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May 30, 2025

Legislative Update:

Texas Legislature approves $8.5 billion boost for public schools after years of stagnant funding

(Texas Tribune) The Texas House on Thursday gave the final stamp of approval to legislation authorizing roughly $8.5 billion in funding for public schools, sending the bill to Gov. Greg Abbott’s desk where it is soon expected to become law. Final passage of House Bill 2, which will give schools additional money for teacher and staff salaries, educator preparation, special education, safety requirements and early childhood learning, comes on the heels of extensive negotiations between the House and Senate over how the final version of the bill would look.

Texas bill banning phones in classrooms heads to governor’s desk

(NBC DFW) A bill to ban students from using cellphones in Texas classrooms is poised to become law.

‘We will file suit’: Groups threaten to sue if Gov. Abbott signs Ten Commandments bill

(Dallas Morning News) Civil liberties groups say they will sue Texas over a requirement to post the Ten Commandments in all public school classrooms if Gov. Greg Abbott, who vowed to defend the measure, lets the bill become law. The ACLU of Texas, the national ACLU, Americans United for Separation of Church and State, and Freedom From Religion Foundation said the “blatantly unconstitutional” legislation violates a nearly 50-year U.S. Supreme Court precedent that the First Amendment prohibits public schools from posting the Ten Commandments in classrooms.

Texas closes property tax loophole that took properties off tax rolls

(San Antonio Express-News) Over the past two years, investors across Texas have teamed up with housing finance corporations to wipe out property tax bills for apartment complexes hundreds of miles away from the cities and counties that created those government agencies. But Gov. Greg Abbott on Wednesday signed a bill closing the legal loophole that allowed so-called “traveling” agencies to partner with developers on faraway projects that received tax exemptions.

Houston ISD student’s death prompts new Texas law that will fund safer railroad crossings

(Houston Public Media) Senate Bill 1555, which was signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott last weekend, was filed after the death of Sergio Rodriguez — a 15-year-old Houston ISD student who was struck by a train while walking to Milby High School. The bill, co-authored by Sen. Carol Alvarado, a Houston Democrat and Milby graduate, and Sen. Robert Nichols, a Republican from Jacksonville, will create a grant program to fund grade separation projects at the intersections of railroads and roadways, putting them at different heights.

Measure to Protect Children From Sexual Content in Public Libraries Dies in Texas Senate  

(Texas Scorecard) Senate lawmakers failed to vote on a measure protecting children from sexual content in libraries before the midnight deadline on Wednesday. House Bill 3225, authored by State Rep. Daniel Alders (R–Tyler) and sponsored by State Sen. Bryan Hughes (R–Mineola) in the Senate, would have restricted the access of sexually explicit material in sections of a municipal public library that are designated for children.

Also Reported:

Plano ISD student Faizan Zaki wins Scripps National Spelling Bee

(Dallas Morning News) The word éclaircissement means a clearing up of something obscure. Plano ISD student Faizan Zaki, 13, cleared away any possible doubt about his phenomenal spelling abilities – and perseverance – when he nailed it as his winning word Thursday night in the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

Texas Education Agency reviews complaint against El Paso school board president

(KFOX) The Texas Education Agency is currently reviewing a complaint filed against Leah Hanany, the board president of the El Paso School District. In a statement sent to KFOX14/CBS4, the TEA said, “The complaint against Leah Hanany is under review to determine if any action is needed.” The agency added that it “cannot comment further until the review is complete.”

Teachers From Mexico Give English Learners a Boost in Small Texas School District

(EdSurge) Wendy Lopez Elizondo traveled more than 800 miles last year to face her biggest professional challenge — teaching in the United States. Armed with just two suitcases and far away from her Mexican home, Lopez Elizondo came to Crain Elementary School in Victoria, Texas, to work in the district’s bilingual program.

Mathis ISD responds to UIL punishments stemming from Taft-Mathis softball brawl

(KIII) Mathis ISD responded to the UIL State Executive Committee’s disciplinary ruling Wednesday that saw a Taft softball player being suspended for the first two games of the 2026 softball season and coaches from both teams put on probation for a year. ‘I support the UIL council decision, as it gives us all the opportunity to. . . . create higher expectations for our entire Pirate family,’ wrote Supt. Todd White.

Fort Worth ISD trustees approved $109M in purchases. Here’s what they bought in April

(Fort Worth Report) In April, the school board approved 10 items each exceeding $1 million, including new instructional materials and new student devices.

Austin ISD 8th grader dies after incident at celebration: principal

(Fox 7 Austin) An Austin ISD student has died after an incident at an eighth-grade celebration, according to the Covington Middle School principal. The district says that Vadir Gonzalez-Arias passed away on May 29, one day after the incident.

Prairie View A&M tightens automatic admissions policy amid record enrollment

(Houston Chronicle) Students applying to Prairie View A&M University will face tougher admissions standards for the 2026-27 school year after a vote from the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents on Thursday.

In spite of turbulence in federal grants, University of North Texas is on track to raise $5 million in private funds

(KERA) University of North Texas leaders said they expect to hit a monetary target in a 90-day “sprint” fundraising campaign. Earlier this month, UNT President Harrison Keller told the Board of Regents that the fundraiser had brought in $4.2 million, meaning key players are almost over the $5 million finish line. The funds will help UNT gain eligibility for a grant from the newly created Texas University Fund. The campaign wraps up on Aug. 31.

How Texas A&M initially plans to implement the House settlement to its athletic programs

(KBTX) Without divulging many specifics, A&M President Mark Welsh said the Aggie athletic department is ready should the settlement reach approval.

Millions of dollars approved for A&M projects, regents address student needs and campus growth

(KBTX) The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents met Thursday for its second quarterly meeting of 2025, approving major changes to student policies, funding, and campus development plans. What that plan entails has been shared with A&M’s coaches, as well as the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents. However, Welsh and athletic director Trev Alberts are keeping some important details close to the vest.

New sea turtle hospital at Texas A&M’s Galveston campus will also be a museum

(Houston Chronicle) Texas A&M University will construct a new sea turtle rehabilitation hospital at its Galveston campus – and it will be open around 2027 for visitors to meet “turtle ambassadors” and watch conservationists at work. The university system’s Board of Regents voted Thursday to allocate $17 million to build the facility, plus $1.7 million for pre-construction costs. The building will give a permanent home to A&M’s Gulf Center for Sea Turtle Research, which is the main rescue, recovery and rehabilitation operation on the upper and middle Texas Gulf Coast.

Dallas City Council blocks planned concrete plant near soccer field

(KERA) A new concrete batch plan will not go up near a soccer park in Northwest Dallas. The Dallas City Council on Wednesday failed to override the city plan commission’s earlier denial of J Imperium LLC’s application to build a plant a few hundred feet from MoneyGram Soccer Park. After hours of deliberation and public testimony, 10 council members voted to approve the application, falling short of what was needed for it to pass.

Brownsville high school employee arrested, accused of sexually assaulting coworker

(KRGV) The Brownsville Independent School District confirmed that a Pace Early College High School employee was arrested on Wednesday on allegations involving a sexual assault that took place off-campus. Police said Oscar Rodriguez, 53, was charged with sexual assault and issued a $50,000 bond. The campus website identifies Rodriguez as a math teacher at the school.

May 29, 2025

Legislative Update:

Texas to expand how schools discipline students

(Texas Tribune) Texas schools will be able to use harsher punishments to discipline students after the Texas Legislature passed a sweeping package on Wednesday. House Bill 6 would extend how long schools can place students in in-school suspensions from three days to as long as they see appropriate. Principals would need to review the placement every 10 days. Students facing in-school suspension still complete schoolwork in a different classroom on school grounds.

Texas push to ban minors under 18 from social media fades with time running out

(AP) A push in Texas to ban social media accounts for children under 18 faded Thursday after lawmakers did not take a key vote on creating one of the nation’s toughest restrictions aimed at keeping minors off platforms such as TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram.

Texas House passes bill tightening rules on school bus seat belts

(Austin American-Statesman) For the first time, a bill requiring school districts to report the presence and cost of seat belts on their buses cleared a key hurdle on Tuesday when the Texas House overwhelmingly passed the proposal. The bill, Senate Bill 546, would also eliminate the exemption that allows buses built before 2018 to operate without restraints.

Texas leaders defend THC ban at press conference featuring THC-laced snacks

(Houston Public Media) Standing before a table full of THC-infused products, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick spoke about two bills that would regulate cannabis derivatives.

Texas poised to add $100 million to child care scholarship program

(Texas Tribune) Re-allocated funding for the program that will go to providers will benefit nearly 95,000 children on a waitlist for scholarships.

Also Reported:

More North Texas school districts are switching to 4-day weeks. Here’s why

(CBS Texas) Districts have said that moving to a four-day school week will help them recruit and retain quality teachers. According to the Texas Education Agency, for the 2024-2025 school year, the total number of employed teachers fell for the first time since 2011, and the number of teachers leaving rose. Other reasons include saving money and student attendance. While the TEA does not have a complete list of districts implementing four-day school weeks, the Texas Classroom Teachers Association said that Olfen ISD, east of San Angelo, was the first to implement a four-day week in the 2016-2017 school year.

Arlington ISD’s enrollment could shrink by 2032. Here’s what’s driving the decline

(Arlington Report) Arlington ISD’s enrollment could drop below 50,000 in the next seven years, a report recently presented to the school board revealed. The presentation showed two factors are contributing to the possible drop off in enrollment: competition with charter schools and the waning enrollment of kindergarteners.

How San Antonio’s Southside ISD improved student test scores during the pandemic

(Texas Public Radio) Southside’s focus on reading over the past five years has paid off. While most districts’ average scores are lower than they were in 2019, Southside’s reading score has gone up half a grade level, according to an analysis of state and national tests called the Education Recovery Scorecard.

Former Rockwall teachers accused of hospitalizing another student with punishment workouts

(KERA) The parents of a Rockwall high school student are suing three teachers over a punishment workout in cheerleading class they say landed their daughter in the emergency room, according to a lawsuit shared with KERA News. It comes just months after a parent filed a similar lawsuit alleging her son and at least 26 others were diagnosed with or showed symptoms of rhabdomyolysis after a workout punishment levied by the school’s football coaches in 2023.

Judge dismisses Whitbeck’s lawsuit against Fort Bend ISD

(Fort Bend Star) A Fort Bend County judge last week dismissed the remaining claims in a lawsuit filed by former Fort Bend ISD Superintendent Christie Whitbeck in which she claimed that she had been publicly disparaged by three trustees in breach of a resignation agreement following her forced resignation in December 2023.

UIL hands down punishments for Taft-Mathis softball brawl

(KIII) The Taft runner received a two-game suspension, and consequences rippled down to the schools’ coaches and athletics programs, as well.

Sheldon ISD’s C.E. King Basketball Program Faces Suspensions Due to UIL Violations

(Live Ball Sports) The C.E. King High School basketball program faces turmoil as two coaches receive suspensions for UIL violations. Former assistant coach Zion Fitzpatrick is suspended for three years, while head coach Damien Mobley faces a seven-game suspension due to insufficient oversight.

Booming Texas town’s growth prompts school district’s massive land deal

(MySA) Boerne Independent School District announced last week that it is in the process of purchasing 70 acres of land near the intersection of Interstate 10 and Old Fredericksburg Road in south Kendall County.

IDEA Public Schools to open new campus in Midland for the 2026-27 school year

(KOSA) IDEA Public Schools continues to expand, they are adding a fourth school in the Permian Basin region. It is called the IDEA Henry Academy, and it aims to help the underserved communities.

Speech-language care gaps in East Texas spotlighted during awareness month

(CBS19) May is National Speech-Language-Hearing Month. Courtney Vinson, coordinator of clinical education with the speech language pathology graduate program at UT Tyler School of Health Professions, said speech language pathologists and audiologists work with patients of all ages to improve their communication. Vinson said communication disorders are fairly prevalent in America with one in 12 children having some kind of speech language disorder. Only about 50% of those kids are receiving help for those issues.

Trump cuts at University of Houston affect studies on residential segregation, a 1900s feminist society and LGBTQ health

(Houston Chronicle) The 18 officially terminated projects were supposed to receive almost $10.3 million in funding from the federal government, mostly from the National Science Foundation, according to records obtained by UH. In all, the projects lacked $4 million in funding following the pauses and cancellations, school officials said.

Laredo teen arrested after online threats to local school flagged by AI

(KGNS) Law enforcement is urging parents to monitor their children’s online activities after a 13-year-old boy was arrested for allegedly making threats toward a local school. On Wednesday, May 28, the Laredo Police Department mentioned that the investigation began after a conversation between two individuals on an online gaming platform raised a red flag due to a mention of shooting a school. Authorities clarified that the statement was not a direct threat but part of a conversation that artificial intelligence detected, flagged and reported to the FBI.

Edinburg CISD hires consulting firm to review Edinburg North gun incident

(ValleyCentral) School board trustees with the Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District voted to hire a third-party consulting firm to review policies and procedures related to a gun incident involving a student. The incident occurred on May 6 when 18-year-old student Kinzey Lira was found with a handgun and a loaded magazine with ten rounds of ammunition at Edinburg North High School.

Former Little Elm elementary school custodian accused of sexually abusing students

(Fox 4 KDFW) A former custodian for Little Elm ISD has been arrested and charged with continuous sexual abuse of a child. The investigation began after a parent at Brent Elementary reported inappropriate contact involving the custodian.

Austin ISD school bus swerves off road, through grass embankment; 2 injured

(CBS Austin) Two people were injured after an Austin ISD school bus swerved off the road in north Austin Wednesday morning, according to the school district. They said the bus drove through the grass embankment before stopping on the MoPac frontage road. The school district says that no students were on the bus, and that both the driver and the bus monitor were transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Penny stoppage to impact Sul Ross statue tradition at Texas A&M

(KXXV) A unique tradition at Texas A&M University could be in for some change after President Donald Trump’s order to eliminate the penny. Pennies are a big part of the tradition at A&M’s Sul Ross statue, better known as “Sully”, as students place a penny on the statue for good luck before exams. With the future of the “Sully” tradition uncertain, Manuel Ramirez, a Research Associate & Former A&M Student, tells 15 ABC that maybe we’ll start to see gift cards and more creative things placed on the statue. Everything placed there goes to a local charitable organization.

May 28, 2025

Legislative Update:

Texas bill scrapping STAAR test in schools clears Senate

(Texas Tribune) The House, which differs with senators on districts’ power to sue over their A-F ratings, must now decide whether to renegotiate or risk keeping STAAR by default.

Bill expanding school misconduct investigations, Do-Not-Hire registry nears governor’s desk

(KXAN) In a 134-2 vote on Tuesday, the Texas House gave initial approval to a bill targeting what Sen. Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston, called “dangerous loopholes” in the state’s misconduct registries. Senate Bill 571 is expected to head to the governor’s desk soon. Sen. Bettencourt vowed to pass a bill during the 89^th legislative session to expand access to the state’s Do Not Hire registries and expand the Texas Education Agency’s ability to investigate misconduct following a KXAN investigation.

Tougher anti-Nondisclosure Agreement bill passes Texas House, heads to Gov. Abbott’s desk for final approval

(KERA) Texas is on the brink of banning nondisclosure agreements used in cases targeted at silencing sexual abuse victims, with lawmakers passing a bill over the weekend tougher than previous versions of the legislation. The bill initially aimed to ban NDAs in child sexual abuse cases, but has since expanded to ban those agreements in sexual assault and human trafficking cases, with bill sponsor Rep. Jeff Leach, R-Plano, pointing out they’ve been used to silence sexual abuse victims from speaking out publicly about their experiences.

“Anti-Red Flag Act” that would limit when guns can be taken from people advances in Texas House

(Texas Tribune) Senate Bill 1362 would prevent officials from taking someone’s firearms if they haven’t been charged with a crime or aren’t subject to a protective order under the Texas Family Code.

Gov. Abbott signs University of Houston-Victoria transfer bill to Texas A&M University System

(Crossroads Today) The Texas A&M University System will begin the formal transfer of UHV on June 1, with the transition expected to be completed by Sept. 1.

Texas will require state documents to reflect sex assigned at birth

(Texas Tribune) Many trans Texans have changed the sex listed on their birth certificate, driver’s licenses and other documents. They say their identities will be invalidated under bill headed to governor’s desk.

Bill allowing Texas colleges to pay their athletes gets Senate approval

(Texas Tribune) Student athletes would be able to receive a slice of the billions of dollars Texas colleges generate in revenue from their sports teams.

Also Reported:

Texas’ annual reading test adjusted its difficulty every year, masking whether students are improving

(The Conversation) Texas children’s performance on an annual reading test was basically flat from 2012 to 2021, even as the state spent billions of additional dollars on K-12 education. According to policies buried in the documentation, the agency administering the tests adjusted their difficulty level every year. As a result, roughly the same share of students failed the test over that decade regardless of how objectively better they performed relative to previous years.

El Paso ISD leaves Superintendent Diana Sayavedra’s position unchanged

(KFOX) The El Paso Independent School District took no action regarding the future of Diana Sayavedra’s role as superintendent. The special board meeting was called by Board President Leah Hanany to address Sayavedra’s duties and employment status.

Mercedes ISD superintendent resignation approved by school board

(ValleyCentral) Benjamin Clinton, superintendent of schools with the Mercedes Independent School District, has resigned. The resignation comes days after Clinton was arrested on charges of driving while intoxicated. A motion to proceed with Clinton’s resignation was approved Tuesday evening during a special school board meeting.

Texas measles outbreak: State sees increase in cases not connected to outbreak

(Fox 4 KDFW) One new case of measles connected to the West Texas outbreak was reported in Tuesday’s update from the Texas Department of State Health Services. 729 cases have been identified since the outbreak started in January. There are nine new cases reported in the state since Friday that are not connected to the West Texas outbreak.

RFK Jr. says CDC will no longer recommend COVID vaccine for children and pregnant women

(CBS News) Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said Tuesday that he would remove the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendation for children and healthy pregnant women to get vaccinated for COVID-19.

Canutillo ISD faces budget challenges amid superintendent search

(KFOX) Canutillo Independent School District’s board received a mix of good and concerning news regarding its financial situation during a meeting on Thursday night. The district’s fiscal outlook has improved slightly compared to a few weeks ago, but challenges remain.

Houston ISD announces 21 principal departures

(Houston Chronicle) At least 21 principals won’t be returning to their posts for the 2025-26 school year, HISD leaders announced Thursday. The district said five principals are leaving due to personal reasons, four of which were celebrated at Thursday’s Board of Managers meeting.

Get ready San Antonio. More high school students are seeking workforce training and certifications

(San Antonio Report) In a city where only half of high school graduates go to college and even fewer earn degrees, it should be no surprise that enrollment in career and technical education programs are increasing in San Antonio schools.

DOCUMENTS: Former East Texas teacher hit student with eraser

(CBS 19) Abigail Brooke Killian, 25, was charged with injury to a child in connection with an incident at Tyler ISD’s Caldwell Arts Academy on May 6. According to an arrest affidavit, Killian threw a pink eraser and hit a student in the forehead. The student told police she was talking in class at the time, and she reported her head hurt a bit like a bruise. Killian said to police that students were working on a project and she had to remind the students multiple times to stay on task or keep their voices down. Killian grabbed an eraser and tossed it, the affidavit said.

Laredo Police Department arrests 13-year-old boy for allegedly threatening school

(KGNS) The Laredo Police Department was informed by the FBI that a 13-year-old boy had been making threats towards a school. On Monday, May 26, officers from the Laredo Police Department, along with FBI agents and personnel from the United ISD Police Department, responded to a residence, where they located the boy. The boy was arrested for allegedly making terroristic threats and transported to the Webb County Youth Village.

