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April 29, 2026

State-appointed Fort Worth ISD board approves school closure, job cuts

(WFAA) During a late-night meeting ending at 1 a.m. Wednesday, the state-appointed Fort Worth ISD board approved a controversial plan to eliminate positions and close a school dedicated to immigrant students learning English as a second language. This is the second round of layoffs announced since Licata began leading the district. Related:

Midland ISD approves plan for Travis Elementary amid fallout with IDEA Public Schools

(NewsWest9) Midland ISD’s board approved a new plan for Travis Elementary after ending its partnership with IDEA Public Schools due to ongoing low academic performance. The district considered multiple options and ultimately chose to bring the campus back under direct district control, focusing on improving student outcomes and stability. The decision follows the termination of the IDEA contract, which had been allowed after the school received several consecutive low ratings.

Judson ISD school board conflict persists amid academic, enrollment issues

(KSAT) Judson Independent School District trustee Jose Macias Jr. is not allowed on district campuses or at district events for a minimum of five months after being censured at a recent board meeting. Board President Monica Ryan said the censure stems from unfounded accusations by Macias and from an interview Macias did with KSAT at Judson Middle School in early March. The censure of Macias follows the school board’s vote to terminate former Superintendent Milton “Rob” Fields. Fields was terminated for several issues outlined here and explained in around 3,000 documents, according to Ryan. Related:

Lawsuit alleges Judson ISD board wasn’t transparent before controversial firing of superintendent (KENS)

SBEC Rejects Recommendation To Revoke ‘Reckless’ Rockwall Coach’s Certification

(Texas Scorecard) State Board for Educator Certification members chose not to sanction former Rockwall ISD coach John Harrell, deciding he didn’t “knowingly” hurt students.

‘Kids missing from schools’: Houston districts lose over 8,000 immigrant students amid crackdown

(Houston Chronicle) Houston-area school dstricts have lost as many as one in five immigrant students since last year, according to an analysis by the Houston Chronicle. Overall, 20 of the region’s public school districts have lost nearly 8,300 immigrant students and nearly 18,000 emergent bilingual students. Experts link the decline to increased federal immigration enforcement.

See Houston’s most expensive private schools for the 2026-27 school year

(Houston Chronicle) Tuition at Houston’s most expensive private schools will range from just under $30,000 to $63,000 for the 2026-27 school year. At least 34 of Houston’s private schools will charge annual tuition above $30,000 – not including fees – according to a Houston Chronicle analysis. Of those schools, fewer than half will participate in Texas’ new $1 billion school voucher program.

Houston ISD expands number of AI-focused schools for the 2026-27 school year

(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD announced Tuesday a total of nine artificial intelligence-focused schools for the 2026-27 school year, up from a previous plan for six schools.

Klein ISD expects to end this school year with a $20 million surplus after starting year in deficit

(Houston Chronicle) Klein ISD officials said they expect to end this school year with a $20 million surplus – despite starting the year with a deficit. In June 2025, the north Houston-area district adopted a budget with a $21 million shortfall for the 2025-26 school year due to inflation and declining enrollment. But at an April 20 budget workshop, Chief Financial Officer Daniel Schaefer said the district will receive additional state revenue to cover expanded homestead exemptions.

DATA: Students in special education programs rise at Greater Houston-area school districts in 2025-26

(Community Impact) Friendswood and Alief ISDs had the largest percentages of students with dyslexia and autism across the Greater Houston area, according to recently released Texas Education Agency data.

Victoria ISD elementary school facing closure

(Crossroads Today) Shields Elementary School faces potential closure at the end of the school year, regardless of the Victoria ISD bond election outcome.

Houston rabbi among families planning Supreme Court appeal after federal court upholds Ten Commandments law

(KPRC) A Houston rabbi is among a group of Texas families planning to take their legal fight over the Ten Commandments in public schools to the U.S. Supreme Court. Rabbi Joshua Fixler, who sued Houston ISD, is one of 15 families involved in a multifaith lawsuit challenging the state law.

Northside ISD elementary school teacher charged with continuous sexual assault of child, police say

(KSAT) San Antonio police said an elementary school teacher has been arrested and charged with continuous sexual assault of a child. Cecilia Mueller, 46, was taken into custody on Monday, Bexar County jail records indicate. The alleged sexual assault occurred about a decade ago at Lewis Elementary School with a student on multiple occasions, according to an affidavit.

Sheriff: Texas driver lied about school gun threat to avoid school zone speeding citation

(KWXT) Montgomery County sheriff’s deputies arrested Nathaniel Ellis, 39, after investigators alleged he made a false claim about a weapon at Conroe High School to avoid a traffic ticket. Deputies say Ellis falsely told them he was speeding because a student at Conroe High School had a firearm and was involved in an altercation with his son. Multiple law enforcement agencies immediately responded to the school to investigate, but found nothing amiss.

Alamo Colleges faculty push back on cuts to summer teaching pay

(San Antonio Report) Full-time faculty at Alamo Colleges District are decrying a compensation adjustment that could cut their summer teaching pay by 30%. The change goes into effect this summer, and faculty members said this would result in cuts ranging from $3,000 to $4,000 for the summer.

Which Texas college grads have the least student loan debt? See which have the most

(Austin American-Statesman) Graduates from Texas’s most selective colleges like UT are least likely to graduate with debt, but its historically Black universities lack the same resources.

UT Austin orders changes to KUT Festival days before inaugural event

(KUT) The change comes after a last-minute notice by the University of Texas at Austin about safety and security concerns. KUT’s general manager says she is “confused” by the university’s decision.

Houston jury awards former Rice University football player $1.3 million in anti-male bias case

(KTRK) A federal jury has ordered Rice University to pay more than a million dollars in damages, finding that the school discriminated against a former football player accused of giving a female student a sexually transmitted disease.

UT Permian Basin to launch AI track in computer science master’s program

(KOSA) The University of Texas Permian Basin is launching a new artificial intelligence track in its Master’s in Computer Science program this fall, designed to meet growing workforce demands in AI and machine learning.

Prairie View A&M coach feuds with fraternity brother over program slogan

(Houston Chronicle) A trademark filing for ‘D.O.G.’ has ignited a college football dispute between coaching staffs.

Cameron County Public Health investigating confirmed case of measles

(ValleyCentral) According to the Cameron County Public Health Department, the case was identified in a non-Cameron County resident who had traveled from a state with recent measles cases. It’s unclear if the person was vaccinated against measles, the department said.

‘Serious threats to public safety’: Texas AG investigating CDL schools for subpar training, certifying non-English speakers

(KXAN) Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has opened an investigation into several trucking schools accused of providing subpar commercial driver training and certifying non-English speakers.

How Texas property laws complicate ownership for married couples

(Houston Chronicle) Texas property law makes it harder for married couples to ensure a home automatically passes to a surviving spouse.

For Texans with disabilities, voting can take weeks — or be out of reach

(Texas Public Radio) For one Texas voter, casting a ballot in the March primary took weeks of coordination, multiple phone calls, two applications and help from several people just to meet the deadline.

Houston area childcare centers closing as funding cuts deepen crisis, advocates say

(KPRC) In the Houston area, a growing number of childcare centers are shutting their doors as funding losses ripple through the industry leaving working families scrambling and raising alarms among providers and advocates.

April 28, 2026

In fight with state, North East ISD backs down on student cellphone policy

(San Antonio Express-News) After the state threatened greater oversight and intervention, North East Independent School District trustees on Monday backed down from a standoff with the Texas Education Agency over their student cellphone ban. The district will now adopt a bell-to-bell cellphone ban beginning May 25, the first day of the final week of classes this school year. The board voted 5-1 to remove the district’s more narrowly tailored definition of “school day,” from its cellphone ban. North East ISD previously defined the school day as instructional time, which allowed students to use their phones during lunch, passing periods and bathroom breaks.

Springtown EF-1 tornado cleanup continues; schools closed Tuesday

(Fox 4 KDFW) Springtown is cleaning up after a weekend EF-1 tornado destroyed homes with 105 mph winds and killed one resident. Springtown schools will remain closed for a second consecutive day on Tuesday.

Some San Antonio educators hope to take advantage of Texas Education Freedom Accounts

(San Antonio Report) School choice advocates seeking to get the word out about Texas Education Freedom Accounts are now working to educate educators on how the program can open opportunities for teachers to earn money outside their day jobs. “There’s a lot of opportunity,” said Zoe Alterman, speaking to a group of educators from across San Antonio during a teacher happy hour at Vibras on April 16. “It’s a very, very wide range of what is considered educational products.”

Texas AG Paxton Launches Second Strike Against Austin ISD Over Boys In Girls’ Restrooms

(Dallas Express) Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has sent an additional notice to the Austin Independent School District demanding documentation of policies and enforcement actions regarding the use of female facilities by biological males, citing ongoing concerns over compliance with the Texas Women’s Privacy Act. Monday’s action follows a March 2026 notice to the district after a citizen complaint alleged that a biological male had been using girls’ restrooms and locker rooms at Austin High School.

State funding calculation errors, property tax breaks cause unexpected budget shortfalls for El Paso schools despite hold harmless promise

(El Paso Matters) El Paso school districts are bracing for budget shortfalls next school year after the state miscalculated the way it would make up for the lost tax revenue after Texas voters approved increased tax breaks for homeowners. District leaders have promised to cut costs without affecting the student experience, and said they do not expect to lay off employees or close schools.

Leaked Houston ISD Plans Call for “Special Ed Specialty Schools”

(Houston Press) A leaked proposal that would establish “special education specialty schools” in Houston for a significant change in how and where special education students are taught had several Houston ISD parents of those students alarmed over the weekend.

Conroe ISD adopts plans to decentralize its special education program for 2026-27 school year

(Community Impact) The Conroe ISD board of trustees has adopted a new plan, dubbed the “homecoming plan,” to decentralize its special education program for the 2026-27 school year. CISD Deputy Superintendent Ted Landry presented the decentralization plan, the motivation for which is so that special education students no longer have to leave their zoned campuses for education.

Richardson ISD secondary schools to end block schedules due to budget cuts

(Community Impact) Jennie Bates, RISD assistant superintendent for school leadership and superintendent support, said at the April 23 school board meeting that the district will save roughly $11.1 million by returning to a traditional seven- or eight-period daily schedule at junior highs, middle schools and high schools. Under the block schedule, students took eight classes on an alternating schedule of four periods a day.

Could Arlington ISD launch a virtual school to battle declining enrollment?

(Arlington Report) Arlington ISD trustees are considering a virtual school as a potential solution to its declining enrollment.

Carroll ISD faces $1.25M budget shortfall for FY 2025-26, gives update on FY 2026-27 budget

(Community Impact) Carroll ISD is facing a $1.25 million budget shortfall for fiscal year 2025-26, Deputy Superintendent of Business and Finance Chase Park said at the April 20 regular board meeting. The budget shortfall is primarily due to one-time payments that were made to district staff in November and April, Park said. Park said the district is hoping to recoup that loss through land sales and the selling of the district’s telecommunications towers.

La Joya ISD to begin contract non-renewals as enrollment declines

(myRGV) In a board meeting last Wednesday, the La Joya ISD school board voted to begin the process of contract non-renewals for teaching and professional staff — with Chief of Academics and School Leadership Derek Little citing a shift in enrollment, changes in programs and the closing of four campuses next year.

Former Wills Point ISD teacher gets life in prison for sexual abuse of children

(KLTV) Former Wills Point ISD teacher Jimmy Lee Hanks, 53 received a life sentence from a Rains County jury on Monday for his sexual abuse of children. Hanks was charged in February 2025 for continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14, a first-degree felony. Hanks pleaded not guilty, but the jury was convinced beyond reasonable doubt that he did commit multiple acts of sexual abuse to multiple children as young as five years old.

Former Childress ISD employee found guilty of stealing from the school district

(KFDA) Former Childress ISD employee Lacy Rodriguez has been found guilty of theft by a public servant of more than $2,500 but less than $30,000 for stealing money from the school district. Rodriguez was a public servant and worked as an administrative staff member at the time of the theft. The records say that she pleaded guilty and was sentenced to four years of supervised probation, must pay restitution of just over $40,000.

Huntsville ISD employee terminated, charged with injury to a child

(Fox 26 Houston) A Huntsville ISD employee is facing charges following an investigation, according to a news release. 32-year-old Brittany King is facing two counts of injury to a child/elderly/disabled with the intent of bodily injury. School officials stated King was initially identified as a teacher, but it was later learned she was a campus support staff member.

United ISD teacher’s aide arrested on tampering charge

(KGNS) A teacher’s aide with the United ISD is under arrest, accused of tampering with official school records. UISD police arrested Maria Garza on Sunday, April 26. Jail records show she is charged with tampering with a government record, specifically a school record, license, seal or permit. The district said it is aware of the arrest and that “further administrative action remains pending pursuant to District policy.”

Fort Bend ISD employee off job after investigation into incident at Burton Elementary

(KTRK) Fort Bend ISD confirms an employee is no longer on the job following an investigation, that one family says involves their 6-year-old nonverbal student with autism. The child’s family says they are outraged after discovering what they describe as mistreatment inside Burton Elementary School.

Suspect sentenced to 10 years in prison in connection with San Antonio ISD student’s shooting death

(KSAT) Andrew Cantu, 18, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for his role in the 2025 shooting death of 14-year-old SAISD student Simon Cuevas, after pleading to a reduced charge of injury to a child rather than capital murder. Cuevas was followed by a group of males and killed shortly after leaving SAISD’s Brewer Academy on April 16, 2025. The sentence reflects the maximum penalty for the lesser charge, and the case has drawn criticism from the victim’s family and community over the lack of murder convictions. One other suspect committed suicide, the fate of two juvenile suspects are unknown and another suspect also faces a charge of injury to a child with intent to cause bodily injury.

Motorcyclist critically injured after crashing into East Central ISD bus, police say

(KENS) A motorcyclist was rushed to the hospital after crashing into an East Central Independent School District bus on the southeast side of San Antonio Monday afternoon, officials said. SAPD Detective Cody Smith was on scene and said the motorcyclist had been traveling southbound on W.W. White when it clipped the back of the school bus, which was at a traffic light getting ready to turn. The bus driver and the lone student pasenger were unharmed, ECISD said.

Former Texas Tech professors criticize course content changes, cite academic freedom concerns

(KCBD) Former Texas Tech professors say system leaders are harming the future of the university by what they believe is stifling academic freedom in the classroom. They claim the recent system-wide change is forcing Tech to take a step backward. The professors told KCBD they need to talk about this since current faculty are afraid to do so.

49 UT Arlington employees have faced layoffs since June 2025, records show

(Fort Worth Report) The University of Texas at Arlington has notified 49 employees since June 1, 2025, that they are being laid off, according to public records obtained by the Fort Worth Report. The layoffs come from 14 departments and offices, with the highest numbers being laid off from the Office of Information Technology, Office of the Provost and Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center.

Texas State Technical College to launch online artificial intelligence certificate in 2027

(Community Impact) Texas State Technical College is slated to launch a new online artificial intelligence implementation specialist certificate program within its web design and development program.

San Antonio’s Hallmark University launches hybrid AI degree amid rising industry need

(San Antonio Report) A new degree in Artificial Intelligence is being developed at Hallmark University, which will become the second institution in San Antonio to add an AI degree pathway this fall.

Trump dismisses UT El Paso president, others from National Science Foundation Board

(El Paso Matters) The White House fired all members of the National Science Board Friday, including Heather Wilson, president of the University of Texas at El Paso.

New A&M $133 million meat science center to remain on main campus

(Battalion) The Texas A&M Board of Regents vote to move new meat science center from the RELLIS campus to main campus.

Off-campus galleries in Dallas and Denton step in as UNT art students boycott school spaces

(KERA) University of North Texas art students are boycotting campus galleries after the university removed a politically charged exhibit, prompting concerns about censorship and free expression. In response, independent and DIY galleries in Dallas and Denton have stepped in to host student exhibitions, giving them alternative spaces to showcase their work and build community.

‘Unprecedented’: Merged UT San Antonio rises in the ranks of top research institutions

(San Antonio Report) Less than a year since the University of Texas at San Antonio and UT Health San Antonio became one institution — UT San Antonio — the university ranked among the top 2.3% of U.S. institutions to receive National Institutes of Health funding.

These Texas students organized to defend church-state separation

(Baptist News Global) A group of Texas high school and college students received the David Noor Youth Activist Award from Americans United for Separation of Church and State this year — recognizing a well-organized youth movement making a difference.

Immigration ‘trap’: New decision could leave DACA holders vulnerable to removal

(ValleyCentral) A new ruling by the Board of Immigration Appeals, part of the Justice Department, could make it easier to deport Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals holders—potentially weakening protections under the program. This is causing many in the Rio Grande Valley to fear, even though they might have temporary protected status under the program.

U.S. Supreme Court upholds Texas’ newly redrawn congressional map

(Texas Tribune) The high court had previously allowed the map to be used temporarily, but Monday’s ruling makes that permanent.

Meet Kali, Ranger and Jolene. These horses are helping Dallas first-graders learn to read

(Dallas Morning News) Equest, a therapeutic riding program, helps to get young students engaged with reading.

April 27, 2026

Springtown ISD cancels classes for Monday after severe North Texas storms

(Fox 4 KDFW) Springtown ISD will be closed Monday, April 27, due to significant storm damage and widespread power outages across the community. The full extent of the damage and whether classes will resume on Tuesday remains under assessment by district officials.

Why Texas school districts are losing superintendents faster than ever

(San Antonio Express-News) Mirroring trends across the state and country, leaders of school districts are leaving their posts at high rates.

Editorial: The era of shrinking school districts has come to North Texas

(Dallas Morning News) Even with some good ideas put forward, enrollment decline will continue.

How much will it cost to put seat belts on all school buses? San Antonio districts say millions

(San Antonio Express-News) San Antonio school districts are evaluating the cost of equipping all school buses with seat belts – something experts say is essential for safety.

Copperas Cove ISD is giving raises, but it’s not enough, says one school board member

(KDH News) The Copperas Cove ISD board approved staff raises, including stipends and percentage increases, but some trustees argued the pay bumps are still insufficient to address low wages and staff retention concerns. One board member specifically criticized the plan, suggesting funds—such as administrative raises—could have been redirected to better support lower-paid employees.

Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD board member resigns from teaching position in Judson ISD

(KSAT) A Judson Independent School District teacher has resigned months after the board of trustees voted to propose his termination. Dr. Matthew Short’s resignation was effective April 21, according to Judson ISD Director of Communications Lexie Greathouse. He had been on leave since November, the district had previously said.

Conroe ISD approves new software, plans to switch to primarily asynchronous for virtual school

(Community Impact) At its April 21 regular board meeting, the Conroe ISD board of trustees approved the purchase of a new virtual school program named Subject, as well as planned changes to the current virtual program’s model, switching from its current hybrid learning model to a more asynchronous program.

Richardson ISD school board weighs options to increase pay, reduce deficit

(Community impact) The Richardson ISD board of trustees considered options to increase compensation district-wide, as well as revenue opportunities to reduce the district’s budget deficit, at the April 23 school board meeting. Board members said pay raises are a “top priority” as the district prepares its budget for fiscal year 2026-27. This comes after district staff announced recommendations for budget cuts on April 2 that included eliminating roughly 95 full-time positions.

$20M surplus projected for Klein ISD’s 2025-26 budget

(Community Impact) The FY 2025-26 surplus will be put toward next fiscal year’s expected expenses of $20 million to balance out the two year cycle. This would put the district’s fund balance at $235.6 million for the next legislative session, Chief Financial Officer Daniel Schaefer said at the April 20 budget workshop.

Carroll ISD employees to see blackout days, bonuses for unused paid time off

(Community Impact) Carroll ISD employees will now see attendance incentives and blackout days in the 2026-27 school year after the board of trustees approved the proposals at the April 20 board meeting.

China Spring ISD staff drive buses amid nationwide driver shortage

(KWTX) School districts across the country are facing a shortage of bus drivers, and China Spring ISD has taken an “all hands on deck” approach to make sure students get from point A to point B.

