today) At Nursery ISD, a small staff is taking on a big responsibility to support students both inside and outside the classroom. With limited resources and budget constraints that larger districts don’t face, the school district continues to prioritize what matters most: its students. Superintendent Dr. Larry Gajewsky acknowledges the challenges head-on. Teachers at Nursery ISD often wear multiple hats, helping with everything from instruction to campus improvements. This year alone, the district is operating with four fewer staff members and no longer has a certified art teacher on campus.
‘No more water to squeeze out of this rock:’ Georgetown ISD officials discuss tax rate election
(Community Impact) Although Georgetown ISD trustees passed a balanced budget for the upcoming school year, it doesn’t include raises for employees. Now, the district will ask voters to approve a higher tax rate that would fund $8.4 million in pay raises. The GISD board of trustees unanimously voted Aug. 17 to call for a voter-approval tax rate election, or VATRE, that will appear on the Nov. 3 ballot. Earlier this year, the district announced that two new schools would not open this fall and pushed their opening timeline to August 2027. “There is no more water to squeeze out of this rock,” ISD Superintendent Devin Padavil said during the board’s Aug. 3 meeting.
Texas school districts still face challenges meeting armed officer requirement
(KXAN) Several years after state legislators passed House Bill 3, which aimed to make schools safer, KXAN investigators checked in with roughly two dozen school districts in our viewing area to ask about compliance. Overwhelmingly, districts that responded to KXAN said they still faced funding challenges. It could be part of the discussion during the upcoming legislative session as leaders inevitably debate school funding in general.
Austin ISD’s latest school ratings still trace the city’s historic divide
(Austin Current) Thirty of 31 schools to get a D or F rating from the state serve low-income students, but new data also show signs of improvement.
Texas judge denies Karmelo Anthony’s request for new trial in deadly stabbing at track meet
(AP) A Texas judge denied a new trial for Karmelo Anthony on Saturday in the stabbing death of a 17-year-old athlete at a high school track meet, a killing that drew national attention and led to harassment of the families.
Disability watchdog sues Klein ISD, alleging district blocked special education classroom monitoring
(Fox 26 Houston) Disability Rights Texas is suing Klein ISD in federal court, alleging district officials unlawfully blocked independent advocates from entering campuses to monitor special education classrooms for potential abuse and neglect. According to court filings, when organization advocates attempted to inspect classrooms at Benfer Elementary, Klein ISD police issued them criminal trespass warnings under threat of arrest. Klein ISD denies violating federal law, contending in court filings and official statements that its local visitor policies require administrative oversight to maintain campus safety and protect student privacy.
Richardson ISD sued after sending special needs student to juvenile program
(Dallas Observer) The student can no longer attend public school and has had to seek further treatment as a result of the district’s actions, the suit alleges.
Nine families sue United ISD, former employees over Nye Elementary student abuse claims
(KGNS) Nine families have filed a civil lawsuit against United ISD and four former employees, alleging physical and emotional abuse of children at Nye Elementary School. The lawsuit, filed Aug. 19, is 25 pages long and includes five counts. It alleges abuse of children ages six to eight at the school. The filing comes after parents protested outside the campus in May, alleging misconduct. Days later, former teacher aides Laura Sillas and Patricia Lopez, along with former teacher Martha Ramirez, were arrested in a related criminal case.
Dickinson ISD educator allegedly sent money to student who blackmailed her
(Fox 26 Houston) A 16-year-old student told investigators he had a sexually explicit relationship with Dickinson ISD educator Kristi Hanks and admitted blackmailing her for money. A witness said the teenager claimed Hanks gave him approximately $2,000 and a firearm—allegations Hanks denied. Investigators say phone records, payment notifications and messages recovered from the student’s phone contradicted Hanks’ initial denials. Hanks is charged with improper relationship between an educator and a student, a second-degree felony.
Former Rockport ISD teacher Indicted for Sex With Student
(Texas Scorecard) Josh Nguyen faces four felony charges and a civil lawsuit over his alleged sexual relations with a Rockport-Fulton ISD student.
Fort Worth ISD high school put on lockdown after fireworks set off in bathroom
(Fox 4 KDFW) Arlington Heights High School in Fort Worth ISD was placed on lockdown on Friday after police responded to reports of gunshots inside the school. Responding officers found that fireworks had been lit in a bathroom inside the school, and the lockdown was lifted. Arlington Heights administration is currently reviewing surveillance footage to determine which student or students set off the fireworks.
A tiny Texas college goes big with new soccer complex in Hill Country
(Houston Chronicle) Hill College, a community college in Hillsboro that serves multiple counties in Central Texas, including much of the Greater Waco area, is in the midst of one of its first major capital projects in quite some time. In April, the school broke ground on the $4.2 million Hill College Soccer Complex. On Wednesday, the school filed a second project with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation for a new $3.7 million addition to the soccer complex, construction of which is underway.
UT Austin College of Liberal Arts suggests axing LGBTQ minor, race and migration major
(Austin American-Statesman) After consolidating ethnic and gender studies departments, UT Austin’s College of Liberal Arts is proposing cutting an LGBTQ minor and major focused on race. Related:
- UT Austin replaces College of Liberal Arts dean with another temporary leader (Austin American-Statesman)
University of Houston regents approve removal of 133 courses from its core curriculum
(KHOU) University administrators approved the removal of 133 courses from its core curriculum Aug. 20. The affected classes include courses like “Sexuality and Society,” “Introduction to Hispanic Literature” and “Hindu Religion and Identity: A Global Movement.” The changes pare down UH’s core curriculum from 280 to 147 courses while still allowing the removed courses to remain as electives. Core classes in Texas are established by the state’s education code and count toward a 42-credit-hour or 14-class general education for all undergraduate students at public colleges and universities.
Stray dogs attack 20 animals at Somerset ISD agriculture barn
(KENS) 16 animals died and four were seriously injured after stray dogs attacked about 20 sheep, goats and pigs at Somerset ISD’s Agriculture Barn over the weekend, according to the district. The attacks happened Friday and Saturday at the Somerset Agriculture Barn, which has served students and the district’s agriculture program for more than 40 years.
Mount Enterprise ISD announces the end of free school meals for all students
(KETK) Mount Enterprise announced on Friday that the district no longer qualifies for free meals for every student. A grace period will last until October 1, and after that date breakfast will cost $1.50 and lunch will be $3 for students that do not qualify, the district said.
Houston has 13 of Texas top charter schools, per U.S. News. See if your school made the list
(Houston Chronicle) Houston is home to 13 of the top charter schools in Texas, according to recently released ratings from U.S. News and World Report. The region had the highest share of schools in the state’s top 50 list out of any area in Texas.
Modern-day one-room schoolhouses are gaining popularity. What to know about microschools
(Dallas Morning News) Microschools — modern-day one-room schoolhouses — are popping up. Microschools have small groups of students in different grades, offer individualized instruction, and serve as an alternative to traditional schooling. Data on microschools is sparse, and the Texas Education Agency does not keep track of them.
El Paso’s early college experiment turns 20 — and dual credit is still growing
(El Paso Matters) The programs offer financial savings and faster degrees, but educators warn acceleration can bring academic and social trade-offs.
She graduated from San Antonio ISD a few months ago. Now she’s working in an SAISD classroom
(San Antonio Report) Sylvia Marquez, 19, only graduated from San Antonio ISD’s Travis Early College High School a few months ago, but she’s more than halfway to becoming a certified teacher in the same school district that taught her.
Vidor ISD shares information about confirmed scabies cases, primarily at Vidor High School
(KFDM) Vidor ISD is taking extra precautions after confirming cases of scabies at Vidor High School, prompting additional cleaning and health measures across campus. The district said the situation primarily involves Vidor High School, but the update was sent district-wide out of an abundance of caution. Officials also addressed concerns about students becoming ill, saying a few students left campus with mild symptoms, but there have been no reports of severe illness or emergency situations.
Interim DeSoto ISD superintendent announces resignation after 6 months in role
(WFAA) In a post on LinkedIn, Brent Mitchell expressed gratitude for his time in the role, but didn’t give a reason for the resignation.
Texas lawmakers eye new social media restrictions aimed at protecting children
(NBC DFW) Lawmakers are considering limits on infinite scroll, algorithms, beauty filters and push notifications.
Texas juvenile prisons were on ‘full lockdown’ for days after officer’s assault, state says
(Texas Standard) The lockdown occurred after an “exceptionally brutal” assault against a correctional staffer, according to the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Court cuts $50M judgment against Alex Jones over falsely labeling Sandy Hook killings a hoax
(AP) A Texas appeals court on Friday slashed a $50 million judgment that conspiracy theorist Alex Jones was ordered to pay families of the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School massacre over his false claims that one of the deadliest mass shootings in U.S. history was a hoax. The Infowars founder can only be forced to pay about $6 million, the Texas Third Court of Appeals ruled in a unanimous opinion, citing state laws that limit lawsuit damages. The ruling does not affect a separate $1.25 billion judgment against Jones in Connecticut.
Dallas library leaders talk about layoffs, shortened hours due to city’s $51 million shortfall
(KERA) The city of Dallas is in a $51 million budget hole, and the Dallas Public Library is one of the highest-profile casualties. The library system will cut some branches’ hours and eliminate more than 70 positions, about 30 of which are currently filled, according to The Dallas Morning News. The library will also scrap adult learning programs like GED and English language classes.
Texas oil and gas regulators will no longer have to accept public comment at open meetings
(San Antonio Current) The Railroad Commission of Texas adopted a new participation policy before sharing it with the public.
August 21, 2026
Full list: Here are the books an advocacy group wants pulled from Texas school libraries
(KHOU) Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick highlighted a list of nearly 2,200 books that a conservative advocacy group says should be removed from Texas public school libraries, arguing the titles violate state law prohibiting profane, indecent, or sexually explicit materials. Patrick has warned that he will seek legislation to lower a school district’s accountability rating if prohibited books remain on library shelves, while emphasizing that the list itself is not an official state ban. This is the full list, which was compiled by activist Bonnie Wallace and includes books ranked by the group’s assessment of explicit content rather than by any official state review.
Gov. Abbott blames El Paso ISD’s financial woes on ‘bloated’ bureaucracy
(El Paso Times) It did not take long for Gov. Greg Abbott to blame El Paso Independent School District’s financial exigency on ‘bloated’ bureaucracy and poor taxpayer accountability during his stop in the city. Abbott announced a new education initiative to cut administrative waste and ensure taxpayer dollars are directed primarily to Texas classrooms during a visit to Northeast El Paso on Wednesday, Aug. 19. Abbott wasted no time in taking aim at EPISD, pointing out that between FY2015-25, the district spent an additional 31% on campus leadership costs, 33% on instructional costs, and 104% on administrative costs. All the while, the district saw a 21% decline in total student enrollment.
Tarrant County the model for property tax relief across Texas, governor says
(Fort Worth Report) Gov. Greg Abbott touted Tarrant County as a model for lowering property taxes as Republican county commissioners applauded his plan to help local governments across Texas provide permanent tax relief.
‘We are in financial distress’: Edinburg CISD facing $15M budget deficit
(myRGV) The Edinburg CISD school board is facing a hard truth. During a budget workshop, Interim Superintendent and Chief of Finance and Operations Adele Felix said the district is in a financial crisis amidst a proposed budget with a $15 million deficit for the next fiscal year. “We are in financial distress,” Felix said.
Plainview ISD faces $2.8 million deficit in proposed 2026-27 budget
(Plainview Herald) Plainview ISD is considering a nearly $50 million budget that district officials say would leave it with a roughly $2.8 million deficit amid declining enrollment, rising operating costs and a limited local property tax base. The district will hold a public hearing on the proposed 2026-27 budget and tax rate on Aug. 27.
Why are so many San Antonio school districts asking for tax rate increases?
(San Antonio Express-News) Six area school districts are asking voters to approve a tax rate increase or bond in the Nov. 3 election.
Central Texas school tax rate elections: What proposed increases will cost, pay for
(Austin American-Statesman) Five Central Texas school districts will ask voters in November to increase their school property tax rates to pay for teacher raises and cover ballooning costs.
Fort Worth ISD superintendent wants businesses in schools before students graduate
(Fort Worth Report) Peter Licata pitched internships, career academies and teacher externships as ways to better prepare students for Fort Worth jobs. Related:
- Fort Worth ISD changes course, says donors, district split $188,000 Dickies convocation cost (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
- What new spending did Fort Worth ISD managers OK in August? $52M school project, security and more (Fort Worth Report)
Round Rock ISD expects homeless student population to grow this year
(KXAN) In 2022, KXAN reported on the district’s 700 homeless students; Last year, Round Rock ISD identified 1,000 homeless students. This year they expect the numbers to rise again. That’s not only students living on the streets, it’s also families in shelters, hotels and motels, or “doubling up” with multiple families in an apartment. Some of the homeless students are also unaccompanied minors. “We will see what the numbers end up flushing out to be but it looks like we are on track for a pretty busy year,” Anne Semmer, who helps run the district’s Families in Transition (FIT) program, said.
Fort Davis ISD cancels 2026 football season
(KMID/KPEJ) Fort Davis ISD announced on social media Thursday afternoon that the 2026 football season has been canceled due to a lack of participation. FDISD Superintendent Jason Crow released a statement saying that the school district realizes this is an unfortunate situation and is looking to rebuild for the next season.
Why is corporal punishment still a thing in Texas high school football?
(Houston Chronicle) An alleged paddling in Port Arthur exposes a divide over discipline, consent and old-school football culture. Related:
Kept out of the trial: Karmelo Anthony ‘spoiling for a fight,’ victim sprayed ‘racist’ graffiti
(KERA) Karmelo Anthony allegedly was “spoiling for a fight” the day he fatally stabbed Austin Metcalf at a Frisco high school track meet. And Metcalf had a history of getting into fights and had once sprayed graffiti with “vile, racist stuff.” Those were among the assertions made by Bill Wirskye, the lead prosecutor in the case, at a hearing Thursday. But none of that came to light during the trial in June.
Statewide shortage of athletic trainers extends into United ISD
(KGNS) United ISD is facing a shortage of athletic trainers after losing three trainers to a neighboring school district over the past two years, according to district athletic director Johnathon Cortazzo. He said the departures highlight growing challenges in recruiting and retaining athletic trainers, with neighboring districts offering more attractive opportunities. The staffing shortage raises concerns about the district’s ability to provide adequate medical support for student-athletes.
New Texas football heat rules spark fierce backlash from Aggies fans
(Houston Chronicle) The University Interscholastic League’s new mandatory heat safety rules for outdoor sports have sparked criticism from some users on the Texas A&M fan forum TexAgs, who argued the restrictions make football practices too soft compared with the tougher conditions they experienced decades ago.
Federal government orders UT Austin to audit research security against foreign adversaries
(Austin American-Statesman) The federal government this week ordered the University of Texas and 29 other higher education institutions to immediately review academic, financial and research ties with “foreign entities of concern” amid a push to better secure all U.S. research. UT, the only Texas university on the list, has until Aug. 31 to submit its findings to federal authorities along with “strict mitigation plans,” which could include steps to end concerning research partnerships. If UT doesn’t, it risks losing eligibility for research funding, according to a federal notice.
University of Houston cuts 40% of core curriculum, including climate change and LGBT studies courses
(Houston Chronicle) University of Houston cut about 40% of its courses from its core curriculum, meaning new students can no longer take classes like “Intro to Global Climate Change” or “Introduction to LGBT Studies” to satisfy their general education requirements. The move comes as Texas colleges and universities face pressure to eliminate what conservative lawmakers see as “indoctrination” in the classroom. Some students and faculty have disputed that characterization and believe the targeted courses should be included to promote academic inquiry.
Texas State University defends H-1B visa renewal after criticism from GOP lawmaker
(Austin American-Statesman) Texas State University defended employing a foreign worker on an H-1B visa after a conservative state lawmaker and online activists accused the university of overlooking qualified Americans for the position. Last week, Texas State University posted a notice announcing the university would renew the H-1B visa of a public affairs employee, drawing the ire of conservatives opposed to the permits.
Jury awards professor $75K in retaliation, sex-based harassment suit against UT Arlington
(Fort Worth Report) A federal jury in Fort Worth awarded a University of Texas at Arlington engineering professor $75,000 after finding the university retaliated against her and failed to act promptly to stop sex-based harassment. Haiying Huang, who remains a professor in UTA’s mechanical and aerospace engineering department, received $65,000 in back pay and benefits and $10,000 for emotional pain and suffering Aug. 14.
TWU’s first engineering program gets green light from regents
(KTEN) Pending approval from accreditors, TWU will offer an inaugural bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering as soon as the fall of 2027. WU leadership said its new program would meet the growing demand for skilled workers in North Texas. Mechanical engineers can fetch a handsome paycheck, too.
No injuries reported after separate Northside ISD bus crashes on Northwest Side, district says
(KSAT) The Northside Independent School District said no students or bus drivers were injured after two district buses were involved in separate crashes Thursday morning.
Convicted murderer busted running ‘convenience store for poison’ near schools in Texas City, held on $2M bond
(Fox 26 Houston) Police raided a Texas City home within walking distance of multiple schools, seizing fentanyl, marijuana, THC wax, and illegal alcohol packaged for students. The suspect allegedly ran a full-service drug hub equipped with a credit card machine, so teenagers could swipe debit or credit cards for purchases. Suspect Jamell McDonald—a convicted murderer who served 25 years and was out on bond for another drug charge—had his $2 million bond upheld by a judge.
Private $40K AI school eyeing location in Houston Heights for new campus
(Houston Chronicle) Earlier this year, a $40,000-a-year AI-driven private school announced a campus in The Woodlands. Now, it’s eyeing a location within Houston city limits. Alpha School is renovating a 8,400-square-foot space at 777 W. 23rd St., as first reported by the Houston Business Journal. The site, formerly The Goddard School, is slated to open in January 2027 as the institution’s first location within Houston city limits. The institution advertises that students complete their core academic learning in just two hours each morning using an AI-powered learning platform.
August 20, 2026
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick proposes penalties for schools that keep “vulgar” books on library shelves
(Texas Tribune) “We’re coming for the books,” the lieutenant governor said in announcing plans to lower the performance rating of Texas schools that violate a recent law targeting obscene titles in school libraries. Flanked by easels displaying printed covers of books he found obscene, the lieutenant governor said school boards and administrators have not been following a 2025 law aimed at weeding out lewd books from the shelves in Texas’ more than 9,000 campuses attended by some 5.5 million schoolchildren.
Texas Comptroller to Investigate School District Spending
(Texas Scorecard) Don Huffines will review up to four districts as Gov. Greg Abbott calls for greater scrutiny of the state’s $104.9 billion in K-12 spending. Abbott formally requested the investigation in a letter to Huffines, citing the $104.9 billion Texas spends on K-12 education and arguing that increased education funding should come with increased scrutiny. Related:
Exclusive: Online courses inflated Houston ISD ratings. Without them, some schools would have Fs
(Houston Chronicle) New data obtained by the Houston Chronicle shows college-prep courses boosted state A-F accountability ratings by at least one letter grade at half of the district’s high school campuses in 2025. Related:
Houston urban school districts shed thousands of students as outer suburbs drive regional growth
(KHOU) As Houston-area schools continue to announce closures, enrollment is sliding within the region’s urban and older suburban districts as growth in the outer suburbs and the launch of Texas’ new school voucher program threaten to pull even more students. A Houston Business Journal analysis of Texas Education Agency student enrollment data for the past five school years shows that Houston’s urban districts have had the biggest enrollment losses, while fast-growing suburbs outside the city’s core have seen higher enrollment.