Comal ISD Dance Teacher Resigns Over Alleged Misconduct With Student

(Texas Scorecard) The alleged misconduct occurred during the 2020-21 school year, according to a statement from the district’s Communications Department: “The district has reported the incident to the Texas Education Agency, the State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) and local law enforcement, who will conduct their own investigation into the matter,” the statement said. Six other Comal ISD educators have been accused of sex crimes against students in just the past few years, including four women.

This Fort Worth educator was named the Texas principal of the year. Here’s why

(Fort Worth Report) For Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD Chisholm Trail High School principal Winston McCowan, talking with students and building a connection with them has been key for the past five years of leading his north Fort Worth high school. His leadership earned him the title of the 2024-25 Texas High School Principal of the Year from the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals.

China Spring builds indoor golf simulator on campus

(KWTX) The China Spring ISD golf program just got a huge upgrade with a brand new indoor golf simulator that sits on their campus. China Spring says the simulator costs around $20,000 to build. It was all paid for by donations raised by the China Spring Booster Club but the program believes the payoff of the simulator is invaluable.

May 27, 2025

Legislative Update:

Texas parents, school boards may have more control over school library books after House OKs bill

(Texas Tribune) The Texas House gave preliminary approval Monday to a bill that would give Texas parents and school boards a bigger role over what books students can access in public school libraries. Senate Bill 13 would require school boards or advisory councils to approve new books and review complaints. Critics worry the bill would lead to banning classic titles and create administrative logjams. The bill, one of Senate leader Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s listed legislative priorities, now heads back to the upper chamber to be approved.

Streamline vaccine exemptions for Texas schoolchildren awaits governor’s signature

(Dallas Morning News) House Bill 1586 from Rep. Lacey Hull, R-Houston, is now headed to the governor’s desk. His signature would change how parents access the forms needed to exempt their children from vaccine requirements for public and private schools. HB 1586 makes the exemption form available online. It would open up the door for anyone to download, print and distribute the form. The form would still require notarization.

Texas House passes ‘Make Texas Healthy Again’ bill after barrage of weakening amendments

(Austin American-Statesman) Schoolchildren would have increased exercise and nutrition course requirements, and food manufacturers would be required to label products containing a long list of potentially harmful ingredients under legislation passed Monday by the Texas House. The Senate will now consider the changes made by the House.

Texas DEI ban in public schools approved in the House

(KUT) The Texas House approved a bill that would ban diversity, equity and inclusion policies and programs in public K–12 schools. Before the bill can go to the governor’s desk, the Senate will have to agree to changes the House made to the bill, or members from both chambers will have to iron out differences behind closed doors.

Changes to the Texas Lottery are coming under bill making its way through the Legislature

(CBS Texas) The Texas House passed a bill Monday morning that will transfer the lottery games to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation and abolish the Lottery Commission. The legislation will likely head to Gov. Greg Abbott’s desk after the House and Senate discuss it further. Related:

Texas Lottery Scandal Widens: Ticket Reseller Executives Enter Pleas in Fraud Case (Texas Scorecard)

Also Reported:

Scandals rock multiple South Texas school districts in just one month

(MySA) Two superintendents on leave, another hired while related to a school board trustee.

An East Texas community grapples with school closures as education options shift

(Texas Tribune) LUFKIN — The schools were closed last week after years of declining enrollment. The school communities said increased choices were to blame.

The top 25 highest-paid employees in the University of Texas System

(Houston Chronicle) Chancellor James B. Milliken won’t be the top earner at the University of Texas System office for much longer.

Mental health center coming soon to Austin ISD campus

(KXAN) As Mental Health Awareness month closes, a groundbreaking at Martin Middle School this week aims to further Austin ISD’s goal of expanding mental health support for its students. Once the center is complete, it will look similar to a classroom but more cozy and comfortable to put students at ease, Dr. LaShanda Lewis, executive director of AISD’s Crisis and Mental Health Counseling said. She said there will be space for group counseling to take place, as well as a more private area for students to meet one-on-one with licensed mental health providers. She said there are a handful of mental health centers across the district.

Former SMU professor can sue for alleged racial discrimination in tenure process, high court rules

(KERA) A former Southern Methodist University professor can continue her defamation lawsuit against the university and former coworkers after a ruling by the Texas Supreme Court on Friday.

Father of autistic patient investigators say was abused in group home believes there could be more victims

(KENS) A father’s instinct led to multiple arrests in an abuse case. A former Bexar County deputy and health care workers are accused of tying down and abusing a non-verbal 29-year-old autistic patient at a group home. The alleged acts were caught on video by a camera the victim’s father set up. He said he believes there could be more victims. Bexar County Sheriff’s Office is still searching for one of the three accused health care workers.

Sheriff: Chireno man arrested after crime spree involving ramming at school, burned vehicles, home disturbances

(KTRE) Deputies managed to arrest a Chireno man following a crime spree in which he rammed a vehicle into the front of Chireno School, caught a school police vehicle on fire and caused issues at other homes. According to Chireno ISD, the incident happened before any faculty or staff members arrived for the final workday of the year. Sheriff Jason Bridges in video on Facebook said there are several crime scenes to process and there are pending charges, including burglary and arson.

Texas A&M-Fort Worth leaders envision campus as mothership for other colleges. Here’s how

(Fort Worth Report) Tarleton State University, Texas A&M University in College Station and Texas A&M University School of Law will have programs at the downtown campus.

May 26, 2025

Legislative Update:

Texas Senate passes overhauled $8.5 billion public school funding bill

(KERA) The Texas Senate on Friday advanced a $8.5 billion public school funding bill, moving it one step closer to Gov. Greg Abbott’s desk. House Bill 2, which underwent significant revisions since its initial passage in the Texas House in April, marks one of the largest education investments in state history.

Texas will require public school classrooms to display Ten Commandments under bill nearing passage

(Texas Tribune) Come September, every public school classroom in Texas could be required to display the Ten Commandments under a requirement that passed a key vote in the Texas legislature Sunday — part of a larger push in Texas and beyond to increase the role of religion in schools. The final version of HB 2 includes $4.2 billion for teacher and staff pay raises, with experienced educators in smaller districts eligible for increases of up to $8,000. Nearly $2 billion is directed toward overhauling special education and funding full-day pre-K, early learning interventions and career and technical education. An additional $430 million is set aside for school safety measures.

Texas DEI ban in public schools approved in the House

(Texas Tribune) The House passed the bill on Sunday in an 88-47 vote. The Texas Senate voted in favor of the bill in February. Before the bill can go to the governor’s desk, the Senate will have to agree to changes the House made to the bill or members from both chambers will have to iron out differences behind closed doors.

Texas public universities on verge of having new restrictions after House approves plan

(Dallas Morning News) Governor-appointed regents would have more power over day-to-day decisions — a departure from the historical arrangement — under a bill nearing Greg Abbott’s desk.

Ban on THC products in Texas heads to Gov. Abbott’s desk after Senate agrees to House changes

(Texas Tribune) The governor has not addressed whether he supports the ban, as hemp industry leaders have urged him to veto Senate Bill 3.

Also Reported:

Grand Prairie ISD superintendent dismissed after hostile workplace complaints, documents reveal

(WFAA) In a settlement it fought to keep private, Grand Prairie ISD paid Jorge Arredondo $355,324 to leave the district after putting him on leave three months into the job.

Future of El Paso ISD Superintendent under review amid recent board decisions

(KFOX) The El Paso Independent School District is set to review the future of its superintendent during the next special board meeting. According to EPISD’s agenda for Tuesday’s special meeting, board trustees are set to discuss and take action on Superintendent Diana Sayavedra’s “school duties and responsibilities and employment status.” Related:

Former board president warns of district upheaval if El Paso ISD superintendent is terminated (KFOX)

Three Hidalgo Co. superintendent posts in flux

(Progress Times) School boards in Mercedes and Edinburg both placed their superintendents on administrative leave, while Edcouch-Elsa’s board tapped an interim after its superintendent retired.

Houston ISD Investigated by Both AG and DA Over Electioneering Allegations

(Texas Scorecard) What began as the largest bond proposal in Texas history is now mired in controversy.

Attorney exits firm over Raymondville ISD social media contract

(Progress Times) A prominent Texas law office announced this week that one of its partners is no longer affiliated with the firm after the Progress Times contacted it Tuesday about a social media consulting “side gig” contract that the attorney signed with Raymondville ISD last summer. Records show $18K was paid, no work was performed.

Lamar CISD board approves potential partners for Schools of Choice initiative; no formal partnerships yet

(Community Impact) The Lamar CISD board of trustees approved two organizations that could partner with the district to expand academic offerings through the Schools of Choice initiative on May 20. Board member Jacci Hotzel, who serves on the district’s Schools of Choice Committee, emphasized that while no formal commitments have been made, the latest developments represent an important step in evaluating potential partners.

South San Antonio ISD will activate ‘disaster pennies,’ unlocking free money for the district

(San Antonio Report) South San Antonio Independent School District will tap into the state’s “disaster pennies” program to unlock $3 million in their budget for one-time expenses. Taken over by the state in February after a Texas Education Agency investigation found the district’s elected board members mismanaged funds and violated governing procedures, the district faces a multi-million dollar budget deficit during a state legislative session that’s been slow to pass a public school funding bill.

Where a deadly Central Texas school bus crash investigation stands 1 year later

(MySA) It’s been over a year since a deadly Central Texas school bus crash in Bastrop claimed the lives of a pre-kindergartner and a UT Austin student. The concrete truck driver that collided with a Hays CISD school bus filled with 55 children and adults plus another vehicle is set to appear in court next month.

Houston ISD middle schooler’s death ruled ‘undetermined’ 9 months late

(KHOU) The death of 13-year-old Landon Payton, who collapsed and died at Marshall Middle School in Houston on the second day of classes last August, was ruled “undetermined” by the Harris County medical examiner’s office. The incident sparked a bill that is currently awaiting the governor’s signature and raised ongoing questions about school safety equipment.

Some Ector County ISD student graduates get to walk the stage following early end-of-course test results release

(KOSA) The state scores for Permian High School’s early graduates have been released, allowing some graduates to walk the stage. “We are thrilled for our students. We want to thank State Rep. Brooks Landgraf and TEA Commissioner Mike Morath, both of whom reached out to us during our appeal, and who worked to make the release of the test results a reality,” an ECISD news release said.

Former Cedar Crest Charter School PE coach charged with sexual assault of 15-year-old student

(KWTX) Belton police arrested a former coach at a Belton charter school associated with a mental health facility Thursday after a 15-year-old student reported he sexually assaulted her in a gym storage room in November 2023. David Paul Jones, 58, of Temple, remained jailed under $250,000 bond Friday, charged with sexual assault. Jones worked as a contracted PE coach at Cedar Crest Hospital, a psychiatric facility at 3500 Interstate 35 in Belton, from November 2023 to September 2024, according to a city of Belton release.

Former med school professor says UT Rio Grande Valley fired her because pediatrics was ‘a failed experiment’

(myRGV) “The word now is that there will be no pediatric faculty in the fall,” said Dr. Marsha Griffin, a former pediatric professor at the medical school.

Rice reaffirms support for international students after Trump administration targets Harvard

(Rice Thresher) Rice and the Office of International Students and Scholars said in a May 23 email that they are monitoring the Trump administration’s actions towards Harvard to bar the school from enrolling international students. A federal judge temporarily halted the move less than 24 hours later.

University of North Texas plans to up its regional recruitment game as the future for international students wobbles

(KERA) University of North Texas administrators say they will turn their recruiting attention to the Dallas-Fort Worth region in the immediate future.

UT El Paso’s library’s Special Collections is a ‘treasure trove’ of history

(El Paso Matters) The University of Texas at El Paso C.L. Sonnichsen Special Collections Department houses about 800 collections that includes art, books, music, manuscripts, documents, photographs, microfilm, recordings, and personal papers of local artists, authors and politicians from municipal to federal. “You don’t have to be special to use special collections,” quipped Claudia Rivers, head of the department. “Everyone can come.”

May 23, 2025

Legislative Update:

Texas Legislature nearing final approval of $8.5 billion school funding package

(Texas Tribune) After the Senate grants final approval to HB 2, which will likely happen Friday, the proposal will go back to the House, where lawmakers are expected to sign off on the changes before sending the bill to Gov. Greg Abbott for final approval.

Senate panel begins negotiations with the House over how to scrap the STAAR test

(Texas Tribune) A Senate panel early Friday unveiled its rewrite of the House bill that would scrap STAAR, the state standardized test widely criticized for taking instructional time away from teachers and putting pressure on students. The Senate changes kick off formal negotiations with the lower chamber as the clock is running out on the legislative session. The Senate Education Committee’s rewrite reflects a gap in what the two chambers want to see out of the new state assessment — and the A-F accountability ratings that are largely calculated based on assessment results.

Senators soften student discipline bill, giving Texas schools more flexibility

(Texas Tribune) The Texas Senate, in an about-face, approved a sweeping rewrite of the state’s student discipline laws that provides schools with more flexibility to manage student behavior. The final legislation, which included many amendments, moderated portions of the bill the Senate had previously sought to harden. The House must concur before it goes to the governor.

Prayer period in schools backed by Texas Legislature

(Texas Tribune) A House vote showed broad support for the measure that would let districts set aside time for prayer or religious study.

How Gov. Greg Abbott Appointees Could Take Over UT

(Austin Chronicle) Texas Republicans move forward with new bill attacking academic freedom.

It’s “Texas Time”: Legislature OKs permanent daylight saving time, but Congress must also act

(Texas Tribune) Federal action would be needed to make the change legal. Lawmakers at both the state and federal levels have debated the question for decades.

Also Reported:

Tornado damage closes Gordon ISD for the remainder of the year

(Fox 4 KDFW) Gordon ISD’s school is ending the year early because of damage from this past weekend’s EF-1 tornado. The school district announced its lone school, which serves students in kindergarten through 12th grade, will be closed for the remainder of the year.

‘A shell of itself’: Federal judge pauses efforts to wind down Education Department

(K-12 Dive) Public school supporters praise the ruling, while the agency promises to immediately challenge the preliminary injunction.

Split Supreme Court blocks first religious charter school in Oklahoma

(SCOTUSblog) An equally divided court on Thursday left in place an Oklahoma Supreme Court decision that blocked a Catholic charter school from becoming the country’s first publicly funded religious charter school. The court ruled 4-4, with Justice Amy Coney Barrett recused from the case, which leaves the lower court’s decision in place. The ruling on Thursday applies in Oklahoma and does not resolve the question of whether religious charter schools are constitutional nationwide.

Fort Worth ISD plans teacher raises — how much depends on the Texas Legislature

(KERA) The school board heard plans May 20 outlining the district’s $22 million teacher compensation package for the 2025-26 academic year, including a self-directed bump in starting teacher pay and likely mandated raises from the Texas Legislature.

Pay raises for Dallas ISD teachers, staff approved in next year’s budget

(Dallas Morning News) Trustees approved a roughly $1.9 billion budget Thursday night that raises staff minimum wages to $17 an hour and offers $64,000 to beginning teachers. Seven trustees voted yes, with Byron Sanders and Joyce Foreman abstaining.

Houston ISD union says about 60 custodial, maintenance staff members cut through reduction in force

(Houston Chronicle) A Houston ISD union said about 60 custodial and maintenance staff members have received reduction in force notices that put them out of their jobs. Texas Support Personnel Employees Local 1 president Hector Mireles estimated the state’s largest school district gave notice to about 60 custodial and maintenance staff members with coordinator 1 and coordinator 2 job titles, formerly called supervisors.

Edcouch-Elsa school board names fellow trustee’s wife interim superintendent

(myRGV) The school board here voted Wednesday to approve a voluntary separation agreement with superintendent Alda Benavides and named Sandra “Sandy” Ochoa, board member Ricardo Ochoa’s wife, interim. With discussion only occurring in closed session, the board, without vice president Ochoa or trustee Rolando Lozano in attendance, unanimously voted to approve the separation agreement with Benavides.

Former Texas Southern University assistant dean sentenced to 8 years in prison for child sex and theft charges

(KTRK) This week, former Texas Southern University law school assistant dean of admissions Edward Rene was sentenced to eight years in prison for theft of a public servant and sexual performance by a minor. In addition, Rene must also pay $177,000 in restitution to the university. Rene was first charged with theft in 2020. Investigators said he awarded double scholarships to at least two students, and then made them return the extra money, which he kept. In 2023, he was slammed with additional charges in an unrelated case, in which he induced a minor to engage in sexual acts in June 2018.

Frisco track meet stabbing: Karmelo Anthony fundraiser surpasses $500,000

(Fox 4 KDFW) A fundraiser for Frisco murder suspect Karmelo Anthony has raised more than $500,000 as of Thursday. Karmelo Anthony, 17, was arrested on April 2 after a fatal stabbing at a Frisco ISD track meet. Austin Metcalf, 17, was stabbed in the chest and died.

Bond conditions set for former Beaumont ISD electrician Calvin Walker during Thursday hearing

(KBMT) Walker is restricted to Jefferson County but may leave for jobs, medical appointments, food, church services, and meetings with his attorneys in Houston. Judge John Stevens Jr. said the decision to release Walker on bond pending appeal was made to ensure that Walker can continue efforts to repay the more than $500,000 he still owes in restitution to the district.

San Antonio boy charged with planning school shooting must remain in custody, judge rules

(San Antonio Current) Juvenile District Court Judge William “Cruz” Shaw ruled Thursday that the 13-year-old San Antonio boy charged with terrorism over allegations he planned to carry out a mass shooting at Jeremiah Rhodes Middle School will remain in police custody, according to the Express-News. The ruling comes after the youth’s mother, Ashley Pardo, 33, was released on $75,000 bond last week. Police charged her with aiding in the commission of terrorism.

1 child killed, 2 more injured after being run over by car outside elementary school in Dallas, officials say

(WFAA) One child has died after being run over by a truck on Thursday near Felix Botello Elementary School in Dallas, police said. Dallas PD Assistant Chief Catrina Shead said police are investigating this incident as an accident, and, through their preliminary investigation, don’t believe that speed played a factor in the collision. A witness told WFAA the driver exited his truck using a cane.

Former Waco ISD teacher indicted on child injury charges

(KWTX) A former Waco Independent School District teacher arrested last month on charges she injured a special needs student in her classroom was indicted Thursday on third-degree felony charges. A McLennan County grand jury indicted Randi Lynn Fowler, 45, on three counts of injury to a child, charges punishable on each count by up to 10 years in prison.

Parent stabbed multiple times outside Fort Worth elementary after graduation party

(NBC DFW) Police say parents were at the school Thursday for a celebration when the argument occurred outside.

San Antonio 11-year-old arrested after bringing gun onto North East ISD school campus

(San Antonio Current) An 11-year-old student is facing criminal charges after bringing a gun to a San Antonio school campus this week. Authorities at Bernard A. Harris Middle School apprehended the suspect Wednesday after another student informed campus officials that someone had a firearm in their backpack, according to the online news site. When questioned, the child reportedly said he was holding the gun for someone else and didn’t intend to harm anyone.

Bellaire chase ends in arrest of suspects accused of scamming people with fake child’s death

(KTRK) Law enforcement agencies across Texas are being notified about a criminal group from Chicago that has been scamming victims by using a fabricated story about a murdered child with autism to solicit fraudulent donations. The suspects were apprehended following a high-speed chase through the West University and Bellaire areas of Houston, but authorities believe more victims may be out there.