Montgomery ISD approves $3.6 million for raises, stipends as part of 2026-27 compensation plan

(Community Impact) At its April 21 regular board meeting, Montgomery ISD trustees approved $3.6 million for employee raises and stipends as part of the district’s 2026-27 compensation plan for the upcoming fiscal year. $2.4 million is to address higher pay for teachers, and $1.2 million is to fund a one-time employee recognition stipend.

Austin ISD likely won’t close more schools this fall but may redraw boundaries

(Austin American-Statesman) The Austin Independent School District will likely not close more schools this fall, but will consider sweeping changes to attendance boundaries, Superintendent Matias Segura said Thursday night. Austin ISD is closing 10 campuses this summer, but had left the door open to shutter more schools this fall, a possibility that’s fueled apprehension for some families during spring school registration.

Spring ISD has hired a new financial chief. Here’s a look at the challenges ahead

(Houston Chronicle) Spring ISD has named a new chief of business services to oversee school finances – just as the district projects a $8.7 million budget deficit next school year.

Socorro ISD launches new customer service platform, checks off 1 TEA project

(KTSM) Socorro Independent School District is launching a new customer service platform districtwide; one of the projects Texas Education Agency conservator Michael Hinojosa told the board to work on before his departure.

Multiple bed bug incidents reported on Clarendon CISD campuses since late March

(KVII) Clarendon CISD officials say multiple instances of bed bugs have been found on district campuses since late March, prompting increased cleaning, inspections and preventive measures.

Aldine ISD unveils on-campus hospital to give students hands-on experience to work in healthcare

(Houston Chronicle) The 6,500-square-foot mock hospital will give students at its health-focused high school more experience with using medical equipment.

Despite sex offender status, coach led homeschool team, had ties to Carroll ISD

(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) The Texas Home Educators Sports Association (THESA) and Carroll ISD are facing questions over their ties to a baseball coach who is a registered sex offender. According to Amy Smith of watchkeep.com, former MLB prospect Tommy Whiteman was the head baseball coach of THESA’s Fort Worth location. He also operated Redemptive Sports, an indoor baseball and softball facility in Keller.

Splendora ISD High School teacher accused of hoax has lengthy history of discipline, complaints; records show

(KPRC) Nicole Truelove, 53, the Splendora High School teacher accused of staging a hoax attack that triggered a campus lockdown had a documented history of disciplinary issues and complaints at Coldspring-Oakhurst CISD where she previously worked before resigning in 2025.

Buna ISD student accused of creating deep-fake explicit picture of fellow student

(KTRE) Buna ISD student Nathaniel Davis, 17, has been arrested, accused of creating AI deep-fake media of other students. Davis admitted to Jasper County sheriff’s investigators to altering an image of another Buna student, to make it appear that that person was nude, by using AI and posting it on a public story on Snapchat and then removing it. Davis is charged with a Class A Misdemeanor- Unlawful Production/Distribution of Deep Fake Sexually Explicit Media.

Waco ISD University HS student arrested over “harmful” video

(Fox 44) An 18-year-old University High School student has been arrested after a video showing a sex act was played in the school cafeteria and was seen by a minor. An arrest affidavit stated that Waco ISD police officers working at University High were made aware of the video being played, the contents of which included a sexual act performed by two students. While playing the video, a 14-year-old minor saw it and was offended. Fabian Cesar Navarette was arrested on a charge of displaying harmful material to a minor.

‘Senior Skip Day’ gathering turns chaotic, leading to fights and arrests at Rio Vista Park in San Marcos

(KVUE) Two teenagers are facing charges after what San Marcos officials say began as a “senior skip day” gathering that escalated into multiple fights at Rio Vista Park Thursday afternoon. Law enforcement shut down the park after fights erupted involving hundreds of people. Authorities estimate between 1,500 and 2,000 students, primarily from the San Antonio area, were in attendance.

Police: Hays CISD math teacher arrested for improper relationship with student

(Fox 7 Austin) A Hays CISD high school math teacher has been arrested for allegedly having an improper relationship with a high school student, police say. 40-year-old Juan Gomez of Buda has been charged with improper relationship between an educator and student.

Hays CISD monitor resigns following senior prank

(Hays Free Press) A Hays CISD campus-based security monitor resigned after they allowed several Hays High students to enter campus before school hours to conduct an unauthorized senior prank. Tim Savoy, Hays CISD public information officer, said four to six students were given keys by the campus-based security monitor to enter the campus and perform the unauthorized prank. The students “didn’t do any damage” other than move desks out of several classrooms and toilet-papered some areas, Savoy said.

Investigation launched after East Texas students ingest suspected drug‑laced gummies on school bus

(KETK) Authorities are investigating after an East Texas student was hospitalized on Wednesday for consuming suspected drug‑laced gummies. The Rusk County Sheriff’s Office said the incident occurred on a West Rusk CCISD school bus, where at least one student ate gummies believed to be laced with an unknown substance. The student was taken to the hospital, treated and later released. The sheriff’s office confirmed that the gummies have not yet undergone drug testing, so their contents remain unverified.

Union Hill ISD student arrested for making terroristic threat, sheriff’s office says

(KETK) A Union Hill ISD student was taken into custody on Thursday after allegedly making threatening statements on campus. The student has been charged with making a terroristic threat and is currently in the Upshur County Jail awaiting arraignment.

Texas Tech System acquires historic Lubbock home for Chancellor’s residence

(KCBD) The Texas Tech University System announced Friday the acquisition of a historic property to serve as the chancellor’s official residence and gathering place for the university system community.

Texas A&M-Texarkana student-athlete dies after medical emergency during track championship event

(KTBS) Texas A&M University-Texarkana announced that a student-athlete died Friday after suffering a medical emergency during competition at the Red River Athletic Conference Track and Field Championships in New Orleans. University officials said Graycen Vargo collapsed during an event Friday afternoon while competing for the Eagles track and field team. He received immediate medical attention at the site before being transported to a local hospital, where he later died.

New UT Tyler medical school officially opens doors in East Texas

(KLTV) From what started with dirt and a few shovels in 2023, is now a five story nearly 250,000 square feet-building dedicated to the future of East Texas health care professionals. Medical students have already started having classes in the building. With current class sizes between 40 to 45 students, that number will grow overtime. Clinical services will begin this summer.

Texas State University active shooter training hub eyes major $25M expansion

(Houston Chronicle) Texas State University’s active shooter training hub could soon get a multimillion-dollar upgrade. An $18.75 million expansion is planned for the Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training (ALERRT) Center at TSU, according to a recent filing with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). While details submitted to the TDLR are subject to change, construction could break ground this month and last approximately a year.

Eastland ISD parents ‘livid’ after teacher tapes signs about library fees, missing books to students’ shirts

(KTAB/KRBC) Parents at an Eastland ISD elementary school are “livid” after their students came home with signs about library fines and missing books taped to their shirts.

Texas child abuse investigations over gender-affirming care no longer blocked

(Texas Tribune) The Texas Supreme Court lifted temporary injunctions protecting three families and members of PFLAG, Inc., after CPS cases were dropped.

One of the strongest archery programs in the country is at this Austin ISD elementary school

(KUT) Nearly 200 students from Austin are headed to Salt Lake City for a national archery tournament. Among the strongest contenders under 12 are those from Austin ISD’s Highland Park Elementary, where coach Jim DeLine has built one of the most successful youth archery programs in Texas.

April 24, 2026

Texas school districts face costly legal battles with attorney general’s office

(KXAN) In the last two years, records show public school districts across Texas have spent tens of thousands of dollars fighting lawsuits that Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office has filed against them. The catalyst for the legal action ranges from allegations of electioneering to claims that school districts violated the state law requiring them to post the Ten Commandments in classrooms.

Former Judson ISD superintendent speaks out, says reasons for termination ‘fabricated’

(KSAT) In his first public statement since being terminated by the Judson Independent School District, former Superintendent Milton “Rob” Fields III said the reasons for his termination were “fabricated” by the district’s board of trustees. In the letter obtained by KSAT on Thursday, Fields said the process was “neither fair nor transparent” and that he was never given the opportunity to present a comprehensive response to the board’s allegations.

‘Work ahead of us’: New Lake Worth ISD leader shares goals for improvement

(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Lake Worth ISD’s state-appointed Superintendent Ena Meyers promised to partner with parents, improve community engagement and focus on literacy and math as she steps into the role this week and attempts to turn the struggling district around. Meyers addressed the media hours after the Texas Education Agency announced her as Lake Worth’s next leader, alongside a new five-person Board of Managers to replace the former elected school board.

Austin ISD is under state investigation for celebrating Pride Week

(KUT) The investigation comes after a State Board of Education member from Fort Worth raised concerns about the district not complying with Senate Bill 12, which prohibits “diversity, equity and inclusion duties” at K-12 public schools. Related:

‘There are no good options’ — Austin ISD reveals preliminary budget for 2026-27 (KVUE)

Fort Worth ISD considers staff reductions in 3 departments, positions across district

(KERA) Fort Worth ISD’s board of managers on Tuesday will consider job cuts to redirect funding toward academic improvements for more than 68,000 students. The reduction impacts three departments in central administration, International Newcomer Academy and 32 position types, according to board documents.

Lamar CISD officials project balanced budget for 2026-27 school year

(Community Impact) Lamar CISD officials are expecting to have a balanced budget for the 2026-27 school year, Chief Financial Officer Greg Buchanan said at an April 21 board of trustees meeting.

Liberty Hill ISD increases teacher pay as district experiences growth

(KXAN) On April 20, the Liberty Hill ISD Board of Trustees approved increasing teacher pay starting next school year by almost $2,000 from last year to $58,500, with teachers with 25 years of experience making more than $72,000. The district said the pay increase is intended to make LHISD one of the highest-paying districts in the area.

Pflugerville ISD teachers to see pay bump despite $18M deficit

(KVUE) Pflugerville ISD plans to raise pay for teachers and other campus-based staff in the 2026-27 school year as the district considers school closures, rezoning and program changes to address an $18 million budget shortfall.

Houston ISD budget projects enrollment loss, spending cuts for next school year

(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD’s state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles expects the district’s expenditures to roughly match its revenue of just over $2 billion next school year, even as the district expects to lose another 4,000 students and, with them, $50 million in funding. But, according to the district’s preliminary budget at a Thursday workshop, HISD expects to cut expenses – including $35 million in cuts to the central office and $15 million in savings from closing schools – and end with a fund balance of $753 million for the next fiscal year. Related:

Houston ISD board votes to fire union leader despite recommendation to reinstate (Houston Chronicle)
Houston ISD board votes to fire veteran teacher over special education documentation (Houston Chronincle)
Big Yellow Goes Green: Houston ISD rolls out 15 electric school buses (KPRC)

Georgetown ISD approves nearly $3.62 million to purchase 21 school buses

(Community Impact) The Georgetown ISD board of trustees unanimously approved the purchase of 21 new school buses at an April 20 meeting. The purchase will replace 21 out of 23 school buses lacking three-point seat belts by this August. Clint Pruett, GISD executive director of support services, said the district currently has eight buses with lap belts, while 15 buses have no seat belts.

Tyler ISD bus driver shortage causing delays, parents say students missing class time

(CBS19) The district says it is currently down 17 bus drivers, with seven others in training, and is adjusting routes daily to keep transportation running.

Lead found in Winters ISD drinking water

(Fox West Texas) School officials announced Thursday afternoon they added a “Do Not Use” sign and blocked access.

Connally ISD teacher on leave after report of inappropriate relationship with student

(KWTX) A Connally ISD teacher has been placed on administrative leave after a report of a potential inappropriate relationship with a student. The district said the teacher was pulled out of the classroom right away and was put on administrative leave. Local police are now in charge of the investigation.

Reprimanded Sherman ISD Teacher Resigns Amid Community Concerns

(Texas Scorecard) Sherman Middle School teacher Brad Strickland previously resigned from Tioga ISD over misconduct allegations.

Corpus Christi police arrest former school volunteer on child pornography charge

(KIII) Benjamin Milfelt, 42, who officials say volunteered at Corpus Christi ISD’s Mireles Elementary, has been arrested on child pornography charges after investigators executed a search warrant and discovered multiple videos and images depicting male and female minors engaged in explicit activity on a cell phone recovered in a truck at his home. Milfelt participated in a program at the school that aims to provide K-12 students with male role models, reports reflect.

Llano ISD substitute teacher arrested, accused of improper relationship with student

(CBS Austin) A substitute teacher has been arrested on a felony charge of improper relationship between an educator and a student, the Llano County Sheriff’s Office announced. Angela Palmares was taken into custody in Bell County without incident after investigators worked with the Texas Department of Public Safety Fusion Center and the Bell County Sheriff’s Office to locate her. She faces a second-degree felony charge.

El Paso ISD: 1 detained after Franklin High School lockdown in West El Paso

(KFOX 14) One person was detained after an incident triggered a lockdown at a high school in West El Paso on Thursday morning. EPISD did not release any information about the type of incident, but confirmed that one person was detained.

Union Hill ISD student arrested for terroristic threat identified

(KLTV) The Upshur County Sheriff’s Office said Thursday that a student at the high school has been arrested. The sheriff’s office has identified the arrested student as Mitchell Ryan Mobley. He is charged with terroristic threat. The sheriff’s office said Mobley made comments which caused fear among students and staff.

13-year-old tied to threats at North East ISD Nimitz Middle School arrested

(News4SA) A 13-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with a series of threats that prompted concern and police presence at North East ISD’s Nimitz Middle School this week. The arrest comes after multiple incidents over several days, including threatening messages, phone calls, and social media activity that raised alarm. The student has been charged with terroristic threat, a felony.

2 young people arrested in alleged plot to attack Houston synagogue

(AP) An 18-year-old North Carolina resident and a 16-year-old Houston resident have been arrested in an alleged plot to attack a Houston synagogue that involved driving through the congregation to “kill as many Jews as possible,” according to authorities and court documents. Houston police said the FBI and Houston ISD assisted in the arrest of the Houston teen.

Should University of Houston keep the Chávez mural? Campus divided in new firestorm

(Houston Chronicle) A debate is unfolding at the University of Houston over whether a decades-old campus mural featuring labor leader Cesar Chávez should remain as portrayed following recent allegations that have reshaped public understanding of his legacy.

Baylor’s dueling events peaceful as Turning Point casts blame over turnout

(Waco Bridge) Student attendance for the Turning Point USA and “All Are Neighbors” events Wednesday each numbered in the hundreds. The conservative Turning Point organization said Baylor forced it to turn away non-Baylor attendees, but the university said that was the original agreement.

UT Austin student suspended after organizing protest over Trump compact

(Austin American-Statesman) Daniel Ramirez, a sophomore at UT Austin, said his one-semester suspension for a sit-in in the provost’s office aims to quiet students’ voices.

Game days pay off: UT Rio Grande Valley football drives millions into Edinburg businesses

(ValleyCentral) University of Texas Rio Grande Valley football is delivering major wins both on and off the field, generating a $9.2 million economic impact during its first season of home games. University officials attribute those numbers to the more than 100,000 fans who attended seven home matchups.

Texas college revives athletics after 50 years, in part due to video games

(Houston Chronicle) Brazosport College, a small junior college in Brazoria County, will restart its athletics program after being shuttered for over 50 years. The revival is partly thanks to the massive success of its esports program.

Therapy offered under newly-awarded Texas Education Freedom Accounts

(KCBD) As more families receive state approval for the Texas Education Freedom Accounts, companies are reminding parents that the money can be used to pay for therapy as well as tuition.

Texas’ foster care system is more likely to move children away from their communities

(Texas Tribune) In 2025, one in three children placed in foster care was sent to a different region, sometimes hundreds of miles away, a Texas Tribune analysis of state data shows.

The number of child care deserts in Texas is growing

(Texas Tribune) While East Texas areas are struggling with a chronic lack of care, hope is being seen in the South and West, according to a new report from Children At Risk, a nonprofit that advocates for greater access to child care, especially for the state’s youngest residents.

April 23, 2026

Texas Education Agency can keep investigating teachers over Charlie Kirk posts, judge rules

(San Antonio Express-News) The Texas Education Agency can continue investigating educators who criticized Charlie Kirk after his assassination last fall, an Austin federal judge ruled on Wednesday afternoon, rejecting a teachers union’s request for a temporary injunction. U.S. District Judge Alan Albright repeatedly said he didn’t feel the TEA’s actions caused general punishment or intimidation.

More than 42K students with disabilities, siblings awarded with Texas education savings accounts

(KVUE) All students in the top priority tier for Texas’ education savings account program have been accepted and will receive award notices this week, Acting Comptroller Kelly Hancock announced on Wednesday. The group of more than 42,600 students includes those with qualifying disabilities in households at or below 500% of the federal poverty level and their siblings. More than 274,000 students applied, but only about 90,000 to 100,000 students are expected to get into the program in the first year. Related:

Families Fleeing Big School Districts Drive School Choice Demand (Texas Scorecard)

Texas teachers find sneaky workarounds to dodge Ten Commandments mandate

(Houston Chronicle) After a federal appeals court cleared the way for Ten Commandments posters to remain in Texas classrooms, some teachers aren’t just complying-they’re getting creative. Across Texas, educators are sharing ideas online for how to follow the law-while still pushing back on what many see as a violation of church and state separation.

Fort Worth ISD leaders weighing additional staff cuts, closure of school serving refugee students

(WFAA) Families fear closure of International Newcomer Academy as Fort Worth ISD leaders, under state takeover, weigh additional staff cuts.

IDEA Public Schools CEO speaks after Midland ISD ends partnership at Travis campus

(NewsWest9) IDEA CEO Dr. Jeffrey Cottrill said Wednesday that he respects Midland ISD’s decision to terminate the district’s lease agreement with the charter operator for Travis Elementary School. However, he believes IDEA needed more time to turn the campus around.

Houston ISD superintendent lays out his plans for the district

(KHOU) HISD Superintendent Mike Miles discussed test scores, the future of AI in schools, and more in a live Q&A session on Wednesday.

Texas Education Agency Finds Complaints of Antisemitism in Plano ISD ‘Unsubstantiated’

(Texas Scorecard) Plano ISD has avoided sanctions from the Texas Education Agency after state investigators concluded the district did not violate civil rights laws or state education statutes in connection with a series of antisemitism complaints—even as the report documents multiple antisemitic incidents and policy violations that required corrective action.

Texas falls short on pre-K standards, new report says. Here’s how it can improve

(Dallas Morning News) Texas’ pre-K system still falls short in many key areas of early childhood education, according to a national report released Wednesday. The report comes after state leaders have taken steps to expand access to prekindergarten programs. One of the report’s authors said the quality of the early learning programs Texas’ three- and four-year-olds have access to depends largely on where they live.

Roblox takes down Uvalde school shooting video game after Texas backlash

(News4SA) Roblox’s Chief Safety Officer Matt Kaufman said in a statement that any glorification of the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde, Texas, concerned the company and that the simulation game had been taken down. Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows is directing a House committee to examine child safety failures on Roblox after a lawmaker from Uvalde discovered a game simulating the 2022 Robb Elementary School massacre.

United ISD votes to retire two campuses

(KGNS) Students, staff and administrators assigned to Matias De Llano and Amparo Gutierrez elementaries will not be starting the 2026-2027 school year at those campuses. On Wednesday, the United Independent School District board voted 6-1 to retire both campuses. The consolidation is one part of a larger financial plan that includes several cost-saving measures.

Humble ISD officials propose 3% overall general pay increase for staff members

(Community Impact) Given the challenging budgeting circumstances, HISD Chief Financial Officer Billy Beattie said during a board meeting that the district’s proposal to move forward with a 3% pay increase should put them at a competitive advantage for recruiting and retaining employees.

Ysleta ISD faces tough budget choices as state changes cut funding by $11 million

(KFOX 14) The Ysleta Independent School District says it is being forced to make tough financial decisions after a state change is expected to reduce its funding by $11 million. District officials said during Wednesday’s board meeting that the reduction is tied to changes made this year to Senate Bill 12, legislation passed in 2023. The law was intended to provide property tax relief to elderly or disabled homeowners whose school district taxes were already capped. While that lowered tax bills for those homeowners, it also meant less money went to school districts.

Amarillo ISD to offer affordable child care for full-time employees to boost retention

(KVII) Amarillo ISD is launching a new childcare option to ease a major challenge for working parents and help the district keep teachers and staff in classrooms. The district will offer affordable daycare for full-time employees, a move AISD Early Childhood Director Brittany Hinz said is designed to support retention and recruitment.