A North Texas family got vouchers to attend the dream school. Using the funds came with sacrifices
(Dallas Morning News) Yua and Haruki Howk left public school for a private special needs school. Their journey shows what it takes to turn a voucher into a choice. Related:
- Abbott’s School Vouchers: Godsend or Disappointment? (Houston Press)
Fort Worth ISD put cameras in classrooms at struggling schools. Why?
(Fort Worth Report) Classrooms in Fort Worth ISD’s lowest-performing schools now have web cameras pointed at students — mirroring takeover changes seen in Houston classrooms. The cameras have alarmed a parent group and teacher association that say families and educators were not notified. District officials said the cameras allow students to watch live lessons when they’re out of the room over behavioral issues. Related:
State-Appointed Lake Worth ISD superintendent gets $240K salary. Here’s what else is in her contract
(Fort Worth Report) Lake Worth ISD Superintendent Ena Meyers will make $240,000 a year — plus to-be-determined performance bonuses. The terms are part of a contract that runs from April 23, 2026, through June 30, 2030 — longer and more expensive than the three-year agreements offered to Meyers’ two predecessors. The contract is between Meyers and Lake Worth ISD’s state-appointed board of managers.
New Edcouch-Elsa ISD super to be paid $225K annually
(myRGV) Edcouch-Elsa ISD and its new Superintendent Rosalba De Hoyos agreed to a three-year contract with an annual salary of $225,000.
How one Central Texas school district employs uncertified teachers
(Community Impact) Austin ISD is working to certify 464 teachers—about 9% of its teachers—currently assigned to core classrooms who don’t hold a state teaching certification, according to district documents. Statewide, 12% of teachers were uncertified in the 2024-25 school year, up from 3.8% in 2019-20, according to Texas Education Agency data.
Lubbock ISD board votes on book bans for middle and high school libraries
(Everything Lubbock) After hearing from the school’s parents and community thoughts on the proposed ban, LISD’s board voted on whether several books would be banned from LISD libraries.
H-1B visa holders make up less than 1% of Texas teachers. Abbott wants it to be zero
(KXAN) Federal data shows there are currently 337 H-1B visa holders working at public school districts in the state. Even though the number of H-1B employees in Texas schools make up roughly 0.11% of all Texas teachers, school districts say this policy could negatively impact their instruction.
Copperas Cove students to return to school Thursday
(KWXT) Copperas Cove ISD reopened and resumed classes on Thursday, Aug. 20, at its regular time. The school district said water service has been restored to its community. “We understand this has been a challenging way to begin the school year and apologize for any inconvenience which this may have caused,” it wrote in a message to parents. The district will remain under a boil water notice, meaning water fountains will be turned off throughout the district.
‘Blessed to be out’ — Dallas ISD officer leaves hospital after being shot with own gun in Sam’s Club parking lot
(WFAA) “I have a fighting spirit,” Justin Jones told WFAA after being released from the hospital, after police say a suspect took his firearm and shot him in the leg.
Sheriff warns Guadalupe County school security at risk amid staffing shortages
(KENS) The Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office announced staffing shortages could lead to two full-time school resource officers being pulled from Marion ISD and Navarro ISD. Sheriff Joshua Ray addressed the issue in a recent Facebook post, saying the department is already stretched thin because of increased call volume and a shortage of sworn deputies and detention officers.
15-year-old speaks out after coach paddled him at Port Arthur ISD
(Fox 26 Houston) 15-year-old Noah Lopez said he was unexpectedly paddled three times by a coach in the school office for “three mistakes” he made during practice. The district is reviewing the reported incident to make sure policy and procedures were followed.
Lake Travis ISD High School football team cancels season opener amid death of senior player
(Fox 7 Austin) The Lake Travis High School varsity football team has decided to cancel its season opener against Dripping Springs due to the recent death of one of its seniors, Odin Hensley. The head coach says he has been focusing on the well-being of his players, staff and the community. Hensley died after a medical emergency during practice last week. It was later revealed he had suffered cardiac arrest.
Crandall ISD football player airlifted for further care after suffering injury at practice
(Dallas Morning News) A Crandall football player was injured at practice Wednesday and was taken by medical helicopter for further care, Crandall ISD said in a prepared statement. The district said it could provide no additional details and would not identify the student. The temperature was in the 90s late in the morning and climbed over 100 early in the afternoon. Crandall has an indoor practice facility, but it is unclear what time of the day the practice was at, whether it was indoors or outdoors or whether it was heat-related. It comes one week after senior offensive lineman Odin Hensley from six-time state champion Austin Lake Travis died after suffering cardiac arrest at a football practice.
Fort Stockton ISD High School student receives medical care after incident during conditioning
(KOSA) A ninth-grade student experienced a medical issue Wednesday afternoon during offseason athletic conditioning at Fort Stockton High School. According to the Fort Stockton ISD, coaches and athletic trainers immediately responded, provided care and stayed with the student while emergency medical services were contacted, the district said. The student is receiving appropriate medical care and is doing better, according to the district.
Central Texas school district warns unruly sports fans: immediate ejections, long-term suspensions now in effect
(KWTX) Clifton Independent School District released detailed fan and spectator behavior guidelines aligned with Texas Senate Bill 2929, a state law that took effect for the 2025-2026 school year. Under state law, once an official or school administrator asks a spectator to leave, the decision is final. Clifton ISD has implemented a strict three-tier consequence system for anyone ejected from a district event, whether the ejection is initiated by school administrators or game officials.
Judge removed from Texas track meet killing case as Karmelo Anthony seeks new trial
(AP) The trial judge who presided over the case of Texas teenager convicted of fatally stabbing a 17-year-old athlete at a high school track meet was ordered removed from the case as the defendant seeks a new trial and appeals his conviction.
Weapon found at Aiken Elementary in Brownsville ISD, parent charged
(myRGV) The Brownsville Independent School District confirmed that officials at Aiken Elementary School had located a weapon on school grounds on Wednesday. The BISD Police and Security Department responded immediately, located and secured the weapon, and the situation was brought under control. There was no ongoing threat to the campus, and all students and staff remained safe during the incident and afterward, BISD stated in a news release.
Jury sides with UT Arlington professor who accused university of discrimination, retaliation
(CBS Texas) A federal jury has found in favor of a former engineering professor at The University of Texas at Arlington who claimed she faced discrimination and retaliatory firing after she complained about her treatment through the university’s internal system.
Students push back as Texas A&M International University weighs elimination of nearly 30 degree minors
(Laredo Morning Times) Texas A&M International University students and organizations are petitioning against the potential elimination of nearly 30 degree minors as the university reviews low-enrollment academic offerings ahead of consideration by the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents.
Alamo Colleges moves forward with first property tax increase in 13 years
(San Antonio Express-News) Alamo Colleges District trustees voted unanimously Tuesday night to move forward with a 1.75-cent property tax rate increase – the district’s first tax rate hike in 13 years. The district has seen an explosion in enrollment, especially among dual credit students, who take community college classes while still in high school or homeschooled. Officials are worried they’re going to have to endure a financial “storm” of flat property values and uncertainty about state funding in the coming years.
Former Klein ISD Therapeutic and Readiness Center classroom aide fired, accused of injury to a child
(Fox 26 Houston) Former Klein ISD Therapeutic and Readiness Center classroom aide James Broussard has been fired and arrested on a charge of injury to a child. According to court documents, Broussard unlawfully, intentionally and knowingly caused bodily injury to a child younger than 15 years of age. The exact cause of the injury is unclear at this time.
Dickinson ISD educator arrested for improper relationship between educator, student
(Fox 26 Houston) According to the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office, 46-year-old Kristi Hanks of La Marque was arrested following an investigation into the allegations of an improper relationship with a 16-year-old juvenile student at the Galveston County Juvenile Justice Center. According to a release, Hanks is an educator with Dickinson ISD. During the summer, she was working at the juvenile justice center, where she was assigned to provide educational instruction to juvenile students.
Corpus Christi ISD employee, former girls wrestling coach arrested on child sexual assault charge, CCPD says
(KIII) The Corpus Christi ISD Police Department says a former student accused 51-year-old Corey Bellino of sexual assault while the student was underage at Carroll High School.
Former Hardin-Jefferson ISD coach indicted for human trafficking, former student is alleged victim
(KFDM) The Jefferson County grand jury on Wednesday indicted a former Hardin-Jefferson ISD High School teacher and coach for Trafficking of Persons, linked to a former student. If convicted of the 2nd degree felony, Derek Peveto, 46, could face up to 20 years in prison. The family of a teen-age girl says the girl was involved in a sexual relationship with Peveto, who was then a special education teacher and football coach at Hardin-Jefferson High School. A search warrant uncovered multiple photographs and videos depicting the pair engaged in sexual conduct that began in February. He resigned in May.
Texas could get more control over Head Start. What would that mean for childcare?
(KERA) The federal government is considering giving states more power over Head Start. Providers in Texas worry that will lower childcare standards.
Tarrant County families will lose childcare aid as inflation, budget woes continue
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Fewer Tarrant County families will be eligible for childcare subsidies as state officials cut funding and continue to grapple with inflation woes.
Texas kindergarten vaccine exemptions jump
(Axios) Texas’ kindergarten vaccine exemption rate jumped nearly a full percentage point in the 2025-26 school year, according to new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data released Monday. Why it matters: The rise in exemptions coincided with efforts by the Trump administration to make vaccine policy changes and with measles cases hitting levels not seen in more than three decades.
August 19, 2026
North Texas feds launch program they say will crack down on school districts covering up child abuse
(KERA) North Texas law enforcement agencies announced a new initiative Tuesday aimed at cracking down on school districts they say cover up widespread child abuse. “Project Safe Schools” aims to hold school districts accountable for abuse, said Ryan Raybould, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas. Officials also announced a $14,000 civil lawsuit settlement with Forney ISD, and two wire fraud charges against a teacher and principal in the district. The lawsuit and new charges stem from a state-level case that alleges Crosby Elementary School principal Wendy Bailey helped a teacher with prior child abuse charges get hired. Related:
‘That is scary’: Most Bexar County area school districts don’t have cardiac emergency response plans
(KSAT) A new Texas law will soon require schools to have a plan for cardiac emergencies, and KSAT Investigates found most Bexar County-area school districts are still working on them. Texas law gives school districts until 2027-28 school year to finalize plans.
Gov. Abbott proposes ban on H-1B visa use for Texas public schools during campaign stop
(Texas Tribune) Some districts use the temporary work permits to fill critical teacher shortages in roles such as bilingual education.
Fort Worth ISD’s new ethics rules target vendor donations, PAC money and board conflicts
(Fort Worth Report) Vendors working with Fort Worth ISD can no longer bankroll school board candidates’ campaigns. The Texas-appointed board of managers finalized a conflicts of interest policy that bars vendors and contractors from donating to school board campaigns, caps gifts to both appointed and elected board members and empowers the board to censure members who break the rules.
Editorial: Why is Houston ISD’s special education fix so rushed?
(Houston Chronicle) When Houston ISD announced it was consolidating special education services and would reassign some 3,000 special education students to different schools, outcry followed. And even the Texas Education Agency, which installed Miles, flagged the district’s plan for “potential harmful effects.” The agency instructed the district to review the individualized education plans for affected students and get parents’ approval. Houston ISD insists it has things under control. Reporting by the Houston Chronicle newsroom suggests otherwise.
New ranking puts 11 Texas high schools in national top 100
(Houston Chronicle) One Texas high school cracked the top 10 nationally in the U.S. News & World Reports 2026-27 Best High Schools rankings.
70% of Texas voucher awardees previously attended private school or were homeschooled, state data shows
(KPRC) Seven out of every 10 students awarded money through Texas’ new school voucher program previously attended private school or were homeschooled, according to newly released state data.
Winnsboro ISD Keeps Arrested Trustee as School Board President
(Texas Scorecard) Trustees voted 5-2 against choosing new officers after Board President Brandon Green was arrested for allegedly helping cover up a coach’s sexual abuse of a student. The vote reflected the division within the community over how school officials have handled the sex abuse allegations since the June 2025 arrest of Winnsboro High School teacher and coach Nicholas Gabriel for having sex with a student and his fellow coach Jared Lancaster for failing to report Gabriel’s abuse.
Felony case against former Centerville ISD Superintendent thrown out
(KBTX) A Leon County district court judge has dismissed the state-jail felony indictment against former Centerville Independent School District Superintendent Carole Lee Dickey. The court granted a supplemental motion to quash filed by Dickey’s defense, which argued that the indictment failed to set forth the specific statutory facts required to establish that she violated her duty to report an educator’s misconduct. Dickey retired from the district in June 2026.
Alice ISD board member says he has ‘no intention of throwing in the towel’ after wife’s arrest
(KRIS) Alice ISD board member Cody Reeves said in a Facebook Post that he has “no intention of throwing in the towel.” Reeves did not mention his wife Erika Reeves or her charges by name in the post. He wrote that he has “chosen to handle privately” his personal life and thanked those who “respected that without prying or jumping to conclusions.” Erika Reeves was arrested in late July and charged with theft of property greater than $2,500 but less than $30,000 and forgery of a financial instrument in connection with the Schallert PTA, where she served as president.
To dodge TEA takeover, Everman ISD turns failing campus into public charter school
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) After Charles Baxter Junior High School received a fourth consecutive F grade in the state’s annual A-F Accountability ratings, Everman ISD will turn the campus into a public charter school that will be operated by an outside organization, district officials said this week. Everman ISD is partnering with Third Future Schools, a nonprofit educational management organization, to turn Charles Baxter into a public charter school. The campus will remain as part of Everman ISD, but Third Future Schools will run the campus and its daily operations.
Students start the new year at shuttered Austin ISD campus after their school flooded
(KUT) After Travis Heights Elementary flooded during the summer, AISD officials told families the first weeks of school would take place at Dawson Elementary, which closed in May. District officials expect students to return to the Travis Heights campus within a few weeks once emergency repairs are completed, though no firm reopening date has been announced.
Texas district still allows paddling. A football incident may change that
(Houston Chronicle) In one Texas town, an archaic method of discipline is still in use, leaving parents and supporters of a local high school football team at odds. Port Arthur ISD is investigating allegations that a Memorial High School football player was severely bruised after being paddled three times by a coach. Corporal punishment is currently permitted under district policy unless a parent submits a written opt-out request. The school board will now reconsider that policy.
UPDATE: Copperas Cove ISD to close again Wednesday, classes cancelled as water crisis lingers
(KXXV) The City of Copperas Cove announced the water crisis currently enveloping the community is not over, as water storage levels have not recovered as expected. As a result, the Copperas Cove ISD will stay closed and classes cancelled through Wednesday. The City declared a local disaster Monday following critical water infrastructure failures that left the entire municipal water system compromised.
Fundraiser started to help sons of East Bernard coach Jeremy Jenkins, wife Brandy after deaths
(Houston Chronicle) A GoFundMe page has been established to support the three sons of East Bernard ISD athletic director and head football coach Jeremy Jenkins and his wife, Brandy, following the couple’s deaths in a car crash Saturday night.
Mysterious computer issues delay UT San Antonio fall semester start
(San Antonio Express-News) The University of Texas at San Antonio delayed the start of classes, which were to start Wednesday, until Monday, Aug. 24 because of computer system outages. The university has said it “responded to attempted unauthorized activity against” its technology systems. The problem was detected “at the edge of our network, before it reached core systems” and the campus tech team took immediate action to contain the issue.
Buyouts offered to nearly a quarter of UT Tyler employees amid budget shortfall
(Texas Tribune) The university in East Texas is among other state colleges facing financial strains. Nearly 100 employees at UT Tyler accepted buyouts expected to save the university $9.6 million in the coming fiscal year as officials aim to keep the East Texas school affordable. Along with 99 staffers accepting the buyouts, University of Texas at Tyler officials paused salary increases amid its budget shortfall.
UNT Health looks beyond Fort Worth with approved Frisco expansion
(Fort Worth Report) The university is laying groundwork for a Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine expansion site inside UNT’s 52,000-square-foot Inspire Park building in Frisco. The University of North Texas Board of Regents on Aug. 13 approved UNT Health’s property acquisition and renovation.
Two Dallas ISD students struck in possible hit-and-run on way to school
(Fox 4 KDFW) Dallas ISD confirmed that two middle school students were hit in a possible hit-and-run at the intersection of Glasgow Drive and Abrams Road on their way to school on Tuesday morning. Dallas ISD Police confirmed the students were ok after the incident, and have not released any information about the suspected car or driver. Neighbors who live near where the accident happened say they’ve raised safety concerns after multiple crashes in the area.
Holmes HS coach injured after he was struck by car, Northside ISD says
(KSAT) A Northside ISD cross country coach was hospitalized after he was struck by a vehicle while running off campus Tuesday morning, according to a district spokesperson. The district identified the coach to KSAT as Steve Barlow. Barlow leads the cross country program at Holmes High School. Northside ISD said Barlow was taken to a local hospital for further treatment. His condition is unknown at this time, and it is unclear if the driver is facing any charges.
Ex-Central Texas softball coach gets 58 years in prison in decades-long child sex assault case
(KWTX) A former youth softball coach from the Bellmead-Waco area was found guilty of repeatedly sexually assaulting a child victim decades ago and will likely spend the rest of his life behind bars. Corey Robinson Richards, 54, was convicted of continuous sexual abuse of a child and sexual assault of a child, according to court documents. He received a stacked 58-year sentence, meaning he would be 102 years old if he serves the entirety of his punishment. The district attorney’s office said Richards is not eligible for parole.
‘Ruined her life:’ San Antonio boxing coach banned for life over child sex abuse charges
(San Antonio Express-News) A San Antonio boxing coach has been banned for life by a sports regulator after he was arrested on 16 felony charges related to child sexual abuse. The U.S. Center for SafeSport permanently banned Jose Angel Garcia, 67, on July 10, according to records of the nonprofit. SafeSport is authorized by Congress to review and respond to reports of sexual misconduct in Olympic and Paralympic sports. The nonprofit declared Garcia “permanently ineligible” because of criminal charges for sexual misconduct involving minors, SafeSport records indicate.
Fast-growing Waller ISD faces registration backlog after first day of school
(Houston Chronicle) Waller ISD was still reviewing 389 student registration applications Friday, three days after classes began, as the fast-growing district worked through a surge of new-student requests.
Harris County Sues Trump Over Threats to Local Elections
(Houston Press) The lawsuit claims the Department of Homeland Security will withhold public safety grant funds if voting practices aren’t altered.