Odessa fireman, instructor at Odessa College charged with child sexual assault

(KMID/KPEJ) The Odessa Police Department has arrested a fire fighter and instructor at Odessa College after an investigation that began with concerned parents. 33-year-old Cory Shane Castillo has been charged with Sexual Assault of a Child, Child Grooming, and Possession of Child Pornography.

San Jacinto College students could get some licenses quicker with new program

(Community Impact) Cosmetology students at San Jacinto College will be able to take the state cosmetology licensing exam as their final exam instead of having to wait months to take it after graduating.

Best private high schools in the El Paso metro area

(KVIA) Stacker compiled a list of the best private high schools in the El Paso metro area using data from the Niche. Niche uses seven weighted factors for its rankings. A majority of the score is based on academics, but other factors include culture and diversity; sports; clubs and activities; resources; and surveys of parents, teachers, and students.

May 22, 2025

Legislative Update:

Texas House, Senate lawmakers reach $8.5 billion school funding deal

(Texas Tribune) House and Senate lawmakers are poised to announce a deal on an $8.5 billion funding package for Texas public schools that would preserve the upper chamber’s push for a modest $55 per–student increase to districts’ base funding, while giving schools more than $1 billion to pay for fixed costs like utilities and transportation. The deal, confirmed by three lawmakers familiar with the discussions, appears to strike a face-saving compromise for both chambers, which had been divided by the House’s bid to give schools a bigger increase in base per-student funding and the Senate’s desire to more narrowly prioritize teacher pay raises.

Bill to teach Texas kids the dangers of communism — but not fascism — OK’d by House

(Texas Tribune) The bill won bipartisan support despite efforts from multiple Democrats that would have also required students to learn about fascism and Nazism.

Classroom violence went up in Texas after the pandemic. Is more discipline the answer?

(Texas Tribune) Texas lawmakers are poised to make it easier to suspend disruptive students. But some teachers and school psychologists say discipline alone won’t meet the mental health needs at the root of their behavior.

Texas Legislature on verge of completely banning THC products after key House vote

(Texas Tribune) The House on Wednesday approved the ban, after previously considering proposals to preserve the industry by tightening regulations.

Also Reported:

More Texas children are getting vaccinated early against measles

(Texas Tribune) Fear of babies contracting the contagious and potentially deadly virus has spurred the surge in vaccinations amid Texas’ historic measles outbreak.

Head Start services to be cut for almost 900 kids and moms in North Texas unless U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services renews funding

(Houston Chronicle) One of the largest child care organizations in Texas could lay off more than 300 employees and suspend services to nearly 900 children and pregnant mothers as the promise of continued funding from the federal government remains uncertain. In a letter sent from Child Care Associates to elected officials in Tarrant County and Fort Worth, the organization said it had not yet received confirmation from the Department of Health and Human Services that funding for the organization will be renewed this year, according to documents from the Texas Workforce Commission.

More Houston-area private schools administer the STAAR test than anywhere else in Texas

(Houston Chronicle) While Texas does not require private schools to administer the state’s standardized test, almost 6,000 private school students at 21 campuses statewide took the test last year. Just under half of the private school campuses that administered the test were in the Houston area and the majority were Islamic schools. Related:

Here’s why one of Houston’s Islamic private schools administers the STAAR test (Houston Chronicle)

School closures on the horizon for Austin ISD

(KXAN) There is big change coming to Austin ISD as the district is beginning the process to close and consolidate schools. The district said the move comes after six years without an increase in school funding from the state, as well as declining enrollment. The process to identify which schools will be consolidated or closed will take some time and won’t happen until the 2026-27 school year.

Judson ISD votes to keep three schools open after contentious board meeting

(News4SA) Judson ISD voted to keep Judson Middle School, Candlewood Elementary School, and Franz Leadership Academy open in Wednesday’s school board meeting. The school board got an earful from parents fighting to keep their kids’ schools open.

Edinburg CISD super reprimanded, placed on paid administrative leave

(myRGV) The ECISD school board voted to reprimand and place Superintendent Mario Salinas on paid administrative leave at a special board meeting Wednesday afternoon. After about an hour in executive session, the board unanimously voted to reprimand and place Salinas on five days of administrative paid leave. Benjamin Castillo, legal counsel for the district, said the board reprimanded Salinas over the incident where a student at Edinburg North brought an unloaded gun and loaded magazine to school in his backpack on May 6. He also said that there were other issues as well for the reprimand but did not elaborate what those other issues were, saying he could not discuss personnel issues.

‘What happened in the group was a violation’: Whistleblower exposes ‘secret focus group’ in Houston ISD’s failed bond effort

(KPRC) TEA officially confirms investigation into HISD following 2 Investigates series of reports. Related:

Houston ISD’s Kinder High School cancels its annual school-wide Black history musical (Houston Chronicle)

With free tuition, Austin Community College sees jump in students enrolling right after high school

(KUT) The number of students enrolling was double the increase ACC had been anticipating. Despite this, administrators say the program is financially stable.

Highland Park ISD parent requests appeal of UIL decision for boys soccer team to forfeit state championship

(WFAA) A parent is seeking to appeal a UIL decision that led to the Highland Park High School boys soccer team’s forfeiture of the state championship title last month. A parent who requested to appeal the determination of ineligibility on behalf of her son and the team argued during the UIL State Executive Committee hearing that her son shouldn’t have been deemed ineligible because pre-calculus is deemed an honors course, exempt under Texas’ “no pass no play” law. The parent called for Highland Park and Liberty Hill to be named co-champions, sharing the title. A decision on that matter will be issued later.

Permian High School student shows ‘grace’ addressing the board about graduation

(Odessa American) Although she’s not happy with the way things ended up, Isabella Patrick told the Ector County ISD Board of Trustees Tuesday that she respects them and is glad they are following protocol. Patrick, who attended Tuesday’s meeting with her father, David, is one of about 22 Permian High School students who will not be allowed to walk the stage because their end-of-course exam results were not available in time.

Ex-Tascosa High School wrestling coach exchanged 600 pages of texts with alleged victim

(KVII) A former star wrestler and coach at Amarillo ISD’s Tascosa High School exchanged over 600 pages of text messages with his alleged victim. Several of the texts were admitted as evidence in federal court Wednesday during Nicholas Herrmann’s detention hearing. Herrmann is charged with enticement of a minor. He’s accused of having sex with a 17-year-old female student at his home on Jan. 25 and Jan. 26. The year long conversation started innocently but eventually became “more flirtatious and sexual,” according to prosecutors.

Questions linger after Prosper ISD seniors taken to hospital following graduation event; 2 suspects arrested

(CBS Texas) There’s still no confirmed explanation as to why multiple Prosper ISD seniors were transported to the hospital after attending an overnight event this past weekend, but the city said two teens have been arrested in connection with the incident. Wednesday, the City of Prosper announced that two people have been arrested in connection with the incident: 17-year-old Kyle Muchineuta, of Prosper, and 18-year-old Cesar Omana of Frisco. Warrants were issued for manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance.

Parent arrested during Ector County ISD pre-kindergarten end-of-year program

(KMID/KPEJ) The Ector County Independent School District has released a statement following the arrest of a parent at a pre-kindergarten end-of-year program Wednesday morning.

Arlington student accused of throwing mustard and bleach mixture on other students on school bus

(Fox 4 KDFW) A student allegedly threw a water bottle which contained a strange substance at multiple other students. Four students who were hit with the substance were taken to the hospital because of eye irritation. The 14-year-old suspect initially told police the water bottle contained a mixture of water, mustard, and sand. Testing later revealed it also contained bleach. He is expected to be charged with aggravated assault, police said.

Dallas teen credits CPR class at school for saving her sister’s life

(NBC DFW) Neveah Money, 15, said that after her sister had a seizure and went into cardiac arrest, she immediately began CPR. She learned the life-saving skills at Uplift Heights Healthcare Institute in West Dallas.

The city of Abilene says it will not pay ransom to cyber attackers

(Abilene Reporter-News) The city of Abilene will not pay a ransom to cyber attackers who infiltrated its computer system on April 18, according to a news release from the city. The ransomware group Qilin claims to have stolen 477 GB of data and threatened to release it if the ransom was not paid by May 27. Essential city services remain operational, but other departments have been affected by the network outage. Federal authorities are investigating the incident.

May 21, 2025

Legislative Update:

Another big tax cut for Texas homeowners appears imminent

(Texas Tribune) Texas homeowners are one step closer to a bigger tax break after the state House gave unanimous preliminary approval to a set of legislative proposals Tuesday. House members advanced bills aimed at giving homeowners relief on the property taxes they pay toward school districts, the biggest chunk of a property owner’s tax bill.

What needs to be worked out in Texas school funding plan?

(Dallas Morning News) Legislation to direct roughly $8 billion into the state’s public schools is not yet near the finish line even as the session hurdles toward the end. Lawmakers in the House and Senate must find a way to smooth over ideological differences that shape how dollars are spent in House Bill 2. School leaders say they appreciate how the overall bill could help them pay for teacher raises and special education improvements — but they’re still seeking clarity on major provisions and hoping lawmakers listen as they ask for financial flexibility. Even small tweaks to Texas’ byzantine school funding system could trigger complicated fallout for districts as lawmakers rush to get a deal approved.

House Lawmakers Pass Measure Creating Database for School Bond Projects

(Texas Scorecard) Lawmakers in the Texas House have approved the establishment of a database for information regarding current or future public school bond projects. The proposal would require the Texas Education Agency to publish information on tax increases caused by new school bond projects across the state. Senators previously passed the proposal in late April.

Nonprofit leaders fear Texas ‘school safety zones’ will shutter homeless shelters

(Dallas Morning News) A Texas bill aiming to prohibit homeless shelters from operating near schools is winding its way through the Legislature, as supporters seek to establish “school safety zones” and critics worry that the legislation could hurt agencies and shutter shelters across the state.

Also Reported:

BREAKING: Students suffer burns during ‘bear crawl’ TikTok challenge at Woodville ISD middle school

(KFDM) The parents of several students tell KFDM/Fox 4 News their children suffered burns to their hands when they took part in a coach’s TikTok challenge. The boys are in a sixth grade pre-athletics class at Woodville Middle School and parents say Monday, a coach said they could take part in a TikTok challenge or work out as usual. They chose the challenge, involving bear crawling on the track. Several suffered burns and were treated at emergency centers, a hospital, while others went to Shriners Burn Hospital in Galveston. The superintendent tells KFDM/Fox 4 News she’s very concerned and the coach in question is no longer working for Woodville ISD.

School vouchers won’t cover tuition? Senator Cruz proposes billions to help boost them

(WFAA) On Tuesday morning, for the fourth time, Cruz reintroduced legislation in Congress that would help Texas parents send their child to private schools even if Texas’ new voucher bill doesn’t pay for the entire tuition.

Texas charter school deploying AI software that can detect guns via camera feed; how it works

(KXAN) One company, founded in 2018 by a group of Navy SEALs, is using AI to expand safety against the threat of firearms in schools. ZeroEyes uses AI to detect the presence of guns spotted by surveillance cameras. It was the first AI-based gun detection video analytics platform to earn the full U.S. Department of Homeland Security SAFETY Act Designation. On Tuesday, Ki Charter became the first charter school system in Texas to deploy the software.

Three Years Later, an Uncle in Uvalde Searches for Solutions on School Board

(Texas Observer) Jesse Rizo, who lost a niece in Texas’ deadliest school shooting, turned pain into a run for public office. He thinks his town is beginning to “come back together.”

In El Paso, measles is infecting more adults than children

(Texas Tribune) Adults who are unsure whether they’re vaccinated can get additional shots, health experts say.

Fort Worth ISD board votes to close 18 schools over the next five years: Here’s which ones and when

(WFAA) The Fort Worth Independent School District board late Tuesday night voted to approve a plan to close 18 district campuses, mostly elementary schools, over the next five years. Many held signs and urged board members to reconsider the plan. While a few spoke in support of the closures, the overwhelming majority voiced opposition. Related:

Fort Worth ISD reveals new lesson structures to help improve academic performance (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)

El Paso ISD votes to reopen Lamar Elementary amid budget concerns

(KFOX) The El Paso Independent School District’s board voted 5-2 to reopen Lamar Elementary, one of eight schools previously slated for closure as part of a district-wide redesign plan aimed at addressing a $32 million deficit.

Canutillo ISD faces budget crisis, decides not to renew contracts for 11 teachers

(KFOX) The Canutillo Independent School District, like many across the Borderland, is grappling with a multimillion-dollar budget shortfall. At Tuesday’s board meeting, trustees took steps to begin closing that gap, voting not to renew the contracts of nearly a dozen teachers. According to the district agenda, ten middle school teachers and one high school teacher will not return next school year.

Taylor ISD offers $10,000 sign-on bonus to attract middle school teachers

(CBS Austin) In a bold move to attract top-tier educators, Taylor Independent School District has announced a substantial $10,000 sign-on bonus for certified middle school teachers with three or more years of experience who join the district for the 2025-26 school year. This initiative is part of the district’s strategic effort to expand its pool of qualified middle school teachers.

Questions linger after Prosper ISD seniors taken to hospital following graduation event

(CBS Texas) There’s still no confirmed explanation as to why multiple Prosper ISD seniors were transported to the hospital after attending an overnight event this past weekend. As of now, no one has come forward with details about what happened Saturday night or the current condition of the eight hospitalized students. Prosper ISD has not confirmed whether any students were suspended following the event. CBS News Texas spoke by phone with the town’s spokesperson and the mayor, who said they are confident in the police department’s investigation.

Act of kindness allows Gordon ISD baseball team to practice after tornado damage

(Fox 4 KDFW) Stephenville High School is allowing the Gordon team to use their facilities for practice. The team is preparing for their regional finals series despite the widespread damage and disruption.

Memorial in honor of Sante Fe shooting victims is one step closer; families still fighting for justice

(KPRC) Last Friday, the Santa Fe Memorial Foundation announced that the Trevino Group was hired as the contractor on the project. Renderings show there will be 10 individual feathers, one for each life lost on May 18, 2018. Rosie Stone, whose 17-year-old son lost his life during the shooting, said she is excited for the construction of the memorial. However, in the last seven years, she said families are still awaiting justice. The shooter, Dimitrios Pagourtzis, has not been deemed competent for trial and has been at the North Texas State Hospital’s Vernon campus for 1,995 days.

‘I’m pretty frustrated’: North East ISD superintendent calls on City of San Antonio to resolve multi-million dollar dispute

(KSAT) North East ISD claims it is owed $4.5 million after Rackspace terminated lease at former headquarters.

Southeast Texas schools celebrate graduation booms with record-breaking senior classes

(KFDM) Texas continues to excel in high school graduation rates, consistently ranking among the top states with a rate exceeding 93 percent, well above the national average of 86 percent. In Southeast Texas, several districts are witnessing even more significant improvements.

Mercedes ISD places superintendent on administrative leave with pay

(ValleyCentral) The Mercedes ISD school board voted late Tuesday night to place Superintendent Benjamin Clinton on administrative leave with pay following his arrest on a DWI charge. The decision was made during an executive session.

Board delays action on Superintendent separation at Marlin ISD meeting

(KXXV) Marlin ISD tabled votes on a potential superintendent separation with no public explanation given.

Humble ISD trustee-elect failed to change her voter registration in time to sit on the school board

(Houston Chronicle) Brittnai Brown, a candidate who won her bid for the Humble ISD school board on May 3 has now been declared ineligible after her opponent challenged her candidacy, a district spokesperson confirmed Tuesday. Brown, a former educator, was sued by opponent Tracy Shannon after the election, and the lawsuit cited voter records that showed that Brown was not registered to vote in the district for the required six months before the filing deadline to run for the board. The board may either hold a special election or appoint a replacement to fill the position due to the ineligibility ruling, a district news release notes.

Calvert ISD School Board Member censured following arrest for soliciting prostitution

(KBTX) The Calvert ISD School Board unanimously voted to censure member James Green at an emergency board meeting on May 7. He was among a dozen suspects arrested during a 2-day prostitution sting in Waco in late April.

Leander ISD student-teacher arrested for improper relationship with student

(Fox 7 Austin) A student-teacher with Leander ISD has been arrested for allegedly having sex with a student. 22-year-old Darian Christine Rogers of Austin has been charged with second-degree felony improper relationship between an educator and a student. Rogers was a student-teacher at Rouse High School in Leander ISD. She has been accused of having sex with a 17-year-old student who was also her co-worker at an H-E-B grocery store.

East Texas teacher indicted after own child found in possession of cannabinoids

(CBS 19) An East Texas teacher was recently arrested after a child got a hold of cannabinoids. According to the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, the child who had the cannabinoids was the teacher’s own kid. MacKenzie Crow, 29, was indicted for injury to a child in connection with an incident that happened Sept. 1, 2024. A Cherokee County grand jury found that Crow recklessly caused serious bodily injury to a child under 14 years old by possessing cannabinoids or failing to secure cannabinoids or failing to supervise the child.

Teen arrested after assaulting Irving High School teacher, police say

(WFAA) Irving police said an altercation erupted at Irving High, resulting in a 17-year-old student assaulting a teacher. Police said the teacher sustained minor injuries.

NFL teams unanimously approve player participation in flag football for 2028 Olympics Games

(Fox 4 KDFW) The approval allows the NFL to work with the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), the International Federation of American Football (IFAF), and relevant Olympic authorities to implement rules governing the participation of NFL players in flag football.

Southern Methodist University raises more than $1.64 billion in one of the largest Texas private university fundraising campaigns

(SMU News) The SMU Ignited: Boldly Shaping Tomorrow campaign exceeded its $1.5 billion goal three years ahead of schedule, university officials announced.

City of Abilene doesn’t dispute report of cyber attack ransom from Russian ransomware gang

(KTAB) A report from Comparitech claims that a Russian ransomware group has taken responsibility for the cyberattack targeting the City of Abilene. The city has acknowledged this new information but hasn’t confirmed or denied its validity. Back in April, city officials announced that a cyber incident had disrupted Abilene’s internal network, leaving several servers unresponsive.

Tarrant County Community College board buys nearly $2M in security cameras. Here’s what measures are being put in place

(Fort Worth Report) The vote approves the purchase of more than 1,000 security cameras from Howard Technology for use across the community college system.

May 20, 2025

Legislative Update:

Texas School Districts Slam the Senate’s School Finance Plan

(Texas Observer) “It’s like your house being on fire, and the fire department showing up with a 12 ounce cup of water.”

Texas lawmakers OK former Uvalde mayor’s effort to fix police failures in Robb Elementary attack

(AP) Texas lawmakers on Monday passed a plan sponsored by Uvalde’s former mayor to fix police failures laid bare by the hesitant law enforcement response to the Robb Elementary School shooting in 2022, sending the bill to the governor days ahead of the third anniversary of the massacre. The measure given final approval by the state Senate and sent to Gov. Greg Abbott is dubbed the “The Uvalde Strong Act” and is meant to correct the problems in the slow and often chaotic law enforcement response that day with better training and coordination between agencies and basic equipment requirements.

Texas Senate passes bill that would require public schools to use Christian B.C./A.D. system to track years

(Texas Tribune) The legislation would prevent schools from using materials that do not use the terms “Before Christ” and “Anno Domini.” Many historians have moved away from them to be more inclusive.

Will Texas pass paid teacher training to fix ‘pipeline crisis’?

(Dallas Morning News) The Legislature is debating a slate of proposals to improve educator quality.