Inside North East ISD’s ‘moonshot’ to train the next generation of teachers

(San Antonio Express-News) North East ISD launched the Moonshot program at a time when the state is looking to tamp down on the number of uncertified teachers in classrooms.

Little Elm ISD votes to rename elementary school named after Cesar Chavez following sex abuse allegations

(WFAA) The elementary school will now be named Little Elm Elementary after Monday night’s vote.

Lindale ISD superintendent says Texas Rangers investigating student’s death, encourages prayers for her family

(KLTV) The Texas Rangers are conducting a formal investigation into the choking death of a child at Velma Penny Elementary School, the superintendent said. Second grader Adrian Thompson died after choking at school last week. Superintendent Stan Surratt explained that when Adrian began choking at school, lifesaving efforts were undertaken by the school nurse, including the Heimlich maneuver, use of a LifeVac device, and then CPR. EMS responders came to the scene after someone called 911, and they continued emergency care, taking her to the hospital. She was later taken to Cook Children’s Medical Center in Fort Worth.

Gainesville ISD admits former special education teacher kicked student after initial denial

(Fox 4 KDFW) Gainesville ISD has now said that a former special education teacher kicked a special needs student after initially denying any abusive behavior. The family of the student says they found out about the incident through FOX 4 reporting, and not from the district. The district has not clarified whether the educator, who is no longer with the district, was fired or allowed to resign following the incident.

Student in custody after bomb threat report at Mission CISD High School

(ValleyCentral) The “student responsible for the bomb threat” at Mission High School on Wednesday has been taken into custody, according to the Mission Police Department. Students were evacuated to Tom Landry Stadium as a precautionary measure.

Kirbyville CISD High School teen charged with assaulting another student in class

(KFDM) A Kirbyville CISD High School student is charged with assaulting another student in a classroom, and the alleged victim’s mother says it was all captured on cell phone video.

Bomb threat at Round Rock ISD Westwood HS part of ‘swatting’ series, school says

(KVUE) Law enforcement officials have given the “all-clear” after Westwood High School in northwest Austin was evacuated due to a bomb threat on Wednesday. In a letter to families, Principal Erin Campbell said the call appeared to be part of a more widespread series of “swatting” incidents affecting several school districts.

Ex-Astros prospect coached minors for years despite sex crime conviction involving teen

(Houston Chronicle) A former Houston Astros prospect spent the past few years as a youth baseball instructor and coach in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Whiteman is currently listed on the Texas Sex Offender Registry (SOR) public website as a resident of Keller and will remain on the SOR list through 2030. That designation didn’t preclude him from engaging with minors on baseball and softball diamonds and facilities.

Houston synagogue and Jewish day school close due to unspecified threats

(Jerusalem Post) A Houston synagogue and Jewish day school closed Wednesday after receiving threats to their shared campus. The threats to Congregation Beth Israel, a Reform synagogue, and the Shlenker School, a preschool and elementary school, were communicated to the Houston Police Department, which informed the Jewish institutions.

27 states — including Texas — want to opt into federal school choice program

(K-12 Dive) More than half the states — 27 — have indicated their desire to participate in the first nationally available federal private school choice tax incentive program as of April 15, according to the IRS.

Northside ISD staff member dies at hospital after crash outside elementary school, officials say

(KSAT) A Northside Independent School District staff member died at a hospital after she was hit by a vehicle outside an elementary school, according to officials. The crash was reported around 7:15 a.m. Wednesday, 30 minutes before the school day starts at Raba Elementary. San Antonio police said Wisniewski-Balinsat, 66, was crossing the school’s parking lot when a vehicle, driven by a 32-year-old woman, was making a left turn in an attempt to park. Wisniewski-Balinsat, identified as a day tutor at the school, was hit by vehicle’s front and rear tires, police said.

Baylor University defies conservative reputation by hosting opposing political events

(Texas Tribune) Baylor’s move to allow Turning Point USA’s tour stop on campus Wednesday, along with a rally featuring LGBTQ+ speakers is being called a win for diverse viewpoints by some. Related:

Texas Baptists want to review relationship with Baylor University over LGBTQ advocate speakers (Dallas Morning News)

As Texas conservatives reshape higher ed, advocates ask: Where are the Democrats?

(Austin American-Statesman) Going into the midterms, Texas Republicans say they have momentum to build conservative values in higher ed. Some advocates say Democrats aren’t doing enough.

University of Mary Hardin-Baylor to offer 90-hour Abridged Bachelor of Educational Studies degree

(Fox 44) The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (UMHB) has become the first institution in Texas to offer an innovative 90-hour Abridged Bachelor of Educational Studies degree. UMHB says this reduced-credit-hour degree will begin this fall, and will accelerate a student’s path to the classroom or to a post-baccalaureate certification program.

UT Rio Grande Valley, South Texas ISD to explore building collegiate high school

(myRGV) South Texas ISD and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley announced Tuesday that they are exploring building a collegiate high school. UTRGV currently has three collegiate schools with Harlingen CISD, Edinburg CISD and McAllen ISD.

Lawsuit accuses Dallas private school of failing to address antisemitism

(WFAA) A Jewish student’s family says Alcuin School allowed religious discrimination. The School denies the claims and says it “will vigorously defend Alcuin.”

Houston City Council approves gutting policy limiting ICE cooperation, civil rights groups say

(Texas Tribune) In contrast to the civil rights groups’ assessment, Houston’s city attorney told council members that the amendment — crafted by the mayor’s staff and the governor’s office — brings no major changes.

April 22, 2026

Judson ISD terminates Milton Fields’ superintendent contract effective immediately without pay

(Texas Public Radio) The Judson Independent School District board of trustees voted to finalize the termination of Superintendent Milton “Rob” Fields III Tuesday night in a 4-3 split vote. Before the vote, Board President Monica Ryan took the unusual step of reading a long list of actions the board had determined gave them “just cause” for termination.

Midland ISD ends Travis Elementary partnership with IDEA Public Schools

(NewsWest9) Midland Independent School District’s Board of Trustees voted unanimously to terminate the contract with IDEA Public Schools for Travis Elementary Tuesday night. The school will operate under IDEA until June. The board also approved a special meeting for April 28, directing the superintendent to find a solution for the school.

El Paso ISD approves $3K buyout for upper-level administrators amid looming budget shortfall

(KTSM) The El Paso Independent School District Board of Trustees swiftly approved a $3,000 buyout incentive for senior Central Office staff on Tuesday night, April 21, a move aimed at cutting costs by “rightsizing” the district’s upper management. The decision comes as EPISD braces for a potential budget shortfall of $5 million to $20 million next school year, according to teacher union leaders.

5% raise coming for Fort Worth ISD teachers as new leaders plan national recruitment push

(Fort Worth Report) Superintendent Peter Licata said the raise will be automatic for Fort Worth ISD teachers in the 2026-27 school year.

Carroll ISD teachers, staff will see pay increases after board of trustees approval

(Community Impact) Teachers will see a salary increase of $2,000 based on their credible years of service, which is over a 3%-from-midpoint increase.

Denton ISD employees could see higher salaries in FY 2026-27

(Community Impact) Denton ISD leaders are considering a district-wide raise for all employees to bring DISD salaries inline with other districts in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

McKinney ISD teachers to receive 3.5% salary increase in 2026-27 school year

(Community Impact) The McKinney ISD board of trustees approved raising teacher and staff salaries by 3.5% for the 2026-27 school year at its April 20 meeting. Certified teachers, non-exempt eligible employees and eligible exempt employees will all receive a 3.5% salary increase based on the midpoint of each pay scale, per district documents. The starting salary for certified teachers will increase to $64,700, and the starting salary for teachers with a master’s degree will increase to $66,200, district documents reflect.

Canutillo ISD approves plan allowing potential future staff cuts amid budget challenges

(KTSM) The Canutillo Independent School District Board of Trustees approved a plan Tuesday, April 21 that could lead to future staff reductions, as the district works to address ongoing financial challenges. District officials emphasized that no jobs are being cut at this time. Instead, trustees approved a reduction-in-force plan, giving district leaders the ability to review positions and identify potential cuts if needed in the future.

‘Our last night?’ Lake Worth ISD trustees move ahead as takeover looms

(Fort Worth Report) Lake Worth ISD board President Tammy Thomas thanked her fellow trustees Monday night. “Tonight very well may be our last night to sit up here for a while,” Thomas said during the April 20 meeting, acknowledging what could be their final meeting with governing authority before the state takes control of the district. Trustees moved through a largely routine agenda Monday, unanimously approving contracts, instructional items and summer programming.

Former Houston ISD Chief Operating Officer still not sentenced in bribery case

(KTRK) Former HISD Chief Operating Officer Brian Busby and Anthony Hutchison, a landscaping contractor for the district, were found guilty by a jury in federal court last April, but have not been sentenced yet. Sentencing was set for Monday, but has been pushed back until the fall. Five other people accepted plea agreements in the case.

Centerville ISD superintendent submits resignation to school board

(KBTX) On Monday night, the Centerville Board accepted Superintendent Carole Dickey’s resignation, effective at the end of June. For the remainder of the school year, she has been reassigned to the role of Superintendent Emeritus, according to a district statement. The board placed Mrs. Dickey on paid leave last year after she was arrested on charges of concealing inappropriate conduct by a district employee. Her trial date is set for August on that charge.

San Antonio Councilmen call for transparency as Northside ISD pauses $200M in planned campus improvements

(San Antonio Current) Two members of San Antonio City Council are calling on Northside Independent School District to “work collaboratively” with parents affected by the district’s decision to pause improvements to nine elementary schools.

“I was terrified”: Special needs student at Connally ISD left on school bus for 7 hours

(KWTX) Connally ISD is conducting an investigation after a special needs student was left on a school bus for seven hours Monday. The student’s mother, Shannon Jennings Hernandez, tells KWTX she was never alerted her 11-year-old son, Isaak, who has severe autism, was absent. The district says that the student’s teacher was absent that day and attendance was taken on paper, meaning that it didn’t sync to the parent notification alert system, and was instead manually inputted later that day.

Call records show moments surrounding death of Lindale ISD student after medical emergency

(CBS19) Adrian Thompson, 8, died after a medical emergency that has not yet been disclosed. The incident took place April 15 at Velma Penny Elementary. According to a 911 call obtained by CBS19, a school administrator reported that the child was choking. That administrator told police that school staff attempted to perform life-saving measures, including performing the Heimlich maneuver. Tarrant County Medical Examiners have not confirmed Adrian’s exact cause of death.

Parents speak out after hearing tied to Mathis ISD High School assault case

(KIII) Two parents who asked to remain anonymous are speaking out after a closed hearing Monday at the San Patricio County Courthouse. The hearing involved another teen believed to be connected to a case in which their son was allegedly restrained on the Mathis High School campus last year. The parents said they are devastated by what happened but were pleased with the outcome of the hearing. “The aggressor cannot be on campus, not have to see these students who did what they did to him. Unfortunately, the school district did not act, and so we had to bring this to court,” they said.

Chapel Hill ISD trustees hear from public amid investigation into former band director

(CBS19) Community concerns over transparency and student safety rise as former Chapel Hill ISD band director Joseph Hewitt faces investigation by Texas Education Agency.

Andrews ISD staff on leave over claims of inappropriate communication with student

(KMID/KPEJ) Andrews Independent School District said it has placed employees on administrative leave while investigating concerns involving ‘inappropriate communication’ with a student. District officials said there is no evidence of abuse or sexual misconduct, but that the “misconduct …does demand an investigation.”

San Antonio school districts emphasize safety, widen probes as concerns grow over rise in online threats

(San Antonio Express-News) San Antonio school officials are figuring out how to prevent online threats after two high school football games were targeted.

Strict rules set for attendees at Karmelo Anthony’s upcoming track meet murder trial

(Dallas Morning News) A Collin County judge issued an order last week placing strict rules for members of the media and public who plan to attend the trial for Karmelo Anthony, who is charged with killing a fellow athlete at a Frisco track meet.

Azle ISD special education teacher arrested on assault charge

(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) An Azle ISD special education teacher has resigned following an arrest on a charge of assault of a disabled or elderly individual. The Azle ISD school board planned to discuss the dismissal of teacher Sawyer Stinchfield during executive session at a meeting April 20. Stinchfield resigned prior to the meeting, leading the board to take no action. No details about his bond or hearing dates were available as of Tuesday.

Beaumont family sues BISD, librarian for alleged assault on 6-year-old student

(KBMT) A Beaumont family has filed a lawsuit against the Beaumont Independent School District and a librarian at Fletcher Elementary School, alleging a 6-year-old student suffered a fractured ankle after having his arm twisted and being thrown to the ground.

Michael and Susan Dell become UT Austin’s first $1 billion donors

(Texas Tribune) With $750 million in new investments announced Tuesday, Michael and Susan Dell have become the University of Texas at Austin’s first $1 billion donors. The Dell couple is the first to surpass $1 billion in lifetime donations to the University in its history, with the medical hospital aiming to raise $10 billion over the next ten years. Related:

The highest-paid UT Austin employees of 2025: Search salary data (Austin American-Statesman)

Tarrant County College restructures hospitality management offerings, eliminates fashion merchandising programs

(Fort Worth Report) Tarrant County College trustees voted at their April meeting to restructure the hospitality management program and to eliminate all fashion merchandising programs and a single food service certificate. The college also cut the catering/private chef certificate within the culinary arts program, which will continue to offer other credentials.

El Paso private hybrid school touts AI use, seeks accreditation for state vouchers

(El Paso Matters) An El Paso hybrid private school that is incorporating lessons on artificial intelligence is seeking accreditation, hoping to take advantage of the state’s new education savings account program that allows families to pay for tuition using state funds. New Horizons Home School Academy, which has several campuses across El Paso, offers in-person and online classes to elementary, middle and high school students.

Oil Bowl Classic high school football all-star game canceled, future uncertain

(KFDX) The Oil Bowl Classic, believed to be the longest-running high school football all-star game in America, is no longer. Event organizer Masket Shrine announced that the 2026 all-star game, scheduled to be the 89th annual in Wichita Falls is canceled. The future of the football game beyond 2026 is unclear. Despite the football game not continuing, Maskat Shrine said the full rosters have been secured for the boys basketball, girls basketball, and girls volleyball bowl events.

April 21, 2026

Outsourced To Kids: Childhood Language Brokering in Texas

(Texas Signal) In Texas, where many residents have limited English proficiency, children in immigrant families often act as “language brokers,” translating complex and sometimes sensitive information for their parents. This responsibility can expose kids to adult situations — like medical or legal conversations—and place emotional stress on them, even as it builds skills and family bonds. Relying on children for translation reflects gaps in access to professional language services and raises concerns about fairness and child well-being. Available data suggests that there are as many as 1.5 to 2 million child language brokers in Texas. Yet, no official statewide count exists.

‘It hinges on students’: Fort Worth builds pipeline from classrooms to careers

(Fort Worth Report) The Fort Worth mayor’s council was established in 2022 to bolster the career readiness of Fort Worth students. Since then, the numbers of dual credit graduates and students earning at least 15 college credit hours have each grown by about a third.

Houston ISD anti-takeover protesters read books aloud in front of Mike Miles’ home

(Houston Chronicle) Teachers, students, and activists gathered outside Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles’ home for a five-hour “read-in” protest, reading books aloud to oppose changes under the state takeover. The demonstration, organized by Community Voices for Public Education, criticized policies such as reduced access to libraries, increased use of scripted curriculum, and reliance on shorter or AI-generated reading materials instead of full books. District leadership points to improved test scores, but critics say the reforms undermine reading enjoyment, critical thinking, and the broader educational experience.

Underperforming Arlington ISD schools see improvements on midyear test

(Arlington Report) The data, which is based on midyear tests, showed growth for D and F campuses. Trustees say they hope that growth will show on STAAR results.

Copperas Cove ISD launches statewide Innovation Academy

(Fox 44) The Copperas Cove ISD has announced an Innovation Academy for advanced programs open for students from anywhere in Texas to study at home. The virtual campus will be open for a limited number of students from across the state beginning in the 2026-2027 school year.

Connally ISD investigating after student left on bus throughout school day

(KCEN) According to Connally ISD, on the afternoon of Monday, April 20, a bus driver found a student unattended on a bus. The district said it was determined the student had been left behind after the morning route and had stayed on the bus for entire school day. Connally ISD said it is working closely with Texas Rural Student Transportation, the company that manages its transportation needs, to conduct an investigation into how the student was left on the bus.

East Texas schools talk safety after hoax threats

(KETK) Multiple East Texas schools have received threats over the last few weeks, including Chapel Hill, Rusk, Alto, and Troup. Now, law enforcement agencies are examining the most effective tactics to prevent these threats from escalating.

Beaumont ISD approves $1M scoreboard replacement at Doggett Family Stadium amid criticism

(KFDM) Questions are being raised in Beaumont ISD after the school board approved about $1 million to replace the scoreboard at Doggett Family Stadium, one of the most expensive high school stadiums in the country.

‘Now the cellphone’s a white van’ — New safety initiative aims to protect young Texas girls from online predators

(KVUE) Not on Our Watch TX has partnered with the Girl Scouts of Central Texas and the National Center of Missing & Exploited Children to launch a new curriculum to teach Girl Scouts important online safety skills in exchange for a new patch.

‘If he’s not safe, he can’t learn’; Mom secures GPS tracker for son with autism at school

(KFOX 14) After weeks of pushing for permission to help keep her 8-year-old son safe at school, Kristina Waldrop says the Ysleta Independent School District has agreed to allow her child to wear an AngelSense GPS tracking device in class but she says the fight isn’t over.

Former Agua Dulce ISD teacher accused of child sex crimes tells authorities she’s pregnant

(KIII) Former Agua Dulce High School science teacher Jaden Charles told Agua Dulce City Marshal Joe Martinez on Tuesday that she is pregnant. Charles currently has four children. Her alleged crimes go back two years, Martinez tells 3NEWS, from before the 25-year-old began teaching. It is believed there could be up to 12 victims, all male.

‘Two sides to this story’: Defense challenges inappropriate relationship charges for former Goose Creek CISD counselor

(KPRC) Former Goose Creek Memorial High School counselor Lorinda Bocardo is out on bond after being charged with felony offenses tied to what investigators describe as an inappropriate relationship with a teenage student. Her defense attorney Jed Silverman told only KPRC 2 News on Friday there are “two sides” to the story and argues prosecutors won’t be able to prove the allegations in court.

Spring ISD teacher accused of leading car chase, running from police half-naked, court records show

(KTRK) According to Houston police, the incident began in downtown Houston, where they say Tyler Canada sped past officers on Milam Street, swerving through traffic, running red lights, and at one point, driving the wrong way. Police said he did not stop despite officers flashing lights and sirens. Instead, he drove about 15 miles to his home, where police found his car in the driveway. When they knocked, Canada, naked from the waist down, ran off down the street, according to police.

Fort Worth ISD assistant principal killed in Benbrook shooting

(KRLD) Benbrook police are investigating the fatal shooting of Lindsay Velasquez, a 42-year-old assistant principal at Luella Merrett Elementary School in Fort Worth ISD, who died from a gunshot wound to the head at her home last Friday evening. Her husband was arrested at the scene and charged with manslaughter.

Donna ISD Security Guard Charged With Sex Crimes Against Student

(Texsa Scorecard) Francisco “Frank” San Roman Jr. was arrested on multiple charges including indecency with a child by sexual contact.

Protesters challenge premise of Texas A&M civil discourse symposium amid new restrictions

(Texas Tribune) Some students said the message of the forum, headlined by former Vice President Mike Pence, rang hollow as the university has placed limits on what professors can teach.

Leadership shakeups at UT continue as LBJ School dean departs for Duke

(Austin American-Statesman) Dean JR DeShazo will leave the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at the end of this academic year.

AI is changing how Texas universities teach computer science as job market slows

(Texas Tribune) Admissions to Texas computer science programs are down roughly 20%, professors said, but they still see a future for their students.

Tarrant County College air traffic controller training program gets permission to take off

(Fort Worth Report) The program will prepare students for a high-wage, in-demand career that pays an average of $172,250 per year in DFW.