Title VI Update: Education Department Ends Race-Conscious Discipline
(Dallas Express) The U.S. Department of Education issued new guidance Tuesday directing schools receiving federal funds to apply student discipline policies without regard to race, ending prior approaches that treated statistical disparities as potential civil rights violations under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon stated on X that “For too long, the left’s pursuit of ‘equity’ has perversely required schools to discipline students differently, based on their race. The Trump Administration is committed to keeping classrooms safe and holding schools accountable for discrimination.”
Round Rock school district searches for fourth police chief in six years
(Austin American-Statesman) The Round Rock school district is searching for a new police chief for the fourth time in six years as students return to class this week, continuing a pattern of leadership turnover in a young department that has also dealt with culture problems, officer attrition and staffing shortages.
Houston ISD cop pulled him over on Beltway – but was he allowed to?
(Houston Chronicle) A Houston driver who got pulled over by a Houston ISD police officer on the East Beltway was surprised to learn just how far the district’s police jurisdiction extends.
Texas Maternal Mortality Committee’s Next Report Will Skip Post-‘Roe’ Deaths. Lawmakers Suspect Political Influence
(Texas Observer) One Texan says the body’s decision “retriggered” the pain of losing his wife, who counts among the preventable deaths that soon followed the state’s abortion bans.
Texas has now reported more than 100 cyclospora cases, still low compared to outbreak states
(Dallas Morning News) Texas has reported more than 400 cyclosporiasis cases this year, according to state health authorities, with two weeks left in the typical cyclospora season.
East Texas schools emphasize support for neurodivergent students’ successful transition
(CBS19) As East Texas students return to school, educators emphasize providing tailored support for neurodivergent students to ensure a successful start to the year.
San Antonio’s first crisis nursery opens with a collaborative ‘Puro San Antonio’ model
(San Antonio Report) San Antonio’s first crisis nursery has officially opened, offering free, voluntary short-term child care for families facing emergencies such as medical crises, domestic violence, housing instability or other unexpected hardships. Rather than relying on a single facility, the new Safety Nest Network brings together local nonprofits to provide child care, transportation, medical support, case management and overnight residential care through what organizers call a uniquely collaborative “Puro San Antonio” model.
August 18, 2026
The Takeover Tab: State-Imposed Superintendent Buyouts Cost School Districts Big Bucks
(Texas Observer) The State of Texas’s latest takeovers of four school districts, including Fort Worth, Beaumont, Lake Worth, and Connally Independent School Districts have already had a direct cost to local taxpayers. All four districts were forced to negotiate settlements with superintendents ousted by the Texas Education Agency, in packages totalling more than $1 million. And, critics of TEA takeovers say, those costs are just the beginning of expenses that come with state intervention but without state recompense.
Families ask U.S. Supreme Court to rule on Texas’ Ten Commandments requirement for public schools
(Texas Tribune) Texas families on Monday asked the U.S. Supreme Court to decide whether state lawmakers can require public schools to display the Ten Commandments. The formal request comes after the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled earlier this year that Texas’ and Louisiana’s laws mandating such displays did not violate the Constitution’s ban on states prioritizing one religion over others.
Colorado school district rejects controversial reading curriculum because of errors, Texas focus
(Texas Tribune) On Wednesday, elementary schools in a small southwestern Colorado district stopped using a controversial reading curriculum developed by the state of Texas.
Abbott announces new education initiative focused on reading and math at roundtable discussion in Waco
(KWTX) Gov. Greg Abbott held a roundtable discussion in Waco Monday to announce a new education initiative focused on helping students who are struggling with reading and math. Abbott said he is asking legislators in the next session to create a program called the Student Success Academy. While the outline for this initiative is still being worked out, Abbott says so far it appears to be on target about what is needed. “These in-school academies will give parents and teachers a straightforward plan to help struggling students get back on track and boost their reading and math comprehension,“ Abbott said in a press release.
Turning Point USA Lubbock challenges Lubbock ISD on age-inappropriate books
(Lubbock Avalanche-Journal) Lubbock’s chapter of the Turning Point USA conservative advocacy group hosted a news conference Monday evening calling attention to what the organization calls potentially harmful books and other materials in Lubbock ISD libraries. Related:
- Lubbock ISD responds to Turning Point USA over library books (Everything Lubbock)
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson hopes to avoid Austin ISD takeover
(KUT) After two Austin Independent School District middle schools triggered a state intervention, Austin Mayor Kirk Watson said Monday he hopes state officials acknowledge the district has made progress. Now, it’s up to Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath whether to take over the whole district or do a less drastic intervention. Watson said there have been no talks with state officials, but that he expects those conversations will happen soon.
Socorro ISD calls for tax ratification election to fund teachers, raises, student programs
(El Paso Matters) The Socorro Independent School District is asking voters to allow it to raise its tax rate beyond what is allowed by the state to fund additional teachers, pay raises, upgrade technology, improve heating and cooling systems and begin rebuilding its savings.
The Demographic Shift: Frisco, Plano, Celina, McKinney, Dallas ISDs
(Dallas Express) A review of Texas Education Agency enrollment data for five North Texas districts — Plano, Dallas, McKinney, Celina, and Frisco — shows that the demographic changes are not uniform. In some districts, racial and ethnic shifts have been substantial, while others have remained comparatively stable.
Katy ISD and Lamar CISD adapt to post-COVID enrollment increases
(Community Impact) Katy ISD and Lamar CISD were two of the few districts in the state that did not see a decrease in enrollment during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Texas Education Agency.
Conroe ISD, other Montgomery County districts see enrollment gains in past 5 years
(Community Impact) Several Montgomery County school districts, including Conroe ISD, have seen enrollment increases in the last five years, while others in the Greater Houston region experienced losses.
UPDATE: Copperas Cove ISD to remain closed Tuesday, as local disaster declared due to water main breaks
(KXXV) The Copperas Cove ISD will be closed and classes cancelled, as the community continues to deal with the effects from water main breaks. The City declared a local disaster Monday following critical water infrastructure failures that left the entire municipal water system compromised. The district released classes early on Monday.
Irving ISD offers testing after tuberculosis exposure at MacArthur High School
(WFAA) After a small group of students was possibly exposed to tuberculosis last school year, Irving ISD is offering testing.
Wet-Bulb Globe Temperatures could climb to “extreme” levels for the first time this summer
(KBTX) As we’ve been tracking wet-bulb globe temperatures (WBGT) all summer long with new UIL rules in effect, we’re expecting readings to reach the highest they have so far this season. Outdoor workouts would be prohibited during this time, per UIL. Related:
- Opinion: UIL heat rules create imbalance, but safety must come first (Laredo Morning Times)
A North Texas lawmaker wants to push the start of school back. Would it help cut energy costs?
(Dallas Morning News) As a North Texas lawmaker calls for the state to push the beginning of the school year back a few weeks, experts say it isn’t clear that such a move would help districts save much on their energy costs.
South San Antonio ISD seeks voter support for upgrades after HVAC failures displace around 300 students
(KSAT) South San Antonio Independent School District’s first week of school started hot in classrooms and busy in the district office. About 300 students were relocated to different classrooms in the first week of school after HVAC units failed, raising concerns about learning conditions across the district, school officials said. Now, district leaders are looking to voters for a solution.
UT San Antonio systems go offline after attempted cybersecurity breach
(San Antonio Report) Just days before the first day of school at the University of Texas at San Antonio, students, faculty and staff have little to no access to university accounts and systems after a potential cybersecurity breach was caught over the weekend. University officials alerted students, faculty and staff of “unauthorized activity” over the weekend that targeted the university’s technology systems. This prompted university officials to cut access to some online services as an ongoing investigation identifies any ongoing threats. The university said in a statement that the actions taken were deemed effective and their ongoing investigation has not found evidence of a data breach.
Breaking down UT Austin’s new core curriculum: Here’s what students would have to take
(Austin American-Statesman) UT’s new core curriculum could change what every student must learn. How does it differ from existing Texas requirements? A deep dive into required classes.
University of Houston may give administrators more control over already weakened faculty councils
(Houston Chronicle) The University of Houston System could officially embed administrators within faculty councils at two campuses, a move some professors say will further erode the groups’ authority just one year after a GOP law weakened faculty advisory groups statewide. The system’s board of regents will consider revising the bylaws for faculty councils at UH and UH-Downtown on Thursday, according to an agenda posted with the Texas Secretary of State.
Protecting Texas research focus of hearing as Abbott eyes limiting foreign influence in education
(Texas Tribune) Lawmakers will review security rules for universities as Gov. Greg Abbott campaigns for a fourth term by targeting foreign influence in education.
Karmelo Anthony hearings this week seek new judge, trial
(CBS Texas) The family of Karmelo Anthony is calling on supporters to attend this week’s hearings over whether he should get a new trial and a new judge. The two hearings are expected to draw as much attention as the trial in June, when a jury found Anthony guilty of murdering Austin Metcalf and sentenced him to 35 years in prison.
Youth aviation pilot program draws 1,000+ applicants, federal funding possible
(KGNS) A free youth aviation pilot program that launched in April drew more than 1,000 applications — far exceeding the 50 organizers expected — and may soon receive millions in federal dollars to expand into local high schools. In response to the overwhelming interest, program director and pilot Victor Trevino expanded the program by adding additional classes and is seeking federal support through the VMAX aviation education initiative, which could provide up to $5 million in funding. If awarded, the grant would allow participating high schools to install flight simulators so students can earn flight experience as part of their coursework.
Anderson-Shiro CISD launches early college high school program through Blinn College
(KXXV) Anderson-Shiro CISD is offering early college high school classes through Blinn College for the first time this year, allowing students to earn an associate’s degree alongside their high school diploma at no cost. The program, which launched this school year, is designed to take students from their freshman year through graduation. The class of 2030 could leave high school with up to 60 transferable college credits or a full associate’s degree.
North Zulch ISD approves full-time facility dog to support student well-being
(KXXV) North Zulch ISD has approved a full-time facility dog to help students through trying times. A golden retriever will join the district in June 2027 to support student well-being. A new, permanent dog for North Zulch is currently in training, a process expected to take one year before placement at the school. The value of a comforting canine has already been established. The district got the use of a borrowed support dog from Iola ISD after the death of a student in an accident last spring.
August 17, 2026
Why Texas has now seen more than 170 public schools close since 2023
(Houston Chronicle) More than 170 public schools in Texas have shuttered or are on their way to closing since 2023, according to a new report from a public school advocacy group. A big reason for so many closures is the combination of charter schools and the new private school voucher program, said Carrie Griffith, founder and executive director of Our Schools Our Democracy, which is tracking the closures.
9 Texas school districts avoid state takeover in latest TEA accountability ratings
(Houston Chronicle) After a record number of school districts became eligible for a state takeover last year, new state scores released Friday showed significant gains for several districts that were facing a similar fate. Just one – Austin ISD – failed to improve its scores at perennially troubled schools, the new scores show. Nine other districts are set to avoid a takeover by improving school scores, closing campuses or working with outside organizations approved by the state.
Houston ISD’s state takeover could end ‘relatively soon,’ education commissioner says
(Houston Chronicle) Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath says special education is the main issue left for the district to address. Related:
School’s fifth straight F won’t impact Fort Worth ISD takeover, Texas education commissioner says
(Fort Worth Report) Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath won’t take action against Fort Worth ISD after a middle school received its fifth straight F. “It doesn’t change things substantially,” Morath told the Fort Worth Report on Friday afternoon. “There’s a team in place, and the team’s got a plan.” Related:
- Fort Worth ISD sees modest gains in state accountability ratings, but some schools still struggling (WFAA)
- Fort Worth ISD has 3 levels of school autonomy. Here’s what each means (Fort Worth Report)
- Fort Worth ISD whistleblower case will go to jury trial in 14-year legal battle (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
North Texas school grades hold steady – with some improvements
(KERA) The Texas Education Agency released its annual A-F school district grades Friday. Locally, many districts, including Dallas ISD, saw minor improvements. Denton ISD dropped a grade.
Number of failing school districts in San Antonio drops from 4 to 1 in state’s newest A-F scores
(San Antonio Report) In the Bexar County area, the number of failing school districts went from four to one, and five districts went up a full letter grade, including Harlandale ISD, Judson ISD, North East ISD, South San Antonio ISD and Southside ISD.
More Waco ISD campuses receive Fs on state report card, but contract prevents state takeover
(Waco Bridge) Eight Waco schools received failing grades on the state’s annual state report card, new data released Friday shows, but Superintendent Tiffany Spicer says she believes a turnaround is coming. South Waco Elementary School was among those receiving an F after several years of failing grades. Waco Independent School District officials have worried that an F at the campus this year could trigger a state intervention of the entire district. However, Waco ISD’s contract with the Third Future Schools charter operator to turn around the school will shield it from intervention for at least two years.
Liberty Hill ISD returns to five-day school week
(KXAN) Last school year, Liberty Hill Independent School District made the unusual move of teaching students on campus just four days a week, most weeks. After one year under the experimental schedule, LHISD is returning to the traditional five-day school week. KXAN talked with Superintendent Travis Motal about that decision, the district’s rapid growth, and technology on campus ahead of the 2026-27 school year.
Clear Creek ISD looks to mitigate $18.4M shortfall
(Community Impact) Enrollment decline, inflation, a prior freeze in basic allotment for six years and a rise in special education are a handful of challenges Clear Creek ISD officials are facing for the upcoming fiscal year. The district is projecting an $18.4 million shortfall for FY 2026-27, CCISD’s Chief Financial Officer Alice Benzaia said at the board of trustees’ July 13 workshop.
East Bernard ISD football coach, wife killed in car crash
(WFAA) East Bernard ISD Athletic director and head football coach Jeremy Jenkins and his wife, teacher Brandy Jenkins, were killed in a one-car crash Saturday night in Wharton County, DPS said.
Odin Hensley’s death sparks questions about AEDs at Texas schools
(Houston Chronicle) The tragic death of 17-year-old Lake Travis High School football player Odin Hensley following a medical emergency at last Monday morning’s practice has brought sudden focus to athletic safety protocols across Texas. Lake Travis ISD confirmed to the Houston Chronicle that it maintains both stationary and mobile defibrillators. Specifically, a Lake Travis ISD spokesperson said its athletic trainers carry portable AEDs directly with them when attending all team practices and games, ensuring immediate access to life-saving technology right on the sideline. It remains unclear whether an AED was deployed during the initial emergency response prior to EMS arrival, or what specific medical trigger caused the cardiac event.
Students at Gainesville ISD’s Edison Elementary School to be temporarily relocated for start of school amid mold concerns
(KXII) After the first day of class was delayed for students at Edison Elementary School in Gainesville because of mold concerns, children will now have to start the new school year away from campus. The district stated that they got mold testing results back that showed 37 out of 45 classrooms had some indication of mold and related air quality concerns. As a result of the findings, the campus will be closed longer than initially expected, and work to fix the problem is expected to take up to a month to finish. Starting Wednesday, students will begin the school year at temporary locations in local church facilities, a Boys and Girls Club and (for special-ed students) Chalmers Elementary.
Westwood Elementary passes environmental testing after mold issues delayed first day of school, Friendswood ISD says
(KTRK) Students will return to campus on Monday, August 24, after the school passed environmental tests in 26 areas and met air quality standards, school officials said. Westwood teachers and staff can return to school Wednesday, August 19, to prepare the campus, Friendswood ISD said.
Why 5 major San Antonio school districts lost superintendents in less than a year
(San Antonio Express-News) Five major San Antonio school districts lost superintendents in eight months, raising questions about who will lead their schools next.
Northside ISD opens virtual high school, with plans to expand enrollment
(San Antonio Express-News) Along with some 95,000 students attending school in person, San Antonio’s largest district has nearly 200 others taking classes online through Northside ISD’s Virtual Academy. The new school is open to grades 9-11 in its inaugural year.
Presidio ISD to resume classes Monday after boil water order rescinded
(KMID/KPEJ) Presidio ISD has announced that it will resume classes on Monday, Aug. 17, after the boil water order was rescinded. The district had dismissed classes early last Wednesday and cancelled Friday classes due to the boil water order issued by the City of Presidio.
Wharton ISD reviewing incident after student leaves campus without authorization
(Crossroads Today) Wharton Independent School District is reviewing an incident involving a student who left campus without authorization and crossed a busy roadway. According to the district, staff responded immediately and the student was located safely. Wharton ISD declined to provide the student’s age or grade level and did not disclose when the incident occurred.
3 Pasadena ISD students arrested for reported threat against high school
(Fox 26 Houston) Three students from two Pasadena ISD schools were arrested for a threat that was reportedly made against one of their schools, according to the district. The students were said to be charged with Terroristic Threat, a third-degree felony offense.
Ex-Dumas ‘Elementary Teacher of the Year’ sentenced for child pornography charges
(KFDA) Retired Dumas ISD teacher Robby Lynn Mason — who was once named the district’s “Elementary Teacher of the Year” was sentenced to 188 months (15.6 years) in prison by a federal judge following his prior guilty plea on charges involving child pornography. Pursuant to a DPS warrant executed in April, DPS agents seized various electronics that were later shown to have a total of 57 videos and 70 images of child pornography involving young boys. Mason admitted to law enforcement that he distributed child pornography on social media. According to court records, Mason may also face additional time in state prison in an unrelated criminal case still pending in Moore County.
Widening Winnsboro ISD Sex Abuse Scandal Divides Community
(Texas Scorecard) A widening scandal in the Winnsboro Independent School District, involving administrators allegedly covering up educators’ sexual misconduct with students, may be heating up on Monday. Supporters of School Board President Brandon Green—who was arrested last week in connection with the coverups—are expected to attend Winnsboro ISD’s school board meeting on Monday, August 17. Police have arrested six people in connection with student misconduct and efforts to conceal the crimes.
Corpus Christi ISD employee arrested on sexual assault charge, placed on leave
(KRIS) Benjamin Castro, 32, an auxiliary worker assigned to the Joseph T. Dawson Elementary School cafeteria, was placed on administrative leave immediately after the district was notified of his arrest, CCISD Police Chief Kirby Warnke confirmed Saturday. The charges are not believed to be related to Castro’s employment with the district, Warnke said.
San Antonio-area colleges seek Workforce Pell eligibility in first round of applications
(San Antonio Report) The first ever application window for Workforce Pell Grants access for non-academic certifications and training programs is currently open. At least a few San Antonio-area colleges have submitted programs for approval — in hopes they can soon offer this financial aid source to students.
Tarrant County College Northwest begins fall semester on a transformed $366M campus. Here’s what’s inside
(Fort Worth Report) The unique character of the Northwest Campus buildings is informed by a Texas landscape iconology and celebrates the state’s landscape features such as wildflowers, rugged canyons, extensive forests and the vast sky.
UIL Announces Dates, Schedule Changes For 2026 Texas High School Football Championship
(Sports Illustrated) The UIL announced championship dates and locations for fall sports, the most prominent in terms of attendance is the football finals. For the upcoming year, there will be some changes on the order of the football finals. The UIL also posted dates for other fall sports.
Coaches frustrated with TAPPS’ new condensed football schedule that ‘wasn’t really broken’
(Dallas Morning News) Regular season Texas Association of Public and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) games are scheduled to start a week earlier and state championships will now be decided before Thanksgiving. Also, the playoff format for the state’s private schools has changed, meaning fewer schools will make the postseason and there will be one less round.