Bill making bookstores liable for ‘obscene displays’ appears dead in Texas House

(KERA) A bill that would have exposed booksellers to lawsuits over materials deemed inappropriate for children appears dead in the Texas House after missing key deadlines.

Texas High School Students Use Their Voice to Combat Student Paper Censorship

(Dallas Observer) High school student journalists from North Texas and across the state have joined forces to advocate for legislation that would mitigate the impact of a 1988 Supreme Court case on student expression. The coalition, named New Voices Texas, is a student-led group advocating for the passage of a state law that will protect student journalists from censorship and clarify the role of school administrators in the school newspaper publication process.

Also Reported:

Severe storm damage prompts Gordon ISD to cancel class for the week

(CBS Texas) A rural North Texas school district canceled classes for the week after a night of severe storms. Gordon ISD, located in Palo Pinto County, had extensive damage to school property and asked staff and students to stay off campus while emergency crews and insurance adjusters investigate. “I don’t think our school is a total loss but I do think we have some adjustments to make and some significant repairs to make,” Gordon ISD Superintendent Holly Campbell said. “We’ve got classrooms that are completely flooded right now.” Related:

Back-to-back Texas state champion Gordon Longhorns’ athletic facilities destroyed by suspected violent tornado (Sports Illustrated)

How much money does the Texas Education Agency receive from the US Education Department?

(Houston Chronicle) How much funding does Texas receive from the U.S. Department of Education, and how does it serve schools? One way to gauge federal funding’s impact is through the Texas Education Agency, the state agency that serves thousands of public schools. In fiscal year 2024, the agency received $3.9 billion in awards from the department, apart from funding from the U.S. Department of Labor ($3 million) and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services ($1.8 million). Federal funding helps serve rural and low-income communities, career and technical education, unhoused students, charter schools and more. Related:

South Texas schools to get $116M for education, focusing on low-income communities (News4SA)

A Texas teen was the victim of fake AI nudes. Now a new federal law requires platforms to remove such content

(Texas Tribune) A high school victim was one of the victims, but she and her mother fought back, with the help of Senator Ted Cruz.

Here’s why Fort Worth ISD is bracing for an uncertain funding year in its next budget

(Fort Worth Report) FWISD faces a tighter budget for 2025-26 as enrollment dips, tax refunds rise and state lawmakers weigh changes to public school funding.

Houston ISD offered contracts to more than 7,000 teachers for the 2025-26 school year

(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD sent 7,295 teacher contracts for review and signature on Friday, according to a district comment. It is unclear how many HISD teachers will return for the 2025-26 school year and whether all emails for contracts were sent out. Contracts this year follow the proposed nonrenewals of 733 teachers and the removal of 406 teachers for failing to earn certifications within a two-year time period. Related:

Former Houston ISD principal fired last fall to appear in TLC “90 Day Fiance” spinoff (Houston Chronicle)

Closing some smaller elementary schools could save Fort Bend ISD $13M, report shows

(Houston Chronicle) Fort Bend ISD is built for more than 100,000 students, but recent demographic projections show enrollment stagnating around 80,000 students until 2034, an outlook that could force school closures to save money, officials told a full boardroom Monday. Closing or consolidating some of the 19 elementary campuses with less than 600 students could save the district $13 million, auditors said.

Gatesville ISD cuts school supply list in half, easing financial burden on families

(KXXV) Gatesville ISD is reducing back-to-school supply lists to just a few items, saving families hundreds of dollars. Starting this fall, every student will receive a bag of essential supplies.

Texas school adds Div. I women’s collegiate flag football program

(Houston Chronicle) The University of Texas at Arlington made history on Thursday by announcing the addition of women’s flag football as a varsity sport for the Spring of 2027. While Texas already has two women’s collegiate flag football programs at the NAIA and Division III levels — Texas Wesleyan and Concordia — UT-Arlington becomes the first Division I school to add the sport.

‘Medical emergency’ sends 8 people to hospital at off-campus overnight graduation celebration in Prosper

(NBC DFW) Several students were treated and 8 ended up in the hospital after attending an off-campus overnight graduation party for high school seniors, according to the Town of Prosper. Prosper Police said they are investigating. Authorities haven’t said what caused the ‘medical emergency’ but some parents believe it might have been THC gummies. ‘Graduation Celebration’ is known as a longstanding tradition for seniors from all three high schools in Prosper Independent School District. According to their website, the event is funded and organized by parents. It’s held at an off-campus location.

League City to replace school zone flashers

(Community Impact) League City is replacing school zone flashers across the city to upgrade them with the latest technology, officials announced May 14. Many of the school zone flashers are more than 20 years old, officials said. The new flashers will interact with the WAZE navigation app and the Travel Safely app built into certain vehicles and send drivers alerts when they enter a school zone. It will also notify them if they are speeding.

Former Beaumont ISD electrician seeks court permission to work in Louisiana while appealing prison sentence

(KBMT) Calvin Walker, the former Beaumont Independent School District electrician recently sentenced to nine years in prison, will appear in Jefferson County Criminal District Court this Thursday to request permission to work in Louisiana while his appeal proceeds. The May 22 hearing marks Walker’s first court appearance since Judge John Stevens revoked his probation on May 13 for failing to repay over $1.17 million in restitution owed to the school district.

United ISD’s Elias Herrera Middle School hosts annual Narcotic K-9 Competition

(KGNS) On Friday morning, May 16, various law enforcement agencies from local, state and federal levels gathered at Elias Herrera Middle School for the annual K-9 Narcotic Competition. A total of 12 handlers and their K-9 partners participated, showcasing their skills and training.

A faith-based Houston school is changing lives with this surprising tuition model

(KHOU) A Houston private school offers high-quality education for just $20 a month to low-income families.

Texas A&M working to provide rural communities with accessible healthcare

(KBTX) Texas A&M’s student organization BUILD and the College of Medicine are teaming up to provide communities healthcare access without subjecting residents to the long drive.

May 19, 2025

Legislative Update:

Despite governor’s promises, Texas Senate’s education bill will defund public schools, critics charge

(San Antonio Current) Despite Republican Gov. Greg Abbott’s assurances that his prized school voucher legislation wouldn’t rip funding from the state’s already cash-strapped public schools, critics say the Texas Senate’s version of this session’s school-funding package does just that.

Texas lawmakers push to enforce election transparency law after newsrooms found school districts failed to comply

(Texas Tribune) ProPublica and The Texas Tribune found nearly three dozen school districts were missing required campaign finance reports online. Now lawmakers are pushing to impose steep penalties on local governments that fail to abide by the law.

Texas lawmakers are poised to ban minors from social media

(Texas Tribune) The Texas Legislature has already passed a bill requiring age verification to download apps and is seriously considering another to ban children from social media.

Inside Texas’ push for religion in public schools

(Axios Austin) Texas is among a growing number of states trying to infuse public education with religion.

Also Reported:

Gordon ISD closed Monday due to storm damage

(Fox 4 KDFW) Gordon ISD announced they would not be having school on Monday due to “substantial” damage. The district says there is a lot of storm damage in Gordon, which is more than 60 miles west of Fort Worth.

San Antonio ISD under ‘corrective action plan,’ state says too many students are at risk of not graduating

(San Antonio Report) Following four years of having too many high schoolers at risk of not graduating, the Texas Education Agency is “informally monitoring” the San Antonio Independent School District. As a result, San Antonio ISD’s school board approved a “corrective action plan” from the TEA to improve the district’s Individual Graduating Committees during a school board meeting May 12.

TEA takeover led to academic gains but also turmoil in Houston. Is Fort Worth next?

(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) When Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath warned Fort Worth school officials this month of the possibility of a state takeover, he acknowledged that such an intervention would be a major step, but said it was necessary for students who haven’t received the quality of education they deserve. In 2023, now two years into the state takeover, Houston ISD could offer a glimpse into where Fort Worth schools might be headed in the coming months.

Katy ISD faces rising employee health insurance expenses

(Community Impact) Katy ISD faces a projected $10.8 million shortfall in its health fund for employee insurance plans for fiscal year 2025-26, making it the third consecutive year that rising health care costs will impact the district’s general operating fund. With 61% of KISD employees enrolled in one of the district’s self-insured health plans for the ongoing 2024-25 school year, health care benefits represent one of the largest operating expenses for KISD outside of salaries, Director of Risk Management Lance Nauman said at the May 12 board meeting.

Houston ISD has just 23 librarians for 274 schools after move to turn libraries into discipline areas

(Houston Chronicle) The two dozen or so campus librarians remaining in Houston ISD are now being bolstered by a rebuilt three-person central office team that some hope will provide much-needed support after the decimation of school libraries under state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles. Related:

Houston ISD will have armed security officers at around 100 of its campuses next year, Miles says (Houston Chronicle)
Houston ISD saw surge in graduates earning certifications before the takeover. Were they gaming the system? (Houston Chronicle)
Houston ISD teachers union leader will run to be a state representative (Houston Chronicle)

Keller ISD board votes unanimously not to pursue detachment

(Community Impact) As one of the first actions for the new Keller ISD board, members unanimously voted May 15 not to pursue the creation of a new school district by detachment. At the May 15 board meeting, Place 5 Trustee Chris Cocker and Board President John Birt spoke about the importance of putting the divisiveness concerning the split aside and coming together as a community.

Edinburg CISD superintendent may be suspended, police chief on leave

(Progress Times) Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District Board of Trustees may suspend Superintendent Mario Salinas at next week’s meeting on Wednesday. According to a board agenda posted Friday afternoon, trustees will discuss a possible reprimand and disciplinary action for Salinas “up to and including” his suspension. Salinas didn’t immediately return requests for comment, nor did Board President David Torres. His possible suspension follows the district placing ECISD Police Chief Ricardo Perez Jr. on administrative leave.

Mercedes ISD superintendent arrested on DWI charges

(ValleyCentral) The Mercedes Independent School District Superintendent was arrested Friday on charges of driving while intoxicated, Cameron County Jail Records show. Benjamin Alexander Clinton was arrested on Friday, May 16, by the Texas Department of Public Safety. He was later released on bond.

How much federal funding San Antonio school districts get

(Axios San Antonio) Local school districts in Texas are struggling with funding deficits and could face more shortfalls under a Trump administration plan to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education.

Anxiety over Texas’ education landscape seeps into San Antonio city races

(San Antonio Report) Education, normally left to the state lawmakers who have policy-making power over local school districts, has become an unlikely defining issue in San Antonio’s city elections this year. Now, headed into a June 7 runoff election with many City Hall openings, candidates are giving education advocates’ ideas a full hearing across multiple forums and election events, despite looming city budget cuts and partisan pressures from both the left and right.

Students, teachers and residents express concern over move to close three schools in Judson ISD

(Texas Public Radio) The Judson Independent School District board heard Thursday night from residents, students and teachers about their concerns over closing three schools. During public comment, speakers expressed dismay at the idea of closing the schools, and the timing, which would come at the end of the school year.

Willis ISD gets $192K grant to implement Bluebonnet math curriculum

(Community Impact) Willis ISD has received a $192,348 federal grant through the Texas Education Agency as part of adopting the Bluebonnet Learning math curriculum for grades K-5, district officials announced at the May 14 meeting.

Are instant replay reviews coming to Texas High School Football?

(CBS 19) The Longview Lobos were selected by the Texas Head Coaches Association to pilot an instant replay technology in their spring game, according to Lobos head coach John King.

Houston Texans girls’ flag football crowns 3 high school champions

(KTRK) Three champions were crowned in three different divisions on Saturday for the Houston Texans’ girls flag football championships at the Texans’ training facility. Related:

Girls flag football kicks off at Austin public schools (Axios Austin)

Universities cutting sports, others adding ahead of $2.8 billion NCAA antitrust settlement

(AP via KBTX) Over the past three months, a growing number of universities have added or dropped entire sports programs on the eve of dramatic changes coming to college athletics under the $2.8 billion NCAA settlement, including UT El Paso which dropped women’s tennis.

Calvin Walker files appeal after receiving 9-year prison sentence in Beaumont ISD fraud case

(KBMT) Former Beaumont Independent School District electrician Calvin Gary Walker is formally appealing the nine-year prison sentence handed down earlier this week after a Jefferson County judge revoked his probation. He was originally convicted in 2019 of defrauding the Beaumont Independent School District out of more than $1.17 million.

Bomb threat made towards Hillsboro Elementary School was made by TDCJ inmate, police say

(KCEN) Hillsboro authorities have shed more light on a bomb threat that was called into the city’s elementary school at the start of last week. The school was evacuated shortly after. The phone number was traced back to a cell phone in a Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) facility in Tennessee Colony, located east of the city of Palestine. While the 31-year-old wasn’t identified, authorities say his motive was the result of a connection he had to a 47-year-old female out of Whitney, Texas that was a contracted cafeteria worker for the school.

Affidavit reveals action taken after Brownsboro ISD teacher was arrested, accused of injuring elementary student

(KLTV) An open records request reveals the action taken after an incident where Brownsboro ISD teacher Kyle Rocha was arrested. According to an affidavit, the incident resulting in the charge happened on Sept. 13, 2024, at Chandler Elementary School in Rocha’s behavioral classroom.

No charges for Midlothian ISD teacher after incident with special needs student

(Fox 4 KDFW) One of the two teachers accused of abusing a special needs student has been cleared by the Ellis County grand jury.

Former star wrestler, coach at Amarillo ISD’s Tascosa High School indicted by federal grand jury

(KVII) Former Tascosa wrestling coach Nicolas Herman is now facing a federal indictment for trying to convince a minor to engage in sexual activity.

Jasper County sheriff’s deputy arrests two women during disturbance at Buna High School event

(KFDM) Off-duty Jasper County Deputy Matt Harrell was attending an event Tuesday at Buna High School when he saw a woman assault another woman. He arrested the suspect for assault when another disturbance broke out. While trying to intervene, a woman interfered with the deputy while he was trying to stop that assault and he arrested her as well.

Former Magnolia ISD employee accused of sexually assaulting student

(KPRC) A former employee at Bear Branch Junior High in Magnolia ISD was arrested Saturday in The Woodlands after a teenage student reported sexual assault. Sheila Leticia Valdivieso, 46, was taken into custody at her home by Montgomery County Precinct 5 deputies. The investigation began last week when the student told their parents about the assault. Valdivieso had worked at the school as a paraprofessional, which is a role that supports teachers in the classroom.

San Marcos warns of ‘phishing scam’ using public meeting documents

(KXAN) On Friday, the City of San Marcos warned residents of a “phishing scam” that uses contact information from public meeting documents. To combat the issue, the city said it has begun to redact email and phone information from the meeting packets “to the extent allowable by law.”

Mesquite ISD elementary students transported after bounce inflatable flips

(NBC DFW) Officials from Mesquite ISD said Friday they are investigating how an inflatable bounce toy went airborne during a Lawrence Elementary Play Day campus event, resulting in some students being transported from the school with non-life-threatening injuries.

1 year later: National Science Foundation suspension of UT El Paso-led aerospace grant remains mystery

(El Paso Matters) Mystery continues to surround a year-old decision by the National Science Foundation to suspend a prestigious UTEP-led research project that El Paso elected officials called “a once-in-a-generation opportunity” and could have meant up to $160 million for the region.

13-year-old Dallas College grad is featured speaker

(Fox 4 KDFW) An amazing 13-year-old student is not only graduating from Dallas College but is also one of the school’s featured speakers. Beckett Potter has been taking dual-credit classes to earn his associate’s degree.

May 16, 2025

Legislative Update:

Texas Senate reveals $8 billion school funding plan as it seeks middle ground with House

(Texas Tribune) The proposal would heavily invest in teacher pay and special education. It includes a modest $55 increase to schools’ base per-student funding, significantly lower than what the House had sought. Related:

Texas Senate proposal swaps school funding increase for teacher pay boost that favors small districts (Houston Pubic Media)

Texas lawmakers push to enforce election transparency law after newsrooms found school districts failed to comply

With deadline passed, thousands of Texas House bills are effectively dead

(Houston Public Media) Monday marked the final day for Texas House bills to pass out of committee in time to get a vote on the House floor. Those bills that didn’t make it are now effectively dead.

Bill that would give the Texas Lottery “a two-year lease on life” gets Senate approval

(Texas Tribune) The Texas Senate unanimously approved a bill that would abolish the Texas Lottery Commission, move the state’s game to a different agency and add several new restrictions on how lottery tickets can be purchased.

Also Reported:

Abbott wants to stop allowing federal benefits in Texas to be spent on unhealthy, high-processed food

(Texas Tribune) Gov. Greg Abbott is requesting a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to prohibit the use of SNAP benefits to purchase unhealthy and highly processed foods in Texas. In a Wednesday letter to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, Abbott asked for the waiver — which would give the state the ability to restrict these food purchases — to ensure taxpayer funds are used for only “healthy, nutritious food.” Related:

U.S. House GOP’s proposed cuts to food stamps would slash benefits to 1 in 5 Texas kids (San Antonio Current)

‘We tried to save those kids’: Texas doctor watched children die of measles. Now it’s back in Texas

(Texas Standard) Gilbert Handal witnessed the devastating toll of measles on children in a Chilean hospital before the vaccine. Now, he warns of the dangers of forgetting that past. Related:

Measles outbreak raises concern for Texans with immune issues (Dallas Morning News)
Wastewater surveillance detects measles in Houston before cases are reported (News-Medical)

50-year-old Texas law criminalizing ‘runaways’ is retraumatizing children, advocates say

(WFAA) In Texas, a child who is as young as 10 and as old as 16 who runs away from home or wherever they are supposed to be is breaking the law. It’s considered to be what’s called a status offense, meaning it’s an act that’s only illegal because the person committing it is a child. North Texas’s four largest counties refer more children to the state’s juvenile justice system for running away than any other part of the state.

Q&A: Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles says he suspects he will lead district for ‘a few more years’

(Houston Chronicle) State-appointed HISD Superintendent Mike Miles spoke to the Houston Chronicle Thursday in an hour-long interview as part of the newsroom’s HC Live virtual event series. Here’s a look at four of the main takeaways from the conversation. Related:

Houston ISD students are more likely to attempt suicide, miss school due to safety concerns, report says (Houston Chronicle)

Ysleta school district faces $35.2 million budget deficit amid declining enrollment

(KFOX) The Ysleta Independent School District is grappling with a budget deficit that has ballooned to $35.2 million, significantly higher than the initially projected $18.7 million, according to Lynly Cambern, the district’s Chief Financial Officer. Cambern presented the updated financial outlook during a board meeting, revealing that the district’s fund balance is expected to drop from $61 million to approximately $37 million. “We don’t have any more savings,” said Cambern, highlighting the district’s financial strain.

Anthony ISD installs advanced surveillance system, improves school safety and savings

(KFOX) Anthony Independent School District has invested in a new surveillance camera system designed to identify subjects of interest clearly and efficiently while enabling faster safety responses. The system was purchased at a cost of $162,960 using the district’s general fund balance. The original estimate for purchase and installation was approximately $200,000 — but the district’s IT team completed the installation in-house and saved an estimated $40,000.

Timeline: What we know about mom, 13-year-old son charged in thwarted terrorism plan toward San Antonio ISD school

(KSAT) A mother accused of buying ammunition and tactical gear for her son was “dismissive and unconcerned” with his behavior even though he planned to carry out acts of violence, San Antonio police Chief William McManus said Thursday.