Texas schools make Forbes’ 2026 ‘New Ivies’ list as AI reshapes college hiring

(Austin American-Statesman) Two Texas universities — Rice University and UT Austin — earned spots on Forbes’ New Ivies list amid growing employer skepticism of traditional Ivy League schools.

U.S. schools get another year to comply with web accessibility deadlines

(K-12 Dive) Reactions were mixed to the U.S. Department of Justice’s extension for digitally accessible content managed by state and local government entities.

Dallas has a plan to consolidate libraries, 71% of residents surveyed oppose the plan

(WFAA) The city of Dallas is considering a $2.6 million cut to its library budget, but 91% of residents surveyed say they want funding for libraries to increase.

The Onion has agreed to a new deal to take over Austin-based Infowars

(NPR) The satirical media outlet said Monday it finally acquired the controversial show hosted by Alex Jones after roughly 18 months of back and forth in a Texas bankruptcy court. Families of those killed in the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, who sued Jones for defamation, want the sale to happen. They’re still waiting to collect on the nearly $1.3 billion judgment they won against Jones for spreading lies that they faked the deaths of their children to boost support for gun control.

Speaker Dustin Burrows asks Texas House to investigate Roblox in response to game simulating Uvalde shooting

(Texas Tribune) Burrows added the charge to his list of interim priorities, instructing lawmakers to study ways to strengthen child protections on gaming platforms like Roblox.

April 20, 2026

After 10 years at the TEA, Mike Morath is still redefining Texas education

(Austin American-Statesman) Appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott in December 2015, Mike Morath has served longer than any other education commissioner in 50 years.

Texas families will soon find out if they’ve won the school voucher lottery

(Houston Public Media) Families in the first tier of the lottery — low- and middle-income students with disabilities — may be notified as early as this week if they’ve qualified for voucher funds, according to a spokesperson for the program, who says the majority of applicants will end up on a waitlist.

A Texas district closed 2 schools. How innovation made it a smoother process

(K-12 Dive) Donna Independent School District credits the launch of its innovative academies for helping parents adjust to two elementary schools closing.

‘One district, one standard’: Fort Worth ISD overhauls instruction as 25,000 students underperform

(Fort Worth Report) Fort Worth ISD leaders say uniform teaching will raise achievement, but some educators fear it could leave students behind.

3 takeaways from new research on Houston ISD’s takeover

(Houston Chronicle) New research on the state takeover of Houston ISD highlights three major impacts: the district has been reorganized using military-style structures and language, reducing autonomy for campus leaders; teachers have lost flexibility in how they use classroom time due to a more standardized, efficiency-driven model; and educator well-being has declined, with many reporting increased stress, health issues, and burnout. The research was presented at Rice University by UT Austin, Pennsylvania State and Rice doctoral students. Related:

How does Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles spend his time? Here’s a look at his 2024-25 calendar (Houston Chronicle)
Houston ISD says up to $20 million in savings is possible by closing schools (Houston Chronicle)

Fort Bend ISD officials say 2026-27 budget shortfall has grown to $47.3M

(Community Impact) At an April 13 board of trustees agenda review meeting, Chief Financial Officer Bryan Guinn said the district is now projected to face a $47.3 million shortfall for the 2026-27 school year, a 22.86% growth from the $38.5 million figure that was forecast in March.

Denton ISD to end fiscal year with $22M surplus

(Community Impact) Denton ISD will end fiscal year 2025-26 with a roughly $22 million surplus, according to a report from Jennifer Stewart, DISD’s executive budget director, at an April 14 trustee meeting.

Carroll ISD proposal includes teacher blackout days, incentives for unused leave

(Community Impact) At an April 13 workshop, the Carroll ISD board of trustees discussed adding blackout days where employees cannot request time off to the 2026-27 school calendar — and adding attendance incentives to help with daily staff presence.

Why Houston-area districts are recruiting students to combat the rise of uncertified teachers

(Houston Chronicle) In an effort to build a more reliable pipeline of certified teachers, Houston-area districts are recruiting students by asking them to return to the district once they get teacher certifications.

Round Rock ISD to launch teacher apprenticeship program this fall

(Community Impact) Round Rock ISD is working to create a new “grow your own” inroad to the classroom for aspiring teachers.

Silent alert system triggered Laredo ISD Martin High School lockdown

(KGNS) Laredo ISD and police shared new details about the lockdown at Martin High School on April 16 and how a silent alert helped get multiple agencies moving within minutes. The district credited a staff member who used the Raptor Alert — a silent panic button on staff badges and phones — to send an emergency notification and trigger a lockdown without a loudspeaker announcement. Related:

After school tragedies, panic buttons are a must. Here’s what it looks like at one San Antonio school (San Antonio Report)

Lampasas ISD Bond Election Backed by Architectural Firm 

(Texas Scorecard) Voters in Lampasas Independent School District will soon be asked to decide whether to approve a debt package to fund districtwide projects, such as the construction of new education facilities, upgrades to safety and security, and traffic solutions. The proposal is backed by a Plano-based architectural firm that specializes in designing educational facilities.

San Antonio leaders eye long-term future for Pre-K 4 SA

(San Antonio Report) Some San Antonio City Council members are pushing for an early renewal of Pre-K 4 SA, the city-funded early childhood education program.

United ISD says Texas school bus seat belt mandate could cost $17M

(Laredo Morning Times) Mike Garza, UISD associate superintendent of administration operation services, said during a board workshop that meeting the SB546 seat belt requirement would cost a combined estimated $17 million to retrofit existing buses and buy new buses to meet the requirement.

State politics enters rarely-contested Alamo Heights school board races

(San Antonio Report) Usually untouched by contentious elections or board disagreements, the AHISD board could face shakeups from two races on the general May election this year.

After a burst pipe destroyed many Grapevine-Colleyville ISD Heritage HS caps and gowns, the district is asking for help to replace them

(WFAA) Grapevine Colleyville ISD needs donated graduation caps and gowns after a pipe burst during construction, ruining many of the outfits, officials say.

Former Northwest ISD teacher charged after child porn found on iPhone, federal prosecutors say

(CBS Texas) U.S. prosecutors announced Friday that a federal grand jury indicted a former Northwest ISD elementary school teacher Kyle Lee Roy Francis, 24,with two counts of possession of child pornography. According to the indictment, Francis’s iPhone contained at least three videos containing child pornography, including two videos depicting sexual abuse of prepubescent children. Prosecutors did not say what prompted the investigation into Francis.

Former Pasadena ISD teacher accused of aggravated sexual assault of a minor

(Fox 26 Houston) A former Pasadena ISD teacher is facing charges of aggravated sexual assault of a minor, according to court records. According to court documents, a 13-year-old student, said 22-year-old Vanessa Aguilar was his teacher, performed a sexual act on the student at least three times on or about February 19 to February 23.

Beaumont ISD elementary employee fired amid allegations she injured a student

(KBMT) A Beaumont ISD library employee has been terminated, and a mother is demanding answers amid allegations the district employee injured a first-grade student at Fletcher Elementary School. The employee was terminated by the district on Tuesday following an investigation that included a review of campus surveillance footage and cooperation with local law enforcement, according to a statement from BISD. Beaumont ISD Police are involved in the investigation.

Man sentenced to 30 years for murder in fentanyl death of Leander High School student

(CBS Austin) A man convicted of murder in the 2023 overdose death of a Leander High School student will spend 30 years in prison, a Williamson County judge ruled. A jury found Kreli Haynes guilty of murder in the death of 11th grader Zarek McMeekin. The investigation revealed that McMeekin purchased counterfeit pills containing lethal doses of fentanyl. Investigators were able to trace the transaction to Haynes.

Faculty Defect From Texas Public Colleges, Citing Censorship Concerns

(Inside Higher Ed) Fed up with the state’s censoring of Plato, Joan of Arc and Romeo and Juliet, humanities professors are leaving Texas public institutions in pursuit of academic freedom.

H-1B Visas Still Moving At Texas Universities Despite Governor’s Statewide Ban

(Dallas Express) Texas universities are continuing certain H-1B-related employment activities under narrow exceptions despite a statewide freeze ordered by Gov. Greg Abbott.

‘We’re honored’: UT Arlington lands $86M Navy contract to advance ship technology

(WFAA) A new Arlington lab will simulate real ship conditions as part of an $86M Navy contract, helping ensure critical systems work before deployment.

Dallas County leaders expect smoother city, school district elections after chaotic March primary

(KERA) Early voting for May municipal elections begins Monday, and Dallas County leaders say they’re confident this election will go smoothly — a stark contrast to the chaotic, location-specific March primary Election Day.

April 17, 2026

Third Future Schools in Texas Records a Significant Deficit in Audit

(Houston Press) An independent audit of Third Future Schools – Texas Network has expressed “Substantial doubt about the organization’s ability to continue as a going concern.” Related:

Mike Miles Cancels Moonlighting Contract with His Former Charter School Network (Texas Observer)

Comal ISD defends withholding names after Bulverde classroom shooting

(News4SA) Comal ISD Superintendent Dr. John Chapman addressed the mounting questions in a video the district released Thursday night, saying federal privacy laws prevent the district from releasing the names of the teacher or the gunman.

Houston ISD’s Wheatley High School principal joins Fort Worth ISD leadership in new state takeover

(Houston Chronicle) At least two more Houston ISD officials will join the upper ranks of Fort Worth ISD under new state-appointed leadership. Wheatley High School’s principal and an HISD executive director will become regional chiefs in Fort Worth ISD, according to a Wednesday announcement by the school district. The move follows Fort Worth’s decision to hire an HISD area chief to be its new deputy superintendent.

United ISD board considers alternative to elementary school closures

(KGNS) As an alternative to possibly closing two-to-five UISD elementaries, an advisory committee is suggesting that eliminating separate 9th and 6th grade campuses would avoid elementary closures. A final decision on the district’s plan is expected in the coming weeks.

Harlingen CISD trustees close two schools amid enrollment drop

(myRGV) For the first time in more than 60 years, the Harlingen school district is closing two schools, and is planning to move students into schools being developed into specialty academies.

Humble ISD faces $13.5M cost to meet new Texas school bus seat belt mandate

(Community Impact) The total cost to the district to become fully compliant with the bill would come out to roughly $13.5 million, Jason Seybert, HISD associate superintendent of support services said. Trustees approved a resolution notifying the TEA that the district’s budget does not currently allow for the immediate retrofitting and replacement of buses required to become compliant with the bill.

Alvin ISD enrollment trends show continued growth

(Community Impact) According to a presentation to the board, over the past five years, 3,016 more students enrolled in Alvin ISD, representing an 11.6% increase since 2019. While enrollment continues to grow, the rate of increase has slowed. Under the 10-year projection, AISD’s enrollment is expected to increase by nearly 6,800 students by 2035-36, representing a 22.5% increase. Of 31,342 resident students, about 94.3% attend Alvin ISD schools.

Round Rock ISD puts plans to change bus routes on hold

(Fox 7 Austin) Round Rock ISD bus routes are no longer changing for the 2026–27 school year. In March, parents voiced their concerns over the elimination of several student bus routes. The district said they plan to organize a committee that will consider input on future changes.

State investigating Del Valle ISD police department

(KXAN) The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) has confirmed it has opened an investigation into a complaint involving the Del Valle ISD police department. The complaint allegedly pertains to rule violations related to hiring procedures and training reporting, TCOLE said. The agency said no additional information is being released at this time.

Family urges required EKGs for student athletes after teen’s sudden death

(News4SA) The cause of death of Jaren Lawson, the 16-year-old athlete who died after collapsing at football practice at Stevens High School in February was revealed last week as a heart condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a genetic disease that causes the heart muscle to become thicker than normal. The condition can be detected by an echocardiogram or ECG. Troy Lawson, the athlete’s father, says learning Jaren died of the rare heart condition came as a complete shock. Troy feels EKGs should be made a requirement for athletes to participate in sports.

Celina ISD Trustee Set To Resign Amid School District Scandals

(Texas Scorecard) Another longtime trustee is leaving the Celina Independent School District board in the wake of scandals surrounding a coach’s sexual exploitation of students and a culture of cronyism that enabled the abuse. Trustees will discuss Chuck Hansen’s resignation—and plans to replace him—during an April 20 school board meeting.

Our Lady of the Lake University offers path to free master’s degree for eligible students

(San Antonio Express-News) Our Lady of the Lake University announced a “no-cost master’s program” Wednesday, a major development after the school eliminated over a dozen academic programs last year in the wake of a decade-long enrollment decline.

University of Dallas basketball team out $60k for overseas trip after sports travel company folds, coach says

(WFAA) The team spent months fundraising to play a game in London, only to have the company fold two months before departure — and take the money with it, the coach says.

These former college athletes now serve on Texas university boards

(Houston Chronicle) In college, they played football, basketball and more. Now these former athletes help govern some of Texas’ biggest universities systems, including the University of Houston, A&M and Texas Tech.

East Texas Baptist University receives historic $12 million donation from estate of longtime supporters

(KSLA) The $12 million gift was donated from the estate of Lee and Willie Feagin. University officials say the donation will provide support to the school for generations to come.

Jasper County Sheriff investigates circulation of illicit images in Buna ISD

(KBMT) The Jasper County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after illicit images circulated on social media involving students in Buna ISD. According to Sheriff Chuck Havard, the sheriff’s office was contacted Thursday around 10:15 a.m. by Buna ISD officials and concerned parents regarding images being shared online. Authorities said the images are illicit in nature and the allegations are serious, potentially resulting in criminal charges.

75-year-old Irving school bus aide charged with child grooming; police fear more victims

(Fox 4 KDFW) Former Irving Independent School District bus driver assistant Juan Gonzalez, 75, has been arrested on a child grooming charge after a juvenile reported being inappropriately touched, police said Thursday.

Former Central Texas high school security guard arrested on sexual assault charge

(KWTX) A former high school security guard is accused of having sexual contact with a 16-year-old student, according to an arrest affidavit. The investigation began Jan. 28 when a mother contacted Temple police after discovering sexual content on her daughter’s phone, the affidavit alleges. The content showed exchanges between the girl and Jaylin Kane Bryant. Bryant was arrested April 6 and faces a charge of sexual assault of a child.

Sherman ISD says ‘no’ to family’s prom request for special needs senior

(KXII) Makenlee Sutherland—born with autism and epilepsy — has been looking forward to her senior prom for years. But now, she may miss out on her big night. Two years ago, Makenlee’s dad took her to the homecoming dance, so her mother, Rebecca Voigt, knew the steps needed to get a guardian approved for prom. Still, she heard nothing from Sherman ISD. Fearing that time was running out, her mother went to the school in person this week, where she was told it’s too late to start that process now. “I was told nobody over the age of 19, period,” she said. “Under no circumstances.”

Gov. Greg Abbott threatens $200 million in funding from major Texas cities over ICE policies

(Texas Tribune) The governor’s letters to Austin, Dallas and Houston say the state will pull back state grants because of local policies that deter police from fully cooperating with immigration officials. Related:

Houston mayor postpones repeal vote on Houston Police Department-ICE policy as city faces lawsuit, funding threat (Houston Public Media)

April 16, 2026

Teacher released from San Antonio hospital after being shot by student at Comal ISD Hill Country College Prep HS

(KSAT) A teacher at Hill Country College Preparatory High School who was shot by a 15-year-old student has been released from a San Antonio hospital, according to the Comal County Sheriff’s Office. On Wednesday, Comal County Sheriff Mark Reynolds confirmed to KSAT the teacher, who has not been identified, was released from the hospital as of last week. Authorities believe the student shot himself after shooting the teacher on March 30. The student has not been publicly identified.

Federal investigation opened into New Home ISD special education program

(KCBD) The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights opened an investigation into the New Home Independent School District based on reports the district discontinued a special education classroom and failed to provide notice before placing students in a classroom approximately 30 miles away.

The Targets For A Landmark Texas Case

(Texas Signal) Why many Republicans are clamoring to reverse a decades-old Texas case that established that undocumented children could attend public schools.

TEA conservator to exit Socorro ISD soon, highlights district turnaround

(KTSM) Texas Education Agency conservator Michael Hinojosa told Socorro Independent School District’s Board of Trustees that he plans to leave the district in two months after they have finished two projects: customer service and budget. Hinojosa highlights that the district has made leaps and bounds from a year ago, following a $42 million deficit last year, leadership issues and improperly graduating students in 2019.

Fuel costs nearly double for Waco schools and local non-profits

(KXXV) Waco ISD is experiencing an 84% increase in diesel prices and a 47% increase in unleaded fuel costs. Because the prolonged price hikes were not accounted for in the current budget, the school district plans to increase its fuel budgets for next year.

School choice in San Antonio gets more competitive as North East ISD drops its boundaries

(San Antonio Report) Starting next school year, North East Independent School District plans to open its boundaries to allow all students in the San Antonio region to attend its schools, following similar moves from neighboring districts. Part of a long-term “efficiency” plan to save the district money and boost student enrollment, the school board approved the move in a 6-0 vote on Monday. NEISD already has a landing page for more information on out-of-district transfers and the application officially opens April 20.

Donna ISD goes virtual, offering grades 9-12 online schooling

(myRGV) With school board approval in Tuesday night’s meeting, Donna ISD is a step closer to establishing a virtual school for the 2026-27 school year that will serve students in grades 9-12.

Pearland ISD trustees update library materials acquisition process, approves new committees

(Community Impact) Pearland ISD’s board of trustees approved a District of Innovation, or DOI, amendment and related local policy changes at its April 14 meeting that will shift how library materials are selected and reviewed, moving away from board approval of individual titles.

Pflugerville ISD facing school closures, decreasing enrollment

(KXAN) Tensions are rising as families in Pflugerville Independent School District respond to proposed changes that could reshape their neighborhood schools and communities. The district is looking at 12 draft plans which explore potential school closures, rezoning, and other adjustments as the district grapples with financial and enrollment challenges. The district is projecting a more than $18 million budget shortfall for the 2026-27 school year if nothing is done.

El Paso ISD weighs buyouts for upper administration amid looming budget shortfall

(KTSM) El Paso Independent School District is considering early retirement buyouts for senior central office staff as the district braces for a massive budget shortfall next school year. If approved, the 2026 Resign/Retire Early Notification Incentive Program would offer a $3,000 payout to all full-time central office personnel who submit written notice of their intent to resign or retire by May 8, 2026.

Corpus Christi ISD gives update on campus consolidation plans, outlines impact on employees

(KIII) CCISD Chief Human Resources Officer Debbie Lara says the district has already made significant progress in placing affected employees. “We have since reassigned about 360 of those 420 employees. The others we are still working through assignments for the new school year. We have 11 right now that we are still working with,” she said.

Brazosport ISD could close schools

(The Facts) The decision to close Stephen F. Austin Elementary in Jones Creek might only have been the beginning. Brazosport ISD could shutter three more campuses as it deals with declining enrollment and increasing expenses, with Lake Jackson the primary focus of a consolidation proposal to streamline operational expenses and staffing and address a multimillion-dollar budget deficit.

Tomball ISD reviews plans to address Senate Bill 546 bus seat belt requirement

(Community Impact) After reviewing the numbers, the cost to retrofit the 103 buses would be $3.24 million to $4.9 million. The cost for the district to purchase 103 buses would be $14.42 million—$140,000 per bus. TISD Chief Operating Officer Steven Gutierrez also noted in his presentation an issue of liability that was brought up when the district reached out to vendors for quotes regarding retrofitting the old buses. “There is specific language on these quotes to say, ‘We will do the work, but we are unwilling, or won’t, bottom line assume liability,’” Gutierrez said.

Laredo parents say autism care options severely limited

(KGNS) Access to autism care looks different depending on where you live, and parents in Laredo say their options are severely limited.

Students swap screens for stories: Dallas ISD book checkouts soar amid state’s first cellphone ban for public schools

(CBS Texas) Dallas ISD officials said that, district-wide, they have seen a significant increase in library book checkouts, which they largely attribute to students no longer having cellphones with them during the school day. From the first day of school to March 31, 2026, the district reported an increase of more than 200,000 additional books checked out compared to the previous year.

Spring ISD adds extra school days at two campuses to improve academic performance

(Houston Chronicle) Spring ISD will add nine extra school days at two of its campuses as part of school improvement plans to boost academic performance. The Spring ISD board of trustees approved the new calendar Tuesday as part of a Texas Education Agency-approved “restart” program for students at Ponderosa Elementary and Bailey Middle School.