August 14, 2026
Texas’ schools A-F grades relatively flat while more districts hope to avoid takeovers
(Texas Tribune) Texas schools receive their state report cards Friday, providing families a glimpse of how well schools educate students. Those who consistently get low grades inch toward state takeovers. This year’s ratings come as at least five school districts sit on the brink of state intervention — Austin, Waco, Greenville, Ector County and Ralls.
Austin ISD moves closer to state takeover after 2 schools receive fifth failing ratings
(Texas Tribune) Thursday’s announcement, which comes a day before TEA publicly releases accountability ratings statewide, moves Austin ISD one step closer to potential state intervention after months of district efforts to avoid it.
Houston ISD reports 4 F-rated schools as A and B campuses grow
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD’s number of F-rated schools rose from zero to four in 2026 – even as its number of A- and B-rated campuses continued to grow, state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles said Thursday. Related:
- Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles responds to teacher’s viral video about his senior students (KHOU)
- Houston ISD Board of Managers approves Mike Miles’ evaluation, bonus (Houston Chronicle)
- Houston ISD moves to sell 12 properties, including 9 recently closed schools (Houston Chronicle)
- Viral TikTok highlights persistent Houston railroad crossing failures—and the legal hurdles preventing fixes (Fox 26 Houston)
Gov. Greg Abbott proposes further limiting screen time in K-12 classrooms
(Texas Tribune) The proposal, which would have to be passed by the Legislature, follows a ban on cellphone use in K-12 schools approved by lawmakers last year.
‘We are at the crossroad’: East Central ISD pursuing tax rate increase, again
(San Antonio Express-News) East Central ISD cut 48 staff members after voters rejected tax rate increases in the past two years. In November, voters will have another chance to approve an increase.
San Antonio superintendent pay scrutinized at districts with big budget deficits
(News4SA) Many San Antonio school districts are heading into the new school year with big budget deficits, leading to increased scrutiny on the pay packages they give their superintendents.
United ISD restores Communities in Schools program at 5 campuses
(KGNS) United ISD is bringing back its Communities in Schools (CIS) program this year, but at fewer campuses than before. Trustees approved a plan to restore CIS at five campuses, down from the original 15. The move reduces the district’s cost from $400,000 to $115,000. The decision comes as UISD continues looking for ways to reduce expenses while maintaining supports for at-risk students.
What we know about Odin Hensley’s death at Lake Travis ISD football practice
(Houston Chronicle) The Lake Travis High School community is in mourning following the confirmed death of 17-year-old football player Odin Hensley. His sudden passing raises crucial questions regarding the specific details of the incident and the safety protocols surrounding August high school football practices in Texas. Here is a breakdown of what we know and what remains unanswered.
Goliad ISD trustee re-arrested on stalking, child sexual assault charges
(Crossroads Today) Goliad ISD trustee Daniel San Miguel was arrested Wednesday in Refugio County on charges related to the alleged sexual assault of a child. In June 2026, San Miguel was terminated from the Refugio Police Department after being arrested by the Texas Rangers. In that case, he was charged in Goliad County with aggravated sexual assault of a child and official oppression. San Miguel served as a school resource officer for Refugio ISD from January 2026 through May 2026. He also currently serves on the Goliad ISD Board of Trustees. In a statement given to Crossroads Today in June, Goliad ISD Superintendent Holly Lyon said the board does not have the authority to remove an elected trustee from office. Any removal proceedings would have to be handled through the court system.
Plano ISD fires Brinker Elementary principal after teacher’s arrest in abuse case
(CBS Texas) The Plano ISD school board voted unanimously Thursday night to terminate Brinker Elementary School Principal Jennifer King, making her the latest school employee to lose her job following allegations of student abuse. King’s termination follows the firing and arrest of Brinker’s second-grade teacher, Paul Campbell, last month. According to Plano police arrest records, four second-grade students have accused the 64-year-old teacher of inappropriate touching. Investigators say some students reported Campbell touched or rubbed them inappropriately when they went to his desk to ask questions.
Retired Richardson Coach Charged Again for Child Sex Abuse Material
(Texas Scorecard) A retired Richardson teacher and coach is facing a new first-degree felony charge for possessing a large quantity of child sexual abuse material. Charles Ray “Chuck” Brandon, 68, was arrested Tuesday and charged with possession of more than 500 visual depictions of child pornography. Brandon worked at Berkner High School in the Richardson Independent School District for 30 years, from 1991 to 2021. During that time, he coached girls’ soccer and taught speech and debate. In October 2023, Frisco police arrested Brandon on a similar charge after receiving a tip and searching his home, where investigators found “multiple images meeting the Texas statutory definition of child pornography.”
Teenager indicted on child sex crime charges stemming from Canyon ISD bus incident
(KVII) A Randall County grand jury indicted a 17-year-old in connection with alleged child sex crimes on a Canyon Independent School District bus. Ayden Sanning was indicted on two counts of indecency with a child by sexual contact and two counts of indecency with a child by exposure. The incident happened Feb. 27 on a Randall High School bus carrying the junior varsity baseball team home from a tournament in Lubbock, according to a criminal complaint. Investigators said the alleged acts were captured by the bus surveillance system. Videos also were recovered from students’ cellphones through search warrants.
1 detained after incident involving gun at KIPP Mosaic Academy in southwest Houston, HPD says
(KTRK) A gun was pulled out during a confrontation at KIPP Mosaic Academy on Thursday morning, the Houston Police Department confirmed. In a letter to families later that day, KIPP said the incident was an altercation between a parent and someone unaffiliated with the school. KIPP said that while some families may have witnessed a firearm during the altercation, no students or staff were harmed and the offender was arrested by HPD. Officers confirmed to ABC13 that a person was immediately detained in connection with the incident.
Irving ISD high school investigated for possible tuberculosis exposure
(Fox 4 KDFW) Dallas County Health & Human Services is investigating possible tuberculosis exposure at MacArthur High School that happened during the 2025-26 school year. Students who are returning as 10th, 11th, or 12th grade students this year are strongly recommended to get tested for tuberculosis. It’s unclear when and where the exposure to tuberculosis at the high school happened last year.
Everman ISD employee killed in Fort Worth road rage shooting on I-20; suspect arrested
(Fox 4 KDFW) LaTaivia Davis, an Everman ISD teacher’s aide, was killed Thursday morning in a road rage shooting while traveling eastbound on I-20 in Fort Worth near the Hulen Mall. Police arrested 37-year-old Patrick Lawrence late on Thursday in connection to the shooting. He has been charged with murder.
UT-Austin overhauling core classes but hasn’t detailed how new center relates to the courses
(Texas Tribune) UT-Austin proposes big changes to how future students meet graduation requirements as questions persist about a new Center for Humanities.
UNT slashes projected $45 million budget deficit by half after cost-cutting
(Dallas Morning News) President Harrison Keller said the school is anticipating less than a $19 million deficit by the end of the fiscal year.
Christoval ISD’s four-day school week gains support from parents, teachers
(Fox West Texas) Christoval Independent School District officials say the district’s four-day school week is receiving growing support from parents, teachers and students as the program enters its second year.
Former Southwest ISD superintendent named nonprofit CEO
(San Antonio Express-News) After 32 years in public education, former Southwest Independent School District Superintendent Jeanette Ball will take a job in nonprofit leadership. Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas on Thursday named Ball its next CEO.
Ex-Fort Worth ISD chief Molinar will now partner with district as CEO of REV Partnership
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Nearly five months after being pushed out as Fort Worth ISD’s superintendent following a state takeover, Karen Molinar will work extensively alongside the district as the head of an educational nonprofit. In July, REV Partnership announced it was hiring Molinar as its new CEO, just months after she lost her job as Fort Worth ISD’s superintendent when the Texas Education Agency took over the district due to stagnant academic performance. REV Partnership, which was founded in 2022, is a data-driven organization that works to collaborate with Tarrant County school districts to solve common challenges and create successful education strategies.
Passing stopped school buses could cost drivers up to $1,250 and their license, Northside ISD police say
(KSAT) Northside ISD Chief of Police Richard Palomo says the district plans to increase traffic enforcement as campuses reopen.
College Station ISD opens career center where students can graduate with a state license and go straight to work
(KBTX) College Station Independent School District is opening its first Career and Technical Education Center (CTE) on the first day of school, offering hands-on training programs in automotive services, welding, ag mechanics, construction trades, cosmetology, wildlife and livestock, range and ecology and veterinary medicine. The facility is designed to rotate students in and out in double-block sessions throughout the school day, allowing it to serve approximately 300 to 500 students at a time.
Alamo Heights High School gets makeover, nods to century-old history
(San Antonio Report) A brand new Alamo Heights High School building boasts an extra 33,000 square feet, larger classrooms, sleek furniture and windows that let natural light in from almost every direction. But the campus also nods subtly to the past.
Period Poverty Keeps Low-Income Texas Students From School
(Fort Worth Weekly) Due to cruel policy, one in three low-income Texas students regularly misses school for not having enough supplies for periods.
Three Frisco ISD Students Are Tackling Sexual Assault Prevention With New Straw Technology
(D Magazine) What began as a Frisco ISD high school campus club focused on education and survivor support has since evolved into a nonprofit that has raised more than $9,000 through donations, built partnerships with 14 businesses and organizations, and launched an innovation aimed at detecting drink-spiking drugs. That innovation, called Unspike, is a reusable straw designed to identify common sedatives such as GHB, ketamine, and benzodiazepines. The straw uses a chemical reaction at its base to detect the presence of those substances, triggering a color change at the tip.
August 13, 2026
More than 20,700 Texas students gave up their school vouchers. Most were previously in public schools
(Dallas Morning News) Education experts say the numbers confirm their early warnings: Finding a private school is challenging.
Houston ISD teacher says he ‘broke down’ after seniors struggled to read and write on second day of classes
(KPRC) An HISD teacher said he “literally broke down” in his classroom on the second day of the school year after, according to his account posted on social media, several senior students struggled to complete a short writing exercise. Darius Williams, who is listed in the Wheatley High School’s staff directory as an NES CTE teacher in a non-foundational program of study, described the experience in an Instagram video. Williams, who gets emotional in his post, said the students he was referring to were 17 and 18 years old and would soon be expected to graduate and potentially attend college. Related:
- At least 54 Houston ISD schools changed principals for the 2026-27 school year (Houston Chronicle)
United ISD board unanimously approves application for $30M loan
(KGNS) The United Independent School District board voted unanimously Wednesday, Aug. 12, to move forward with applying for a multimillion-dollar short-term loan. Superintendent Gerardo Cruz said the loan is needed to maintain cash flow as enrollment drops, state funding shrinks and expenses — particularly payroll — remain high. In the meantime, the district has cut overtime, adjusted bus routes and tightened oversight on payroll and purchasing. Related:
IDEA Public Schools sues Midland ISD over termination of IDEA Travis campus agreement
(KOSA) IDEA Public Schools has filed a lawsuit against Midland ISD, claiming the district improperly terminated its agreement to operate IDEA Travis and forced the charter school operator off the campus weeks before the start of the 2026-27 school year.
Fort Worth ISD board members apologize to speech therapists over staffing cuts
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) In April, the Fort Worth ISD Board of Managers voted unanimously to cut dozens of staff positions, including part-time and contracted speech-language pathologists. At the Tuesday, Aug. 11, school board meeting, two of the board members who previously voted in favor of the cuts apologized to speech therapists. Board of Managers members Tennessee Walker and Laurie George both apologized to the nearly dozen speech therapists in attendance at the meeting. Walker said that the board members were told that the district would be fully staffed. “We failed on that front,” Walker said. Related:
- Fort Worth ISD creates path for campuses to earn increased independence over time (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
- Nine former Fort Worth ISD teachers could face punishment after board vote. Here’s why (Dallas Morning News)
- Fort Worth ISD teacher on leave over inappropriate communication with student (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
Lake Travis ISD football player Odin Hensley dies after cardiac arrest at practice
(Austin American-Statesman) A Lake Travis varsity football player died late Wednesday after suffering a cardiac arrest during practice two days earlier, his family confirmed to the American-Statesman. Odin Hensley, 17, was flown by Travis County Star Flight to Dell Children’s Medical Center, where he was admitted to the intensive care unit, after suffering the medical emergency Monday. Around 350 people attended a vigil held for the high school senior Wednesday evening at Lake Hills Church, and a GoFundMe campaign for Hensley’s family had surpassed $145,000 as of Thursday morning. Related:
- ‘I was there’: Dad reveals what happened during Lake Travis football scare (Houston Chronicle)
Austin ISD has many failing schools. These chronic issues may trigger a state takeover
(Austin American-Statesman) Austin ISD has struggled to serve low-income and high needs students for years. These academic challenges could soon bring state intervention. Related:
Corpus Christi board approves $3 million demolition plan for seven vacant campuses
(KIII) The Corpus Christi ISD Board of Trustees has approved a $3 million plan to demolish six former school campuses and a resource center at the old Cunningham Middle School. The demolition work will be split among three developers in an effort to speed up the process. CCISD Board Member Marty Bell was the lone vote against moving forward with the demolition plans. He said the district has not fully explored other options for repurposing the vacant buildings.
Winona ISD superintendent plans to drive bus route as district faces worker shortage
(KLTV) A shortage of school bus drivers is leading Winona ISD Superintendent Justin Cowart to step into the driver’s seat heading into the first day of classes Thursday.
North Texas school district selling land used for dog park, ballfields
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) The Hurst-Euless-Bedford school district is selling 57 acres of undeveloped land at Harwood and Meadow Park Drive. The school board voted last month to hire the real estate firm Lester & Lester to market the property, part of which is currently home to Bedford’s Bark Park and the Meadow Park Athletic Complex.
‘The data center equals no new revenue for us’: Abilene ISD Superintendent talks district revenue
(KTAB/KRBC) While the City of Abilene is experiencing a windfall in revenue related to data center construction, the same is not true for the Abilene Independent School District (AISD). “The data center is fantastic for our community; there’s going to be a lot of benefits to it being here, economically. There’s some good positive impacts,” AISD Superintendent Dr. Joseph Waldron said. “But, financially speaking, for Abilene ISD, the data center equals no new revenue for us.”
Former Magnolia Police, school district employee accused of child abuse
(Fox 26 Houston) Officials say Brandon Muse was arrested in Louisiana for a child sexual abuse case. Muse previously worked with Magnolia Police and Magnolia ISD. The victim was said to be 14 years old at the time of the alleged abuse.
Federal grants drive UT Arlington’s budget growth as net tuition revenue falls
(Fort Worth Report) On paper, the University of Texas at Arlington’s proposed budget is growing. In practice, the university’s hands are largely tied. UTA expects $914 million in revenue for fiscal 2027, up 4.3% from this year’s adjusted budget, according to a draft published by the UT System. Most of the increase comes from federal grants and student aid designated for specific purposes — rather than money that the university can spend without boundaries on salaries, building maintenance or other daily needs.
Alamo Colleges’ enrollment expected to hit a milestone this fall. A year earlier than expected
(San Antonio Report) About 103,000 students are projected to start the fall semester at Alamo Colleges District, a goal reached at least a year ahead of schedule as it faces revenue woes.
As TCU grows, nearby neighborhoods are making moves to block student housing
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) TCU’s ambitious plan to increase enrollment has caused its campus boundaries to creep farther into surrounding neighborhoods.
SMU student loses book deal worth over $2 million after allegations of AI use
(KERA) A PhD student at Southern Methodist University lost a publishing deal reportedly worth more than $2 million last month after allegations he used AI to write parts of the book. The author, Jerry Falade, denied the claims in a social media post. “I’ll talk when the time is right,” Falade wrote. “Definitely innocent!!”
How 2 Texas Lawsuits Could Tee Up a National Fight Over Academic Freedom
(Inside Higher Ed) The American Association of University Professors‘ suits against Texas A&M and Texas Tech could bring questions about academic freedom to the “unpredictable” Fifth Circuit, which has yet to weigh in on the issue.
Driver arrested in stolen Dallas College police officer’s personal vehicle loaded with gear, vests, ammunition
(Fox 4 KDFW) Dallas police arrested a man driving a stolen Dodge Charger loaded with tactical gear, bulletproof vests, 500 rounds of ammunition, and a police badge. The vehicle and gear belonged to a Dallas College Police Department sergeant who was unaware his car had been stolen roughly an hour earlier.
Texas’ mail ballot ID requirements restored by federal appeals court
(Texas Tribune) The U.S. 5th Circuit Court of Appeals rebuked the lower court’s 2025 ruling that struck down nine provisions of a sweeping election law related to voter assistance.
Broadband grants paused as critics allege favoritism toward Elon Musk’s Starlink
(Texas Tribune) The Texas Broadband office made the announcement after facing scrutiny from lawmakers for changing the rules to seemingly favor companies such as Elon Musk’s Starlink.
San Antonio city leaders hope a Democratic wave election will protect Pre-K 4 SA from future cuts
(San Antonio Report) Democratic strategists believe their party’s enthusiasm is at a high headed into the November midterm election, and some San Antonio city leaders want to harness it to protect a signature anti-poverty initiative from potential spending cuts in the future. Pre-K 4 SA, the landmark tuition-free early childhood education program started under-then Mayor Julián Castro, is about to see its first class of enrollees graduate from high school next year. While most policymakers consider the program an unmitigated success for a city trying to improve its low educational attainment rates, the one-eighth-cent sales tax underwriting requires periodic reauthorization from voters, including another election when the current funding expires in 2029.
Texas School for the Deaf superintendent reflects on legacy of student killed in July crash
(KVUE) The Texas School for the Deaf is honoring the memory of its late student, 18-year-old Kaylee Hottle, with a new scholarship after the talented athlete and actress died in a crash in Maryland last month.
August 12, 2026
Texas governor seeks 10-year minimum sentence for educators convicted of improper student relationships
(CBS Texas) Texas educators convicted of improper relationships with students would face at least 10 years in prison with no eligibility for probation or parole under a proposal from Gov. Greg Abbott. Abbott outlined the plan during a roundtable with law enforcement and school superintendents in Lubbock, emphasizing the need to better safeguard students and prevent dangerous offenders from returning to schools. The governor said he intends to push for legislative action during the next session. Related:
- Gov. Abbott says he has a plan to make Texas public schools the best in the U.S. (Houston Chronicle)
Schools starting in August among ‘dumbest things’ Texas does, lawmaker says
(Fox 7 Austin) A Texas lawmaker is pushing for children to start school later in the year because of the risks involving heat in August. State Rep. Jared Patterson suggested moving school start dates from August to September on social media Monday. “Starting school during the hottest month of the year is among the dumbest things we do as a state,” Patterson said. Patterson said legislation to change school start dates could be introduced when lawmakers return to Austin next year.
Investigation clears Judson ISD board president of misusing authority; Trustee calls findings ‘compromised’
(KSAT) Judson Independent School District board member is pushing back on an investigation that cleared Board President Monica Ryan of allegations that she misused her authority to get her children into special classes, according to a report obtained by KSAT Investigates. In separate statements to KSAT Investigates on Tuesday, Judson ISD board member Jose Macias, who called for the investigation in January 2026, said the investigation “was intentionally tainted through veiled threats and intimidation by Ms. Ryan.”