Brownsville ISD teacher arrested for improper relationship; ‘others involved’

(myRGV) A Brownsville teacher has been arrested on allegations of an improper relationship with a student, a case which included the school district also addressing what it called misinformation on social media. Cameron County District Attorney Luis V. Saenz announced Thursday the arrest of Julio Ricardo Trujillo, which he said in a Facebook post was a result of an ongoing investigation into an alleged improper relationship between the 43-year-old teacher and a student. While Saenz did not provide any additional information, the district said there are “others involved,” in their own statement addressing recent allegations at the Rivera and Hanna early college high schools.

Substitute teacher arrested for allegedly showing Kennedale ISD students explicit content

(Fox 4 KDFW) Kennedale Junior High School substitute teacher Ashley Evans is accused of showing students explicit photos on her cellphone. Students told a school resource officer she also discussed drug use and pornography with them. She was arrested on two counts of the sale, distribution, or display of harmful material to a minor.

Registered sex offender arrested for stalking Pebble Hills HS student in El Paso

(KFOX) Officers with the Socorro Independent School District arrested 36-year-old Jesus Emmanuel Guerra. The case began when a school resource officer took an initial report from a 15-year-old student who said a man had approached her multiple times while she walked to school, attempting to lure her into his vehicle. The student provided photographs of the suspect’s vehicle, which led officers to identify Guerra as the individual involved.

McKinney ISD Employee Arrested for Indecency With a Child

(Texas Scorecard) Andrew Hansen worked in the school district’s Technology Department and had access to all campuses.

Ex-Fort Worth divinity professor sentenced to 10 years after child porn found by TCU staff on his work computer

(CBS Texas) A former Brite Divinity School theology professor has been sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after sexually explicit images of young children were found on his work computer, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas announced Thursday. Authorities said the federal investigation began after Texas Christian University’s IT staff discovered pornographic images with file names such as “infant” and “toddler” on 63-year-old Charles Kilby Bellinger’s computer. Brite Divinity School is located on the TCU campus but is not a unit of the university.

Six Alamo Heights students treated for heat-related symptoms during athletics competition

(News4SA) Six Alamo Heights High School students were treated for heat-related symptoms during an annual athletics competition, according to a statement Thursday by Alamo Heights Independent School District (AHISD). AHISD says that during the “Mule Olympics,” which took place on Tuesday and Wednesday, six students were treated on-site by athletic trainers and were either cleared to go home or parents were notified for pickup. At least one parent reported that a student had heat-related symptoms when they arrived home, the district said.

Rice University offers lump-sum separations to eligible staff as part of long-term strategic plan

(Houston Chronicle) Rice University has launched a voluntary separation program for eligible staff members over the age of 50 – an efficiency effort that comes as the institution plans for significant growth over the next decade. The program has been in consideration for more than a year and is not connected to the federal funding challenges facing colleges around the country, according to a university official with knowledge of the initiative.

Collections on defaulted student loans begin. A DFW banking executive shares tips

(Fort Worth Report) The U.S. Department of Education began collecting on student loans in default this May after a five-year reprieve. Millions are affected. Related:

Social Security fears rise as student loan garnishments threaten retirees’ budgets (AP)

May 15, 2025

Legislative Update:

Clock is ticking for Texas lawmakers to settle differences on $8 billion public school funding package

(Texas Tribune) Senators will hold a hearing Thursday on their counterproposal to the House’s school funding bill. House Democrats and public education advocates have criticized the upper chamber for not moving faster to advance the legislation.

Texas Lawmakers Pass Constitutional Amendment Enshrining Parental Rights

(Texas Scorecard) Lawmakers in the Texas House have approved a proposal that would enshrine parental rights in the state constitution. State representatives passed Senate Joint Resolution 34, initially filed by State Sen. Bryan Hughes (R–Mineola), in a 112-22-2 vote on Wednesday. The proposed constitutional amendment (subject to voter approval in November) would specifically establish that parents—not the state—have an inherent right to the care, custody, and control of their children.

Texas Moves Closer To Abolishing Public Schools’ Immunity in Sex Abuse Cases

(Texas Scorecard) With school sex abuse cases on the rise, House lawmakers passed a measure to help Texas families hold school districts accountable by removing public schools’ immunity from civil liability when students are sexually abused. House Bill 4623 by freshman State Rep. Mitch Little (R–Lewisville) would create “joint and several liability” between a professional school employee who abuses a student and the school district itself, and provide for recovery of actual damages and attorneys fees.

Business tax breaks closer to reality after Texas Senate approves compromise

(Texas Tribune) The Texas House must approve changes to the proposal that were brokered by party leaders. It’s part of a package of bills to bring down property taxes statewide.

Texas state school board member says don’t replace STAAR test with 3 tests

(KXXV) One thing the House and Senate both agree on is changing the STAAR test to testing three times a year in the beginning, middle, and end of the school year. State Board of Education District 5 Member Rebecca Bell-Metereau says she disagrees with that, saying, “That would be three times the opportunity for teachers to worry, students to worry and to think ‘oh boy we can make more money on those tests.’” She thinks the state should go outside Texas and use the IOWA Assessment Test.

Also Reported:

‘Pretty spectacular:’ TEA commissioner praises Houston ISD’s NES model in latest visit to schools

(Houston Chronicle) With weeks until the deadline to announce a potential extension of the state takeover of Houston ISD, Texas Education Agency Commissioner Mike Morath expressed strong support Wednesday for the “spectacular” reforms that have occurred in the district since June 2023. Morath must decide by June 1 whether to keep the nine members of the appointed Board of Managers in place for up to two more years or announce a timeline for the district’s yearslong transition back to elected board members. Related:

Parents slam cosmetic clean-up ahead of Texas Education chief’s visit to Houston ISD (Houston Chronicle)

Katy ISD community calls for transgender, banned book policy changes under new leadership

(Fox 26 Houston) Victor Perez, former president of the Katy ISD Board of Trustees, lost his seat in the May 3 election. The community is now urging the new board to reconsider the district’s book banning and transgender student policies.

Fearing State Takeover, Austin ISD Plans to Replace Middle School Teachers

(Austin Chronicle) New staff planned for three poor-performance schools.

Canutillo ISD faces financial strain as superintendent plans early exit

(KFOX) Canutillo Independent School District is grappling with financial challenges as Superintendent Dr. Pedro Galaviz prepares to step down, potentially triggering a six-figure payout. Galaviz, who has led the district for over a decade, is expected to resign with significant time left on his contract, which includes a clause guaranteeing him six months’ salary if he leaves with more than a year remaining. This could result in a taxpayer-funded payout exceeding $100,000.

Fort Worth ISD proposes the closure of these schools. Here’s why — and where

(Fort Worth Report) FWISD leaders detailed a proposal outlining 14 school closures, plus four more that were already approved. The plan heads to a board vote May 20.

Pearland ISD lowers projected shortfall by over $7.5M, projects tax rate decrease for FY 2025-26

(Community Impact) Pearland ISD officials announced May 13 they had lowered the district’s projected shortfall for fiscal year 2025-26 from $8.6 million to just over $1 million. The district is also projecting a tax rate decrease of nearly 2%, or $0.0193 per $100 valuation of a home, for FY 2025-26.

School vouchers will soon pay for private pre-K in San Antonio. Who’s eligible?

(San Antonio Report) Families who qualify for free preschool could use state education savings accounts (ESA), known as school vouchers, to pay for highly-rated private preschools. Some families could also use school vouchers to pay for private early education for children ages 4, a positive step in addressing early childhood needs, said Mark Larson, executive director for the San Antonio-based early education advocacy group Early Matters.

No criminal charges in ‘Senior Assassin’ game after teen critically injured, Arlington police say

(NBC DFW) Officials say they’re not filing charges against those involved in a viral game that left one high school senior hospitalized weeks before graduation.

Trump cuts to ‘DEI,’ green energy among 25 terminated awards at University of Houston

(Houston Chronicle) U.S. government agencies have terminated 25 grants and slashed the number of new awards in half this year at the University of Houston, officials said at a Wednesday Board of Regents meeting.

Texarkana ISD Mobile STEM lab officially open for business

(KSLA) A new resource is now available to Texarkana Texas Independent School District students. School and city leaders cut the ribbon on a new mobile STEM lab at Waggoner Creek Elementary School. Officials say the STEM lab is a state of the art learning experience that should add to STEM education already being offered in the district.

Humble ISD launches investigation after special needs child wanders away from school and into person’s home

(KPRC) Humble ISD confirmed the special needs child had wandered away from nearby Eagle Springs Elementary School during recess.

Harlingen CISD soccer coach arrested for sharing harmful material with minor

(MyRGV) Harlingen High School’s boys soccer coach has been arrested on allegations of selling, distributing or displaying harmful material to a minor. Joseph Allen Johnson, 31, was arrested by Harlingen police on Monday, according to the department’s jail logs. At about 11:40 p.m. Sunday, Harlingen police were contacted by a concerned parent who wished to file a report regarding an adult allegedly sending their child a pornographic video, according to a news release from the Harlingen Police Department.

Lewisville ISD resource officer on leave over alleged improper relationship with former student, police say

(CBS Texas) A Lewisville Independent School District resource officer was placed on administrative leave Wednesday following allegations of an improper relationship with a student, according to police.

POLICE: Longview ISD student arrested after making continuous threats off campus

(KETK) A Longview ISD student was arrested after allegedly making continuous threats while off campus. The Longview Police Department was made aware of the threats on Wednesday and charged the student with Terrorist Threat, a third-degree felony. The student was then taken to the Gregg County Juvenile Detention Center.

‘I’m disturbed’ — Kennedale parents react after substitute allegedly showed junior high students explicit content

(WFAA) “This person introduced him to pictures and videos in conversation that we as parents don’t condone,” parent Daphne Todd said.

New butterfly garden launches at UT Tyler Academy, open to all students

(KETK) UT Tyler University Academy seniors have opened a new butterfly garden on their campus which is open to all students who want to learn about everything from pollination to ecosystems.

RECOUNT: Second election set for Winona ISD school board after tie vote

(KETK) A second election for the Winona ISD School Board Place 3 seat is being planned after a recount on Wednesday showed both candidates received the same number of votes.

May 14, 2025

Legislative Update:

The end of Texas’ STAAR test closer to reality after House vote

(Dallas Morning News) In a 143-1 vote on Tuesday, House members passed a bill (HB4) that would eliminate the end-of-year test that’s loathed by many students and teachers and replace it with a series of shorter exams administered throughout the school year. The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.

Texas public schools, Dems worry time running out as finance bill ‘languishing’ in Senate

(Dallas Morning News) School leaders and advocates worry that the Texas Senate is dragging its feet to deliver on promises to provide the largest infusion of state dollars into public education. It wasn’t until late Tuesday that a public hearing in the Senate was announced. The education committee is expected to discuss the latest version of the bill Thursday.

Fact-checking Gov. Abbott’s claim that public schools have an ‘all-time high’ of $15K per student

(Texas Public Radio) “Public education funding is at an all-time high. Funding per student is at an all-time high,” said Abbott during his State of the State address earlier this year, where he designated “school choice” an emergency item for the 2025 legislative session. “Improving education requires more than just spending money.” Both statements, while technically and numerically true, are misleading. That’s according to best practices on measuring school finance as explained to TPR by multiple experts and according to a TPR analysis of state data that compared three methods of calculating per-student funding.

Texas lawmakers debating DEI ban in K-12 schools ask: Do students benefit from teachers who look like them?

(Texas Tribune) The Texas Senate on Tuesday gave preliminary approval to a bill that would restrict protesting on college campuses in reaction to the pro-Palestinian demonstrations last year. Conservative lawmakers say DEI efforts are discriminatory and push liberal ideologies on children. Critics point to research showing a diverse teacher body helps students succeed academically.

Bill that would make vaccine exemptions easier to obtain clears Texas House

(Texas Tribune) The bill would allow a vaccine exemption form to be downloadable. Currently, a form must be requested from the state and mailed to the recipient.

After college students protested Israel-Hamas war, Texas Senate votes to restrict time, place and manner of future events

(Texas Tribune) Sen. Brandon Creighton says the bill will prevent disruption. Critics say it walks back conservative lawmakers’ previous pledge to protect campus free speech.

Bill backed by Gov. Greg Abbott to ban ‘furries’ in schools stalls in Texas House

(Houston Chronicle) Legislation endorsed by Gov. Greg Abbott and House Speaker Dustin Burrows banning teens from acting like animals in schools is likely dead after failing to clear a House committee ahead of a key deadline this week.

Also Reported:

Measles cases in Texas rise by eight to 717, state health department says

(Reuters) The Texas health department reported 717 cases of measles in the state on Tuesday, an increase of eight since its last update on Friday, as the U.S. battles one of the worst outbreaks of the childhood disease in the country.

$28 million in Texas’ cybersecurity funding for schools left unspent

(CBS Texas) Two years ago, state lawmakers set up the K-12 Cybersecurity Initiative, setting aside $55 million to help schools protect their computer systems. Of the more than 900 school districts in Texas, only 300 had applied as of January 2025, according to records from the Texas Education Agency. By the time this two-year program ends in September, $28 million will be left on the table. The TEA said many school districts were hesitant to apply, fearing that if the funding ends, they would have to pull money from other parts of the budget or quickly change cybersecurity plans. Other districts didn’t apply because they didn’t initially qualify.

Frisco track meet stabbing suspect Karmelo Anthony set to graduate from high school, family rep says

(WFAA) Advocacy group Next Generation Action Network says Karmelo Anthony is set to graduate but not walk after the family reached an agreement with Frisco ISD. Anthony will not walk the stage, according to Frisco ISD. He’s since been released from jail and placed under house arrest after his bond was reduced from $1 million to $250,000.

TEA investigating former North Texas football coach who resigned after 2023 workout that led to multiple athlete hospitalizations

(WFAA) The Texas Education Agency is “prosecuting a complaint” against a former North Texas football coach who resigned after multiple student-athletes were hospitalized after an off-season workout in 2023, according to an email obtained by WFAA.

Mom bought ammunition, tactical gear for son’s planned mass violence at San Antonio ISD school, San Antonio Police Department says

(KSAT) Ashley Pardo was charged with aiding in commission of terrorism. Rhodes Middle School made security changes in fear of an attack.

Texas prosecutor sues to compel Border Patrol testimony in trial of Uvalde police officer

(AP) A Texas prosecutor filed a federal lawsuit seeking to force three U.S. Border Patrol agents who responded to the 2022 Robb Elementary School shooting to testify in the prosecution of the former school police chief, who is facing criminal charges over the slow law enforcement action at the massacre.

San Antonio ISD school board censures trustee Stephanie Torres, bans her from district campuses for 90 days

(KSAT) Six of Torres’ fellow board members voted in favor of the censure, which goes into effect on May 30. It is unclear what Torres did that led to the board’s decision to censure her.

Fort Worth ISD school closures could save millions. But would they help students?

(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) The proposal received pushback from parents who were worried about how the closures would affect their children’s access to quality education. But other community members urged the board to move forward with the plan, saying that those tough decisions would put the district in a better position to help students make progress academically. Related:

Fort Worth ISD dedicated $22.7M to literacy efforts. Here’s what a school finance expert thinks (Fort Worth Report)

Frisco ISD to deploy retired police officers as elementary school marshals

(KRLD) In a significant move to enhance campus safety, the Frisco Independent School District (Frisco ISD) has approved a new school marshal program that will place retired law enforcement officers in full-time security roles at all elementary schools starting in the 2025–26 academic year.

Scoop: UT Austin’s super computing center in jeopardy

(Axios [free signup]) The fate of a planned University of Texas supercomputing center is now in limbo following the Trump administration’s plan to cut National Science Foundation money, Axios has learned. Why it matters: Supercomputers are key to medical research, weather modeling, advancements in artificial intelligence and for solving any number of scientific and engineering problems.

Spring Branch ISD to appeal ruling that would dismantle district’s trustee election system

(Houston Chronicle) Spring Branch ISD officials plan to appeal last month’s federal ruling that the district violated the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by holding at-large elections, the board president said Monday night after an executive session discussion. While awaiting the appeal, the district must comply with the court order by choosing a preferred plan for how to create geographic representation districts on the board. The district’s attorneys will submit an election map to the court on June 6 with five single-member districts and two at-large positions, Board President Lisa Alpe wrote in a letter to the community Tuesday.

Tomball ISD projects $3M budget shortfall for FY 2025-26

(Community Impact) Tomball ISD is projecting a $3 million budget shortfall for the fiscal year 2025-26 budget, said TISD Chief Financial Officer Zach Boles, who presented the information at a May 12 budget workshop.

Friendswood ISD to undergo cellphone policy change with lockable pouches

(Community Impact) Beginning next school year, “devices must either be left at home or secured using the designated school-issued locking system for the duration of the school day,” the approved policy reads. The policy was approved in a 5-2 vote at the board of trustees’ May 12 meeting. The pouches, which will be used for sixth through 12th graders and cost over $115,000, will be paid for through the district’s capital projects fund, according to district agenda documents.

Fort Worth ISD championship showcases rise of girls’ flag football in Texas

(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Girls’ flag football isn’t University Interscholastic League-sanctioned, but the sport is gaining popularity, and Fort Worth ISD is spearheading the charge.

Looking into Texas school vouchers? Here’s how much these Lubbock area private schools cost

(Lubbock Avalanche-Journal) Here’s a look at some of the big private schools in the Lubbock area and how much they cost, along with admission requirements.

Houston ISD found an employee sent a lewd video to a student. Parents were left in the dark

(Houston Landing) The former Worthing High School wraparound coordinator was fired and faces a state misconduct investigation. He denies the allegations.

For years, a nonprofit worked to mend relations between teens and the Houston Police Department. Then the DOJ cut its funding

(Houston Chronicle) The future of a Houston-area nonprofit dedicated to partnering police with teens to improve community policing is in doubt after President Donald Trump’s Department of Justice canceled the anti-hate grant that helped fund it.

Judge revokes probation for former Beaumont ISD electrician who stole $1.2M from district, orders assets to be turned over to BISD

(KBMT) After hearing several testimonies, Judge Stevens ordered Calvin Walker to turn over several assets and properties to BISD. Judge Stevens went on to revoke Walker’s probation and sentenced him to 9 years in prison. However, Walker will get credit for time served in jail. Judge Stevens is also allowing Walker bond until an appeal is heard.

East Central ISD Cafeteria Worker Jailed for Sex With Student in Campus Kitchen Closet

(Texas Scorecard) A San Antonio-area school cafeteria worker was jailed after allegedly admitting to twice having sex with a high school student in a campus kitchen closet. Jenna Michelle Woodworth, 30, was arrested and charged with improper relationship between educator and student, a second-degree felony punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison. Her victim is a male East Central High School senior.

Texas State Technical College opens new $14.5 million tech center in Marshall

(KSLA) Texas State Technical College held a ribbon cutting ceremony Tuesday to open its new $14.5 million building. The project took about a year and a half to complete, and it’s the result of a $300 million investment across the state of Texas. Just under $15 million of that funding went to the school’s new Diesel Power Technologies Center located in Marshall.

May 13, 2025

Legislative Update:

Texas bill to overhaul STAAR test clears the House but faces a skeptical Senate

(Texas Tribune) House Bill 4 would make the test shorter and base scores on how students’ performance compares to national averages.

It’s not just about vouchers and school funding. Here are other Texas public education bills you should track

(Texas Tribune) Student discipline, uncertified teachers and school bans on DEI and cellphones are some of the topics being debated at the Texas Legislature this session.

House Bill 2: Texas Pushes For Certified Teachers By 2027

(Dallas Express) House Bill 2, part of a $7.6 billion school finance package, would ban uncertified teachers from instructing core subjects and require districts to certify K-5 math and reading teachers by fall 2026 and other academic teachers by fall 2027. The bill, authored by Rep. Brad Buckley (R-Salado), has been sitting in the Senate Education Committee since April 23.