Texas Tech Chancellor defends new course content guidelines as LGBTQ advocates criticize changes

(KCBD) Texas Tech University Chancellor Brandon Creighton is defending new course content guidelines tied to a state law requiring classes not to promote specific ideologies, arguing the changes protect academic rigor, free speech, and workforce readiness. Critics argue the rules restrict open dialogue and may lead to self-censorship in classrooms and research, while university leaders maintain the review process still respects the First Amendment and keeps campuses inclusive.

Former North East ISD Superintendent Sean Maika takes on new role at Alamo Colleges District

(San Antonio Report) Sean Maika, the former superintendent of North East Independent School District, has stepped into his latest education role now as an interim vice chancellor of Alamo Colleges District.

Presidio could lose $2.6 million in tax revenue

(Big Bend Sentinel) Funding for Presidio is set to get more complicated, as 149 businesses are set to fall off the tax roll. A change passed by the Legislature last year is set to take effect in 2026, costing the city at least $2.6 million in tax revenue. Cynthia Ramirez, the chief appraiser, warned the City Council at their regular meeting on April 13 of the upcoming adjustment. House Bill 9 was passed in 2025, allowing businesses to write off $125,000 of their tangible personal value, including furniture and equipment. This is a significant increase from the previous level of $2,500.

Fired McKinney ISD Trainer Hit With More Sex Crime Charges

(Texas Scorecard) Lindsey Post was first arrested in January on charges of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old female student. On March 25, Post was arrested again while out on bond and charged with two counts of indecency with a child by sexual contact, also a second-degree felony, and violating a protective order issued as a condition of her bond. In February, the girl’s family filed a lawsuit against Post and McKinney ISD.

Woman arrested for terroristic threat directed at Rusk ISD primary school

(KETK) A Dallas woman has been arrested in connection with a terroristic threat that placed Rusk ISD on a secure hold on Wednesday morning, Rusk officials confirm. Rusk ISD went on a secure lockout on Wednesday following a reported threat to the primary school. Authorities said that although the threat was found to be non-credible, because of the large police response, Trinishia Sandles was arrested with the third degree felony of terroristic threat.

Former Bonham ISD teacher pleads guilty to solicitation of a minor

(KXII) Former Bonham ISD teacher Jherson Manuel-Ramos, 27, was sentenced to seven years in prison after pleading guilty to online solicitation of a minor and forging a government document (an ID and a social security card). He will be required to register as a sex offender for life, and after his time in prison, he will be deported from the country with a lifetime ban.

Former Lamar State College staff member indicted on child pornography charges

(KBMT) A grand jury indicted Gerry Lee Dickert, a former college official, on a first-degree felony charge of possessing child pornography, after a federal investigation.

Juvenile crime prevention program expanding to new Beaumont campus

(KBMT) The Jefferson County Revision Program is preparing to move into the former Buckner Children and Family Services campus, where leaders plan to build out a full youth support center designed to keep kids out of the juvenile justice system.

April 15, 2026

The Education Department released new priorities for key programs. Here’s what to know

(K-12 Dive) The agency is showing an increased interest in allocating resources to career and workforce readiness, educator training, literacy and artificial intelligence.

Fort Worth ISD board holds off on contract cuts, approves limited staffing reductions

(WFAA) The new Fort Worth Independent School District board took no action Tuesday on proposals that could have terminated contracts or led to the non-renewal of some teachers and staff, following hours of discussion on a sweeping district overhaul. The broader proposal is part of the Elevate Network, a 2026-2027 initiative targeting 19 low-rated schools. Related:

Fort Worth ISD takes steps to remove Cesar Chavez holiday and school’s name (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
Fort Worth ISD moves forward on plan to sell, develop land near Farrington Field (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)

Judson school district cuts 536 jobs, moves toward balanced budget

(San Antonio Express-News) Judson Independent School District is poised to adopt a balanced budget after trustees voted 6-1 Tuesday to eliminate 536 positions next school year. The vote comes after the school board’s decision to close four campuses in the fall, marking a major step toward closing a projected $35 million shortfall. Trustees are expected to vote on a final budget in the coming months.

Cy-Fair ISD braces for $74M budget shortfall next year, following steep enrollment drop

(Houston Chronicle) Cypress-Fairbanks ISD is bracing for a $74M budget shortfall for 2026-27. While leaders aren’t planning cuts, they implored the board to look at every option to boost revenue as their fund balance dwindles.

North East ISD will consider campus closures, open enrollment to reduce $19M deficit

(San Antonio Express-News) After North East Independent School District’s enrollment dropped by 2,000 students this year, the district will open enrollment to families across the city and consider campus closures in the fall. Trustees voted Monday night on “phase one” of an efficiency plan, allowing students living anywhere in San Antonio to attend district campuses. Applications to attend NEISD campuses will open later this month.

Lancaster ISD offers $1,000 incentive for employees who resign early

(CBS Texas) Lancaster ISD is offering the $1,000 early resignation incentive to employees who plan to leave – but with one major exception. “We are not touching teachers, aides,” the district’s hiring lead said. “We are making sure we are protecting our classrooms.” Support and administrative positions are the focus of the incentive, which district leaders say will help them prepare for the fall budget without cutting classroom roles.

Coppell ISD shrinks deficit by half — but says there’s still more to do

(KERA) Coppell ISD faced an $8.5 million deficit last year when trustees voted to keep Town Center Elementary open. Officials have since cut spending, halving the deficit, but say more adjustments might be needed.

‘A monster’: Houston ISD board member questions Mike Miles’ vision for school autonomy

(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles’ idea of tying maximum school autonomy to contracts with outside groups has concerned at least one of HISD’s state-appointed board members. Related:

Houston ISD Superintendent Envisions 100 AI-Focused Campuses (Government Technology)

Plano ISD plans to use AI to announce graduate names, but some students are petitioning against it

(WFAA) Plano ISD’s plan to use AI for announcing student names at graduations sparks debate over tradition and ‘human factor’ versus modern efficiency and accuracy.

Texas sees record increase in financial aid assistance for 2026-2027 college admissions

(KWTX) Texas is on track to see a record number of students complete the federal form to request financial aid for college.

Lamar CISD police chief, lieutenant fired amid investigation involving ’embarrassing facts’

(KTRK) Lamar CISD Police Chief Henry Garcia and a lieutenant, Maria Molina, have been fired as part of an investigation first reported in February, ABC13 has learned, leaving the district’s police department without a chief. Last week, they were terminated on the same day. ABC13 submitted multiple open records requests, which the district challenged. In a seven-page filing to the Texas Attorney General, the district cited “common law privacy,” arguing the case involves potentially “highly intimate or embarrassing facts” unrelated to public concern.

Head baseball coach on leave amid Hays CISD bullying investigation, records show

(KXAN) The head coach of the Lehman High School baseball team is on administrative leave in connection with an investigation of “a potentially serious pattern of bullying” involving his players, Hays Consolidated Independent School District confirmed to KXAN. The Hays County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation into the bullying, including a video the district said shows “clear violations of expected student behavior and possibly violations of the law.” Multiple sources tell KXAN the video shows at least one student in the locker room simulating a sex act on a student with disabilities while other kids watched.

Former Goose Creek CISD high school counselor wanted on charges related to alleged sexual relationship with student

(KPRC) Lorinda Bocardo, 43, has been charged with improper relationship with a student and indecency with a child. Court documents say the suspect allegedly met the victim in middle school before moving to Goose Creek Memorial High School ‘to be with him.’ According to the student’s statement in court documents, sexual interactions with Bocardo started happening in her office at the high school during the school day. The student also told officials that she told him about “having sex in her car” and offered to pick him up if he ever wanted to do that with her. The district confirmed she is no longer employed with GCCISD as of Jan. 5, 2026. She is not in custody as of this writing, according to court records and reporting information.

Former Celina ISD athletic director faced sexual misconduct complaint before turning in teaching license

(Fox 4 KDFW) Former Celina ISD athletic director Bill Elliott was facing a sexual misconduct complaint in March when he voluntarily gave up his teaching license in March. Celina ISD found out about the incident, which happened in 1995, in January 2026, one week after Elliott retired from his role as AD and football coach. The allegation was first reported to Celina Police in Nov. 2025 in the wake of Elliott’s son Caleb’s arrest, who faces federal child exploitation charges.

‘Someone is getting shot’: Former employee accused of threatening San Antonio charter school, SAPD says

(KSAT) Police say Brian Joseph Ciaravino, 50, sent threatening text messages to school staff after failing a breathalyzer test. A spokesperson for the BASIS Education charter confirmed Ciaravino was a former employee of the charter school but declined to state his length of service at the school or his position.

Arrest Warrant: Valley Mills man asked female Waco ISD High student to get in his car, offered money

(KWTX) A man accused of trying to get a 15-year-old Waco High School student to get in his car was arrested on April 13 and charged with enticing a child away from custody of parents, online jail records and court documents show. The incident happened April 7 at the Circle K near Waco High School, police said. Surveillance footage, facial recognition software led the investigator to the suspect, documents reflect.

UT Austin president says there was no education compact to sign — but Trump letter says otherwise

(Austin American-Statesman) In his first media interview as UT president, Jim Davis said “not much” happened after offering feedback on the Trump compact.

Texas Agriculture Commissioner calls for immediate gas tax suspension

(News4SA) Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller urged Gov. Greg Abbott on Tuesday, April 14, to immediately suspend the state’s motor fuel tax to offset “skyrocketing” diesel and gasoline prices.

Maps highlight 140 planned data centers in Texas

(Center Square) As of April 2026, Texas has 84 operating data centers and 140 planned projects, according to an analysis by Cleanview, “a software platform that helps visualize clean energy data.” Operating data centers in Texas have a total capacity of 3,789 MW. Planned data centers would add another 75,089 MW of capacity, it says.

Turning Point USA’s high school push in GOP states meets free speech and religion concerns

(AP) In recent months, the Republican administrations of Nebraska, Arkansas, Texas, Oklahoma, Montana, Florida, Tennessee and Indiana have each announced partnerships with Turning Point USA to promote school chapters, called Club America, in every high school in those states. The governors’ endorsements of Turning Point USA, to the exclusion of other student clubs, has come under criticism from teachers unions and civil liberties groups.

Houston Mayor Seeks Repeal of ICE Policy After Gov. Abbott Threatens to Pull $110 Million in Funding

(Texas Scorecard) Less than a week after Houston City Council voted to curtail cooperation between local police and federal immigration agents, Mayor John Whitmire is asking the council to reverse course under threat of losing $110 million in state funding.

City of Mineola is denied appeal to keep senior class street artwork

(Wood County Monitor) The City of Mineola will spend $50,000 to repave a street near Mineola ISD high school where seniors have annually painted murals with the city’s approval. The Texas Department of Transportation denied the city’s request for a waiver from the governor’s order to remove non-standard markings on Texas crosswalks and streets, or lose state and federal funding. City officials expressed concerns about what would happen should more artwork appear on the street clandestinely.

April 14, 2026

Comal County DA seeks AG’s guidance on whether to identify Hill Country Prep shooter, release records to KSAT

(KSAT) The Comal County District Attorney’s Office asked the Texas Attorney General’s Office whether the county has to identify a 15-year-old student who shot a teacher and then turned the gun on himself at Hill Country College Preparatory High School.

Texas school district takeovers, explained: What triggers them and how districts get out

(Houston Chronicle) With four more school districts headed for a state takeover, more Texas families are grappling with what happens when local school boards lose control.

Pecos-Barstow-Toyah ISD places superintendent on administrative leave

(NewsWest9) In a 4-3 vote, Pecos-Barstow-Toyah Independent School District’s Board of Trustees voted to place Superintendent Brent Jaco on administrative leave. The decision comes just three weeks after the Board initially voted to retain him following a leaked audio recording surfacing online of him allegedly mocking former Town of Pecos City Mayor Venetta Seals’ disability.

Corpus Christi ISD board vice president resigns leadership role over undisclosed conflict of interest

(KRIS) During the Corpus Christi ISD School Board Meeting on April 13, Board of Trustees Vice President Marty Bell stepped down as V.P. after acknowledging voting on matters involving vendors where there was a conflict of interest.

‘Trust the librarians’: Pearland ISD trustee honored for advocacy against book bans

(Houston Chronicle) Pearland ISD trustee Toni Carter has been recognized by the Texas Library Association for her advocacy on intellectual freedom.

San Antonio ISD joins national lawsuit over student social media addiction

(San Antonio Express-News) San Antonio Independent School District has joined a national class-action lawsuit accusing social media companies of harming students through social media addiction. Students’ resulting psychological challenges force districts like San Antonio ISD to bear the burden by paying for counselors and other mental health services, the suit alleges.

San Angelo charter school sued over school discipline that forced 20 student hospitalizations

(KWTX) A dozen families have filed a lawsuit against a San Angelo charter school after the mass hospitalization of student athletes who reportedly suffered potentially life-threatening injuries in February during what the lawsuit alleges was a “brutal and predatory physical punishment regimen.” The suit names as defendants the Texas Leadership Charter Academy in San Angelo, four school administrators, two former coaches and two current coaches who have since been reassigned to other school duties.

Man charged after allegedly attempting to solicit sex from minors near multiple Ector County ISD campuses

(NewsWest9) A 23-year-old is facing felony charges after allegedly attempting to solicit sex from minors attending Ector County ISD schools.

Executive vice chancellor named the only finalist to be Texas A&M president

(Texas Tribune) Regents must wait 21 days before the hiring can be made official and Susan Ballabina takes charge of the state’s largest public university.

Texas Tech law student sues to block discipline related to Charlie Kirk comments

(San Antonio Current) A Texas Tech University law student is suing university leaders and faculty, arguing they violated her free speech rights by disciplining her over comments about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

LGBTQ+ Christians invited by student groups to speak at Baylor University to counter Turning Point USA event

(Advocate) A student-led event featuring queer religious leaders will offer an alternative to conservative programming at the Texas university.

Higher-ed political woes rock sleepy Alamo Colleges board race

(San Antonio Report) Against the backdrop of conservative-led efforts to restrict the types of courses public universities can offer, root out campus diversity efforts and crack down on faculty members who step out of line, an unusually fierce race for a position on the Alamo Colleges District Board is shaping up this May.

Texas graduate school rankings are out. Here’s where UT Austin and Texas A&M landed

(Austin American-Statesman) The latest U.S. News rankings highlight which Texas graduate programs stood out most in engineering, business, law, education and other fields.

Public records reveal over $20k spent procuring canceled UNT exhibit

(North Texas Daily) Public records show the University of North Texas spent more than $20,000 to procure and prepare an art exhibit by artist Victor Quiñonez that was ultimately canceled shortly after opening. The records indicate the funds covered shipping, installation, and related costs tied to the exhibition before the university abruptly terminated the agreement and removed the work.

Laredo College to negotiate after Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) eyes riverfront land

(Laredo Morning Times) Laredo College is preparing to negotiate with Border Patrol after community leaders raise concerns about environmental impact and public safety.

Former Tyler Public Library director sues City of Tyler, alleging her termination was politically motivated

(CBS19) Ashley Taylor, former director of the Tyler Public Library, is suing the City of Tyler, alleging her termination was retaliation against her protected speech.

Travis County $75M affordable child care initiative underway with scholarships, expansion plans

(Community Impact) Child care scholarships, after-school care and other efforts are underway to grow a voter-approved initiative to provide more affordable child care for low-income families in Travis County.

Texas lawmakers held a hearing on data centers. Here are 4 key takeaways

(Texas Standard) The boom in data centers, many to support artificial intelligence, could strain the Texas power grid and increase energy costs. Related:

‘It will change our rural town’: Tax abatement for $7 billion Texas data center approved in Nolan County (KTXS)

Eagle Pass Media Under Scrutiny as Questions Grow Over Revenge Reporting

(Maverick Times) A growing concern is taking hold in Eagle Pass as some self-proclaimed media outlets face increasing scrutiny over whether their reporting is driven by facts or by personal and political motivations.

April 13, 2026

Texas education board gives preliminary OK to required reading list that includes Bible material

(Texas Tribune) The board will have multiple opportunities to revise the list before a final vote in June. Before recent changes, the proposal’s length, lack of diversity and Christian focus received criticism.

Districts, states grapple with 4-day school week

(K-12 Dive) Education leaders are weighing pros and cons as they balance calendar demands for teacher training, instructional requirements and community needs. In Texas’ Liberty Hill Independent School District, the board of trustees voted last month on a hybrid approach with both 4 and 5-day weeks. The 9,800-student school system is adjusting its 2026-27 calendar to have more five-day school weeks than it did this school year.

Alamo Heights ISD won’t say whether it paid ransom after malware attack

(San Antonio Express-News) Alamo Heights Independent School District officials refused to say whether they paid a ransom following a March cyberattack that left the district without internet for nearly a full week. Citing an ongoing investigation into the incident, spokesperson Julie Ann Matonis said the district could not provide any additional information on the matter.

Some districts use AI to review books under Texas Senate Bill 13

(KWXT) Seven months after Texas Senate Bill 13 took effect, some Central Texas school districts say they are still working through new requirements for how they select, review and challenge school library materials — and some are using artificial intelligence tools to help manage the workload.

Texas lawmakers address teacher turnover at legislative summit

(KTRE) State representatives discussed education and workforce issues in Texas at a legislative summit panel, focusing on what they agreed is a major problem: the teacher turnover rate. Representative Brad Buckley addressed what he believes are key issues driving teachers from the profession. He said the problem is not pay, but rather classroom culture among students and administration.

Brownsville ISD places retiring superintendent on administrative leave

(MyRGV) By a 5-2 vote early Wednesday, the Brownsville Independent School District Board of Trustees placed Superintendent Jesus H. Chavez on administrative leave. The development marked a bittersweet end to Chavez’s tenure as superintendent after 2 1/2 years of service. A Brownsville native, Chavez often said how proud he was to serve as BISD’s top administrator.

Fort Worth ISD managers weigh staff reductions related to school closures, new campus model

(Fort Worth Report) Fort Worth ISD’s state-appointed board of managers on Tuesday will consider a reduction in force related to school closures and the introduction of a new school model. Related:

With $181M looming deficit, Austin ISD weighs librarian cuts, sparking outcry

(Austin American-Statesman) Austin ISD families pushed back Thursday against proposed cuts to librarians, one suggested reduction to slash a $181 million deficit.

‘The one thing we lack’ — McCamey ISD explains why it wants to build affordable housing for teachers

(NewsWest9) McCamey ISD leaders are sharing more updates, explaining the numbers behind a $12 million proposal seeking to build affordable housing for educators.

A 1.8-mile walk in the dark: How Round Rock, Texas defines ‘hazardous’ routes to school

(Austin American-Statesman) Round Rock ISD families have raised concerns about the routes their students will walk to campus after the district reworked which students are eligible for the bus.

Beaumont ISD trustee Joe Evans calls out attendance lag; district has one truancy officer

(KFDM) Beaumont ISD school board trustee Joe Evans is raising concerns over student attendance rates that continue to lag behind state averages, with district officials warning of both academic and financial consequences.

Spring ISD employees on leave after mistakenly leaking sensitive data in email, district says

(KTRK) Multiple Spring ISD employees are on leave after mistakenly sending an email containing other employees’ Social Security numbers, the district confirmed late Friday. In its email, the district said employees’ personal information was inadvertently included in another email sent Thursday to community district partners in support of Teacher Appreciation Week.

Rapid expansion in Argyle ISD forces change in growth plans

(KERA) The Argyle school district is expanding so fast it’s changing growth plans midstream to keep up.

Former Shallowater ISD assistant band director federally indicted

(KCBD) Former Shallowater ISD assistant band director Joseph Gonzalez was federally indicted on April 8 for the federal offense of enticement of a minor. Court documents show law enforcement uncovered sexual messages between Gonzalez and several of his students dating back to 2023. The students told police he would pressure them into sex at their homes, his house and on campus. A Lubbock County grand jury indicted Gonzalez in March.

Former Central Texas teacher pleads guilty to improper sexual relationship with two teens

(KWTX) Former Valley Mills ISD High School teacher and coach Shelby Dawn Lashombe pleaded guilty Friday to two counts of improper relationship between educator and student for having an improper sexual relationship with two teenage boys. Prosecutors recommended that the judge place Lashombe on deferred probation and fine her $1,000. Sentencing is set for June 26.