Changes Fort Worth ISD can feel: newly appointed superintendent defends decisions
(CBS Texas) Peter Licata had nothing to do with the Fort Worth Independent School District before his appointment as superintendent less than two months ago. He’s a Florida native now tasked with turning around the “worst” urban public school district in Texas. “If Fort Worth was a better place, I wouldn’t be here,” said Licata. “You have to make some significant changes right away to really set the standard.” Big changes happened fast. Related:
Connally ISD welcomes back students under new state-appointed leadership
(KWTX) The district is prioritizing math and reading to meet state performance benchmarks and regain local control.
Mike Miles says Houston ISD called around 1,600 parents to comply with state order
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD’s state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles said the district has nearly complied with a state order requiring it to meet with families of students with disabilities, clearing the way to reassign about 1,600 students to new campuses. But some advocates questioned the way the district contacted families – calling hundreds by phone instead of meeting in person – and whether families had a full discussion about major changes to their children’s individualized education programs, or IEPs.
Amarillo ISD demographic report projects continued enrollment decline, thousands of empty seats
(High Plains Pundit) Amarillo ISD could see enrollment decline by thousands of additional students over the next five years, leaving more than 13,000 empty seats across the district, according to a demographic update presented to trustees Monday.
San Antonio ISD put AI to work at middle schools struggling with reading. Did it help?
(San Antonio Express-News) Four San Antonio ISD campuses began using an AI tool to help middle school reading teachers tailor instruction and identify student needs.
Hedley ISD says consolidation vote likely not until spring 2027 as enrollment lags
(KVII) The bell rang at 7:40 am on Tuesday, signifying the start of the school year for 2026/27 for the Hedley Independent School District. On the first day of school, there were 35 students, five teachers, and 10 staff members. The numbers are incredibly low, and Hedley ISD is looking at facing possible consolidation, but a decision on consolidation won’t be made until well into the spring of 2027.
Cy-Fair ISD trustees vote to put tax rate increase, $1.6B bond on November ballot
(Houston Public Media) Cypress-Fairbanks ISD residents will have the chance to vote in November on a proposed $1.6 billion bond package and a property tax rate increase by the Houston-area school district. Additional revenue from the property tax increase would pay for staff and teacher compensation, campus safety personnel, student transportation, instructional materials, athletics, fine arts and career and technical education, according to Cy-Fair ISD.
Texas schools are required to have silent panic alerts. Here’s how one Houston-area district is using them
(KPRC) Deer Park ISD uses wearable Raptor badges that let staff silently call for help during emergencies — medical crises, altercations, severe weather, or threats. Texas requires all districts to have panic alert systems, but the Texas Education Agency reports about 13% of campuses are still not compliant, and TEA did not respond to questions about which Houston-area schools remain non-compliant.
Frisco ISD bans e-scooters, e-bikes after rash of student incidents
(Fox 4 KDFW) Frisco ISD has updated its Student Code of Conduct to prohibit the use of e-scooters and e-bikes on its campuses. The ban comes as Frisco Police have dealt with several incidents related to students riding e-bikes or e-scooters, including children as young as 10 riding them on public roads. Frisco PD points to a Frisco ordinance that prohibits the use of e-scooters on public roadways, sidewalks, or parks in the city.
How a struggling Dallas ISD school became a sought-after arts magnet
(Dallas Morning News) After years of work and millions of dollars, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Arts Academy in South Dallas is now a top choice for parents around Dallas. Related:
A new Forney ISD campus is being called “the future of education.” Here’s a look inside
(WFAA) At Forney ISD’s Opportunity Central campus, students can get real-world work experience while still attending high school.
Katy ISD opens high school seats to students outside district as education landscape changes
(KPRC) For the first time, Katy ISD is launching Limited Open Enrollment, allowing some high school students who live outside the district to attend its schools. The move is one of several new initiatives the district is introducing as public school systems across Texas confront stagnant or declining enrollment. Katy ISD Deputy Superintendent Leslie Haack described it as “one of several new initiatives we’re doing to kind of counter address the stagnant enrollment across Texas.”
Waco ISD has about 30 teacher vacancies. Here’s how the district plans to fill them
(KCEN) As students return to classrooms, Waco ISD is still working to fill about 30 teacher positions across the district. The vacancies represent about 3% of the district’s teaching staff. District officials say they are confident students will have qualified staff in their classrooms while recruitment efforts continue.
‘Pray for his heart’: Texas HS football player fighting to recover in ICU
(Houston Chronicle) New details have emerged about the medical emergency that sent a Lake Travis High School football player to an Austin hospital Monday morning, with a fundraising campaign saying the teenager suffered cardiac arrest during practice. Odin Hensley, a senior on the Lake Travis varsity football team, is currently in the intensive care unit at Dell Children’s Medical Center after the emergency, according to a GoFundMe campaign organized to support his family. Doctors are “worried about his brain and organs,” according to the fundraiser, which says Hensley’s family remains uncertain about his outcome.
McKinney ISD High School clarifies undergarment dress code for band after ‘jump test,’ shapewear requirements shared with parents
(WFAA) McKinney High School’s director of bands, Brandon Fisher, sent parents a letter clarifying undergarment guidelines for the 2026-2027 marching band uniform after a presentation slide describing a “jump test” and mandatory shapewear for female performers circulated online. Fisher said the garments are recommended, not required for any student, and that the “jump test” was meant to be done privately rather than in front of staff or publicly.
Karmelo Anthony’s upcoming court hearings open to observers
(Fox 4 KDFW) Upcoming court hearings for Karmelo Anthony will be open to in-person observers with an overflow room, but media cameras and livestreams will not be permitted. Anthony’s defense team is requesting a retrial and the removal of Judge John Roach, citing alleged judicial bias, improper jury instructions, and unfulfilled prosecution agreements.
Hays CISD introduces new athletic fees for students this school year
(KVUE) According to the district’s current fee schedule, a high school student participating in one sport would pay $175. The maximum a family would pay is $315.
Mexia ISD, police investigating after ammunition found in student’s possession
(KBTX) According to a district notice, Mexia High School staff discovered a loaded magazine or clip on a student during morning arrival on August 11. No firearm was located on the student or the campus, and officials emphasized that only the magazine and ammunition were recovered. Administrators immediately isolated the student from others and conducted a thorough search of the area.
More Charges for Magnolia ISD Teacher Accused of Molesting Students
(Texas Scorecard) Jason Maldonado was charged with two additional sex crimes against his now-former students at Magnolia Parkway Elementary.
Former Austin ISD tutor convicted in Lee County for indecency with child
(KXAN) A Lee County court sentenced a Travis County man on Sep. 22, 2025, after he pled guilty on Sep. 9, 2025, to indecency with a minor, a second-degree felony. Isaiah Xavier Smith will serve 10 years in prison, with 614 days of jail credit against that time, according to court records. Smith was arrested in 2023 for allegedly inappropriately touching a student while tutoring at AISD’s Akins High School, and had been banned from working as a juvenile corrections officer for any Texas Juvenile Justice facilities after a 2022 investigation.
Former Brazoria County deputy charged in fatal Lake Jackson shooting of Texas State student
(KPRC) Kevin Tippit, the former Brazoria County Sheriff’s Office deputy involved in the fatal shooting of Texas State University student John Mendoza Jr. in Lake Jackson, has been indicted on a charge of aggravated assault by a public servant, according to the Brazoria County District Attorney’s Office.
Former Beaumont ISD United High School employee jailed on child lewd visual material charge tied to hidden bathroom camera
(KBMT) A Beaumont United High School employee is being held on a charge of possession or promotion of lewd visual material depicting a child. Glendel Wayne Carpenter, 49, of Winnie, is being held in the Jefferson County Correctional Facility, where his bond on the charge has been set at $25,000, according to Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Chief John Shauberger. About a week ago, a woman reported to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office that she found a camera concealed inside the air-conditioning vent of a bathroom she exclusively used at a Jefferson County residence, according to a probable cause affidavit in the case. Investigators obtained and executed a search warrant for Carpenter’s cellphone, according to the affidavit.
Texas State University regents approve creation of 2 new colleges
(Community Impact) The Texas State University System Board of Regents authorized the subdivision of the current College of Science and Engineering into two new colleges. The decision will create the Ingram College of Engineering and the College of Science.
Kraft family backs new 80,000-square-foot Rice football pavilion and Jewish studies professorship
(Houston Chronicle) Lawyer and Rice University alumna Patti Lipoma Kraft and her husband, New England Patriots President Jonathan Kraft, have made a large donation to the university that will support a new football practice field and fund a new Jewish studies professorship, the university announced Monday. The covered practice pavilion will be an 80,000-square-foot, open-air structure with a turf field, and the professorship will fund a senior faculty position that will be the cornerstone of the new Center for Jewish Studies, according to a news release.
Free tuition expands at University of Houston-Clear Lake as income limit rises to $100K
(KHOU) UHCL, which is part of the University of Houston System, announced it will expand the family-income eligibility threshold for its Hawk Promise to encompass first-time freshmen and transfer students from families with adjusted gross incomes of up to $100,000. The previous family-income threshold was $65,000. The expanded eligibility starts with the fall 2027 application cycle.
Midwestern State University develops new AI guidelines for students and faculty
(KAUZ) Midwestern State University (MSU Texas) has begun to implement a strategic approach to AI usage on campus for both students and faculty. The strategy is meant to address concerns about academic integrity while also allowing for AI literacy to be developed as a useful tool. This new approach takes on a four-category framework that allows for rules on AI usage on campus to vary by course, discipline, and learning goals.
Texas cuts child care subsidy program. Here’s what that means
(Texas Tribune) Inflation and federal funding cuts have squeezed Texas’ child care subsidy, causing the Texas Workforce Commission to scale back the program.
Proposed Head Start changes would shift costs — and risk — to Texas
(Texas Standard) An early education expert says looser federal ratios, smaller overhead budgets and English-only rules could undercut a program serving thousands of low-income kids.
Migrant kids are often being held in a South Texas detention center five times longer than a court order allows
(Texas Tribune) The nation’s only detention center for families is routinely holding children beyond the 20-day limit, including an Iranian-born “average American kid” who’s been locked up for 123 days and counting.
Camp Fire North Texas to pause after-school program for the rest of the year
(KAUZ) Camp Fire North Texas has shared that after consideration, they will be pausing their after-school program for the remainder of 2026 as the nonprofit undergoes restructuring. The nonprofit organization clarified on social media that they are not closing their doors and that this decision was made due to them being ‘out of funding’.
These 10 Texas college athletes earn the most off their NIL rights
(Dallas Observer) Since college athletes began to make money on their names, images and likenesses, Texas athletes have been cashing in.
Boerne wins again: Tulsa team officially out of Little League tournament after judge vacates temporary restraining order
(KENS) The Boerne Little League team is officially heading to South Williamsport, PA., to play in the Little League World Series after a judge vacated a temporary restraining order Tuesday afternoon that had given hope to another team from Tulsa.
August 11, 2026
Gov. Greg Abbott meets with new Texas Classroom Commission to discuss public education
(CBS Austin) Gov. Greg Abbott met Monday with the newly appointed 22-member Texas Classroom Commission, which is charged with recommending ways to improve public education policy ahead of the 2027 legislative session. Abbott said the commission will focus on improving student performance in math and reading, retaining teachers and reducing classroom screen time, building on an $8 billion investment in public schools approved by lawmakers. Texas AFT President Zeph Capo expressed skepticism, saying teachers need better pay and working conditions and should have a greater voice in education policy. The commission will meet monthly and submit recommendations to lawmakers before the next legislative session.
Some private schools see rapid growth amid launch of Texas Education Freedom Accounts
(CBS Texas) Texas is entering a new era of education this school year with the launch of the Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA), and some private schools in North Texas are already rapidly growing at an unprecedented pace.
How politics could show up in Texas classrooms this year and beyond, from Bible lessons to vouchers
(Houston Chronicle) From mandate Bible readings to Ten Commandments posters on the walls of Texas classrooms, here are the ways you might find politics and religion in your child’s education.
New Artificial Intelligence curriculum in some North Texas classrooms
(NBC DFW) The Uplift Education charter network is launching its first AI curriculum for 2026-27. See how the UT Dallas partnership aims to prepare students for the workforce.
Midland ISD trustee intervenes in case to remove county judge
(KOSA) Midland ISD Trustee Brandon Hodges has officially filed to intervene in the lawsuit seeking to remove Midland County Judge Terry Johnson from office. According to a press release, Hodges said he joined the case to prevent it from being dismissed on a technicality tied to District Attorney Glenn Harwood. The case centers on claims that Johnson posted a report on Facebook that exposed a Midland resident’s personal information.
Fort Worth STAAR performance hits record with high-poverty schools leading the way
(Fort Worth Report) Reading reached 48%, but no city council district had more than half of tested results meet grade level.
City View ISD school board censures member for shared closed-session recording
(KFDX) What started with a recording of a closed-door City View Independent School District board meeting ended Monday night with a vote to involve authorities. Board secretary Vera Smith acknowledged recording the closed session on her cell phone and that the audio later ended up in a group message that included three people who are not board members, but Smith says she did not send it. In addition to reporting the incident to authorities, the board also voted to formally censure Smith, with four members voting in favor and two abstaining.
Here’s an update on which San Antonio school districts are using Bluebonnet curriculum
(San Antonio Report) In February of 2025, the San Antonio Report surveyed 16 school districts in the Bexar County region, and only six said they planned to use Bluebonnet materials, especially the math portions. Now, 10 local districts plan on using Bluebonnet for the upcoming 2026-27 school year, mostly for math classes.
San Antonio ISD issues its Annual Call for Proposals for in-district charter schools for 2027-28
(News4SA) The San Antonio Independent School District is looking for organizations and school leaders interested in creating new and innovative in-district charter schools for the 2027-28 school year. SAISD issued its annual Call for Proposals on Monday. The district says the goal is to improve student outcomes, increase innovation, and give families the opportunity for high-quality school options.
Texas Statewide Cell Phone Ban Shows Positive Results in Lubbock ISD as Second Year Begins
(KCBD) As students across Texas begin their second year under a statewide ban on student cell phones during school hours, Lubbock Independent School District officials say the local impact has been overwhelmingly positive.
Lamar CISD launches Bright Futures Academy for autism spectrum disorder students
(Community Impact) Lamar CISD is opening Bright Futures Academy to meet a need within the district. The academy, located at the former Beasley Elementary School site, is for students from early childhood, or 3 years old, through second grade with autism spectrum disorder.
Central Texas school districts ban energy drinks, citing health concerns
(KWTX) Earlier this month Lampasas ISD announced a ban on energy drinks at all of its campuses, joining at least one other Central Texas school district that has already taken the same step over concerns about the beverages’ effects on student health. McGregor ISD Superintendent Travis Mutscher says his district banned energy drinks last December after reviewing their impact on students.
Lake Travis ISD High School football player airlifted after ‘serious health emergency’ during practice
(KHOU) A Lake Travis High School football player was airlifted Monday morning after experiencing a “serious health emergency” during practice, the team said. Out of caution, the school canceled the remainder of Monday’s football activities. The team did not provide details about the nature of the emergency.
Northside ISD swears in new officers as Texas school security mandate strains district
(San Antonio Express-News) Eight officers joined the ranks of the Northside Independent School District police force Friday morning, bringing the district closer to meeting the state’s requirement of having an armed officer on every campus. With the new recruits, 102 officers are now dedicated to protecting San Antonio’s largest school district. But Northside ISD remains 62 officers short of the mandate that an armed officer be stationed on each campus.
Suspect grabbed Dallas ISD officer’s gun during struggle, shot him in leg, affidavit says
(WFAA) An affidavit, exclusively obtained by WFAA, identifies the 27-year-old man accused of taking a Dallas ISD officer’s gun and shooting him in a Sam’s Club parking lot. The suspected shooter has been identified as Jose Santiago Pantoja-Morales. He admitted to taking Officer Justin Jones’ firearm and shooting him in the leg, according to the affidavit. Jones, 39, is expected to survive but will remain in the ICU as doctors monitor his condition. Sources tell WFAA that Jones is alert and talking.
Clear backpacks are common in Texas schools. Do they make students safer?
(San Antonio Express-News) Clear backpack policies became common across Texas school districts in the wake of the mass shooting at Uvalde ISD’s Robb Elementary.
Fort Worth ISD: O.D. Wyatt Campus Locked Down Over Reported Firearm Photo
(Dallas Express) O.D. Wyatt High School in Fort Worth was placed on lockdown Monday after a student was reported to have taken a photograph of himself with a firearm on campus, according to Fort Worth ISD. Five students have been detained as part of the investigation, including the student who allegedly took the photograph, school district officials said.
Houston school bus delays leave some Houston ISD parents scrambling on first day
(KHOU) The first day back at Houston ISD came with an unexpected lesson for some families this week: how to cope when the school bus never shows up. Parents who reached out to the KHOU 11 tip line say route delays are common on day one, but several told KHOU 11 they have never seen problems on this scale, with some students left without any bus route assigned at all.
Corpus Christi ISD bus driver shortage: 50 vacancies open as school year begins
(KRIS) The Corpus Christi school district has raised starting pay to $19.50 an hour and is asking families to expect some delays during the first week of school.
Round Rock ISD outfitting all school buses with 3-point seatbelts ahead of new Texas requirement
(KVUE) The ride to school will look different for many students in Round Rock ISD this year as the district works to outfit its entire school bus fleet with three-point seat belts. Round Rock ISD has more than 250 buses that transport about 25,000 students to and from school each day. The district is nearly finished adding three-point seat belts to its buses.
Dallas College Becomes NIKE-Branded Athletics Program, a First for a Texas Community College
(PR Newswire) Dallas College Athletics has entered into a multi-year agreement with BSN SPORTS to become a NIKE-branded athletics program, positioning Dallas College as the first community college in Texas with this distinction and among a select group of institutions aligned with one of the most recognized brands in sports.
‘Sometimes you do need resources’: Valley college students turn to food pantries
(Valley Central) Food insecurity is affecting college students in the Rio Grande Valley, with some turning to food pantries to help cover basic needs. At South Texas College, officials say they have seen more students turning to campus food pantries for help. UT Rio Grande Valley reports distributing more than 40,000 pounds of food over the last two semesters, serving more than 4,700 student visits.
UT Austin’s 2026-2028 undergraduate catalog introduces 24 new programs
(Daily Texan) Applications are opening for new programs in the 2026-2028 undergraduate catalog, consisting of six new majors, five certificates and 13 minors, according to the UT Office of Curriculum and Academic Administration. Related:
How an alumni revolt derailed Trinity University’s new logo plan
(San Antonio Express-News) When Trinity University unveiled a sweeping rebrand on July 30, the redesigned website drew praise. The new sunburst logo did not. Alumni derided the symbol as generic and corporate and objected to losing Murchison Tower in their university’s emblem. Their opposition ignited a public-relations crisis and unraveled the logo rollout within five days.