How two Texas bills could change the game for high school athletes with new NIL regulations

(KPRC) Two significant bills are making their way through the Texas legislature, aiming to give high school athletes the ability to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL). This change mirrors recent developments at the college level, where athletes have started to benefit financially from their personal brands.

A fierce critic of the Texas lottery is now offering the embattled agency a lifeline

(Austin American-Statesman) One of the Texas Lottery’s leading critics in the Legislature filed an 11th-hour bill Monday to keep the embattled agency alive, though the proposal would transfer its oversight from the Lottery Commission to another state agency.

Also Reported:

Texas Already Gives Public Ed Dollars to Private Operators. Here’s How That Worked Out

(Texas Observer) The state created “Texas Partnership” charter schools to turn around struggling public campuses, but an Observer investigation has uncovered numerous academic and financial issues.

U.S. House Republicans propose $5 billion for private school vouchers

(AP) U.S. House Republicans want to set aside up to $5 billion a year for scholarships to help families send their children to private and religious schools, an unprecedented effort to use public money to pay for private education.

Here’s which Houston-area private schools would be free with a $10K voucher

(Houston Chronicle) Houston is home to more than 150 private schools, and at least 32 of those have tuition rates under $11,000, meaning that a voucher would cover almost the entire cost.

National Science Foundation has cut $1.1B in grants. What does that look like in Houston?

(Houston Chronicle) Two weeks ago, the Children’s Museum Houston was finalizing plans to host a celebration for the National Science Foundation’s 75th anniversary. Then Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency cut the grant to fund it.

Texas students worry ‘no one is going to be home for me’ amid deportation push

(KXAN) “We had a lot of teachers having conversations with parents, saying we don’t know if we want to send our kids,” said Carla Perez, a teacher at Lehman High School in Hays CISD.

‘Forced to reapply,’ teachers and parents react to Austin ISD’s plan to overhaul Webb Middle School

(CBS Austin) Tensions were high at Webb Middle School Monday night as the community gathered to discuss the district’s “Restarting the District” plan, a proposal aimed at improving struggling schools like Webb.

Longview ISD board approves creation of district police department

(CBS 19) Samuel Kington, Longview ISD chief of facilities and operations, said Monday’s discussion was based on years of research and analysis.

La Joya ISD to restructure several jobs ahead of next year

(Progress Times) The La Joya ISD administration continues to shake things up in the name of improving student outcomes. After months of community engagement, strategic planning and internal examination, the district used data to restructure 75 current positions into 60 reimagined ones for the next school year.

Fort Bend ISD considers temporary tax rate hike as district faces $34.6 million deficit

(Houston Public Media) The school district southwest of Houston could use disaster pennies to raise its property tax rate by 7 cents next year. Administrators say this increase would generate about $35.1 million in revenue.

May 12, 2025

Legislative Update:

Many Non-Voucher Texas Education Bills Still Hope to Make the Grade

(Dallas Observer) Education-related bills have been among the most controversial topics of this session. Here is where some of them stand now.

After a sometimes graphic debate, Texas House advances bill limiting kids’ access to sexually explicit books in public libraries

(Texas Tribune) The bill would bar those under 18 from checking out books with sexually explicit material without parental permission.

Texas House votes to strictly define man and woman, excluding trans people from state records

(Texas Tribune) If it becomes law, the bill would define sex based on reproductive organs and require state documents and policies to comply with that framework.

Will Texas keep kicking students out of school for vaping?

(Dallas Morning News) For two years, Texas schools have taken a hard line on vaping: If students are caught with an e-cigarette on campus, state law requires them to be removed to a disciplinary alternative school. What’s resulted is a spike in children kicked out of school and pushback from educators, politicians and public health officials. Now state lawmakers are debating whether to ease up — or double down.

Texas allows certain children to get married. Lawmakers may close that loophole

(Texas Tribune) Lawmakers in 2017 took a major step to end most child marriages. However, emancipated teenagers 16 and older can get married.

Also Reported:

Houston-area schools warn parents about Chromebook Challenge damaging school property

(Houston Chronicle) Some Houston-area schools are warning parents that they’ll have to pay for computers damaged by students copying a viral TikTok trend. The Chromebook Challenge has gained traction on social media sites like TikTok and encourages students to shove metal objects, such as lead pencils or paperclips, into the ports of school-issued laptops, which can lead to sparks, smoke and even fires.

Why are Texas schools hiring uncertified teachers? Not enough certified ones are applying

(CBS Texas) So, why hire uncertified teachers? Simply, there are not enough certified teachers to fill positions.

Ken Paxton says Google will pay Texas $1.4 billion to settle privacy suit

(Texas Tribune) The state attorney general sued Google in 2022, alleging it unlawfully tracked and collected users’ private data.

Texas TRS Faces Backlash for Continued Chinese Investments Despite Statewide Divestment Order

(The Maverick Times) The Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS) is facing growing scrutiny for continuing to invest in Chinese companies, despite a statewide divestment order issued by Governor Greg Abbott in November 2024. While TRS claims to have shed all direct investments in China and Hong Kong, records show that the pension fund still holds significant indirect investments through commingled funds. Critics argue this defies the governor’s directive and raises serious questions about transparency and accountability.

PowerSchool data breach leads to school extortion attempts

(K-12 Dive) A threat actor has contacted multiple school districts demanding payments related to student and staff data stolen in a December breach.

Ysleta ISD offers $5,000 resignation incentive for up to 400 teachers, administrators

(El Paso Matters) The Ysleta Independent School District is offering teachers, counselors and administrators a $5,000 incentive to voluntarily resign to help reduce personnel costs as it prepares its budget for the coming school year.

Brownsville ISD looks to bring back students amid declining enrollment

(myRGV) Faced with declining enrollments and schools needing renovation, the Brownsville Independent School District Budget Committee considered strategies Thursday to stop losing students and start bringing them back.

The US has 1,001 measles cases and 11 states with active outbreaks

(AP) The U.S. surpassed 1,000 measles cases Friday, even as Texas posted one of its lowest counts of newly confirmed cases since its large outbreak began three months ago. Texas still accounts for the vast majority of cases in the U.S., with 709 confirmed as of Friday.

All but 5 Houston ISD campuses opt in to use district developed curriculum

(Community Impact) Nearly all Houston ISD campuses will implement district developed curriculum in at least some capacity next year, HISD Superintendent Mike Miles said during the board’s May 8 meeting. While the curriculum is already required at the district’s 130 New Education System campuses, Miles said 84 additional campuses will use the curriculum for at least five subjects, and 41 campuses will use it for at least one subject. Only five campuses will not use the curriculum at all, he said.

Marlin ISD says water pressure returns to campuses, resuming classes Monday following water crisis

(KWTX) Marlin ISD announced on Facebook Sunday that their campuses have sufficient water pressure and will welcome students and staff back Monday, May 12. The district has been closed since April 30 after water went out at their campuses amid ongoing water issues impacting the entire city.

Fort Worth ISD student, 8, dropped off far from home; district blames bus driver shortage

(Fox 4 KDFW) An 8-year-old Fort Worth ISD student, who deals with developmental issues, is recovering from a frightening experience after he was dropped off a quarter-mile from home by a substitute driver. The district says a shortage of drivers is to blame for the incident.

North Texas arts groups have lost over $280,000 in NEA funding

(KERA) Plans to transform a former KKK auditorium into a community center. Sensory-friendly dance performances. A play focused on Harriet Tubman. These are a few of the local projects that lost support from the National Endowment for the Arts over the past week. Related:

Austin arts groups downsize and cancel programming after federal grant cuts (KUT)

AP classes can give high schoolers college credit. Here’s how they work in San Antonio

(San Antonio Report) When Aaron Kingslien graduates from high school this May, he’ll do so with nearly two semesters worth of college credit hours under his belt.

San Antonio teachers wake up to fully funded classroom projects for Teacher Appreciation Week

(San Antonio Report) Before heading into work Friday morning, nearly 270 teachers in San Antonio who signed up on Donors Choose, a fundraising site where educators can list classroom and student needs and receive donations, saw their requests fully met. San Antonio City Education Partners in partnership with local businesses like Shiner Beers, Frost Bank, 80|20 Foundation and Spurs Sports and Entertainment, donated $168,626 toward funding 410 different projects across several local public and charter schools.

UT Arlington’s First Female President Unveils Ambitious Growth Plan

(Dallas Express) Jennifer Crowley, appointed as UTA’s 10th president in 2022, unveiled a strategy to double research expenditures from $155 million to $300 million, hire 100 additional faculty and researchers, and increase enrollment by up to 10,000 students, surpassing 50,000. The plan, approved by the UT Board of Regents on May 7, adds 3,000 on-campus beds, modernizes the 1950s-era University Center, and constructs a new student union by summer 2028 while prioritizing energy efficiency across the 400-acre campus.

Teen who died from self-inflicted gunshot wound at elementary school identified as student at Warren High School, Northside ISD confirms

(KENS) The 18-year-old boy was found with a fatal gunshot wound to the head Thursday morning at Glenoaks Elementary School.

Affidavit: East Central ISD worker accused of improper relationship with student had photo of teen in locker

(KSAT) A former East Central High School cafeteria worker who is accused of having an improper relationship with a student also had a picture of the teen in her work locker, according to an arrest warrant affidavit. Jenna Woodworth, 30, was arrested on a charge of improper relationship between an educator and a student.

May 9, 2025

Legislative Update:

A Public Education Bill Flounders

(Texas Signal Media Foundation) Greg Abbott wanted fanfare when he signed the voucher bill into law, but he has yet to show the same fervor for the companion piece of legislation that would actually fund Texas public schools.

Texas bill allowing school prayer presented as ‘voluntary,’ but constitutional questions remain

(KERA) Senate Bill 11 would allow trustee boards of public school districts and governing bodies of charter schools to approve voluntary school prayer meetings and Bible readings. Opponents argue it violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The bill to allow Texas schools to hold prayer and Bible reading sessions received its hearing before the House Committee on State Affairs, more than a month after it passed the Senate. The committee left the bill pending at the end of Wednesday’s committee meeting.

Misgender protections for students, teachers, public employees passes Texas Senate

(Dallas Morning News) Students, teachers and public employees who refer to people by their biological sex instead of their gender identity would be protected from punishment under a bill the Texas Senate passed Thursday.

Texas Bill Could Eliminate PSF Guaranty on School Bonds

(JDSupra) House Bill 5035 (HB 5035), currently pending in the Texas Legislature, would amend Section 45.052 to prohibit the use of the PSF to guarantee school district bonds and charter school bonds after September 1, 2025. The bill would not affect the PSF guaranty of outstanding bonds.

Child care access is key for Texas workers. Here’s what lawmakers are debating

(Dallas Morning News) Efforts include bills that aim to simplify data sharing among state agencies, enhance access for children with disabilities, improve safety standards at day cares and broaden eligibility for subsidized child care.

Also Reported:

Texas’ measles outbreak is nation’s largest since 2000

(Texas Tribune) The outbreak that originated in Texas has spread into multiple states. And, the summer will be the real test of how much bigger this outbreak can grow.

UT System announces $100 million investment into civic leadership school

(Texas Tribune) The University of Texas System announced on Thursday a $100 million investment for a permanent building for its School of Civic Leadership, a college created to house programs to help teach “principles of freedom.” The school welcomes its inaugural class in the fall. Construction on the school is expected to be completed by 2028. The school, which was established in 2023, and the think tank Civitas Institute, which it houses, were developed by UT officials alongside conservative lawmakers and donors including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick. In 2021, Patrick and conservative donors assisted in the creation of Civitas’ predecessor, the Liberty Institute, which sparked faculty concerns on the college’s purpose.

U.S. Senate approves repeal of E-rate Wi-Fi hotspots for schools, libraries

(K-12 Dive) The end of E-rate eligibility for Wi-Fi hotspots came one step closer Thursday as the Senate voted 50-38 along party lines to overturn a 2024 expansion of the program overseen by the Federal Communications Commission. A similar House resolution was introduced in February to strike down the recent inclusion of Wi-Fi hotspots in the E-rate program, which has helped connect schools and libraries to affordable telecommunications services for the last 29 years.

Online trolls exploit Frisco high school stabbing with deepfake videos

(CBS Texas) In one AI-generated video posted to Instagram this week, a clip of CBS News Texas anchor Doug Dunbar was manipulated to make it appear as though he said something he didn’t. The video also used AI to create an entirely fake video image of the suspect Karmelo Anthony with a knife in his hand.

After immigration crackdown, international students in Texas self-censor to protect their education

(Texas Tribune) Students told the Tribune they have deleted social media accounts, socialize less and steer clear of charged topics to avoid becoming targets of immigration authorities.

Austin ISD offering $20,000 in stipends to lure top teachers to underperforming schools

(CBS Austin) Austin ISD is prepared to pay up to $20,000 in annual stipends to lure outstanding teachers to the district’s lowest-performing schools. “A $15,000 annual stipend for core classroom teachers and an additional $5,000 if they come in with a TIA [Teacher Incentive Allotment] designation,” said Brandi Hosack, Chief of Talent Strategy at Austin ISD.

Dallas ISD shrinks deficit but still faces budget uncertainties

(KERA) Dallas ISD has lessened its budget deficit by millions of dollars from last year. The district is watching to see if more school funding and teacher raises will pass in the legislature. Related:

Dallas ISD reviews student code of conduct updates ahead of next school year (NBC DFW)

Fort Bend ISD proposes $31.65M contract to address up to 130 vacant bus routes

(Community Impact) To address ongoing bus driver shortages, Fort Bend ISD administrators have proposed a $31.65 million contract with GoldStar Transit with the goal of fully staffing all student routes by the start of the 2025-26 school year.

17 Fort Worth ISD schools are on updated list of proposed closures. Here’s what we know

(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) The Fort Worth Independent School District’s proposals to close and consolidate campuses amid declining enrollment are coming to a head with 17 schools currently being considered for such changes.

Houston ISD informed parents their children are required to go to summer school in apparent error

(Houston Chronicle) Some Houston ISD parents were surprised to receive emails and texts this week saying their children are required to attend summer school, even though their students had passing grades and adequate attendance. Parents received emails and texts indicating the requirement with links to a transportation survey. It is unclear how many families received these messages. The district did not comment on the scope of the miscommunication. Related:

Houston ISD will channel family communications through ParentSquare platform (Houston Chronicle)
Houston ISD stonewalls video release, citing technical limitations (KTRK)

Nacogdoches ISD clears up book ban misunderstanding at high school

(KTRE) Not banned, but reserved; that’s the category a list of library books now fall under at Nacogdoches High School. If kids want to read them, they must ask their parents first. Nacogdoches ISD cleared up the misunderstanding. In a Facebook post the district says, no books have been removed or banned.

Marlin schools remain closed Friday due to delayed water restoration

(KXXV) Officials announced Thursday that Marlin Independent School District has canceled all classes for Friday, May 9, as water pressure at both district campuses remains insufficient. Marlin ISD anticipates resuming normal operations on Monday, May 12. District officials will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.

Temple ISD expands cell phone restrictions for 2025-26 School Year

(KCEN) The changes come after the successful rollout of a new cell phone policy at Temple High School, where students were required to keep phones in lockers during instructional periods. District data shows that, following implementation, class period absences dropped by 22%, discipline referrals decreased by 18%, and student failure rates declined by 44%. Based on that success, TISD will now enforce similar rules at the middle and elementary school levels. Under the new policy, all smart devices, including phones, smartwatches and earbuds must be turned off and stored in backpacks during the school day.

State Rep. Landgraf urges TEA to release end-of-course scores for Ector County ISD graduates

(KMID/KPEJ) State Representative Brooks Landgraf has asked the Texas Education Agency to release End-of-Course exam results early for students in the Ector County Independent School District to ensure that all eligible seniors are allowed to walk the stage at their graduation ceremonies. Some students at Permian High School and Odessa Collegiate Academy were informed they would not be allowed to participate because test results would not be released in time.

San Antonio ISD program coordinator had summer school items delivered to his home, invoices show

(KSAT) District spokeswoman: Future program purchases to be delivered to a school district address ‘without exception.’

UTSA plans to rebrand as ‘UT San Antonio’ — and some alumni aren’t liking the new logo

(San Antonio Current) Some on social media argue the new emblem looks too much like Whataburger’s.

San Antonio bans new vape shops within 1,000 feet of daycares and schools

(Texas Public Radio) The new rule would not apply to tobacco and vape shops already within that 1,000 foot radius because of state law, and it does not apply to other stores like gas stations, which sell vape and tobacco products but whose main businesses are in other products.

Texas Health and Human Services adds 30K+ to data breach that spans nearly four years

(KPRC) Tens of thousands of Texans are now being told their data was part of a privacy breach that dates back to 2021. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) told another 33,529 Texans who receive agency services that “their protected health, personal identifying or sensitive personal information may have been inappropriately accessed, used or disclosed.” Originally, the state agency said that at least 61,000 people may have had their information stolen or accessed. That number is now 94,000, according to a message from the state agency.

Hillsboro ISD teacher pleads guilty to injury to a child

(KXXV) On Tuesday, Matthew Perkins pleaded guilty to injury to a child. Last month, Perkins spanked his stepchild. As we first told you last month, court records show Perkins admitted to spanking his stepchild, who is under the age of 14, four times with a wooden paddle, leaving red, pink, and dark purple marks on the child’s entire backside. Perkins told police he was disciplining the child over wet clothing. According to the Hill County District Clerk’s Office, Perkins pleaded guilty on Tuesday and was given two years of deferred community supervision. He also cannot go near his stepchild.

Affidavit: Pflugerville ISD employee charged with online solicitation of a minor, child grooming charges

(KXAN) A Pflugerville Independent School District employee was arrested, according to the district, after she was accused of committing online solicitation of a minor and child grooming, according to arrest warrant affidavits from the Pflugerville Police Department. The employee was identified as 27-year-old Marissa Juarez, court records said.

Executive director of Facebook page ‘Waco PED Patrol’ arrested again for unlawful restraint

(KXXV) McLennan County Sheriff’s Office arrested a man who was allegedly confronting suspected pedophiles and live-streaming it on Facebook. Investigators arrested Akylon Benson, the executive director of Waco PED Patrol and the administrator of the group’s Facebook page, on unlawful restraint and violation of conditions of bond charges.

May 8, 2025

Legislative Update:

Texas lawmakers pass school vouchers; public school funding still in limbo

(Houston Chronicle) Gov. Greg Abbott is yet to deliver on increasing funds for Texas public schools.

Texas’ youngest learners are behind in math and reading. A pair of bills aims to get them back on track

(Texas Tribune) Students who are behind in third grade rarely catch up. Texas lawmakers want to intervene earlier.

Texas Senate panel advances bill that would no longer allow undocumented students to pay in-state tuition

(KPRC) The Senate’s K-16 committee voted 9-2 on Tuesday to bring Senate Bill 1798 to the chamber’s floor for a full vote. It would eliminate undocumented students’ eligibility for in-state tuition and require those previously deemed eligible to pay the difference between in- and out-of-state tuition.

Why university professors say Texas Senate Bill 37 would be disastrous for higher education

(Austin American-Statesman) At the House higher ed hearing, dozens testified against SB 37. Though diluted, it still risks what faculty can teach they said. Here’s’s how and why.

‘Time to turn the corner’: Lawmakers express support for TEA action in Fort Worth ISD

(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Fort Worth area lawmakers are expressing support for state intervention in the city’s largest school district, saying schools have gone too long with too little academic progress.