Collinsville ISD investigation clears 3 administrators in baseball coach misconduct case

(KXII) A third-party investigation has cleared three Collinsville Independent School District administrators, finding no evidence they knew about misconduct by the district’s baseball coach and failed to report it.

Exclusive: Hays CISD Lehman HS baseball players accused of abusing student with disability; police review video

(Austin American-Statesman) The allegations include hitting a student with a belt, slapping him and simulating a sex act, according to people familiar with the case. The alleged incidents appear to have happened multiple times over a period of weeks at Lehman High School near Kyle. Investigators have obtained and reviewed at least two videos depicting some of the incidents. Some of the videos show players not actively engaging in the incidents, but also not trying to stop them and at times cheering the behavior, the people said. The district suspended 10 students and placed a staff member on leave.

Lehman High School baseball season to continue amid bullying investigation (KXAN)

Parent questions missed warning signs after Comal ISD classroom shooting

(News4SA) Two weeks after a teacher was shot inside a Comal ISD classroom, a parent at the school is raising concerns about whether warning signs were missed and why key details remain unanswered. The shooting happened at Hill Country College in Bulverde. Authorities have said the teacher was shot by a 15-year-old student who later took his own life.

Ken Paxton launches UNT investigation, calls for staff member to be fired over ‘DEI’ comments

(KERA) Attorney General Ken Paxton has opened an investigation into whether the University of North Texas is teaching “DEI” lessons in violation of Texas law in response to an activist group’s undercover video.

DPS pursuit ends after suspect crashes into East Central ISD bus, DPS arrests him in Walmart parking lot

(KSAT) Texas Department of Public Safety said troopers arrested a suspect wanted by multiple law enforcement agencies after he crashed into an East Central ISD school bus on Friday morning. No one on the bus was injured.

Texas Tech System leader cancels academic programs “centered on” sexual orientation, gender identity

(Texas Tribune) Chancellor Brandon Creighton directed provosts to phase out the programs and ordered universities to recognize only “two human sexes.”

‘Institution of dead dogmas’: Texas A&M professor resigns over trans, race-related policy By Mack Shaw

(Fox 26 Houston) Martin Peterson, the Texas A&M philosopohy professor at the center of January’s controversy at Texas A&M University over writings by Plato being removed from coursework sent his resignation on Thursday. The resignation letter pulls no punches in calling out the university for what the philosopher calls “censorship policy.” Peterson now plans to join Southern Methodist University in Dallas this summer, where he will serve as the Scurlock Chair in AI Ethics. Related:

Texas A&M Qatar closes campus, moves spring semester online as Iran war raises security fears (Houston Chronicle)

Austin Community College freezes tuition prices for 13th year in a row

(KXAN) The Austin Community College Board of Trustees voted this week to continue a freeze on tuition prices for the 13th year in a row. ACC said the freeze will have tuition for in-district students to remain at $67 per credit hour, while out-of-district students will pay $201 per credit hour for the 2026-2027 school year.

Austin considering regulating e-cigarette, synthetic nicotine sales near schools, daycares

(Fox 7 Austin) The City of Austin is considering regulating the sale of e-cigarettes and synthetic nicotine products within 1,000 feet of schools and daycares. In a recent Public Health Committee meeting, Austin Public Health says there are about 600 retailers selling those products within that distance. They recommended a zoning ordinance change that would affect only new vape shops and convenience stores and grandfather in existing businesses.

Texas House Democrats who walked out over congressional map fined over $8,000 each

(Texas Tribune) A Republican-led House committee approved the penalties Friday, charging Democrats $500 for each day they were absent, plus costs borne by law enforcement to bring them back.

April 10, 2026

Texas education board gives preliminary OK to required reading list that includes Bible material

TEA recommends conservator in North East ISD over student cellphone ban dispute

(San Antonio Express-News) The Texas Education Agency is moving to install a conservator in North East Independent School District after a months-long fight over the district’s student cellphone policy. The lone dissident across Texas districts, North East trustees defined the school day as the time when students receive classroom instruction. Other districts enforced bell-to-bell bans. NEISD’s policy allowed students to continue using their phones during lunch, passing periods and restroom breaks.

Houston ISD Board of Managers approves reduction in force

(Houston Chronicle) The unanimous approval allows HISD leaders to cut staff or reassign virtually all teaching positions and some central office jobs. The agenda documents did not name any school for specific layoffs. Related:

Houston ISD cancels Milby High School students’ state cosmetology competition hours before trip (Houston Chronicle)

Q&A with Andrew Kim: Connally ISD’s new state conservator sees a path to “excellence”

(The Waco Bridge) The veteran educator says more teacher development training, more instructional time and a change in expectations will turn around the struggling district.

Plano ISD teachers will get salary increases next school year

(WFAA) The plan approved Tuesday set the starting salary for certified teachers to $64,000, with teachers holding a master’s degree starting at $66,000. District officials said eligible employees will also receive a minimum 2% pay increase. Related:

Plano ISD rolls out applications for new virtual learning option (Community Impact)

Judson ISD superintendent withdraws independent hearing request regarding termination, district says

(KSAT) Milton “Rob” Fields III, Judson Independent School District’s most recent superintendent, has withdrawn his request for an independent hearing regarding his proposed termination. Judson ISD said its school board will now schedule a special meeting to take final action on Fields’ contract.

Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office releases former Northside ISD Steven HS football player’s cause of death

(KSAT) The Bexar County Medical Examiner’s Office has released the cause of death for a 16-year-old Stevens High School football player, who collapsed during a practice earlier this year. Jaren Lawson died from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in February, the medical examiner’s office told KSAT on Thursday. His manner of death was natural causes.

Centerville ISD superintendent’s trial set for August

(KBTX) A state district court judge set an August trial date for Centerville ISD Superintendent Carole Dickey, who is accused of concealing inappropriate conduct by a district employee. She has been on administrative leave from the district since October. Dickey’s trial is scheduled for Aug. 3 at 9 a.m. The Centerville ISD Board of Trustees voted in June to pay for Dickey’s legal expenses up to $30,000. If Dickey is found guilty or enters a plea deal, she will pay those costs herself. The board placed Dickey on administrative leave with pay in October, shortly after her indictment.

Teacher cuts self, blames student in ‘hoax’ attack at Splendora ISD High School, police say

(KPRC) A teacher at Splendora High School is facing charges after falsely reporting an assault that prompted a large law enforcement response and a temporary campus lockdown Thursday morning, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. Nicole Truelove, 53, has been charged with filing a false report and tampering with evidence. According to law enforcement, Truelove allegedly fabricated the incident and caused her own injuries using a blade or knife-like object.

Hays CISD suspends 10 students, one staff member in baseball bullying investigation

(Austin American-Statesman) The “potentially serious pattern of bullying” involved varsity and junior varsity baseball students at Lehman High School, according to the district. Lehman baseball games this week will likely be forfeited, according to Hays CISD. District officials hadn’t yet decided about changes to the remaining two weeks in the season. Hays CISD directed questions to the Hays County Sheriff’s Office, which provided no additional information as of Thursday night.

Jasper ISD elementary school teacher fired, charged with slapping and injuring child

(KFDM) The Jasper ISD has fired an elementary school teacher who is now free on bond following charges of Injury to a Child, accused of slapping a little girl across the face in a classroom, according to the school district’s police chief. Mykia Platt, 37, of Beaumont, was jailed early Wednesday morning on the 3rd degree felony charge. If convicted, she could face 2-10 years in prison and up to a $10,000 fine.

Gunter ISD teacher placed on leave amid investigation into inappropriate conduct allegations

(KXII) District officials said the alleged inappropriate conduct was reported to them two weeks ago, and the teacher was placed on administrative leave immediately. The district is working with local law enforcement, Child Protective Services and the Texas Education Agency in the investigation.

Prosecutors consider options in charging student involved in stabbing at Conroe ISD Grand Oaks High School

(Houston Chronicle) The Montgomery County Attorney’s Office is considering options for how it will proceed with charging a 16-year-old Grand Oaks High School student accused of stabbing a classmate, including a process that would treat punishment like that of an adult. The student who allegedly stabbed his classmate was detained by law enforcement after running from the school following the fight.

Vanguard Academy Charter to Build $40 Million Monet Campus in Mission

(Texas Border Business) A new $40 million school campus is planned in Mission as Vanguard Academy moves forward with a major expansion project, according to information provided by Teclo Garcia, chief executive officer of the Mission Economic Development Corporation. The planned Monet campus will span approximately 100,000 square feet on a 20-acre site and is part of a larger effort to expand educational infrastructure across Hidalgo County.

Abbott calls for ‘microchip independence’ at Texas A&M Semiconductor Institute groundbreaking

(Community Impact) Texas A&M University leaders, state officials and industry partners gathered at the university’s RELLIS campus on April 9 to break ground on the Texas A&M Semiconductor Institute. It’s a project worth more than $200 million, designed to expand training, manufacturing and domestic research on computer chips, which powers computers, phones and cars, among other technology.

El Paso law firm gives $5M to help start law school at UT El Paso

(KTSM) An El Paso law firm is giving the University of Texas at El Paso $5 million to help establish a law school at the university. The gift was from Tawney, Acosta & Chaparro, P.C.

New UT Austin student government leaders vow to push back against top-down changes

(Austin American-Statesman) UT Student Government leaders Kiera Dixon and Jaden Watt want to fight for students as the university faces pressure to reform from conservative leaders.

‘Best’ Texas community college set for $20M campus expansion

(Houston Chronicle) One of Texas’ best community colleges is about to get $20 million bigger. Panola College, which Niche ranked as Texas’ best Community College and best Online Community College this year, is set to break ground in less than a month on two brand-new buildings.

8 West Texas A&M students indicted on felony burglary charges for ‘flag raid’

(KFDA) Eight fraternity members are accused of entering a rival frat’s lodge in Canyon. They told deputies that they entered the building with the intent to take that fraternity’s flag. That flag was later found in one individual’s pants during the booking process at the jail. A Randall County grand jury indicted them on a charge of burglary of a building, punishable by up to 18 months in a state jail facility.

Travis County votes to withhold 9% of Tesla’s tax rebate for insufficient documentation

(KUT) The Travis County Commissioners Court voted this week to withhold 9% of Tesla’s tax rebate for 2020-2022 for “partial noncompliance with certain provisions” in the company’s economic incentive deal with the county.

Texas’ ban on sodas, candies for SNAP benefits troubles diabetics and hypoglycemics

(Texas Tribune) Some Texans on SNAP say the ban on using food stamps to buy sugary drinks and candy prevents quick fixes to low blood sugar conditions.

Texas extends RSV vaccine season as infections remain high. Here’s what you need to know

(KERA) RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, activity is higher than it was at the same time last year. Texas is extending access to immunizations for infants and toddlers until the end of the month in response to “persistent” infections.

Mom Left Shocked To Discover Meals Served in Texas School Compared to Korea

(Newsweek) A Texas mom went viral after comparing her child’s school lunches in Texas to meals served in South Korea, highlighting stark differences in quality, cost, and variety. She described the U.S. meals as small, processed, and relatively expensive, while Korean school lunches were free, more colorful, and included a wider range of fresh foods.

April 9, 2026

Texas education officials pushed to delay new social studies standards. Here are the issues

(Dallas Morning News) Dozens of parents, students and teachers asked the State Board of Education to pause its process for overhauling the state’s standards for social studies ahead of a vote on proposed revisions that have been months in the making. The meeting began at 8 a.m. Tuesday with discussion of a proposed required reading list that includes Bible stories, and didn’t wrap up until about 1:30 a.m. Wednesday.

Santa Fe Strong: How you can help build a permanent memorial for the ‘Santa Fe Ten’

(CW39) Nearly eight years after the tragedy that changed Santa Fe forever, the mission to honor the “Santa Fe Ten” is entering a critical new chapter. Families are rallying for a permanent memorial to ensure the legacies of eight students and two teachers live on. See the emotional plans and find out how you can help bring this sanctuary to life.

Texas school districts could spend millions to comply with new bus seat belt law

(KERA) The new Texas Senate Bill 546 requires three-point seat belts on school buses by September 2029. But in less than two months, every Texas school board must report – to the Texas Education Agency – costs needed to comply with the law. For some districts, it could be in the millions.

Does a Swirl of Vouchers and Closures Represent a Spiral for Texas Schools?

(Dallas Observer) As financial pressures force North Texas school districts to consider closing schools, public education advocates are sounding the alarm that vouchers could exacerbate the issue. Related:

Houston-area school districts near more charters see higher student losses, Rice report says (Houston Chronicle)

Texas schools see enrollment decrease as families report immigration fears

(Spectrum News) South San Antonio Independent School District Superintendent Saul Hinojosa says the district lost 400 students from last school year — four times what he says the average would be. “I’m not going to say it’s all due to immigration,” Hinojosa said. “But we do have some data that some parents have informed us that they’ve gone back to their native country.” Hinojosa said current immigration enforcement policies are impacting their district community emotionally and financially, saying a decrease of 400 students equates to about $3 million lost. Related:

Houston ISD high school soccer captain deported to Honduras after nearly 4 months in ICE custody (Houston Chronicle)

School Bond Debt Tops $236 Billion in Texas

(Texas Scorecard) A network of consultants, contractors, and taxpayer-funded entities is driving Texas’ multibillion-dollar school bond system while reaping massive financial returns, according to a new report from the Texas Public Policy Foundation titled “Hijacked. How the Bond Process is Being Used Against Taxpayers.”

Conroe ISD shifts strategy to bridge projected $8 million budget gap

(Fox 26 Houston) Despite an initial $8 million deficit warning in February, Conroe ISD officials state that proactive planning has eliminated the anticipated budget gap. The district confirmed that no employees are losing their jobs as a result of the budget adjustments and restructuring. The district is moving away from the “Communities In Schools” program in favor of internal support systems and is restructuring instructional coaching mode.

Houston ISD adds another campus to its list of closures. Here’s the latest

(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD has quietly closed its Harper Disciplinary Alternative Education Program this school year, moving all its high school students and some staff from the Garden Oaks campus to another disciplinary program near Houston’s Fifth Ward. The consolidation marks HISD’s 14th campus closure decision this school year alone.

San Antonio ISD estimates nearly one-third of district schools will score D or F this year

(San Antonio Express-News) San Antonio Independent School District officials project nearly one-third of its 86 campuses will score a failing grade from the state in 2025-26. “But I will say I think those (projections) are conservative, and I anticipate that many more of them will be Cs,” Deputy Superintendent Shawn Bird told the district board at a meeting Monday evening.

San Antonio superintendents: How pay and perks compare by district

(San Antonio Express-News) Bexar County Superintendents received six figure salaries, personal career coaches, district vehicles and body guards.

What Lubbock ISD schools are at risk of closure? See list

(Lubbock Avalanche-Journal) According to Lubbock ISD’s district optimization dashboard, there are five schools that meet the criteria for potential closure.

Fort Worth ISD leans on teacher pipeline to build stability during Texas takeover

(Fort Worth Report) Future teachers say support, mentorship will shape whether they stay as Fort Worth ISD navigates leadership change.

234 UT Arlington employees in 96 departments and offices applied for buyouts, public records show

(Arlington Report) The Arlington university does not yet know how much the buyout program will save or how much it will pay out to employees through the program.

Political oversight reaches Texas college classrooms, with Texas Tech and A&M at the forefront

(Texas Public Radio) Political pressure from state and national leaders is increasingly shaping what can be taught in classrooms at universities like Texas Tech University and Texas A&M University. Supporters say the changes promote neutrality and prevent indoctrination, while critics argue they threaten academic freedom and limit open discussion in higher education.

Texas Tech in support of President Trump’s executive order to ‘save college sports’

(KCBD) Texas Tech University leaders are supporting President Donald Trump’s recent executive order aimed at “saving college sports,” saying it acknowledges the growing financial and structural challenges facing athletics. Legal challenges are expected.

San Antonio students increasingly rely on Pell Grants as Congress navigates funding shortfall

(San Antonio Report) Every year as Congress puts forward a new annual budget, higher education leaders travel to Washington to defend and advocate for Pell Grant funding, which in recent years has faced projected shortfalls of up to $11.5 billion.

Phone threat shuts down Uvalde schools

(Uvalde Leader-News) Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District lifted lockdown restrictions at Legacy and Dalton Elementary Schools around 1:30 p.m. April 8, after law enforcement responded to a threatening call at Legacy’s front desk. It was a call, a very robotic type of call, almost didn’t really make sense, very rambling nature. Nearly all area law enforcement agencies responded.

18-year-old Troup ISD student arrested after gun found inside vehicle, police say

(KLTV) Officers said they found a gun and other related items inside a backpack in a student’s car in the high school parking lot.

Rockwall High School student arrested for bringing a knife to school, having a list of students’ names, district says

(WFAA) A Rockwall High School student was arrested after school officials were alerted to threatening comments and found a knife in the student’s backpack, along with a list of three students’ names, WFAA confirmed with the district.

Parents of Weslaco ISD cheerleader file wrongful death lawsuit against energy drink distributor

(Valley Central) The parents of 17-year-old Larissa Rodriguez have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against an energy drink distributor, alleging the company’s products contributed to her fatal cardiac event. Attorneys argue the product was marketed as safe despite possible links to serious heart conditions.

Ex-Shallowater ISD band teacher faces federal charge for sexual abuse

(EverythingLubbock) Joseph Macaulay Gonzalez, 27, a former Shallowater assistant band director, who was accused of sexually abusing at least two students was federally indicted for Enticement of a Minor.

3 Winnsboro Junior High students involved in ‘incident’ requiring medical treatment, district says

(CBS19) One student was transported by ambulance to a hospital while two other students were taken by their parents for medical treatment, the district said.

Former Austin private school bookkeeper embezzled $1M for home pool, mortgage

(Fox 7 Austin) A Leander woman was sentenced to 33 months in prison for embezzling more than $1 million from an Austin private school for children with special needs. Alysa Gisser funneled tuition payments into a personal PayPal account and used the funds for a home swimming pool, mortgage payments, and credit cards. In addition to prison time, Gisser must pay over $1.3 million in restitution after pleading guilty to federal wire fraud and tax evasion charges.

Texas expected to pay $700 million in penalties to the feds for SNAP errors by 2027

(Texas Tribune) New Trump administration rules designed to cut waste in the nation’s food stamp program means Texas taxpayers will have to pay the federal government $700 million more each year to participate, state officials told lawmakers on Wednesday.

Texas youth camps sue over new fiber internet requirement

(KVUE) The camps say one of the new rules the state enacted after the tragedy at Camp Mystic is impossible to follow.

Is fracking in Texas endangering a day care’s children?

(The 19th) After years of opposition, a new drill site near where children learn and play has resurfaced a community’s fears about the dangers it poses.

April 8, 2026

Texas students urge education board to focus on inclusion over politics in social studies overhaul

(Texas Tribune) Students, parents and teachers say Texas’ new social studies plan feels rushed and will exclude key perspectives and historical events.

Over 270k Texans applied for education savings accounts. Here’s who state officials say are expected to receive them.

(Community Impact) All program funds are expected to go to students with disabilities, their siblings and children from low-income families, a spokesperson for the state comptroller’s office said.

Judson ISD leaders say district must cut 500 positions to balance budget

(San Antonio Express-News) The Judson Independent School District is looking to cut more than 500 positions next school year to slash a $35 million budget shortfall. The job cuts likely won’t bring widespread layoffs.

Austin ISD warns of cuts to staff, art programs if budget deficit balloons

(Austin American-Statesman) More cuts are likely coming to Austin Independent School District campuses next year – including school-level staff layoffs and teacher planning time changes – as district officials seek to reduce a deficit that could reach $181 million next school year.

Conroe ISD cuts some programs as dropping enrollment creates $8M budget shortfall

(Houston Chronicle) Conroe ISD is working to mitigate an $8 million budget deficit as the district faces its first decline in enrollment in almost 10 years. The district isn’t reducing staff but is making cuts to programs such as Communities in Schools, its Japanese language program and its instructional coaches model to save money, Conroe ISD officials said this week.