Angelo State University partners with Zoom to launch AI center in San Angelo
(Fox West Texas) Angelo State University has announced plans to work together with Zoom Technology to launch an Artificial Intelligence Center of Excellence, or AI-COE. The project was launched last year to position Angelo State as a national leader in AI education, innovation, and workforce development. The AI-COE will be housed in the recently acquired Nexus at Angelo State on Sunset Drive, focusing on adapting students’ AI skills and using them to tackle challenges in the San Angelo community.
Despite federal efforts to drop some children’s vaccine recommendations, Texas requirements unchanged
(Texas Tribune) Public health officials said some parents are confused about what vaccines are required to attend Texas schools amid efforts to change recommendations.
Inside a Texas school district’s $91M big bet on football facilities amid extreme heat
(Houston Chronicle) Tomball ISD is investing about $91 million to upgrade athletic facilities, with a major focus on making sports safer and more usable during extreme Texas heat. The facilities are designed in part to address new UIL heat-safety rules using Wet Bulb Global Temperature, as weather affected nearly 46% of the district’s activities in 2024.
Lockhart ISD unveils new ‘mega den’ playground ahead of school year
(KXAN) The sprawling playground can hold over 450 children at once, and even includes wheelchair accessible features. It’s part of a plan called “Childhood Unlocked.” Lockhart ISD officials plan to increase recess by 50%, reduce screen time in the classroom, and restore collaborative play during the school day.
Alpine ISD reassures parents after “suspicious-looking” water donation
(NewsWest9) Alpine Independent School District wants the community to know that if they see teachers and students with eyebrow-raising cans…they’re just beating the heat. The cans sport a big golden Anheuser-Busch logo on the side, but they also have the word “WATER” printed in bold text on the side to distinguish it from an adult beverage. Anheuser-Busch had donated the canned water to the Apine fire department, which in turn donated it to the school district in the wake of a citywide boil-water notice. The district advised parents to make sure children take bottled water with them on Monday’s first day of school.
New secretary of state will continue to defend Texas’ open primaries against GOP lawsuit
(Texas Tribune) Robert Howden, the new Texas secretary of state, said in a legal filing Monday that he would continue to defend the state’s open primary system, putting him at odds with the Texas GOP in the lawsuit filed by the party last year.
August 10, 2026
Black-majority schools in Texas receive more Fs than A ratings, leaving parents with tough choices
(Texas Tribune) Black Texas families weigh whether to send their children to schools with more academic resources — but potentially fewer of their values.
Houston mothers’ bid for temporary hold on Ten Commandments posters in Texas classrooms denied
(Texas Tribune) A judge on Friday denied a request from three Houston mothers to temporarily stop Texas public school classrooms from displaying the Ten Commandments, in the first lawsuit to argue that it violates the state’s religious freedom law and a voter-approved parental rights amendment. The mothers’ lawsuit is the latest challenge to Senate Bill 10 — this time under Texas law. Other attempts to prohibit the display of the Ten Commandments in public schools under federal law — primarily the First Amendment’s guarantee of separation of church and state — have been unsuccessful so far.
Austin ISD closed a struggling school to avoid state action. TEA rule change may end that option
(Austin American-Statesman) A new Texas Education Agency rule narrows the options for districts, like Austin ISD, that are hoping to shutter a chronically failing campus.
What Could State Takeover Mean for Austin ISD? Ask Fort Worth ISD
(Austin Chronicle) Fort Worth ISD’s elected board president describes takeover pains, and how Austin ISD can prepare. Related:
Northwest ISD wins temporary injunction against gun range after bullets struck new middle school
(CBS Texas) As school is set to begin next week, Northwest ISD has secured a temporary legal win against a Northlake gun range after two bullets caused damage at a newly constructed middle school. The district filed a lawsuit in Denton County this week against Quail Creek Gun Range, which is just over one mile south of Barksdale Middle School. Satellite images show the outdoor range is positioned so that the school is straight down range from where shooters are positioned. On Friday afternoon, a judge sided with the district, issuing a temporary restraining order and scheduling a hearing later this month. Quail Creek can still operate, but patrons will only be allowed to shoot guns that are not capable of reaching the school.
Crosby ISD ends partnership with East Harris County nonprofit, Muslim humanitarian agency
(Houston Public Media) The district’s statement also said that the council’s partner organization, Islamic Relief USA, would no longer be allowed to donate or volunteer at the event. The statement was published the day before the district’s annual back-to-school bash, an event in which the council had helped students and parents receive school supplies and interact with local businesses ahead of the new school year. The council had also donated funds, food and student support to Crosby ISD in some capacity since 2008.
Fort Worth ISD says it will start school year with zero teacher vacancies
(WFAA) Fort Worth ISD says it will begin the 2026-27 school year with no teacher vacancies, marking a significant turnaround for a district that faced major staffing concerns earlier this year. The district announced the milestone Sunday, one day before students are scheduled to return to class Monday, Aug. 10.
Houston ISD’s startling teacher exodus revealed ahead of first day
(Houston Chronicle) Public records obtained from HISD and compiled by former district parent Tracy Lisewsky show dozens of campuses reached the equivalent of at least half of each school’s listed teaching staff during the 2025-26 school year, adding to concerns about educator turnover three years into the state’s takeover of Texas’ largest school district. Related:
Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD replaces librarians with paraprofessionals
(KENS) Students returning to Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD this week will find paraprofessionals running campus libraries as the district works to address the budget.
Years of warning signs, little urgency: How Lake Worth ISD ended up under state control
(Fort Worth Report) Board silence, late leadership changes and weak engagement shaped the Fort Worth-area district’s path toward a Texas takeover.
Richardson ISD Invests $450K in Marketing to Boost Enrollment
(Tech Advocate) The Richardson Independent School District in Texas is set to embark on a significant marketing campaign aimed at reversing declining student enrollment figures. With a proposed investment of $450,000, the initiative seeks to attract new families to the district as competition intensifies from alternative education options, including private schools, charter schools, and homeschooling.
Dallas ISD makes pre-K free for 3- and 4-year-olds in hopes of boosting enrollment
(KERA) The expansion of the district’s free pre-K program could fill more seats, and will pay off academically, said Assistant Superintendent Debbie Ramos. Related:
- Dallas ISD’s Screen Policy is a Work In Progress (D Magazine)
Facing enrollment declines, North Texas districts look to recruit students from outside their borders
(Dallas Morning News) Richardson, Mansfield, McKinney and other districts are opening their doors to students who live outside their boundaries to offset enrollment declines.
Their schools closed. Now North Texas students are finding their place somewhere new
(Dallas Morning News) Thousands of North Texas students are going to new schools this year after their old campuses closed. Grand Prairie ISD leaders say they’ve worked to make the change as smooth as possible.
Lumberton ISD faces budget squeeze, considers tax election to help fund employee raises
(KFDM) Lumberton ISD is tightening its belt to protect classrooms and keep its teachers and staff competitive — but the district says rising costs and declining enrollment are pushing its budget to the brink. The district says even modest raises for employees would create another budget shortfall. That has prompted the Lumberton ISD Board of Trustees to consider a Voter-Approval Tax Rate Election, or VATRE, which would allow voters to decide whether the district should generate additional operating revenue.
Friendswood ISD gives tentative return date for students at one school after mold was found inside
(KHOU) Friendswood ISD on Friday announced a tentative Monday, Aug. 24 date for the first day of school for students at Westwood Elementary after mold was found inside the school. The first day of school for the district’s other students is Tuesday, Aug. 18.
Central Heights ISD fire damages high school ahead of the fall semester
(KTRE) A fire broke out at the Central Heights ISD high school building, according to an announcement from the school district Saturday night. “At this time, there is classroom damage in one hallway of the high school,” the announcement said. “Cleanup crews are already on site working to assess the damage and begin the necessary cleanup and restoration process.” The school district acknowledged that this incident would impact the upcoming school year but it is working to minimize any disruptions that clean-up efforts will have on their students’ education.
Coalition files complaint against United ISD board members
(KGNS) A coalition of local groups filed a complaint accusing some United ISD board members of possibly violating the Texas Open Meetings Act, but the groups did not name the trustees involved. The Laredo Conservative PAC, Parents United and the Webb County Republican Party announced the complaint outside United ISD’s main office. They claim that between one and four trustees may have made decisions outside properly posted public meetings tied to recent school closures. Related:
- United ISD weighs Communities in Schools Laredo contract renewal (Laredo Morning Times)
Leander ISD police chief on administrative leave as TCOLE investigates department
(KVUE) Leander ISD Police Chief Shā Rogers has been placed on administrative leave as the department faces a state investigation over its hiring practices. The school district told KVUE on Saturday Rogers will remain on leave pending further investigation. Assistant Chief Jennifer Baskerville will serve as acting chief until further notice. The change comes after it was announced this week the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) has been investigating the Leander ISD Police Department since October 2025. The investigation focuses on the department’s hiring practices and background check process, less than a year after the district established the force.
Records reveal investigation that led Lamar CISD to fire, then reinstate police chief, lieutenant
(KTRK) Newly obtained records reveal more about the investigation that led Lamar Consolidated ISD to fire its police chief and a lieutenant before later reinstating both as part of negotiated separation agreements. The district is also pushing back on claims that the reinstatements cleared former Police Chief Henry Garcia and Lt. Maria Molina, saying its investigative findings never changed.
Hill Country school district rushes to clean up flood damage before students return
(Spectrum News) Ingram ISD leadership are racing against the clock to ensure the schools are ready to go before kids return on Aug. 12.
Tarrant County College says it earned more state funding. It isn’t getting all of it
(Fort Worth Report) Tarrant County College is proposing a balanced $429.4M budget amid reduced state funding, falling property values, and flat tuition and fees. Related:
North Texas international students weigh what’s next as new visa limits take effect
(Dallas Morning News) A new federal rule ends the longstanding “duration of status” policy, creating new deadlines and uncertainty for students pursuing graduate school, Ph.D. programs, Optional Practical Training and more.
UT Austin officials say new mobility plan is coming as cyclists worry about potential bike ban
(KUT) After signs asking people to walk their bikes and scooters appeared on the University of Texas at Austin’s campus, students and advocates worried the university was moving toward banning cycling. UT officials told KUT News that’s not the case, and they will soon announce the details of a new mobility plan.
Trinity University calls on logo critics to help shape a new design
(San Antonio Report) Trinity University officials are engaging with some of the very alumni who voiced concerns about the recent adoption of a new university logo. After the initiative was halted, many of them volunteered to help, officials said.
Judge warns convicted former Beaumont ISD contractor: At this rate, repayment could take 100 years
(KFDM) A former Beaumont ISD electrical contractor, Calvin Walker, appeared before Judge John Stevens Friday to review his progress in repaying more than $1.1 million in court-ordered restitution after his fraud conviction. Walker stated he has paid about $18,000 so far but said his status as a convicted felon has made it difficult to find steady work, limiting his ability to make larger payments. Judge Stevens noted that, at Walker’s current payment rate, it would take roughly 100 years to repay the remaining balance. The judge ordered Walker to continue aggressively seeking employment and generating income so he can increase restitution payments while his appeal remains pending.
Parents Push Back After Judge Lets Lorena ISD Depose Sex-Abused Student
(Texas Scorecard) Parents are pushing back after a federal judge ruled that lawyers hired to defend the Lorena Independent School District in a civil rights lawsuit are entitled to interrogate a girl who was sexually abused by a teacher when she was 5 years old. “We kept believing that if enough people spoke up, things would change. Instead, we watched a 10-year-old child become the target of a legal strategy that we simply can’t accept,” Lorena moms Charity Cervantez and Jessica Montez told Texas Scorecard.
Longtime Grand Prairie ISD teacher arrested for alleged sexual assault of child
(NBC DFW) A longtime teacher in Grand Prairie ISD has been arrested for Sexual Assault of a Child in Duncanville. Duncanville police said James Robinson’s arrest was the result of an ongoing investigation. It is currently unknown to the public how long the investigation had been ongoing or when assault reports were made.
Former Friendswood private school teacher accused of sexually abusing child over 6 year period
(Houston Chronicle) A former teacher in Friendswood was accused of sexually abusing a child at a private school where he worked for about six years, according to local police.
Lewis Stott, a former teacher at the Galloway School, was arrested Friday and charged with continuous sexual abuse of a young child, the Friendswood Police Department said. The alleged abuse reportedly occurred at the school while Stott worked there from 2020 to 2026, according to police.
Flour Bluff ISD stadium to get $14.4 million makeover after being condemned
(KRIS) Hornet Stadium is getting a $14.4 million overhaul after 75 years of wear and tear left the facility in need of repairs.
August 7, 2026
This Colorado school district is using Biblically infused reading curriculum made for Texas students
(Chalkbeat) Officials in Montezuma-Cortez, a small school district in southwestern Colorado, could have chosen a new elementary reading curriculum from more than 20 state-approved options. Instead, with little public discussion this summer, they picked one called Bluebonnet. It’s described as being “built for Texas students” and has drawn fierce criticism from some Texans for containing Biblically infused lessons. Montezuma-Cortez leaders picked Bluebonnet because the district recently adopted a school reform model from the Houston school district, which approved Bluebonnet this summer.
United ISD says second loan may be needed after proposed $30M loan
(Laredo Morning Times) United ISD officials said Wednesday that the district may need a second loan next spring after seeking a proposed $30 million Tax and Revenue Anticipation Note to maintain payroll and operations as it addresses ongoing budget challenges. The Board of Trustees is expected to vote on the proposed loan Aug. 12, 2026.
Record teacher turnover leaves Fort Worth ISD with few vacancies — but fewer veteran educators
(Fort Worth Report) More than 1,100 educators left positions, including 279 veteran teachers with a decade or longer in Fort Worth ISD. Related:
- Fort Worth ISD looks ahead at first full year under state control. What’s changing? (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
The ‘Houston Miracle’ Shell Game
(Texas Observer) How Houston ISD’s takeover regime inflated school accountability ratings by systematically holding back certain students.
Northwest ISD files lawsuit against gun range after bullets found in new middle school building
(Fox 4 KDFW) Northwest ISD has filed a lawsuit against Quail Creek Shooting Range in Northlake after the district says bullets were found in a new school building. Bullets were found on the south end of Barksdale Middle School, which lines up with the gun range that sits 1.2 miles away from the school. The district says it was unable to get the gun range to commit to safety improvements before the school opens on August 12.
Marshall ISD takes first step toward charter school program
(KLTV) Marshall ISD is seeking additional state assistance to improve its schools. At a Thursday night meeting, district leaders presented their plan to introduce Texas Partnerships, or charter schools, to the district. The school board will vote on a charter partner that’s recommended by a committee before an application is sent to the TEA by December. The TEA will approve or deny applications by March.
Austin ISD is still adding transportation hubs with less than 2 weeks till school starts
(KUT) Austin ISD is rolling out a hub model for its middle school and high school students that will have them congregate at elementary schools, Austin Community College campuses or CapMetro stops to ride the bus to school. Officials said the new system will save the district $5.2 million, but some families are concerned about getting their children to school safely.
New Texas education laws take effect: What families need to know
(KHOU) Texas students heading back to school this fall will see several new education laws take effect, including the rollout of the state’s school voucher program, changes to special education funding and a new financial literacy graduation requirement. Here’s a look at some of the biggest changes affecting students and families this school year.
Dallas ISD officer wounded in Sam’s Club parking lot
(Fox 4 KDFW) A Dallas ISD police officer was shot while trying to help someone near the Walmart and Sam’s Club stores in Northwest Dallas on Thursday morning. Dallas ISD Police Chief Albert Martinez confirmed the injured officer is one of his officers – 39-year-old Officer Justin Jones, who is assigned to White High School and has been with the department for 16 years. Officer Jones was taken to Parkland Hospital with a critical gunshot wound to the leg.
Leander ISD police department under state investigation over hiring practices
(KVUE) The Leander ISD Police Department is facing a state investigation into its hiring practices and background check process, less than a year after the district established the force. The district says the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) has been investigating the department since October 2025.
Weatherford ISD math teacher accused of having improper relation with student
(FOX 4 KDFW) 38-year-old Chase Liles was arrested on Thursday and charged with having an improper relationship between an educator and a student. Liles was employed at Weatherford High School as a math teacher, and resigned from the district one day before his arrest. Weatherford Police said Liles was exchanging inappropriate text messages with a 17-year-old student. The identity of the student involved in the alleged relationship is not known.
Former Henderson ISD employee accused of sexually assaulting minor
(KLTV) Former Henderson ISD employee Teris Michaelle Butler, 38, of Henderson, has been arrested on a charge of second-degree sexual assault of a child. The school confirmed the accusation does not involve a Henderson ISD student. Butler was first hired with the school in August 2014 and worked as an aide until December, when she began working for another school district. She was later re-hired and worked in several different roles. Her husband, Drew Butler, previously held a position on the school board during the time of Teris Butler’s employment. He chose not to seek re-election in 2023.
Former Robstown ISD employee charged in federal child pornography case, court records show
(KIII) Federal investigators say a cyber tip led to charges against former Robstown ISD computer technician Roland Anastacio Martinez. Court records state Martinez later admitted to receiving, viewing and downloading child sexual abuse material from the internet and told investigators the files would be found on his phone.
Burleson County sheriff releases back-to-school warning after string of sex crime arrests
(KBTX) As families across the Brazos Valley settle into new back-to-school routines, the Burleson County Sheriff’s Office is releasing a sobering reminder: predators don’t take a summer break. Sheriff Bill Rios released a video Thursday revealing his office has made 41 arrests connected to sex crimes since July 2025 — nearly one per week. Most of those arrests involved online solicitation of minors. Others involved prostitution, including cases involving minors.
Gainesville ISD football coach suspended for 2026 season after “UIL rules violations”
(WFAA) Gainesville High School head football coach and athletic director Neil Searcy was suspended for the 2026 season by the UIL on Thursday, the Gainesville ISD superintendent announced. The UIL State Executive Committee issued Searcy a one-season suspension from football, a three-year probation period, and ordered additional training. The GHS football program was also issued a four-practice suspension and will not play one of its scrimmages ahead of the 2026 season. The UIL State Executive Committee issued the punishment after the district self-reported that athletes participated in six offseason morning football practices while wearing helmets and shoulder pads, violating offseason practice regulations.
Navasota ISD reveals stadium damage; repairs underway ahead of football season
(KXXV) Navasota Independent School District officials announced this week that concrete repairs are underway at Rattler Stadium’s home bleachers following the discovery of erosion damage during summer preparations. District officials found damage to 12 concrete footings beneath the home bleachers while preparing for the upcoming football season. The repairs will not be finished in time for Meet the Rattlers on Saturday, Aug. 8. For that event, all fans must use only the visitor stands.
Texas private school football hiring faces scrutiny after parents uncover coach’s past
(Houston Chronicle) The private Liberty Christian School in Argyle has fired defensive coordinator Gabe Eliserio after parents raised concerns about information that was not disclosed during the school’s hiring process. Court records from Arizona show Eliserio was charged with sexual abuse in 2005 while attending Eastern Arizona College, later served jail time, and was sentenced to probation and community service; he and the college were also named in a 2006 civil lawsuit. The school said Eliserio, who was hired in March, was dismissed after learning of the previously undisclosed information.