Also Reported:

406 Houston ISD teachers will not return to their positions in 2025-26 due to no certification

(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD informed 406 uncertified teachers they cannot return in the 2025-26 school year because they did not make “adequate progress toward certification” within a two-year period.

6 people are charged in a Texas elections investigation involving ‘vote harvesting’

(AP) Six people in a rural Texas county, including two City Council members and a Pearsall ISD school board trustee, have been indicted in a widening elections investigation led by Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton, bringing felony charges to a case that Latino rights activists have criticized as politically driven.

Judge orders Keller ISD board members to turn over records related to plans to split the district

(WFAA) Board President Charles Randklev and Trustee Micah Young must submit any records pertaining to allegations of secret plans to split the district, judge rules.

El Paso ISD faces $23 million budget deficit, considers four-day work week and other cuts

(KFOX) The El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) is grappling with a nearly $23 million budget deficit projected for the next fiscal year. In response, the district’s budget review committee, composed of 70 educators and staff, has proposed several measures to address the shortfall. Among the suggestions are implementing a four-day work week, reducing reliance on outside consultants, and cutting overtime hours.

Why Austin ISD’s Dobie, Burnet, Webb middle schools may get new administrators, academic model

(Austin American-Statesman) Three North Austin middle schools could be revamped with new administrative staff and new academic models as the Austin district seeks to improve the campuses’ scores after consecutive years of failing to meet state academic standards. The proposal unveiled Tuesday night at Dobie Middle School would also require teachers at those schools to reapply for their jobs.

5 years after preparing for growth, Keller ISD weighs school closures as enrollment drops

(Fort Worth Report) A 2019 bond rebuilt aging campuses in anticipation of growth. Now, Keller ISD leaders say declining enrollment may force closures.

Nederland ISD reacts to transgender woman/biological man using women’s restroom

(KFDM) Nederland ISD is reacting to a transgender woman/biological man using the women’s restroom before a high school awards ceremony Wednesday at the Performing Arts Center. The transgender woman said she was at the event for her daughter and posted online that she was willing to be arrested, but using the restroom proved ‘uneventful.’ A parent who has several children in the district contacted KFDM and said he was upset. A spokeswoman provided this statement to us: “Nederland ISD is in discussions with the Nederland Police Department and our legal team. NISD does not condone these actions.”

Lewisville ISD to cut nearly 500 school bus drivers, says there are plans to hire internally

(CBS Texas) In an effort to cut back on costs, Lewisville ISD has plans to lay off 460 bus drivers by summer break.The school district said it won’t be renewing the current contract with a bus driver agency and instead, Lewisville ISD told CBS News it will be hiring internally to cut the costs. The school bus agency is Texas Central School Bus Services. According to Lewisville ISD’s website, it has partnered with for at least a year. LISD said it is spending $16 million right now while state funding for transportation is only 3.5 million.

Dallas residents contesting property appraisals feeds $6.5 million budget shortfall

(KERA) Dallas is facing a $6.5 million budget shortfall caused by disputed property appraisals. That’s according to a briefing presented to the city council on Wednesday. Ninety percent of Dallas property appraisals were certified — but other owners decided to contest how much property tax they owe the county.

Marlin ISD to reopen Friday as water service slowly returns

(KCEN) Marlin ISD will remain closed to students on Thursday, May 8, as water service is gradually restored, with classes set to resume Friday,

Arlington police expanding use of drones to respond to emergency calls

(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Arlington police announced Wednesday that the department will expand its Drone as a First Responder program, which uses unmanned aircraft to help officers on the ground respond to calls. When a 911 call comes in, Arlington Police Department employees who are licensed drone pilots can fly the unmanned aircraft to the scene and use it to “scope out the area from above,” police officials said in a news release.

Local lowdown: What are the transfer rules for high school athletes in Texas

(Beaumont Enterprise) In this Local Lowdown, here’s a look at the UIL’s current transfer rules. Could there be changes ahead?

USDA cuts create unknown future for sustainable farming projects at Texas A&M AgriLife, Prairie View

(Houston Chronicle) Texas A&M AgriLife Research received its largest competitive grant in history in 2023. About two years later, the $65 million award was terminated, according to a government spending database. Dozens of commercial and academic partners are affected nationwide, and elsewhere in Texas, Prairie View A&M University lost $8 million between two grants from the partnership. Many affiliated farmers are also in the lurch as they await news of any pending reimbursements and a path toward continuing the work.

Gun incident at Edinburg North High School raises safety concerns

(ValleyCentral) An Edinburg student is behind bars as federal authorities say he was caught with an unloaded gun and ammunition at Edinburg North High School. Edinburg CISD Police Chief Ricardo Perez says the weapon was found thanks to a report from a student.

Former UT Austin professor gets 12 years on child porn charges

(KXAN) A jury found a former University of Texas professor guilty on charges of possession of child pornography on May 1. According to the Williamson County District Attorney’s Office, Mario Villarreal, 54, of Round Rock, was sentenced to serve 12 years in prison. He was also fined $10,000. The DA’s office said the sentence was related to five cases.

Collin College adds software development as 5th bachelor’s degree program

(Community Impact) The Bachelor of Applied Technology in Software Development is the college’s fifth baccalaureate degree program. The college received final approval for the program from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College on April 4.

May 7, 2025

Legislative Update:

Texas House Republicans poised to scale back legislation that targets state’s universities

(Texas Tribune) The House’s version of the bill would strip it of several controversial provisions, including one that sought to stretch the state’s ban on diversity, equity and inclusion.

Texas Senate panel advances bill that would no longer allow undocumented students to pay in-state tuition

(Texas Tribune) The bill would overturn a two-decade-old law allowing some undocumented college students to pay in-state tuition.

Here’s what to know about Texas’ school safety policies

(Dallas Morning News) Texas lawmakers once again say they want to boost funding to make schools safer.

Exclusive: Texas Lottery Commission Calls in FBI Amid Explosive Allegations

(Texas Scorecard) The Texas Lottery Commission has referred a high-profile investigation into alleged fraud and criminal activity surrounding the state lottery to the Federal Bureau of Investigation following a detailed complaint and mounting public scrutiny.

Also Reported:

Measles outbreak grows to 700 cases across West Texas

(KFDA) The Texas Department of Health and Human Services is now reporting 702 confirmed measles cases across the state.

State ethics panel to review allegations of ‘dark money’ in Prosper ISD trustee race

(Dallas Morning News) The Texas Ethics Commission has agreed to review allegations that a political action committee broke election laws when it spent $50,000 supporting two challengers running for the Prosper Independent School District school board. The PAC, known as the Accountable Leadership Committee, received $50,000 from a Washington, D.C., fund to support candidates in the trustee races, campaign finance records filed with the school district show. Related:

$115K poured into two Prosper ISD trustee campaigns that failed. Who spent the money? (Dallas Morning News)

Republican PACs threw support behind Tarrant council, school board candidates. Most lost

(Fort Worth Report) While Mansfield and Keller voters largely rejected GOP-backed candidates, experts warn against drawing conclusions from low turnout races.

Texas education experts say stronger prep, higher pay key to solving teacher shortage

(Texas Tribune) At a Texas Tribune event, education experts discussed challenges facing Texas public schools and potential ways to solve them.

Socorro ISD board votes to lay off 43 teachers

(El Paso Matters) Forty-three Socorro Independent School District teachers will be out of a job this summer after the school board on Monday took several 3-2 votes to not renew their contracts for the coming school year.

El Paso ISD explores new strategies to tackle $15M budget deficit for next school year

(KFOX) The El Paso Independent School District (EPISD) is considering new strategies to address its financial challenges, as it faces a projected $15 million budget deficit for the upcoming school year. This marks a slight improvement from the previous $17 million shortfall. The district’s Budget Review Committee (BRC), comprised of 70 educators and staff, has been comparing EPISD’s operations with those of other districts, such as the Socorro Independent School District (SISD) and the Ysleta Independent School District (YISD).

Cy-Fair ISD salaries could become less competitive without additional state funding

(Community Impact) As Cypress-Fairbanks ISD trustees prepare to approve a budget for fiscal year 2025-26 this June, district leaders said they could struggle to maintain competitive salaries due to the limited funding they receive from the state.

Fort Bend ISD leaders propose reserving $15.7M in bond contingency spending for emergencies

(Community Impact) If approved by the board of trustees in the coming weeks, this would leave $15.7 million in contingency reserve to support unforeseen needs from the district’s ongoing $1.26 billion May 2023 bond program, officials said at the May 5 agenda review meeting.

Dallas ISD superintendent praises effort to eliminate STAAR

(Dallas Morning News) At the annual State of the District address, Stephanie Elizalde said students are more than a single test score.

Aldine ISD spent big to turn around 2 schools. Can it sustain success with less money?

(Houston Landing) Aldine ISD is phasing out a costly but largely successful campus turnaround model at two elementary schools, a wind down that will test whether the schools can sustain their high performance without big investments by the district.

Lewisville ISD to create its own transportation department

(KERA) Lewisville ISD voted to bring its transportation services in-house for the 2025-26 school year. In a recent school board work session, district leaders said the decision is a cost-saving measure in the midst of a budget crunch. The vote has led to layoffs at the company that currently manages transportation for the district. The change ends the district’s more than 30-year partnership with transportation contractors.

Richardson ISD staff outlines compensation increase plan for teachers, staff

(Community Impact) The plan would increase starting salaries for new teachers from $61,000 per year to $63,000. A returning teacher’s pay would increase by $500 every year until a teacher reaches ten years in the district, then annual increases would be $1,000. Additionally, all staff would receive a 3% pay increase. Under the new plan, certain job types, such as assistant principals, bus drivers, aides and more, would receive pay adjustments to match market considerations.

“Let Them Walk”: Permian students speak out over graduation delay

(KOSA) Permian High School in Ector County ISD is preparing to graduate more than 900 students on May 22 at 8:30 p.m. Among them were supposed to be 22 juniors who’ve worked hard and prioritized their academics to graduate ahead of schedule. But the Texas Education Agency announced that STAAR results won’t be released until May 23 — one day after the ceremony. “To be blindsided and told now… last minute that I can’t graduate with everybody else when I’ve rightfully earned it, I’ve done everything that I’m supposed to do. I’ve done everything and now I’m being told that I can’t do what I worked for,” said Breslynn Martinez, an early graduate.

Fort Worth schools at risk of closure lead Historic Fort Worth’s 2025 most endangered list

(Fort Worth Report) Historic Fort Worth has placed nine properties, including six Fort Worth ISD facilities, on its 2025 Most Endangered Places list. The list serves to rally financial support around buildings that are at risk of demolition because of deferred maintenance or vandalism, or are worthy of a historic designation. The nonprofit first presented its list in 2004 and took a brief hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Professor turnover at UT Rio Grande Valley medical school sparks student concerns

(myRGV) Students at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine are in an uproar over physician professor turnover after learning that one of their professors is departing along with others, leaving them concerned about the effectiveness of their training.

Former Austin ISD elementary teacher indicted on child pornography charges

(CBS Austin) According to court documents, Carl David Innmon, 50, allegedly downloaded multiple batches of files via BitTorrent between December 29, 2024, and January 15, 2025. These downloads reportedly contained 126 files depicting children engaged in sexual conduct or performance, including an infant and two girls aged between four and seven. Investigators say Innmon’s devices “contained a large quantity of real images depicting students in a classroom. Some of those images were allegedly placed in an AI generator, de-clothing the students.”

University of Houston declines to charge fraternity members in alleged assault of student with autism

(Houston Chronicle) Nearly a month after the alleged incident, University of Houston officials have closed the investigation tied to an allegation of assault at Frontier Fiesta. The decision is upsetting to Christian Brooks and his mother, Nikki Brooks.

Hurst Police arrest man after threat made against a Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD elementary school

(Fox 4 KDFW) HEB ISD discovered an “unsettling” post on social media involving Hurst Hills Elementary School. District officials said once they caught wind of the threat, they immediately contacted the district’s security team and the Hurst Police Department. Hurst police opened an investigation and pinpointed a person of interest. Hurst Police said Charles Thomas was officially charged with terroristic threat.

San Antonio PBS affiliate KLRN warns it could go away with proposed Trump funding cuts

(San Antonio Current) Even though Congress already funded public broadcasting with this year’s budget, Trump wants them to rescind it.

May 6, 2025

Legislative Update:

Lawmakers want to expand Texas’ teacher pay raise program. Many educators will still be left out

(Texas Tribune) The Teacher Incentive Allotment gives raises to teachers based on performance. But it leaves out many educators and school staff who contribute to students’ success.

Texas homeowners could see lower property tax bills if deal from Republican lawmakers passes

(Texas Tribune) Legislators in the House and Senate have reached an agreement on more property tax relief. But some critics worry the cuts aren’t sustainable forever.

The Texas Lottery and billions in school funding in limbo as deadline nears at Capitol

(Texas Tribune) With less than 30 days left in the session, lawmakers must pass legislation to either continue or end the lottery. At stake is $2 billion in public school funding and millions of dollars to veterans’ programs it provides yearly.

Also Reported:

School board races across Texas deal losses for many conservatives

(Texas Tribune) Issues about control of book purchases and how curriculums teach race and gender have led to change on many boards, including Keller, Katy and Mansfield ISDs. In nearby Fort Bend ISD, voters also ushered in a new majority coalition that opposes the far-reaching book removal policy approved by the board last year.

Texas tells Fort Worth ISD ‘compulsory’ intervention required after string of failures at shuttered school

(Fort Worth Report) The Texas education commissioner issued a letter to FWISD leaders detailing next steps after a now-closed school failed for five years.

Marlin ISD requests TEA waiver to end school year as scheduled despite time lost due to city’s water issues

(KWTX) The Marlin Independent School District Board of Trustees on May 5 voted unanimously to request a waiver from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) asking that it be allowed to end the current school year as scheduled despite losing three weeks in the classroom due to the city’s ongoing water woes. Gov. Greg Abbott issued a state of disaster for Falls County on Saturday amid the ongoing water crisis in Marlin. Related:

Socorro ISD cuts 43 positions amid $38M budget deficit

(KFOX) The Socorro Independent School District’s board has officially approved a reduction in force, cutting 43 positions in an effort to address a $38 million budget deficit. The decision, made after months of deliberation, was met with emotional pleas from educators hoping to save their jobs.

Austin ISD could partner with charters at 3 ‘failing’ middle schools

(KVUE) After some schools received failing grades in the Texas Education Agency’s 2023 accountability ratings, Austin ISD is looking at more “turnaround plans” for certain campuses to avoid a districtwide state takeover.

Dallas school offers free mental health toolkit to families

(NBC DFW) Momentous Institute’s school is a nationally acclaimed laboratory school in Dallas that serves students from pre-K3 through fifth grade. Now, it’s offering a new, free resource for all families. Momentous Institute’s Mental Health Toolkit, available in both English and Spanish, provides practical strategies and exercises to help individuals and families prioritize mental health, manage emotions and reduce stress.

El Paso ISD investigation reveals inappropriate conduct at Franklin High’s locker room last spring

(KFOX) An investigation uncovered “inappropriate behavior” that took place at a Franklin High School locker last year, according to documents. A letter from Amanda Bowser, the principal, detailed the findings of the investigation that originated in October 2024.

Some Houston ISD principals may see reduced pay after this school year due to performance

(Houston Chronicle) Some Houston ISD principals with poor performance reviews may get their pay cut after this school year under Superintendent Mike Miles’ controversial principal evaluation system. Related:

Houston ISD’s highest-paid employees under Superintendent Miles: See who got pay raises in our database (Houston Chronicle)

116 Texas school districts have moved to four-day weeks, affecting more than 129,000 students

(KXAN) At least 116 school districts across Texas have now switched to four-day school weeks, often in a bid to prevent teacher turnover. At least 24 other districts offer a hybrid schedule, with four-day weeks for part of the year.

Carroll ISD faces backlash after personnel decisions

(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Of the hundreds gathered for a special Carroll ISD Board of Trustees meeting, fifty-four people signed up for public comment. The personnel matters spoken about fell into three categories: the non-renewal of two principals, the layoff of a basketball coach and the reassignment of a choir director and swim coach. Throughout it all was a request for transparency.

North Texas high school senior on life support after “Senior Assassin” game injury

(CBS Texas) A North Texas high school student is fighting for his life after playing a controversial game that’s become popular among seniors about to graduate. That game is called Senior Assassin, and while the rules may seem harmless, some say it encourages kids to put themselves in danger.

Nacogdoches ISD teacher accused of suppressing child sex abuse allegations against husband

(KTRE) According to an affidavit, a Nacogdoches ISD teacher was arrested for failing to report child sex abuse allegations against her husband. According to the affidavit obtained by a Nacogdoches County open records request, Camille Floyd Lanier, 46, refused to report child sex abuse allegations against her husband, Nikolai Alexi Lanier, 44, despite her status as a mandatory reporter as a teacher at Nacogdoches ISD.

East Texas student faces multiple charges for spoofing incident that threatened teacher over grades

(CBS 19) Hopkins County investigators traced the threat to Missouri — linking it to three students who met through a gaming app, including a Como-Pickton ISD student.

‘Coach, we won’: How Liberty Hill soccer shared late-night news of surprise state title

(Dallas Morning News) Liberty Hill boys soccer coach Stefano Salerno was asleep after a devastating loss to Highland Park in the Class 5A Division II state championship game. But when his dogs began barking persistently at 1 a.m., he woke up to investigate. Startled, he saw at least 14 Liberty Hill soccer players on his Ring camera. Salerno rushed downstairs, fearing something had gone terribly wrong — only to be surprised by the joy on his players’ faces.

A&M’s Corps initiates internal review amid increasing misconduct

(Battalion) Records obtained by The Battalion show the largest ROTC group outside the nation’s three military academies is facing internal struggles.

Juvenile, adult injured in shooting in view of two Beaumont schools

(KFDM) Beaumont police are searching for several suspects linked to a shooting in southeast Beaumont, within view of Pietzsch-MacArthur PreK – 8th Grade Center and South Park Middle School.

Some state troopers allegedly questioned arrests during a Gaza protest at UT. Hear the audio

(Houston Chronicle) State troopers apparently questioned their ability to arrest students during a pro-Palestinian protest last spring at the University of Texas at Austin, according to an audio recording obtained by the Houston Chronicle.

UT Arlington seeks to increase enrollment, offer more housing and expand research in updated plan

(Fort Worth Report) University of Texas at Arlington plans to make huge strides in research, faculty recruitment, enrollment goals and additional campus housing amenities over the next five to 10 years.

The Crypto Racket

(Texas Observer) Public officials at all levels are propping up a Texas Bitcoin mining boom that’s threatening water and energy systems while afflicting locals with noise pollution.

Fort Bend Municipal Utility District Reports $8.2 Million in Fraudulent Transfers

(Texas Scorecard) Officials say MUD 35 remains solvent, and efforts are underway to recover the missing funds.

May 5, 2025

Legislative Update:

Private school vouchers are now law in Texas. Here’s how they will work

(Texas Tribune) Texas will give participating families about $10,000 to pay for their kids’ private schooling. Other details about the program, set to launch in 2026, are unclear.

Texas strips protections for teachers, parents who share “obscene” material with children

(Texas Tribune) Critics say Senate Bill 412 will lead teachers and librarians to remove any materials out of fear it could be seen as too mature. Supporters maintain it is a crucial next step in protecting Texas children.

Texas Legislature sends bill targeting ‘harmful materials’ in schools to Abbott’s desk

(Austin American-Statesman) People who show material considered “harmful” to minors for educational or scientific reasons would no longer have a defense in court under legislation that the Texas House voted to send to the governor’s desk to become law.