Georgetown ISD delays opening two new schools until 2027 amid enrollment and financial concerns

(KVUE) Georgetown ISD will delay new school openings until fall of 2027 because of slower enrollment growth, aiming to avoid a potential $5 million budget deficit.

Outcomes at Houston schools improve after state takeover

(Center Square) Texas’ largest school district, Houston ISD, has lost more than 13,000 students in two years after it was taken over by the state. Despite this, district academics have improved by historic margins across the board.

Hill Country school district to sell off flood-ravaged property

(San Antonio Express-News) Ingram Independent School District says it plans to sell its former headquarters property, which was heavily damaged by the July 4 flooding on the Guadalupe River. The district plans to accept bids for the 3.29-acre property, which is less than 100 yards from Lake New Ingram, a reservoir formed by damming the Guadalupe River. The minimum starting bid will be $1 million, according to information posted on the district’s website. Bids must be submitted by April 30.

Texas high school students are applying for college financial aid at a record pace

(Texas Tribune) Almost 60% of students have filled out the FAFSA, but advocates worry immigrant students are missing out.

Waskom ISD names interim superintendent following death of previous leader

(CBS19) Ross Boyett, with nearly 30 years of educational experience, is named interim superintendent for Waskom ISD following the death of Christopher Guastella in an automobile accident in Louisiana.

Carthage ISD superintendent resigns before end of school year

(CBS 19) Carthage ISD Superintendent Jarrod Bitter will resign early to “pursue other interests” as the district starts searching for his replacement, the board announces.

Bezos Academy expanding access to tuition-free preschool in North Texas

(WFAA) Bezos Academy, a tuition-free Montessori-style preschool program, is adding new locations in North Texas, including Lakewood and Denton. The expansion comes just two years after the program first opened across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, and it’s already making a lasting impact on families.

Taft High administrator bitten after trying to pet Northside ISD police K-9 without muzzle

(News4SA) A female school administrator was injured after a Northside Independent School District Police K-9 bit her on Tuesday, according to a district spokesperson. School officials said the administrator was bit after she attempted to pet the dog while the K-9’s muzzle was removed. She sustained an injury as a result. She was transported to a local hospital for further treatment as a precaution, according to the San Antonio Fire Department.

Waco ISD expands vape disposal boxes to middle schools

(KWTX) For more than a year, Waco ISD has used metal vape disposal boxes on campus at Waco High and University High—a place for students to safely toss vapes before they become a bigger problem. Since they were added in November 2024, students have turned in over 400 devices. Now, the district is expanding that effort to the middle school level, adding disposal boxes on those campuses too.

‘Appropriate security measures’ to be in place at Frisco ISD meet a year after Austin Metcalf’s death

(Dallas Morning News) Frisco ISD said there will be appropriate security measures in place after an athlete’s death at last year’s meet became national news.

Girls flag football is growing across Texas

(Axios Austin) Girls are increasingly joining the typically male-dominated sport of football despite fewer leagues and opportunities.

AI-powered school model sparks debate over 2-hour classroom day at the Bennett School at Baseball USA in Houston

(KTRK) Students begin their day with a concentrated, two-hour academic block. The rest of the day is dedicated to athletic training and practice. Critics argue that taxpayer-funded vouchers should not support programs with limited classroom time.

Pell Grant money will soon be available for workforce training programs

(Texas Standard) It is not entirely clear which programs will qualify or what the approval process will be.

Laredo ISD mental health grant ending in September

(KGNS) A federal grant that has supported mental health counseling services in Laredo ISD will end in September, prompting district officials to search for alternative funding.

Spending on Taxpayer-Funded Lobbying Has Surged in Texas

(Texas Scorecard) Taxpayer-funded lobbying in Texas has more than doubled in recent legislative sessions, according to a new report, as efforts to ban the practice continue to stall in the Texas House, according to an analysis, published by the Texas Public Policy Foundation. One of the most prominent vehicles for that advocacy is government-backed associations such as the Texas Association of School Boards, which is funded through dues paid by public school districts and engages in lobbying on education-related legislation.

UT Arlington students question future of Hispanic-focused office after department move

(Arlington Report) A group of student advocates are asking for answers after UTA moved its Hispanic-serving initiatives to a multicultural affairs department.

‘Her legacy is alive’: New scholarship honors UT student killed in Austin shooting

(Austin American-Statesman) Savitha Shanmugasundaram‘s parents and friends are raising funds to support a scholarship that will fund education for students coming to UT from Title I schools for as long as the university exists.

Weatherford College and its ousted longtime coach find a solution for the future

(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) A small junior college in Weatherford, Texas, created national attention when with one game remaining in the season it fired one of the longest-tenured coaches in the nation who wanted to return for one more year before retirement. Bob McKinley, 84, will not return for a final year of coaching, but he has agreed to a settlement. According to multiple people familiar with the negotiations, the settlement included an agreement that will allow his granddaughter to remain enrolled in the school without cost to the family.

Texas is giving data centers more than $1 billion in tax breaks each year

(Texas Tribune) Texas will lose out on at least $3.1 billion in sales tax revenue over the next two years thanks to an exemption for the state’s booming data center industry, according to the comptroller’s office. That figure is likely a vast underestimate given the explosion of new facilities being built, but already makes the tax break one of the state’s costliest incentive programs and soon to be the most expensive of its kind in the nation. Related:

Awake for 19 hours: Texas State Technical College students prepare to fuel a $3 trillion data center boom (KTXS)

Wichita County’s $1.2M solar farm to offset taxpayer costs

(KFDX) Wichita County leaders said they want growth, and Tuesday, they took a step in that direction as commissioners approved a tax abatement agreement tied to a large solar farm project.

Report: More than 2,500 Texans could die as result of new SNAP requirements

(San Antonio Current) Around 2,500 low-income Texans could die from worsening health conditions due to Republican cuts to the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), according to a new report from the Center for American Progress. Using data and estimates from the University of Pennsylvania and New York University, CAP estimates that the cuts, along with new work requirements to qualify, could translate to nearly 70,000 avoidable deaths nationally by 2040.

April 7, 2026

‘He cannot be allowed to walk away’: Hays CISD urges against parole for truck driver in deadly school bus crash

(KXAN) Hays CISD leaders are urging the Texas parole board to deny early release for a truck driver convicted in a 2024 crash that killed a 5-year-old student and another driver, arguing he “cannot be allowed to walk away” from an 18-year sentence.

Mike Miles’ charter network Third Future Schools is expanding to at least 7 Texas school districts

(Houston Chronicle) As more Texas school districts face the threat of a state takeover, they are turning to a charter network founded by Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles to try to avoid it.

Week after Bulverde high school shooting, names and key details still withheld

(News 4 SA) Experts say releasing basic information about a crime is unlikely to jeopardize a criminal investigation. That’s why News 4 has been pressing for answers in the deadly shooting at Hill Country College Preparatory High in the Comal school district. A week later, school leaders and law enforcement officials still have not released the names of the gunman and the victim. Related:

Students return to Hill Country College Prep one week after deadly campus shooting (KENS)

Austin City Council wants a say in the future of 10 Austin ISD schools closing this year

(Austin American-Statesman) As Austin ISD prepares to close 10 schools this summer, city council members seek more direct involement in handling parkland and future use for the sites. The city and Austin ISD have jointly owned several parcels of land on campuses for decades. The partnership formally allows the public to use the park space outside school hours and splits maintenance costs between the two entities.

What to know about Lubbock ISD’s district optimization plan

(Lubbock Avalanche-Journal) This new plan — named the District Optimization Plan — lays out three main criteria and the following sub-criteria the district will use to determine whether to close each school.

Federal judge dismisses most claims in Millsap ISD abuse lawsuit; parents vow to keep fighting

(CBS Texas) A year after video footage of alleged abuse inside a special education classroom went viral, a federal judge has dismissed most of the resulting civil lawsuit against the Millsap Independent School District and its leaders — a ruling that has left parents frustrated and questioning what justice looks like for their children.

Pflugerville ISD cuts ‘Kickstart Kids’ martial arts program amid budget challenges

(KVUE) Parents in Pflugerville ISD are rallying to save a long-running martial arts program that district leaders said will soon be eliminated due to mounting budget deficits. Kickstart Kids, a nonprofit founded by the late Chuck Norris, operates in more than 50 middle schools across Texas.

Funding the future: A look into some of UT Austin’s most influential donors

(Daily Texan) The University of Texas at Austin wasn’t built in a day. It was supported and built upon for nearly 150 years by donors with the goal of improving the University and the state’s higher education. These are a few of their stories.

UT San Antonio celebrates opening of new hub for career-engaged learning in the tech industry

(Texas Public Radio) The University of Texas San Antonio opened San Pedro II on Monday. The 180,000-square-foot facility in downtown San Antonio that will fuel education, research and economic mobility in the city’s growing technology corridor.

San Jacinto College receives 400K grant to expand tuition-free program

(Community Impact) San Jacinto College received a $400,000 grant from the Greater Houston Community Foundation, or GHCF, to expand opportunities for eligible high school seniors — living within the San Jacinto taxing district — access to tuition-free college, according to a news release from the college.

Former Austin ISD teacher arrested, charged with child sexual assault

(KXAN) A former Winn Montessori Elementary School teacher was arrested by Austin Independent School District Police and charged with aggravated sexual assault of a child, a first-degree felony. According to an arrest warrant affidavit, on March 27, an Austin ISD officer responded after the student made an outcry to her grandmother, alleging she was sexually assaulted by her teacher.

Eight high school students detained in Bryan while playing ‘senior assassin’

(KCEN) The Bryan Police Department is urging caution after officers were called on a group of students playing with water guns.

City, state governments make final tweaks to websites as new DOJ rules kick in

(Spectrum News) City and state governments across the country are making final adjustments to their websites before a new rule from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) will be enforced later this month. The DOJ published a rule in early 2024 that requires local and state municipalities to update their websites to be accessible to those with disabilities, like visual impairments.

Parents slam ‘awful’ STAAR-based field trip eligibility at San Antonio charter school

(My San Antonio) Parents are expressing concerns over a Prelude Preparatory Charter School field trip that is reserved for students who meet STAAR test-related requirements. Some on social media are describing it as exclusionary and based on subjective qualifications. The documents describe opportunities for third through sixth graders to visit Legoland, the Rainforest Cafe and SeaWorld San Antonio. Related:

What happens if my student fails the STAAR test? (San Antonio Express-News)

Laredo veterans push to expand Hazlewood Act benefits to siblings of fallen soldiers

(KGNS) When a soldier without a spouse or child is killed in action, their college benefits die with them. A group of Laredo veterans wants to change that. The Hazlewood Act provides up to 150 hours of free college tuition to spouses and dependents of combat-killed veterans. Local veterans say those benefits should be transferred to a fallen soldier’s siblings rather than disappear.

Opinion: Dallas County chose to rethink juvenile justice. It’s working

(Dallas Morning News) Dallas County District Attorney John Creuzot: We challenged assumptions. Kids and the public benefited.

Nurses may no longer qualify for higher student loan limits. It could worsen Texas’ nursing shortage

(KERA) A proposed rule would cap how much graduate nursing students could borrow in federal student loans at $100,000. Some nurses in Texas say that will have a “huge downstream effect” on the state’s nursing workforce.

‘There’s not enough help’ — New child care tax breaks could ease burden for Central Texas families

(KCEN) Central Texas families burdened by childcare costs may soon find relief with a new $16 billion federal package enhancing tax breaks and subsidies.

April 6, 2026

Texas is changing its social studies curriculum. Critics say it’s too state-centric

(KUT) The process of rewriting the curriculum has been contentious, with some raising concerns about what it emphasizes. People who have been involved in the process say the changes are part of a conservative agenda and worry teachers will struggle to cover all the content.

Minority of Texas State Board of Education members have taught in public schools

(Center Square) As State Board of Education members meet to approve curriculum and guidelines for public schools, many Texans have raised questions about their qualifications. Only a handful have been public school educators. Several have been school board members or administrators.

Texas schools have more women superintendents now, but racial disparities still exist, report finds

(Houston Chronicle) More women are leading Texas school districts as superintendents, according to a new report. However, large gender and racial gaps still persist for Texas’ top leadership role in public education. But that gender gap in Texas schools is closing much faster now – nearly three times as fast as in the past, according to research from Texas Association of School Administrators and the University of Texas at Austin’s Texas Education Leadership Lab.

By Nearly Every Measure, Texas Is Failing Its Girls

(Dallas Observer) Measuring physical, academic, and social/emotional standards using data from the National Survey of Children’s Health, U.S. Department of Education, Texas Education Agency academic reports, graduation data and interviews with young women and parents from across North Texas, the State of the Texas Girl report concludes that Texas now ranks 41st in the nation when it comes to the well-being of girls.

One year later: How a TEA takeover has changed South San Antonio ISD

(San Antonio Express-News) In February 2025, the Texas Education Agency took control of South San Antonio Independent School District. One year later, a new board and superintendent lead the South Side district.

Inside 5 Rural Texas Districts That Together Set Students on Path to the Future

(The74) High schoolers travel to districts up to an hour away to attend academies in welding, teaching, nursing, robotics — and earn college credit.

These Texans want better schools for Black students. They disagree on vouchers as the answer

(Texas Tribune) One Black Texan sees education savings accounts as an escape from a burning house. Another fears they threaten a robust public school system. Related:

A third of San Antonio students who applied for vouchers enrolled in public school last year (San Antonio Report)

Northside ISD pauses bond upgrades at 9 elementary schools because of declining enrollment

(San Antonio Report) Northside Independent School District is not making building improvements at nine of its more than 80 elementary schools.

Fort Bend ISD officials say shortfall has lessened for 2026-27 school year

(Community Impact) Chief Financial Officer Bryan Guinn said the district is now expected to face a $38.5 million shortfall for the 2026-27 school year, down from the $56.4 million figure predicted at the board’s February meeting.

Houston ISD may cut or reassign staff as board of managers considers reduction in force

(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD’s state-appointed board of managers may approve a reduction in force on Thursday, according to the agenda for the upcoming meeting. Related:

Houston ISD will break ground on a new $16M career center facility this fall. Here’s what to know (Houston Chronicle)

Richardson ISD proposes cuts to staffing, administration

(Community Impact) Richardson ISD approved staff cuts and other program reductions that will save the district an estimated $25.7 million. The cuts will include the reduction of roughly 95 full-time positions, according to a presentation from Superintendent Tabitha Branum at the April 2 board of trustees meeting. The proposed changes would be enacted with the district’s 2026-27 budget, which is set for approval in June.

NTSB investigates additional incident between Waymo, Austin ISD

(KXAN) The National Transportation Safety Board said on Friday it was aware of another instance in which a Waymo autonomous vehicle illegally passed an Austin school bus while it was stopped. Unlike the previous violations caught on the district’s bus cameras, the district said it will not release video of the March 25 incident because the district is part of the NTSB investigation.

San Antonio-area school districts embrace teacher merit pay program

(San Antonio Express-News) The Teacher Incentive Allotment has allowed local school districts to boost their highest performing teachers’ salaries.

Austin ISD loses 3,000 students amid school closures and budget crisis

(KUT) The Austin Independent School District lost more than 3,000 students this school year, marking its second-largest enrollment drop in the past decade, according to Texas Education Agency data analyzed by The Texas Tribune. The sharp decline is straining the district’s finances and accelerating difficult decisions about consolidations and cuts.

Plano ISD compliance with state seatbelt bill could cost more than $16 million

(Community Impact) Plano ISD would need to spend up to $16.17 million to be in compliance with a new state law that requires three-point seat belts for every school bus passenger. PISD Deputy Superintendent Johnny Hill called the mandate “cost-prohibitive.” Related:

Plano ISD eyeing 2% salary raises, $1K increase for new teachers (Community Impact)

Plainview ISD moves to upgrade networks and require bus seat belts

(Plainview Herald) The roughly $500,000 technology project —mostly funded through the federal E-Rate program — will replace outdated switches, improve Wi-Fi, and boost security and reliability across campuses. The district also adopted a policy to comply with a new Texas law requiring three-point seat belts on all buses by 2029. Instead of retrofitting older buses at high cost, officials plan to phase in new buses over time and may require parent acknowledgment to ensure students wear seat belts.

Liberty Hill ISD adjusts bell schedule to recover lost instructional time

(Community Impact) Liberty Hill ISD elementary and middle schools will start the school day five minutes earlier beginning April 6. The adjusted start time will allow the district to recover instructional minutes that were lost from a delayed start during severe winter weather in January, according to district information.

Former Sabinal ISD High School coach sentenced to 30 years in prison for attempted enticement of minor

(KSAT) Kenneth Wayne Mulkey, 44, pleaded guilty in August 2025. Mulkey used Snapchat to ask a user for their age, sex and location on Oct. 11, 2024, according to court documents. After the user identified themselves as a 14-year-old boy, Mulkey said he was a 40-year-old football and track coach. Mulkey then requested a sexually explicit photo of the minor.

Gainesville ISD teacher no longer with district after physical incident with special needs student

(Fox 4 KDFW) A Gainesville ISD special education teacher no longer works in the district after a physical incident with a student with special needs. Gainesville ISD says the teacher did not follow proper de-escalation procedures. Video shows the teacher kicking her leg towards the student, but the district says the teacher’s actions were not abusive in nature.

Killeen ISD substitute teacher removed for inappropriate communication with student

(KCEN) A substitute teacher in Killeen ISD has been removed from the classroom and is being investigated following reports of inappropriate communication with a student, the district has announced. Killeen ISD said the substitute was removed from the classroom immediately and an investigation was started. The Killeen ISD Police Department reportedly confirmed that there was evidence of inappropriate communication.

Keller special education teacher charged with unlawfully restraining 4‑year‑old student, police say

(CBS Texas) Keller police have charged a Shady Grove Elementary special education teacher with unlawfully restraining a 4‑year‑old student after investigators corroborated a parent’s report with statements from school staff.

4 Del Valle ISD students charged after allegedly kidnapping, torturing fellow student

(KVUE) The students are accused of kidnapping, beating and torturing a fellow male classmate after they left school on Feb. 19.

Teens detained after firing BB guns at United Middle School students from nearby home

(Laredo Morning Times) Three teens were detained after firing BB guns toward students during a physical education class at a local middle school from a nearby home, according to the Laredo Police Department.

‘Destruction and disruption’: UNT professors slam program cuts, demand more cost savings data

(Dallas Morning News) Professors at the University of North Texas are demanding school leaders halt their plan to cut or consolidate dozens of academic programs as the university aims to close a projected $45 million shortfall. In a Friday letter to President Harrison Keller and Provost Michael McPherson, the UNT chapter of the American Association of University Professors slammed the cuts, which will phase out over 70 academic programs that have low enrollment, as an “unprecedented quantity of academic destruction and disruption.”

After months of uncertainty, Texas A&M Regents zero in on new president search

(KBTX) The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents will hold a special-called meeting Tuesday, April 7, to discuss candidates for the university’s next permanent president, more than six months after the controversial ousting of former President Mark A. Welsh III.

St. Mary’s University answers a decades-long call for a law program in the Rio Grande Valley

(San Antonio Report) A new partnership between St. Mary’s University in San Antonio and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley has secured a long-awaited Legal Education Hub in the Rio Grande Valley.

UT Dallas Students Say Campus Speech Feels ‘Sterilized’ After Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) Suspension

(D Magazine) The latest organization ban at UT Dallas raises more questions about students’ free speech.

April 3, 2026

A loophole in Texas’ $1B voucher program allows Florida virtual school to sign up

(Houston Chronicle) A Florida-based virtual school could receive Texas taxpayer funds through the state’s new $1 billion private school voucher program, despite provisions in the law meant to block out-of-state schools from joining the program. Related:

Here’s who applied for Texas school vouchers (KXAN)

New Fort Worth ISD superintendent earns $1,384 daily. Here’s what else is included in his contract

(Fort Worth Report) Fort Worth ISD is paying its new state-appointed superintendent a daily rate and relocation costs as he begins leading the district through the state’s intervention, according to his employment agreement. Under the agreement, Licata earns $1,384.62 per day while serving as acting superintendent — a prorated amount based on former Superintendent Karen Molinar’s $360,000 salary. Related:

Fort Worth ISD’s new leadership temporarily suspends policies on hiring, board operations (KERA)

Humble ISD had an optional fieldtrip to an Islamic center. Critics made it an anti-Muslim flashpoint

(Houston Chronicle) A right-wing media group is criticizing Humble ISD for allowing high school students to take a field trip to an Islamic community center – a school activity the district says is governed by federal non-discrimination laws.