Retired educators aim to influence voter turnout, Texas school policy
(Corpus Christi Caller Times) Can retired educators be a force in state elections? Former South Texas superintendent Cissy Reynolds-Perez believes so. More than 60 retired educators filled the meeting room at Kiko’s Mexican Food Restaurant on Aug. 5, invited by Reynolds-Perez to discuss how retirees might continue to have an impact on public education. The event was hosted by Raise Your Hand Texas, a nonpartisan public education advocacy group founded by H-E-B Chairman Charles Butt and other Texas business and community leaders.
Longview ISD and Kilgore College changing dual credit program
(KLTV) The Longview Independent School District and Kilgore College are changing the way their dual credit program works, and it’s quite a change. Students taking dual credit won’t be learning at the high school anymore, they will be bussed to the KC campus. When there’s a big change you have to get oriented to it. Longview ISD Early College Coordinator Crystal Walker helped do just that with about 40 Longview High School Students at Kilgore College.
Texas High School Football Coach Under TEA Investigation Following Student’s Death
(Sports Illustrated) Richland Springs head football coach James McIntyre Jr., formerly of Rocksprings ISD, remains on the sidelines while the Texas Education Agency investigates the March death of 17-year-old David “Samson” Reyes.
Nacogdoches schools enforce clear bag policy, weapons detection system at Dragon Stadium
(CBS19) Nacogdoches ISD added a weapons detection system at Dragon Stadium and implemented a clear bag policy for athletic events in the upcoming school year.
UT Austin quietly opens Center for Humanities but won’t explain how it was created
(Austin American-Statesman) UT Austin is adding 14 professors through a new humanities center, though the university has not explained how the initiative was formed.
What’s it like to major in AI? The architects behind UNT’s new undergraduate program explain
(KERA) The University of North Texas will roll out its new Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence this fall, joining a growing list of higher education institutions to offer the degree.
Texas State University System Regents Approve Curriculum Overhaul
(Texas Scorecard) Texas State was the first to complete a review required by a new state law. The Texas State System’s changes, covering 46 pages in the meeting agenda, led to the removal of a handful of courses and the modification of more than 100. For the system’s main campus in San Marcos, 135 courses were modified while eight were removed.
Prairie View A&M ranks No. 3 among Forbes’ top public HBCUs. Here’s why it stands out
(Houston Chronicle) A Texas HBCU ranked among the top 10 in Forbes’ first-ever ranking of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCU). Forbes released rankings of historically Black colleges and universities “that set their graduates up for success.” Prairie View A&M University ranked at No. 3 on the public list behind Florida A&M University. Howard University topped the list, followed by North Carolina A&T State University.
TWU, Girl Scouts announce partnership
(Linked in) Texas Woman’s University and the Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas are partnering to increase leadership and educational opportunities for young women in the area. An agreement put into effect Thursday afternoon will give Gold Award Girl Scouts guaranteed enrollment at TWU, an application fee waiver and access to scholarship opportunities.
Lina Hidalgo’s proposed tax-rate hike for Harris County education programs fails for the second year in a row
(Houston Public Media) The rejection came almost one year after commissioners voted against Hidalgo’s first penny-tax proposal and said the county judge’s efforts to pass the measure to support a slate of education programs disrupted decorum as she brought a group of children to the meeting in 2025.
Texas Head Start leaders warn proposed federal rule could trade quality for access
(Dallas Morning News) Federal officials proposed an overhaul of the Head Start program Thursday that they say would reduce bureaucracy, give local providers more flexibility and create as many as 236,000 additional preschool slots nationwide. Texas Head Start leaders say they worry children and families could lose critical services in the process.
Texas appeals court upholds State Fair gun ban
(Fox 4 KDFW) The 15th Court of Appeals on Thursday rejected AG Ken Paxton’s challenge, ruling Dallas didn’t violate state law.
San Antonio charter school moves into historic Koehler House restored by developer Weston Urban
(San Antonio Report) Parents, children and Great Hearts public charter school supporters gather at the Koehler House on Wednesday for the reopening of the home that will serve as a school house for Great Hearts Monte Vista.
August 6, 2026
Texas’ first year of school vouchers is starting. Students with disabilities find hope, but face obstacles
(Dallas Morning News) North Texas families say they are grateful to leave public schools, but finding a private school hasn’t been easy, requiring them to weather through disappointment and confront additional costs.
Fort Worth ISD celebrates early A-F rating improvements. Will a school trigger intervention again?
(Fort Worth Report) Preliminary ratings show 13 fewer D and F campuses, but questions remain before Texas releases official grades. Related:
- Fort Worth ISD sees highest principal turnover in more than a decade (Fort Worth Report)
- 8 Fort Worth ISD schools receive more flexibility. What does that mean? (Fort Worth Report)
- Gay Teen Drag Queen Novel Sparks Fort Worth ISD Review Of Girls Soccer Coach Pick (Dallas Express)
Houston ISD responds to TEA concerns as special education changes move forward
(KHOU) As school begins, HISD says special education services will continue while it works to address TEA concerns over its Student Success Program. Related:
Houston ISD forced to end universal free lunch at 33 schools after Trump’s sweeping SNAP changes
(Houston Chronicle) More than 30 Houston ISD schools will no longer provide universal free lunch this school year due to federal changes to food assistance programs. Thousands of students could lose access to free meals and go hungry during the school day as a result, according to child nutrition experts. Related:
- San Antonio ISD says it will continue providing free breakfast, lunch to all students (San Antonio Current)
Northside ISD’s new virtual academy to open for 2026-27 school year
(KSAT) The program will welcome 200+ high school students.
Forney ISD principal was aware of special education teacher’s past arrest, failed to report abuse allegations
(Fox 4 KDFW) Wendy Bailey, a former Forney ISD elementary school principal, was aware of a special education teacher’s suspect past before hiring him last year, an arrest affidavit states. Despite previously acknowledging Jonathan Michael’s past arrest under the name Michael Roell, Bailey still contacted him multiple times about working in Forney ISD. According to the affidavit, Bailey told Michael she would not hire him under his old name, but would hire him if he changed it. Michael was arrested in May and charged with two counts of injury to a child and one count of child grooming. Bailey is charged with endangering a child and failure to report.
Winnsboro ISD board president arrested; district focused on new school year
(CBS19) Winnsboro ISD Board President Brandon Green faces charges of failing to report child abuse and tampering with evidence, marking the latest arrest linked to the district. In January, Superintendent Aaron David Nation, Brian “David” Wilcox (now-former superintendent) and Ashley Wilcox (David Wilcox’s wife and former speech-language pathology assistant) allegedly concealing child abuse after a Texas Ranger investigation. Chris Trotter is currently serving as interim superintendent.
Flower Mound teen receives 14 month probation sentence in Lewisville ISD football hazing case
(NBC DFW) An 18-year-old former Lewisville ISD Marcus High School football player Francisco Adams was sentenced to 14 months of probation Wednesday after entering two no-contest pleas in connection with a Flower Mound hazing incident involving a former teammate. Adams admitted to hazing his former teammate during an off-campus team dinner. A video of the incident, which was later posted on social media, showed what was later identified as a pellet gun pointed at the then-16-year-old victim after he had been stripped down. The victim was a member of the football team at the time but has since quit. Three additional students are expected to enter pleas in the coming weeks, according to a private investigator hired by the victim’s family.
Robstown ISD: Employee fired after federal arrest in child exploitation investigation
(KIII) District officials said the employee was arrested by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, immediately terminated and that no Robstown ISD students were involved in the case.
Texas youth football team coach dismissed amid wife’s ‘sex dungeon’ case
(Houston Chronicle) Dragon Youth Football (DYF), a youth program in Southlake, Texas tied to the powerhouse Southlake Carroll (Carroll ISD) Dragons high school program, dismissed coach Steve Powers after learning of an FBI case involving his wife, former Carroll ISD substitute teacher Jennifer Powers. Jennifer Powers and retired financier Howard Rubin were arrested in September 2025 and charged with sex trafficking and transporting women for commercial sex acts at a Manhattan “dungeon,” with Rubin also facing bank fraud charges tied to financing the Powers family’s Texas home. Steve’s removal as a youth coach came about 11 months later, following parent feedback and an additional review by DYF leadership.
Mold delays start of school at Friendswood ISD’s Westwood Elementary
(Houston Chronicle) Less than two weeks before Friendswood ISD students were scheduled to return to classes, the district said it was delaying the start of school at Westwood Elementary because of elevated mold levels. Friendswood ISD said the school’s HVAC system failed to control moisture, contributing to mold growth and saturation in parts of the roof deck. The district plans to clean the building and repair or replace the HVAC system and parts of the roof, followed by additional environmental testing.
How shrinking enrollment, budget cuts left DeSoto ISD without athletic trainers
(Dallas Morning News) DeSoto ISD was once the gold standard in sports medicine but now finds itself without certified athletic trainers on staff as football season nears.
Texas HB 8 funding changes will cost Alamo Colleges millions in state funding
(San Antonio Report) Alamo Colleges District, once a top earner under Texas’ House Bill 8 finance formula rooted in student outcomes, is now expecting to receive $3.9 million less for the upcoming 2027 fiscal year. Community colleges across Texas outperformed the state’s expectations, exceeding the funding allocations — $441 million for fiscal year 2026 and 2027 combined — which prompted changes and new limits to the funding formula. “They just thought we weren’t going to meet the projections, which is completely the opposite of what happened,” said Priscilla Camacho, Alamo Colleges chief legislative, industry and external relations officer. “Everybody lost money compared to what they got last year, and certainly lost money compared to what they were projected to get for fiscal year 2027.”
Texas A&M-Fort Worth’s downtown vision takes shape with $240M campus opening
(Fort Worth Report) Texas A&M opened the law and education building and began work on a $300 million research and innovation project.
When a Texas School Police Officer Got ‘Riled Up’ Over a Defiant Teen
(New York Times) The incident, one of thousands of times that school officers in Texas have used physical force in recent years, underscores long-held concerns about policing in schools.
Footage shows Northside ISD officer shoot woman outside packed football stadium
(KSAT) Newly released surveillance video shows the October 2023 shooting of a woman by a Northside Independent School District police officer outside of a crowded high school football stadium. The footage captures the moments leading up to the shooting of Markay Garcia, the wife of a Sotomayor High School assistant football coach, just outside Dub Farris Athletic Complex as thousands of spectators arrived for a varsity football game. Garcia survived the shooting, but she suffered a shattered humerus bone, a destroyed triceps muscle and has permanent nerve damage, according to a 2024 federal lawsuit she filed against the district and two of its officers.
Dallas ISD security officer honored for strengthening father-child bonds through school program
(WFAA) Dallas ISD Officer Joseph Thomas Sr. received a national award for creating a program that encourages fathers to become more involved in their children’s lives.
‘Definitely bittersweet’: Southwest ISD Superintendent Jeanette Ball resigns
(San Antonio Report) Southwest ISD Superintendent Jeanette Ball announced her retirement from the district during a special board meeting on Wednesday night.
Fine arts program gets an upgrade at La Joya ISD
(Progress Times) The La Joya school district received an extra $800,000 in federal grant funds at the end of the 2025-26 school year, allowing administration to invest in high-cost instructional and performance-related items. Public Relations & Communications Director Blanca Cantu said the district allocated the funds across campuses and programming needs. Some of the funds will go toward musical instruments, specialized supplies and student performance uniforms.
Texas Children’s Hospital must open country’s first ‘detransition clinic’ by October under finalized settlement
(KHOU) The agreement requires Texas Children’s Hospital to pay $10 million and open what the attorney general calls the nation’s first detransition clinic.
Some neighbors stand behind former Bosque County tax assessor convicted of abusing position
(KXXV) Despite her conviction on criminal charges for abuse of her office, some Bosque County neighbors are standing behind former tax collector and assessor Arlene Swiney.
Swiney was found guilty on misdemeanor charges during her time in office. Now some community members are standing behind her after her sentencing.
Award-winning professor taken into ICE custody at Texas airport
(Houston Chronicle) Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents arrested a University of Maryland School of Pharmacy instructor last month at Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport. Dr. Berhanu Kibret was arrested at DFW on July 21 after visiting Dallas for a meeting of the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy, an event where he was given a Teacher of the Year award. “Against our nation’s laws, he overstayed his visa and failed to depart. He will remain in ICE custody pending his immigration proceedings,” Homeland security said.
August 5, 2026
MAP: Which districts have students who got school vouchers?
(KXAN) There are 895 school districts with at least one participating student. Only 335 districts and their corresponding participation numbers were included in a demographic report released by the state comptroller. To protect the privacy of students, districts with fewer than 30 participating students were left out of the report.
A new charter school promising change divides East Dallas community
(KERA) The Museum School of East Dallas is one of four new Texas charter schools opening this semester. Some Dallas ISD families worry it is dividing a close-knit community by drawing away funding, students, and teachers.
Houston-area schools will open new campuses this fall. Here is where students will go
(Houston Chronicle) Several districts in the region will open new campuses to either accommodate an increased student body or introduce a new magnet school.
Lampasas ISD bans energy drinks on campus
(KCEN) Lampasas High School announced August 3 on its Facebook page that all energy drinks will not be permitted on campus. The new rule comes from Lampasas ISD School Health Services and the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC), and the guidelines for energy drinks and other high-caffeine products apply for all K-12 campuses in the district.
Irving City Council Renews School Resource Officer Agreements, Increases School District Cost Share for Irving and Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISDs
(Irving Weekly) The Irving City Council approved updated agreements with Irving Independent School District and Carrollton-Farmers Branch Independent School District to continue providing Irving police officers on school campuses while gradually increasing the school districts’ share of program costs.
Houston ISD Police Department readies safety, security measures for 2026-27 school year
(Community Impact) With students slated to soon return to HISD’s campuses, 112 guards have been added to monitor schools, and more will be added, Houston ISD Police Chief Shamara D. Garner said during the news conference. Officers will also be patrolling campuses 24 hours per day, she added. HISD’s annual Project Safe Start has been in operation for the last 25 years, Garner said. The program includes partnerships between HISD’s police department and other entities, such as precinct constables, the Houston Police Department and the Houston Ministers Against Crime.
Prosper ISD implements cost-saving measures to address budget shortfall
(Community Impact) Prosper ISD officials are looking for ways to save money in the 2026-27 budget, Chief Financial Officer Keri Croy said at a July 20 board meeting. The 2026-27 budget, which was approved at a June 16 meeting, projects a $42.2 million shortfall for the upcoming school year, including an expected $25.1 million shortfall in the district’s general fund, according to Croy’s June presentation.
Opinion: UIL crossed a line with communication about top recruit’s eligibility
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) The UIL should maintain a clearer separation between enforcing eligibility rules and advising schools on how to navigate them.
East Texas Coach Faces 6 New Felonies Related to Rape of Student
(Texas Scorecard) East Texas teacher and football coach Derek Bryan Peveto is facing six new sex crime charges while he remains in jail for allegedly raping a 16-year-old student in his pickup truck. The girl victim is a student in the Hardin-Jefferson Independent School District, where Peveto taught during the 2025-26 school year. He was hired by Jasper ISD this summer—his fourth job change in eight years.
New Richland Springs ISD coaches under TEA investigation after March death
(San Angelo Standard-Times) Richland Springs Independent School District athletic director and football coach James McIntrye Jr., along with another coach, are under investigation by the Texas Education Agency’s Educator Investigations Division (EID), the San Angelo Standard-Times confirmed with TEA. In a statement to the Standard-Times on Thursday, July 30, the TEA said an investigatory flag was placed on the certificates of McIntyre and assistant Adrian Rosales. EID is investigating both for alleged “direct harm” against students/minors.
Allen ISD officials approve 2 Eagle Stadium sponsorship agreements
(Community Impact) The first agreement was with ForgeNow, a regional trade school based in Lewisville. Board members also approved a sponsorship extension with H-E-B. ForgeNow’s agreement makes the trade school an official advertiser at Eagle Stadium from 2026 to 2028, which covers the 2026 and 2027 football seasons, Chief Communications Officer David Hicks said. ForgeNow will pay $25,000 per year for the agreement. H-E-B’s agreement was extended through the 2026-27 school year, which covers the 2026 football season. H-E-B will pay $15,000 for the extension. H-E-B has been an advertiser at Eagle Stadium since 2023, according to district documents.
Wichita Falls ISD introduces UIL Wrestling Program this school year
(KFDX/KJTL) Due to high demand, Memorial and Legacy high schools will introduce their first UIL male and female wrestling teams this school year.
Edinburg school board taps Donna super in split vote to lead district
(myRGV) Donna ISD Superintendent Angela Dominguez was named the lone finalist to lead Edinburg CISD with a 4-3 school board vote at a special meeting Monday evening.
Texas Longhorns mocked jersey sponsors for years. Now there’s too much money on the table
(Houston Chronicle) The most prime marketing real estate in the country right now might be space for a jersey patch on a Texas Longhorns uniform.
University of Houston Nixed Its Gender and Sexuality Classes. That Won’t Stop Texas’ Crusade Against Higher Ed
(Texas Observer) College administrators wrongly hope that anticipatory obedience will satisfy a GOP-run Texas Legislature that is increasingly hostile toward education.
University of Houston student says financial aid change left her scrambling before fall semester
(Fox 26 Houston) A University of Houston student says she recently learned she would not receive the Texas Transfer Grant she expected. State officials say Fiscal Year 2026 was the final year the grant was funded as a separate program. Beginning in Fiscal Year 2027, certain eligible transfer students will instead receive assistance through the TEXAS Grant program.
Trinity University pauses launch of a new logo citing alumni response
(San Antonio Report) Trinity University’s grand unveiling of a new logo of a maroon sun that would replace the image of the university’s bell tower was short-lived, as officials announced Tuesday that they are revisiting the design.
Baylor announces plan for additional Dallas location
(KCEN) Baylor University announced on August 3 that the George W. Truett Theological Seminary plans to open an additional location in Dallas, Texas at the Park Cities Baptist Church in Fall 2027. Truett currently has additional locations in Houston at the Lanier Theological Library and Learning Center, as well as in San Antonio at Trinity Baptist Church.
Austin Community College confirms ‘swatting’ call led to police response at Eastview and Highland campuses
(KVUE) The person who made the false report has been arrested, according to ACC police.
Texas ag commissioner says Gov. Abbott’s data center crackdown ‘doesn’t put the brakes on anything’
(KSAT) Gov. Greg Abbott ordered a statewide audit of data centers Monday, directing regulators to review every project seeking to connect to the Texas power grid before it can move forward. But the state’s top agriculture official says the move is more politics than policy — and residents in Guadalupe County say they’re not convinced it changes anything for them.
Texas reports dozens more cyclospora cases. Most cases still from two regions in state
(Dallas Morning News) In the newly updated numbers, the region including Dallas and Fort Worth has added 25 cases in the past two weeks. So far this year, the state has confirmed a total of 188 cases of cyclosporiasis, a spokesperson for the Texas Department of State Health Services, Douglas Loveday, said in a Tuesday afternoon email. The state has also identified an additional 10 probable cases.
Thousands fewer Dallas County children could receive childcare aid next year
(Dallas Morning News) Costs are rising faster than funding as advocates press Dallas County commissioners to put a childcare fund before voters in November.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo again asks commissioners to support tax increase for childcare
(Houston Chronicle) Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo will again ask Commissioners Court to consider a property tax increase to support a daycare and preschool subsidy for some residents, public agenda documents indicate. Commissioners will discuss the proposal Thursday. If approved, the proposed increase would go before voters in November.
Celebrate Dyslexia streamlines teacher training with San Antonio universities, public schools
(San Antonio Report) San Antonio’s Celebrate Dyslexia, known for championing dyslexia services for children, is now working directly with educators who want to help students with the learning disability in the classroom.
Back-to-School schemes are on the rise: What parents need to know before clicking
(KPRC) Experts warn parents to watch for fake fundraisers, too-good-to-be-true supply deals, and a growing threat powered by artificial intelligence: scheme messages written to look like they came from a child’s teacher or school.
How Two Texas Districts Built Award-Winning School Bus Safety Programs
(School Bus Fleet) Learn how Prosper ISD and Rockwall ISD earned National Safety Council honors through hands-on training, safety culture, and strategies that reduced transportation incidents.
Kids really do need to touch grass. Time spent in nature can help them process life
(KERA) Freelance environmental writer Michael Smith lays out programs in North Texas that are working to get kids outdoors.
August 4, 2026
Wealthier districts tend to do better on STAAR. See which San Antonio districts beat the odds
(San Antonio Express-News) An Express-News analysis of 2026 STAAR results found that higher passing rates – defined as the share of exams marked as approaching grade level or better – were generally associated with wealthier districts.
More Than 100 Classic and Acclaimed Works of Literature Removed from Texas Schools Last Year
(Anger & Clarity) Was your favorite book banned from a Texas school district in 2025-2026?
Which families are using ESAs? Here’s what we know about Texas’ first school vouchers
(Texas Tribune) More than 85,000 families are participating in Texas’ private school voucher program during its first year, a number that could increase as state officials finalize enrollment data, according to a new state report. While it appears unlikely that the majority of first-year voucher recipients will come from public schools, the largest numbers of participating families live within the boundaries of some of the state’s most populous districts — with Houston, Dallas and Northside in the San Antonio area leading the way. Related:
- Huffines sworn in as Texas comptroller, touts school voucher enrollment (USA Today)
- Texas Education Freedom Accounts: Killeen families navigate new school choice program (KWTX)
- Vouchers in the Valley: How Texas Education Freedom Account funds split private, homeschool families (KBTX)
- About 1,000 students living in Austin ISD will use private school vouchers (Austin American-Statesman)
- New west Tyler Catholic school aims to make private education affordable (KLTV)
San Antonio ISD board votes to adopt state’s Bluebonnet Learning curriculum
(KSAT) The San Antonio Independent School District board voted 6-1 Monday to adopt the Bluebonnet Learning curriculum — a state-endorsed instructional program for K-5th grade students that has sparked controversy over its ties to religious content. Superintendent Adrian Bustillos said the district plans to modify the curriculum, and the items the district cannot scope down, they will opt into using the Houghton Mifflin Harcourt curriculum.
Nearly 1 in 5 Texas students miss 10% or more of school year. Why absences matter
(San Antonio Express-News) Texas public schools reported that 18% of students missed more than 10% of the school year. Chronic absenteeism affects school budgets and student learning.
Families brace for change as Third Future reboots two struggling Waco schools
(Waco Bridge) Class begins Tuesday at South Waco and Dean Highland elementary schools under the control of a charter operator known for strict schedules and policies. This marks the first year both campuses are being managed by the Third Future Charter School Network.
2 North Texas schools start year under new operator after district outsources operations
(WFAA) Everman ISD’s Baxter Junior High and Townley Elementary are the first in the metroplex operated by Third Future Schools, a Colorado-based nonprofit.
Richardson ISD rolls out classroom screen time guidelines, emphasizing hands-on learning
(NBC DFW) The new guidelines include grade-level recommendations for screen use, extended restrictions on YouTube access for secondary students, increased classroom monitoring and transparency, and the elimination of technology as a behavior incentive or indoor recess activity.
AI, STEM curriculum piloted in Bastrop ISD expands statewide
(Community Impact) Artificial intelligence literacy and STEM curriculum will be offered to more than 100,000 students in Texas by early 2027 through the EdgeConneX and Hello World partnership. The pilot program between the two companies began in four Bastrop County school districts: Bastrop ISD, Elgin ISD, McDade ISD and Smithville ISD, including 36 schools and 15,000 students. According to a press release, the partnership will now expand to school districts across the state.
Lubbock ISD launches tuition-free virtual education program in partnership with Texas Tech K-12
(KCBD) The Lubbock Independent School District Board of Trustees has approved a memorandum of understanding with Texas Tech University to create Lubbock ISD Virtual Education, known as LIVE, a tuition-free online education program for eligible students. LIVE will operate asynchronously, allowing students to complete coursework online at their own pace. Courses will be taught by Texas Tech K-12 certified teachers, and students will have access to 24/7 tutoring and academic support resources.
Austin ISD moves to ‘hub’ bus stops for secondary students
(Fox 7 Austin) Austin ISD is changing bus routes for some students this upcoming school year. Middle and high school students won’t be picked up from neighborhood streets anymore. They’ll be at “hub stop” community locations like elementary schools, libraries, post offices, or CapMetro transit centers. The district is also reinstating the two-mile distance eligibility requirement. The district is changing bus routes this school year in an effort to cut back on operating costs.
Fort Bend ISD closed 7 elementary schools, but what happens to the buildings now?
(Fox 26 Houston) When Fort Bend ISD students return to class Aug. 11, seven elementary schools will not reopen, leaving families with a new question: What will happen to the former campuses? The district says the properties could be repurposed, leased, sold, demolished or used to serve the community. Families are asking for campus-specific plans, timelines and information about the cost of maintaining the properties.
Outdoor learning center scrapped from Northside ISD bond proposal
(San Antonio Express-News) Trustees said the bond package put to voters needs to focus on basic, high-priority items.
Gov. Greg Abbott pauses new data centers until energy, water usage audit is completed
(Texas Public Radio) New data centers won’t be able to connect to the Texas power grid until state regulators complete a comprehensive audit of these facilities, following a directive from Gov. Greg Abbott on Monday.
Abbott’s ‘Keep Texas Affordable’ plan: Lower housing costs, new health insurance plan
(Center Square) Texas Gov. Greg Abbott continues to tour the state highlighting part of his campaign platform to lower costs for Texans.
Professors sue Texas A&M System over limits on teaching race, gender
(Texas Tribune) This is the second Texas university system sued over teaching restrictions in recent weeks.
Why Texas students could see fewer choices for required college courses
(Austin American-Statesman) Because of a new law, Texas university systems are revisiting their core curriculum and in some cases limiting what students learn. Here’s how it could change.
Rice University extends free tuition to families earning up to $200,000 a year
(Houston Chronicle) Rice University will soon grant free tuition to undergraduates whose families earn up to $200,000 a year, increasing the cap and easing access to the Houston institution for students beyond the middle-income range. University officials announced the expansion on Monday, also committing to covering room and board and mandatory fees for people whose families earn up to $100,000 annually. The change will apply to new students starting fall 2027.
Wayland Baptist University Opens New Irving Campus To Serve Growing International Student Program
(Irving Weekly) Wayland Baptist University will officially open its new downtown Irving location on Saturday, Aug. 8, expanding the university’s international graduate education program in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. WBU made an agreement to use the buildings owned by the First Methodist Church.
Exclusive: Legal challenge to Texas election puts spotlight on ‘assisted voters’
(Center Square) In an ongoing civil election fraud case in Zapata County, hundreds of voters requested assistance to vote. Among them were those who were also sworn in to assist others requesting assistance, according to Secretary of State data. Democrat Martha Morales, a Zapata ISD school board member who challenged incumbent Democrat Zapata County Judge Joe Rathmell, lost by 66 votes in the March 3 primary election. She argues she would have won if illegal voting hadn’t occurred.
A Texas-led federal lawsuit could affect disability rights. Here’s why advocates are concerned
(KUT) Disability rights advocates are urging Texas to withdraw from a federal lawsuit they say could weaken the protections that allow disabled people to live in their communities instead of institutions.
From devastated to restored: Copperas Cove ISD’s Williams/Ledger Elementary reopens after $10 million rebuild
(KWTX) Williams/Ledger Elementary School in Copperas Cove reopened Monday with a ribbon cutting, one year after back-to-back storms caused extensive damage to the campus and forced students and staff to relocate to other schools. “All the way to the floors, the drywall, the lights, the insulation, the roof, air conditioners,” Superintendent Brent Hawkins said. “Everything came off and it was totally restored.”
How Cy-Fair ISD gets more than 65,000 students to school every day
(KHOU) Cypress-Fairbanks ISD transports more than 65,000 students each day, offering a look inside one of Texas’ largest school bus operations before classes begin.
Texas parent’s video ignites back-to-school controversy over teacher lists
(Houston Chronicle) Some teachers say they’ve been told not to share wish lists publicly. Cy-Fair ISD in the Houston, Texas, area says approved options exist.
UIL state basketball tournament stays at Alamodome through 2028, open to future sites
(Fox 7 Austin) The UIL confirmed that San Antonio’s Alamodome will host the Texas high school basketball state championships through 2028. The UIL has held its basketball state championships at the Alamodome since 2015 after moving the event from the Frank Erwin Center in Austin.
Opening of new Livingston ISD stadium postponed through 2026 season
(KTRE) Livingston ISD’s new Lion Stadium will unexpectedly remain closed throughout the 2026 football season after the final step in construction was delayed. The school district began building the Lion Stadium in 2024, setting the proposed completion date for 2026.
Salado ISD Opens New Football Stadium as Fast-Growing Texas District Unveils New High School Campus
(Sports Illustrated) The Salado Eagles will christen their new football home on Aug. 28 as the district’s rapid growth leads to a major investment in athletics, academics and career education.
August 3, 2026
Houston mothers challenge Ten Commandments posters under Texas’ new parental rights amendment
(Texas Tribune) The parents’ suit leverages Texas law — versus federal First Amendment arguments — in the latest legal case involving the classroom posters. Related:
- Religious scholars say risks outweigh benefits of Texas Bible curriculum (Houston Chronicle)
Federal judge declines to reinstate Muslim educator as Fort Worth ISD principal
(KERA) A federal judge decided that Fort Worth ISD will not be forced to reinstate educator Shayma Alzubi as principal of Western Hills High School. Judge Mark Pittman of the Northern District of Texas issued his decision Tuesday after he found the reassignment — and later promotion — did not harm Alzubi’s employment. The district reassigned her after receiving threats over her social media posts.
United ISD considering $30M loan, plans to discuss additional school closures
(Laredo Morning Times) The United Independent School District will consider taking out a loan of at least $30 million to cover payroll and operating expenses and will continue discussing the possibility of additional campus closures amid its budget shortfall.
Why Is Texas Taking Over So Many School Districts?
(Texas Monthly) Under commissioner Mike Morath, the Texas Education Agency has intervened in more than a dozen school districts. And it’s just getting started.
Hundreds of El Paso teachers leave classrooms as enrollment decline reshapes area schools, workforce
(El Paso Matters) School district officials in El Paso say there will likely be fewer teachers over the years as student enrollment declines.
Inside Austin ISD’s talks to avoid a state takeover as three schools await ratings
(Austin American-Statesman) With the possibility of a state takeover looming, Austin Independent School District officials are exploring options that would avert intervention, according to three people familiar with behind-the-scenes discussions.
- Austin ISD board votes to close Paredes Middle School (Fox 7 Austin)
Arlington ISD cut 307 positions. Parents say the losses go beyond the classroom
(Arlington Report) Arlington ISD eliminated 307 positions as part of budget cuts driven by declining enrollment and financial pressures, but parents say the impact extends well beyond classroom staffing. They told the school board that cuts to librarians, instructional coaches, counselors and other support staff will reduce academic support, student services and school culture. Related:
Evadale ISD finds microbial growth in classrooms, temporary buildings approved
(KBMT) Evadale ISD says microbial growth has been discovered in several classrooms across its elementary and junior high buildings, prompting district leaders to take swift action ahead of the new school year. To keep students and staff safe, the Evadale ISD school board has approved temporary classroom buildings for all affected classes.
Balmorhea ISD shares why the Texas Education Agency is actively investigating its superintendent
(NewsWest9) As the first day of school approaches, the Texas Education Agency confirmed it has opened an investigation into Balmorhea ISD’s superintendent.
Clear Creek ISD teachers to get smaller raise in 2026-27 school year, compared to previous year
(Community Impact) Clear Creek ISD teachers will receive a 1% increase in the 2026-27 fiscal year, despite some board of trustees members saying the raise is not sufficient to keep up with inflation.
Houston ISD will use ‘AI-powered education’ Alpha platform at 2 elementary schools
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD announced Friday that it will use an artificial intelligence platform developed by Alpha School at Clemente Martinez and Gregg elementary schools during the school year that begins Aug. 10. Related:
More North Texas students can attend school from home. Why districts added online options
(Dallas Morning News) Texas overhauled its framework for virtual schools last year, making it easier for public school districts like Frisco, Arlington and Grand Prairie to offer individual courses or entire programs.
Katy ISD attendance incentive initiative sees 3 years of growth
(Community Impact) Based on the $6,215 basic student allotment given by the state, Assistant Superintendent of Finance Jamey Hynds said the district has seen over 800 additional students in class, bringing in over $5 million annually for Katy ISD. Related:
Parents sue Plano ISD, principal and teacher for $1 million over alleged sexual abuse of daughter
(KERA) The parents of an 8-year-old girl are suing Plano ISD, saying the district failed to prevent longtime 2nd-grade teacher Paul Campbell from sexually abusing their daughter. The suit, which also names Campbell and Brinker Elementary principal Jennifer King as defendants, claims the school knew about an earlier accusation against Campbell but didn’t report it to the state as required, didn’t investigate Campbell, or supervise his actions.
Socorro ISD board probes trustee accused of choking 16-year-old
(El Paso Times) The Socorro ISD Board of Trustees is hiring a special investigator to look into allegations that one of its members choked a 16-year-old boy. Trustee Ryan Reid Woodcraft, 43, who faces a charge of assault causing bodily injuries, will continue to hold his seat. Woodcraft was arrested on July 25 after he allegedly choked a 16-year-old boy at a Father’s Day barbecue. The teen turned “red and purple in the face, drooling and tears coming out of his eyes,” a criminal complaint affidavit states.
Arrest documents detail abuse that led to multiple employees being fired from Forney ISD
(WFAA) An arrest warrant obtained by WFAA is shedding new light on the “misconduct” that led to multiple Forney ISD employees being removed from their school. WFAA previously reported that Crosby Elementary School’s principal had been let go from the district amid a multi-agency investigation that also implicated a number of aides and a teacher who worked for FISD. Forney ISD officials say the investigation stems from allegations made regarding misconduct by a teacher (see “Related” below). Related:
Houston ISD teacher accused of having sex with student is set to appear before judge in August
(Houston Chronicle) A Houston ISD teacher charged with having an improper sexual relationship with a student is scheduled to appear in court this month, according to court records. Jesse Sifuentes, 40, was accused of having sex with a student at least eight times in 2024 when she was 18 and he was her teacher at the High School for Law and Justice, records said. He was arrested July 19, and his arraignment is scheduled for Aug. 19 in the 339th Criminal District Court.
Ex-Hardin-Jefferson ISD teacher faces six new felony charges in Hardin County
(KBMT) A former Hardin-Jefferson ISD teacher and coach already jailed in Jefferson County on charges of having a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old student now faces six additional felony charges out of Hardin County. Derek Bryan Peveto, 46, has been held in the Jefferson County jail since July 7 on charges of improper relationship between educator and student, trafficking of persons to engage in conduct for sex or benefit, and indecency with a child/sexual contact. All of the charges are second-degree felonies that carry from 2 to 20 years in prison.
Ex-Stockdale ISD teacher accused of improper relationship with student gets 13-year prison sentence
(KSAT) A former Stockdale Independent School District teacher was sentenced to 13 years in prison after he was accused of having an improper relationship with a student. Peter Aaron Leach ‘waived his right to a jury trial,’ officials say.
Texas DEI watchdog received 73 college complaints. Just 2 led to investigations
(Austin American-Statesman) Six months after lawmakers launched an initiative to hold colleges and universities accountable over a statewide diversity, equity and inclusion ban and limits on core curriculum, the new ombudsman office has only investigated two complaints. Most complaints involved issues outside the office’s authority, including harassment claims and concerns about classroom instruction. Related:
4-Year-Old Left Alone On Crowley School Bus For 6 Hours, Per Family; Driver Fired
(Dallas Express) Crowley ISD has terminated a bus driver after a pre-kindergarten student was left alone on a school bus last week following the morning route, the district said. The 4-year-old child was later found inside the bus at a Durham School Services transportation lot, where an employee discovered the student. Medical personnel evaluated the child before she was reunited with her family.
Texas Tech defers to AG on media requests for Galaxy stadium deal
(Lubbock Avalanche-Journal) The Texas Tech University System has deferred to the state Attorney General’s office open records requests from the Avalanche-Journal and two other local media organizations seeking contract and additional information about Tech Athletics’ recent football stadium naming rights agreement with Galaxy.
University of St. Thomas data breach settlement could pay student, employee victims up to $4,500
(Houston Chronicle) University of St. Thomas students, employees and alumni whose personal information was compromised in a 2025 data breach may be eligible for some relief after the institution received preliminary approval to settle a class action lawsuit.
UNT cites Texas DEI ban to deny funding 11 professors’ memberships to professional groups
(Dallas Morning News) The University of North Texas has denied 11 professors funding for memberships to professional organizations it says violate the state’s DEI ban — a move some faculty members describe as unjustified and warn could undercut their career development. Professors generally join national associations tied to their academic discipline to network with peers and elevate their scholarly reputation. Some of the funding requests UNT denied include a group for journalism educators and a society of clinical psychologists.
60 years later, the UT Tower shooting stands as one of Texas’ darkest day
(MySA) Eighteen people lost their lives on August 1, 1966.
State finds some registered Texas voters were wrongly flagged as potential noncitizens
(Texas Standard) The secretary of state told counties to immediately reinstate any Texans who were removed from the voter roll despite showing DPS proof of citizenship.
Exclusive: UIL guided coach through paperwork tied to star’s loss of eligibility
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) A University Interscholastic League employee guided Euless Trinity’s head football coach through the filing of a prior athletic participation form for a high-profile player who was ultimately ruled ineligible, according to public documents obtained by the Star-Telegram. The five-star cornerback, who tried to transfer to North Crowley ahead of his senior season, was ruled ineligible before reclassifying.
DeSoto ISD has no certified athletic trainers on staff as football, volleyball seasons near
(Dallas Morning News) As of Friday, DeSoto ISD had no certified athletic trainers on staff to help athletes as their season starts, a person with knowledge of the situation told The Dallas Morning News. Students and parents voiced their displeasure with the district regarding the trainer situation at a school board meeting last Monday.
Midnight practices open Texas high school football season
(KSAT) Some coaches use the early start to get players on the field before the heat.