Agencies refuse to identify student who shot teacher at Hill Country College Preparatory High School

(KSAT) Three days after a 15-year-old student shot a teacher and then turned the gun on himself at Hill Country College Preparatory High School, government agencies are still refusing to identify the shooter. The teacher, whom the Comal Independent School District and the Comal County Sheriff’s Office have refused to identify, is at a hospital in San Antonio. The sheriff told KSAT earlier this week that she is awake and conscious, and is able to communicate by squeezing hands.

Leander ISD opening enrollment to out-of-district students for first time

(Fox 7 Austin) Leander ISD is offering open enrollment to students outside of district for first time. The application window for transfers started in February and will run until May 29. April 1 is when in-district enrollment starts.

Keller ISD eyes major savings with plan to close four schools due to declining enrollment

(WFAA) Keller ISD is considering closing four schools in a consolidation plan due to a decline in enrollment over the past five years, according to the district.

Parents want human intervention after Waymo drives wrong-way in Alamo Heights ISD school zone

(KSAT) Travelling the wrong way on a one-way street could land any driver in hot water, especially in a school zone. But what happens when there is no driver to blame? That’s the question Alamo Heights Police Department officers found themselves asking after an autonomous Waymo drove the opposite way of a one-way street outside Cambridge Elementary School on Wednesday.

As AI enters book ban disputes, here’s what it means for school districts

(K-12 Dive) Tools seeking to help districts get ahead of challenges have resulted in auto-flags for thousands of books, from political memoirs to the works of Shakespeare. Measures like New Braunfels ISD’s, however, are worrying free speech and education advocates, who say the use of AI is changing the nature of book restrictions.

9 Houston ISD school leaders ‘voluntarily’ considering joining Mike Miles’ NES model, district says

(Houston Chronicle) Leaders of nine more Houston ISD schools are considering joining the New Education System (NES) model, a district spokesperson said Thursday. NES schools have a standardized curriculum, higher pay for educators, additional support staff for teachers, and significantly less autonomy compared to other HISD schools.

Odem-Edroy ISD coaches indicted after alleged school bus assault; victim’s father speaks out

(KIII) Three former coaches with Odem-Edroy Independent School District have been indicted on child endangerment charges following a reported sexual assault of a student on a school bus in December, authorities confirmed. San Patricio County District Attorney Margie Silva told 3News on Thursday that Nathan Wuenschel, Cristian Torres and Arnold Maldonado were each charged with two counts of abandoning or endangering a child, a state jail felony. A 19-year-old, Christopher Jacob Soto, was arrested in early January and charged with indecency with a child in connection with the alleged assault.

17-year-old, 2 Mathis ISD High School band directors arrested in assault case

(KIII) Mathis Police Chief John Jones said Mathis High School student Joe Ramirez, 17, was taken into custody on campus on charges of unlawful restraint of a person under 17, a state jail felony, and indecency with a child involving sexual contact, a second-degree felony. Jones said Brandon Brumbelow and Marcos Fleming Gil were also arrested on charges of abandoning or endangering a child, elderly individual, or disabled individual. Both men work at the school as band directors, according to Jones.

Former Rockport-Fulton ISD Teacher Fired From Navigation District

(Texas Scorecard) Josh Nguyen was fired as executive director of the Aransas County Navigation District after just a few controversial months on the job. Tuesday’s firing follows Nguyen’s arrest late last year for allegedly sexually assaulting an underage student while he was working for Rockport-Fulton ISD.

Truck driver sentenced in fatal Hays CISD bus crash will soon be eligible for parole

(KXAN) The concrete pump truck driver sentenced to 18 years in prison after his involvement in a deadly collision with a Hays CISD school bus is eligible for parole beginning April 19, according to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice.

Daycare worker charged after 3-month-old suffers skull fracture at Austin Primrose School

(CBS Austin) A daycare worker was arrested after she allegedly dropped a 3-month-old infant, causing a skull fracture. According to the arrest affidavit, she then allowed the baby to nap and did not tell anyone about the incident for almost two and a half hours.

This state agency was created to investigate Texas universities. How that works is a mystery

(Texas Tribune) The Office of the Ombudsman has no written policies on how to investigate allegations that education laws are being broken, even though it’s been accepting complaints for three months.

Facing political pressure, UT Austin speeds up ethnic and gender studies consolidation to this fall

(KUT) In a meeting with faculty, the dean of the College of Liberal Arts said changes needed to be made before the next Texas legislative session, which starts in January 2027. Some faculty claim changes have been rushed because of political pressure.

UT Rio Grande Valley plans expansion in Brownsville, mayor says

(myRGV) The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley is poised to acquire 60 acres on Brownsville’s northern edge for an expansion project to enhance educational opportunities for Cameron County students, Mayor John Cowen Jr. announced during his recent state of the city address.

Fort Worth City Council waives fees for all phases of Texas A&M downtown campus development

(Fort Worth Report) The estimated development fees for the Research and Innovation Building alone are about $1.3 million.

Texas A&M is investigating a viral video shared by an antisemitism watchdog group

(KBTX) A video shared on social media this week by a watchdog group called StopAntisemitism shows a pair of Jewish students on the campus of Texas A&M University being called “dirty scums” and “stinky Zionists.”

What the $17.25M PowerSchool Naviance settlement means for school districts

(K-12 Dive) District leaders will face questions from families who receive settlement notices as ed tech pushback grows, a K-12 cybersecurity expert says.

At least 175 measles cases reported in Texas this year, most of them in West Texas Detention Facility

(Texas Tribune) Texas has added 28 more measles cases in the last two weeks. Most infections so far this year have occurred inside West Texas Detention Facility in Hudspeth County.

El Paso mom pushes GPS tracking for nonverbal autistic 8-year-old after Ysleta ISD says no

(KFOX 14) Kristina Waldrop has been pushing for her 8-year-old son to be allowed to wear a GPS tracking device at school, saying it’s a safety measure she believes is medically necessary. But, Waldrop said the ARD committee denied her request, recommending an Apple AirTag instead. Waldrop said an AirTag is not an adequate substitute.

Beaumont pastors unite to form coalition against youth violence amid recent incidents

(KBMT) Seventeen local churches have joined the faith-based initiative, led by Pastor Clarence Brown of Holland Missionary Baptist Church. The coalition’s goal is to serve as an early point of contact for young people and families before conflicts escalate.

Texas Teacher Union Pushed Members To Join Anti-Trump ‘No Kings’ Protests

(Texas Scorecard) While union membership is voluntary in Texas, many teachers have dues automatically deducted from their paychecks and sent directly to unions through government payroll systems. In a recent interview, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick again called for ending automatic dues collection, comparing the issue to taxpayer-funded lobbying.

April 2, 2026

Texas school voucher applications surge past 274,000 as initial deadline closes

(Fox 4 KDFW) More than 274,000 applications were submitted for only 90,000 available spots, far exceeding the program’s initial capacity. State officials will prioritize low-income families and students with disabilities, with funding notifications expected to begin in early April. Approved families must secure enrollment at a private school by mid-July to receive their first state funding deposit.

Texas public school teacher pay recently dropped. Here’s how much a Texas teacher earned on average

(Houston Chronicle) The average pay for Texas teachers has dropped by about $5,000 over the last decade, according to a new report, even as the cost of living has increased. A Texas public school teacher made about $62,700 in the 2024-2025 school year, down from about $66,400 the previous school year, according to a recent report by the University of Houston Education Research Center.

Texas is cutting undocumented immigrants off from school, work and driving

(Texas Tribune) Over the last year, Texas Republicans have enacted sweeping regulatory and legal changes that have upended all facets of life for noncitizens. The state has limited who can get an occupational license; register or buy a car; obtain commercial driver’s licenses; and get in-state tuition at colleges and universities. The changes are wreaking havoc on the 1.7 million people without documentation in Texas, as well as tens of thousands of refugees and people with protected legal status, like Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals.

Teacher in stable condition after Monday’s school shooting; grandfather’s gun used

(News4SA) New details continue to emerge following the Monday morning shooting at Hill Country College Preparatory High School, where a teacher remains hospitalized in stable condition after being wounded by a 15-year-old student who later turned the gun on himself. Officials have now confirmed the firearm used in the incident was a .357 revolver belonging to the student’s grandfather. The shooting occurred in a second-floor classroom while most students were in the cafeteria, a factor officials say likely prevented additional injuries. The school, part of Comal ISD, is expected to reopen on the Tuesday following Easter.

Everything’s Bigger in Texas, Including School Debt

(RealClear Investigations) The State of Texas has become as synonymous with crippling public school debt as it is with oil wells and tumbleweeds.

Expired milk served at middle school leaves 11 students ‘feeling unwell,’ Northside ISD says

(KSAT) Northside Independent School District is investigating after 11 middle school students “reported feeling unwell or became ill” after drinking expired milk, a district spokesperson said Wednesday. NISD’s Child Nutrition Department launched an investigation into the issue and is making a report to the Health Department “in accordance with protocols,” the spokesperson said.

San Antonio ISD officials struggle to answer basic questions about charter school takeover

(San Antonio Current) San Antonio ISD officials during a Tuesday night meeting struggled to answer basic questions from concerned parents about curricula, sports and transportation options for students at three campuses the district recently handed over to an out-of-state charter operator.

2 Waco ISD schools will see a longer school day, school year and different curriculum

(KXXV) South Waco and Dean Highland elementary schools will see longer school days and a new curriculum under a three-year contract with Third Future Schools.

Ector County ISD unveils new strategic plan at State of the District event

(KMID/KPEJ) The Ector County Independent School District hosted its 5th annual State of the District event this week. At the event, ECISD members shared their new strategic plan and how it will impact students and staff for the next five years.

El Paso County school enrollment drops 2.7% as declining births, migration reshape classrooms

(El Paso Matters) El Paso County’s decline in student enrollment accelerated this year, as demographic forces reshape schools and the broader community, according to newly released state figures.

‘Breach of trust’: Austin ISD staff messages fuel new concerns over school closures

(Austin American-Statesman) Austin ISD’s internal messages about school closures are a window into a larger debate about how to handle district-wide discussions. Related:

What Does the Future Hold for Six Closing Austin ISD Campuses? (Austin Chronicle)

Accreditor explores 3-year bachelor’s degrees to speed workforce entry in high-demand fields

(El Paso Matters) The accreditation agency that oversees local public higher education institutions will consider reduced credit hour bachelor’s degrees in certain fields to make more graduates available sooner for high demand jobs such as health care and education. A standard bachelor’s degree is 120 credit hours. The new plans would be 90-100 credit hours.

Former Pflugerville ISD student accused of bringing gun arrested, affidavit says

(KXAN) A police affidavit states that two student witnesses told police they saw the suspect walk towards the entrance of the school, open his backpack and pull out a gun to put it in his waistband. One of the witnesses said that while the suspect took the gun out of his backpack he was acting “suspicious and looking back,” the affidavit states.

14-year-old taken into custody after weapon found at IDEA Horizon Vista in El Paso

(KFOX 14) A 14-year-old student was taken into custody after school administrators reported the student had a weapon at IDEA Horizon Vista in El Paso, according to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.

Former Children’s Museum Houston staffer charged with online solicitation of minor

(Fox 26 Houston) A former staff member at Children’s Museum Houston has been arrested as part of an operation to target those suspected of predatory behavior involving minors. Louis Anthony Salinas was one of seven people arrested as part of a multi-day operation with Manvel PD and the Houston Metro Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

Texas A&M touts new system-wide discourse symposium during divisive time at colleges

(Houston Chronicle) Texas A&M University System schools are hosting a series of conferences this month focused on the importance of civil dialogue in society – and former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence will headline the flagship university’s symposium. While some scholars say the dialogue is non-partisan, its expansion has been controversial. Some academics believe that civics programs are being used to advance right-leaning views on campuses. Related:

Texas A&M admissions data shows falling acceptance rates (Batallion)

UT Austin continues restorative efforts on Tower, Battle Hall

(Daily Texan) This spring, several construction and restoration projects progressed across campus, including work on the Tower and campus library at Battle Hall. The projects are updating facilities while preserving historic structures.

How credit loss contributed to cutting architecture programs at Tarrant County College

(Fort Worth Report) Tarrant County College cut its architecture programs in part because students were losing too many credits when transferring to four-year universities, making the programs less valuable and less attractive. The lack of transferable credits contributed to low completion and graduation rates, which helped classify the programs as underperforming. College officials said aligning programs with transfer pathways and workforce demand was a key factor in deciding to eliminate them.

UT Rio Grande Valley, St. Mary’s University School of Law sign agreement to bring online law programs to Valley

(myRGV) UTRGV, partnered with St. Mary’s University School of Law, is set to launch the Rio Grande Valley Legal Education Hub which brings legal education programs to South Texas.

$18.9M broadband expansion brings high-speed internet to rural Fort Bend County

(Houston Public Media) With the help of federal funding, county commissioners have partnered with internet provider Comcast to expand broadband infrastructure by the end of the year in Kendleton, Needville, Simonton and Thompsons.

Kids may be more likely to get the new ‘Cicada’ variant of Covid-19, scientists say. Here’s what to know about BA.3.2

(CNN) A heavily mutated variant of the virus that causes Covid-19 appears to be affecting primarily children, scientists say, though it’s not causing more severe disease – in kids or in adults.

April 1, 2026

White Texans, students previously in private school or home-school make up bulk of voucher applicants

(Texas Tribune) The demographic breakdown of applicants shows Texas’ voucher program will likely not reflect the diversity of Texas public school students.

15-year-old Texas student who shot teacher before dying by suicide seemed to be struggling in school, authorities say

(CBS Texas) A 15-year-old student who shot and injured a teacher at a Texas high school and then fatally shot himself appeared to have been struggling academically before coming to the campus armed with a gun he brought from home, authorities said Tuesday. Authorities said the student was failing several classes. Neither the student nor the teacher have been identified, and the teacher remains hospitalized. Related:

Despite state law, no police were present at San Antonio-area school during this week’s shooting (San Antonio Current)
Hill Country College Preparatory High School to remain closed for remainder of week following shooting (KENS)
Texas banned cellphones in schools. How can parents reach their kids during emergencies? (San Antonio Express-News)

Can Sen. Ted Cruz get this officer who was nearly killed by a school shooter his benefits?

(Houston Chronicle) Despite being recognized as a hero for taking on the Santa Fe High School shooter, former district police officer John Barnes is still waiting for disability benefits for the injuries he suffered.

New Fort Worth ISD board names its leaders, suspends policies in first meeting

(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Fort Worth ISD’s new state-appointed Board of Managers met on Tuesday for its first school board meeting to select officer roles, confirm the district’s new superintendent, suspend some previous board policies, and hear public comment from community members for the first time.

Staff at 7 San Antonio ISD schools will need to reapply for their jobs next school year

(KSAT) Major changes are coming to San Antonio Independent School District.

Third Future wins $11.7M contract to run struggling Waco schools, starts hiring next week

(Waco Bridge) Waco Independent School District will turn over control of South Waco and Dean Highland elementary schools in July to the nonprofit Third Future Schools at an estimated cost of $11.7 million a year. The Waco ISD board approved the contract unanimously with little discussion Monday during a special meeting at Waco High School. The deal is intended to keep the state from taking over the local district due to several years of failing grades at two schools.

Alamo Heights ISD hit by ransomware attack

(San Antonio Express-News via PressReader) Alamo Heights Independent School District confirmed that a ransomware attack caused the district’s multi-day internet outage. The district first lost internet connection on Monday, March 23, and announced the restoration of its technology systems the following Friday afternoon.

Texas Tribune: We’re relaunching our Texas Public Schools Explorer to better serve parents and teachers

(Texas Tribune) Today, we are unveiling our most ambitious update yet to The Texas Tribune’s schools explorer, with more information and added context to help Texans interpret information about our schools.

South Texas ISD may hire current board member as superintendent

(Progress Times) The South Texas Independent School District Board of Trustees may hire Sandra Ochoa — who currently sits on that board and is Edcouch-Elsa ISD’s superintendent — to lead STISD. The Texas Education Code stipulates that a trustee of a school district can’t work with that district for a year after stepping off their board. The TEA approved the waiver last week.

Former Sanger ISD police officer barred from school jobs, added to TEA Do Not Hire registry

(CBS Texas) The Texas Education Agency has placed a former Sanger ISD police officer on its do‑not‑hire registry, permanently barring him from employment in the state’s public schools. Israel Demello, 26, was previously charged with improper relationship between educator and student, sexual assault of a child, sexual performance by a child, and indecency with a child by sexual contact – all second‑degree felonies.

Henderson ISD highschooler arrested after apparent weapon found in vehicle

(KLTV) A high schooler at Henderson ISD was arrested after an apparent weapon was found in a vehicle parked on campus Monday. A staff member was routinely monitoring the high school parking lot when they noticed “what appeared to be a weapon” inside one of the vehicles, according to a Henderson ISD release.

15-year-old student arrested after bringing gun to Harlingen High School: Police

(ValleyCentral) Harlingen police say that the student initially had the gun on campus, but authorities later found the gun in a car off campus.

Bullard ISD bus driver fired, faces no charges after physical confrontation with parent

(KLTV) A Bullard ISD bus driver has been fired after an incident on a bus earlier this month. Bullard ISD said they couldn’t comment on the incident further since it involved personnel.

Texas State University students, faculty protest as legal battle over fired professor continues

(CBS Austin) Texas State University students and faculty led a protest on campus on Monday as a professor’s lawsuit over his termination heads to court.

Tarrant County College cuts 10 career, technical programs

(Fort Worth Report) Tarrant County College trustees cut 10 career and technical education programs for reasons including low enrollment or credits that did not transfer to four-year universities.

In God’s way: Inside an Austin university’s plan to reshape Christian business education

(Austin American-Statesman) With $50M from an Nvidia exec and buy-in from a local megachurch, Austin Christian University wants to redefine the future of Christian business education.

Houston ISD teacher loses case after independent hearing officer sides with district

(Houston Chronicle) An independent hearing examiner backed the Houston ISD’s decision to fire a veteran middle school teacher, in part for failing to implement and document special education accommodations. HISD placed the 25-year teacher, Alaster Gaines, on what’s called home duty shortly after she filed a special education complaint with the state. Gaines is among several HISD teachers who say they faced termination or contract nonrenewal after filing a complaint, posting online or speaking to the press.

SNAP benefits change April 1: What you can and can’t buy

(KXAN) Starting April 1, Texans who use the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, won’t be allowed to purchase items like sugary drinks and candy.

Community pushback pauses Fort Worth vote on tax break for $1.1 billion data‑center project

(CBS Texas) A packed room of community organizers and residents at Fort Worth City Hall forced an unexpected pause Tuesday on a proposed tax abatement for a large data center planned in west Fort Worth.

Church donation clears lunch debt for 2,000 Georgetown ISD students

(KVUE) San Gabriel Unitarian Universalist Church helped alleviate Georgetown ISD students’ lunch debt for remainder of the school year. “We anticipate that that will be over 2,000 students that would benefit from donations like this,” Georgetown ISD Support Services Executive Director Clint said. “At the end of the year, the school district would have to cover that out of our general operating budget.”

They Inherited Their Family’s Home in Austin—Then the Tax Bill Changed Everything

(Realtor.com) A pair of siblings who inherited their family’s longtime home in East Austin were hit with a shocking property tax bill of about $48,000, largely due to soaring property values and the loss of their father’s homestead tax protections after ownership transferred. Ultimately, the financial pressure is pushing the siblings to sell, illustrating how rising property taxes in Austin can force families out and erode long-standing neighborhood character.

‘Leading the path for others’: New program in North Texas teaches basics of disability advocacy

(Texas Standard) Texans with disabilities are facing a lot of challenges like public transit changes, Medicaid cuts and federal lawsuits that could have a significant effect on disability rights. But disability advocates said learning how to participate in advocacy work can be difficult and intimidating. That’s where the new Advocacy, Collaboration and Engagement, or ACE, training comes in.

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