Measure Placing the ‘Gulf of America’ Into Texas Law Heads to House

(Texas Scorecard) Texas senators have passed a measure officially recognizing the “Gulf of America” on state maps and documents, and have sent it to House lawmakers.

Texas lottery faces an uncertain future. Could this be the end?

(Dallas Morning News) Some legislators are pushing to eliminate the Texas Lottery amid questions about its management and multiple criminal investigations.

Also Reported:

‘You’re never prepared’: Wilmer-Hutchins teacher healing after bullet grazed her

(Dallas Morning News) A stray bullet pierced through the room and knocked the glasses off her face, Columbia Renix recalled.

Conservative Texas School Board Voted Out Amid Book Bans

(Newsweek) Texas school board has voted out three conservative members in Mansfield. Voters in Mansfield Independent School District (ISD) overhauled the school board in the May 3 election, with challengers unseating incumbents—including the board president and secretary — in all three contested races.

Trump’s FY26 budget would slash more than $4.5B from K-12

(K-12 Dive) The plan would turn Title I and IDEA into single, separate grants, zero out key teacher grants, and add $60 million for charter schools.

After Uvalde, school mental health grants had bipartisan support. Now Trump is cutting them

(Chalkbeat) Schools will likely have to lay off social workers and counselors, and college programs designed to train mental health providers may shut down after the Trump administration decided it would stop funding grants created under a bipartisan law passed in response to mass school shootings.

DOGE cuts dash museum internships for UT Rio Grande Valley students

(myRGV) After two years of working on the program, 20 UTRGV students found out in late March they were set to be part of the first cohort of the program. A week later, the federally funded grant was terminated, leaving students devastated and scrambling to find ways to fund their internships.

Judges must clear a high bar to separate parents from children forever, Texas Supreme Court rules

(KERA) A Houston mother barred from seeing her three children because of a lifetime protective order will have her case reheard after a Texas Supreme Court ruling Friday. The ruling makes clear the high bar of proof needed to legally separate children from their parents for more than two years — in this case, forever.

These Tarrant school leaders say their districts are stepping up as Texas squeezes public ed

(Fort Worth Report) Tarrant County school district leaders who serve more than 360,000 students — larger than the education systems of 14 states — detailed how they’re dealing with the pinch during the Rev Partnership’s 2025 State of Education Celebration May 2 at Tarleton State University Fort Worth.

Edcouch-Elsa ISD approves controversial religious-infused curriculum

(myRGV) Passing the consent agenda item with no public discussion from the board on Wednesday at a public meeting, EEISD Superintendent Alda Benavides said the instructional materials are for kindergarten through fifth grade reading language arts and kindergarten through eighth grade math and Algebra 1.

UT System Chancellor James B. Milliken named as new president of University of California

(Houston Chronicle) James B. Milliken, the University of Texas System chancellor, will leave his position May 30 to serve as the new president of the University of California system.

Elon Musk wanted to turn his SpaceX launch site into a city. Voters in Texas just said yes

(Texas Standard) A small group of mostly SpaceX employees voted to incorporate the area around the SpaceX rocket testing and launch site near Brownsville as the City of Starbase.

Texas A&M at Qatar graduates 155 engineers

(The Peninsula) Texas A&M University at Qatar, a Qatar Foundation partner university, celebrated the graduation of 155 engineers during its commencement ceremony held at the Qatar National Convention Centre.

May 2, 2025

Legislative Update:

How Greg Abbott took a flailing school voucher movement and turned it into a winning issue

(Texas Tribune) Abbott tapped into a powerful national conservative movement and his own campaign war chest to turn legislative races into multimillion-dollar affairs. Related:

Houston private schools see a 30-40% rise in applications (KHOU)

House Leadership Blocking Ban on Taxpayer-Funded Lobbying, Says Texas Lawmaker

(Texas Scorecard) State Rep. Brent Money says State Affairs Committee Chair Ken King won’t give the legislation a hearing.

1.8 million Texans could lose current health insurance provider if state lawmakers don’t act

(CBS Texas) In March 2024, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission announced plans to drop the Cook Children’s nonprofit Health Plan, along with Texas Children’s and Driscoll Children’s plans, and award Medicaid contracts to several national, for-profit insurance companies instead. If lawmakers don’t act, Cook Children’s says 1.8 million children and pregnant women across Texas would be forced to change health insurance plans. That includes 125,000 North Texas children who are currently on the Cook Children’s Health Plan.

Also Reported:

‘It’s disgusting’ — Uvalde families confront heartbreak after Robb memorial vandalized just weeks before anniversary

(KENS) A resident on their morning walk Thursday morning discovered vandals rearranged and damaged memorial crosses honoring Robb Elementary victims.

Exclusive: How Texas’ ‘disability penalty’ has stripped billions from schools

(Houston Chronicle) Every year, hundreds of thousands of Texas students with disabilities leave their classrooms to receive specialized help, from weekly speech therapy to daily, hours-long one-on-one tutoring. State education officials are required by law to scale back regular classroom funding they send districts for the amount of time a student receives special services, reducing school funding by more than $1 billion. But for decades, the Texas Education Agency has sidestepped the law, instead implementing across-the-board cuts that strip districts of an extra $342 million each year, according to an analysis provided by TEA in response to questions from Hearst Newspapers. Related:

More Texas students are diagnosed with dyslexia, but TEA grants and new tech give some schools a leg up (Houston Chronicle)

U.S. Supreme Court divided over approving first religious charter school

(SCOTUSblog) The Supreme Court on Wednesday was divided over an Oklahoma Catholic virtual charter school’s bid to become the country’s first religious charter school. With Justice Amy Coney Barrett recused from the case, the outcome appeared to hinge on the vote of Chief Justice John Roberts, who asked probing questions of both sides but did not make his position clear.

From minimal English to class valedictorian: Half of top HISD grads start as English learners

(Houston Landing) Students who were current or former English learners have made up about 46 percent of all HISD valedictorians over the past 10 years, while accounting for about 44 percent of all the high school seniors during that span, district data show. Related:

Houston ISD placed 42 principals-in-training on campuses this school year, records show (Houston Chronicle)
Houston ISD to spend $40M on HVAC, roofing needs in 2025-26 year. Here’s which schools will see upgrades (Houston Chronicle)

AI is running the classroom at this Texas school, and students say ‘it’s awesome’

(Fox News) At this school, students spend two hours with AI tutors, skip homework, and still land in the top 2% nationwide. Alpha currently operates campuses in Austin, Brownsville, and Miami, serving students from Pre-K through high school.

What Happens When Teachers Are Replaced With AI? This Brownsville School Is Finding Out (Newsweek)

Marlin, Texas mayor issues declaration of disaster; school district cancels classes Friday as water woes continue

(KWTX) Marlin ISD has canceled classes for Friday, May 2, after the city of Marlin’s water woes continue. Marlin ISD previously canceled classes on April 30 and May 1 after the water went out at the elementary and middle schools. Students at Marlin ISD have lost two weeks in the classroom for the 2024-2025 school year due to city-wide water pressure issues that force the district to cancel class.

Texas A&M young conservatives shared hate speech in group texts

(Houston Chornicle) The Aggie group mocked George Floyd, Muslims, and transgender people.

Mom claims Hays CISD could have done more to prevent child endangerment

(Hays Free Press) After discovering that her son’s former teacher was arrested for public intoxication at school, Christina Nichols was left wishing Hays CISD did more to protect future students.

‘Ridiculous they haven’t found somebody’: Near San Antonio ISD’s Brewer Academy, parents demand action after 14-year-old Simon Cuevas’ killing

(KENS) More than two weeks after 14-year-old Simon Cuevas was killed while walking home from school in west San Antonio, a memorial has bloomed on a street corner near where he was shot. Brewer Academy administrators suggested students could be considered truant if they walked out of school for the rally. Instead, parents marched for them.

Community leaders call for change after Northside ISD student arrest

(News4SA) An incident at a Northside ISD middle school resulted in an 11-year-old with autism behind bars for 8 days. Community leaders are asking authorities to change their approach to these cases. That message, addressed to administrators at Northside ISD after an 11-year-old autistic student was arrested and charged with aggravated assault last Monday. He reportedly had an episode and injured a teacher, who pressed charges. We reached out to Northside ISD and were told the teacher was within her right to do so.

Beaumont school district to restrict student cellphone use with Yondr pouches

(KFDM) The Beaumont Independent School District (BISD) is set to implement a new policy requiring students from sixth grade through high school to lock their cellphones in Yondr pouches during the school day, beginning in the 2025-2026 academic year. Yondr Pouch is a lockable pouch designed to store mobile cellular devices. BISD has allocated $250,000 to provide these pouches, which have already been successfully used in other districts.

Nonprofit AT LAST! expands Oak Cliff “boarding experience” for more “under-resourced” students

(CBS Texas) AT LAST! may have been a long time coming, but the Oak Cliff-based nonprofit is going places. The nation’s first “boarding experience” for under-resourced students is expanding. They’ve announced plans to build a second house to accommodate more scholars. Students—called “Scholars in Residence” — attend the schools their parents choose and live on the AT LAST! campus during the week. While there, they get structure: good meals, academic support, exposure to extracurricular interests, and routine bedtimes—resources considered normal for America’s middle class.

Most AP exams will be digital this May. Here’s how a Fort Worth teacher is preparing students

(Fort Worth Report) Travis Arnold, an AP teacher at Fort Worth ISD’s Arlington Heights High School, said he’s been adjusting his teaching to train for the digital test. Part of that is learning some of the software tools and getting students comfortable with typing on a keyboard since many of his students have been using tablets and smartphones.

Edinburg CISD relocates remaining Canterbury students amid E. Coli clean-up efforts

(ValleyCentral) After plenty of backlash from parents, Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District has decided to relocate the remaining students at Canterbury Elementary School to the Edinburg Recreation Center for the remainder of the year.

A&M’s Public Policy Scholars program kicks off with success

(Battalion) Texas A&M University System has expanded its policy internship programs to all 11 campuses.

Four UT students sue university over arrests during 2024 pro-Palestine protest

(CBS Austin) Four University of Texas students are suing the university, the board of regents, former UT president Jay Hartzell, Governor Greg Abbott, and UTPD and DPS, a little more than a year after they were arrested in the pro-Palestine protests on campus. The lawsuit centers on arrests made in the protest on April 24th of last year, saying the four students named were arrested and then faced academic discipline and retaliation for exercising their First Amendment rights. I talked to co-counsel on the case, who says they were targeted for their support of Palestine specifically.

University of North Texas ELEVAR program set to graduate its first class of students

(NBC DFW) UNT ELEVAR is a 4-year inclusive university program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Dallas College students hope to build industry of the future as NVIDIA plant comes to Dallas

(NBC DFW) The chipmaker is investing in Dallas as part of its domestic AI systems manufacturing rollout.

Texas A&M-Fort Worth will house lab to develop new aviation technologies

(Fort Worth Report) The new center will draw on aviation technology in the DFW area to help develop drones, air taxis and aircraft faster than the speed of sound.

Former Abilene Preschool Teacher Sentenced to 30 Years for Producing Child Porn

(Texas Scorecard) Mark Eichorn admitted to paying two boys to produce child sexual abuse material. According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas, Mark Penfield Eichorn admitted to producing child sexual abuse material while employed at St. John’s Episcopal School in Abilene.

May 1, 2025

Legislative Update:

Gov. Greg Abbott to sign SB 2 into law Saturday, establishing private school vouchers in Texas

(KENS) The signing will take place Saturday inside the Governor’s Mansion. Related:

Catholic Diocese of Fort Worth expects schools to come ‘close to capacity’ with SB2 (NBC DFW)

A 20-hour wait to speak: A pre-dawn House panel takes up Ten Commandments bill

(Texas Tribune) Dozens of people who signed up to speak were ready at 4 a.m. to debate whether public school classrooms should have to display the Ten Commandments. After about two-and-a-half hours of testimony that began around 4 a.m, the bill was left pending in the public education committee when the hearing ended Wednesday morning. The Senate passed the bill, authored by Weatherford Republican Sen. Phil King, in March.

In hearing, Texas lawmaker pushing ‘furries’ ban in schools can’t produce evidence they exist

(Houston Chronicle) A lawmaker pushing to ban non-human behavior in schools says he based his bill on a conversation with a school administrator, who has since denied so-called furries are a problem in her district. Still, Gerdes argued the legislation was needed to curb the “extremely concerning” trend while providing scant evidence furries are a problem, or even present, in Texas schools.

Texas lawmakers advancing bill to ban kids from social media

(Texas Tribune) The Texas House passed onto the Senate a proposed ban Tuesday, alongside another bill that would require a social media warning label for minors.

Texas House Approves Former Speaker Dade Phelan’s Meme Regulation Bill

(Texas Scorecard) The Texas House has approved legislation by former Speaker Dade Phelan that would criminalize the distribution of altered political media, such as memes, videos, or audio recordings, unless they contain a government-mandated disclaimer. Punishment under the legislation could result in up to a year in jail.

Was Keller ISD split racially motivated? A ‘backroom deal’? Trustees respond

(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Keller school board Vice President John Birt and Trustee Chris Coker this week defended the district’s handling of a proposed split, bristling at suggestions that the idea was driven by race or socioeconomic factors and saying there was no intent to be secretive. The debate over the possible split made its way to Austin on April 29 when Rep. Charlie Geren, a Fort Worth Republican, laid out House Bill 5089, which is meant to clarify the process for splitting a school district. The bill would require such a measure to go to a public election, no matter where the proposal originates, which was a point of contention in Keller.

Also Reported:

Former Waco, Texas teacher arrested for allegedly controlling autistic child with dog whistle

(KWTX) A former Waco elementary school teacher was arrested Tuesday on allegations she used an electronic dog whistle to force compliance by a 6-year-old autistic student. Amber Escamilla, 46, a former teacher at Bell’s Hill Elementary School, remained jailed Wednesday in lieu of $3,000 bond after her arrest on an injury to a child or disabled person charge, a third-degree felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison. According to arrest records, Waco Independent School District police detectives received a referral from Child Protective Service workers about possible abuse of an autistic student by Escamilla. The report said Escamilla, a 10-year teaching veteran who moved to Waco with her family last year, used an electronic dog whistle “on the child when he got overstimulated,” an arrest affidavit alleges. Detectives met with the boy’s parents, who said they provided earmuffs for him to wear at school because he is sensitive to sounds.

Families react as verdict announced in Belton High School stabbing case

(KXXV) Two very different reactions were evident in the courtroom on Monday, following the judge’s reading of the verdict against Caysen Allison. Allison faces 6 months to 2 years and up to a $10,000 fine after the verdict in the May 2022 stabbing of Joe Ramirez at Belton High School. Gasps were heard in the room, and clapping came from the side of the gallery with Caysen Allison’s family and friends. The verdict came as a surprise to Joe Ramirez’ family, as many left in tears. The next step in the case is the sentencing phase, which is expected to occur within the next six to eight weeks.

Marlin ISD loses another day and a half of class after water woes force closure

(KWTX) Marlin ISD canceled classes on April 30 and May 1 after the water went out at the elementary and middle schools. Students at Marlin ISD have lost two weeks in the classroom for the 2024-2025 school year due to city-wide water pressure issues that force the district to cancel class. The number of days off rose to nine and a half Tuesday when two schools completely lost water.

Uvalde And The Weight Of 77 Minutes

(Texas Signal Media Foundation) Why a health museum for this exhibit? Because it lets the work be seen as part of a public health crisis.

Fired state employees breached the personal data of 33,529 more Texans

(Texas Tribune) So far, nine Texas Health and Human Services Commission employees have been fired for improperly accessing Texans’ data.

The best and worst performing Houston-area charter schools in 2024, according to Children at Risk

(Houston Chronicle) Across the Houston area, charter schools far outperformed traditional public schools at the middle and high school level. Although that was not the case at all campuses, as charter elementary schools generally performed worse, according to data from the Children at Risk ratings from the 2023-2024 school year.

Report: Sunrise Centers are unfamiliar to Houston ISD staff, far from some of the neediest students

(Houston Public Media) A study by Rice University recently found that HISD’s seven Sunrise Centers are furthest from students living in the Third Ward, Denver Harbor and Northwest Houston. It also found that teachers have little awareness of the centers’ services.

Montgomery County sees decline in students needing free, reduced lunch

(Community Impact) School districts in Montgomery County saw a decline in the percentage of students who are economically disadvantaged during the 2024-25 school year compared to the previous year, according to Texas Education Agency data.

A year of change: Carroll ISD superintendent reflects on budget-cutting progress

(Community Impact) With school funding issues looming in districts across the state, Carroll ISD Superintendent Jeremy Glenn provided an update during the board’s regular meeting April 28 on the activities of the district’s Budget Reduction Advisory Committee as it concludes its examination of the 2024-25 school year. While other area school districts are having to lay off hundreds of staff members and deal with multi-million dollar deficits right away, Glenn commended CISD board members and staff for recognizing the possible funding issues the district could face early on.

Aldine ISD, University of Houston Downtown, and Lone Star College Launch Cybersecurity Degree Pathway With 2+2+2 Program

(Aldine ISD) A new partnership between Aldine ISD, Lone Star College, and the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) is creating a direct path to a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity for high school students — and removing common barriers along the way.

Grapevine-Colleyville ISD could save taxpayers $8.16M after refunding bonds

(Community Impact) Grapevine-Colleyville ISD has approved the refinancing of the series 2016 bonds, which could save taxpayers $8.16 million by lowering the interest rate of the bonds. The remaining debt for the series 2016 bonds is $158.03 million and the district has the opportunity to refund $131.18 million of that at a lower interest rate. The remaining debt not refunded will be paid off at the current payment schedule, Chief Financial Officer David Johnson said.

Humble ISD works to accommodate rising special education population

(Community Impact) The number of students receiving special education services in Humble ISD has more than doubled over the past decade, following a larger trend seen at public school districts across the state. Henry Phipps, HISD’s chief of educational support services, said he attributes the rise in HISD to several additional factors, including earlier screenings, greater public awareness of disabilities such as autism and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and state-mandated dyslexia screenings.

UT El Paso’s fundraising leader under Title IX investigations

(El Paso Matters) Jake Logan, who leads the University of Texas at El Paso’s fundraising team, has not been in the office for months as he faces in-house investigations into allegations of inappropriate conduct. Neither Logan nor UTEP have explained his absence.

With ‘Day of Drag,’ UT Austin students push back against university bans

(KUT) “We’re hoping to send a statement by sending students to class in drag because, at the end of the day, it’s just people having fun in makeup and expressing themselves through their art,” said Lilah La Rouge, an Austin-based drag artist who volunteered at Texas Day of Drag.

Catholic school enrollment has gone up, but some schools are still closing. Here’s why

(San Antonio Report) Despite the recent closures, student enrollment in Catholic schools has actually gone up since 2021 by about 6% in San Antonio and 3% across the nation, even as the number of U.S. adults still following the faith has decreased, said Jason King, the Beirne Chair and Director of the Center for Catholic Studies at St. Mary’s University.

Salary cap? Texas Longhorns will spend between $35-40 million on their football roster for 2025

(Houston Chronicle) With the addition of 10 football players out of the transfer portal and probably one or two more on the way, the budget for next season’s Texas roster has grown as well. It currently sits somewhere “between $35 million and $40 million,” which counts the likely revenue-sharing allotment expected to be $20.5 million as well as payouts through the Texas One Fund, a connected source tells the Houston Chronicle.

University of Houston Athletics to Launch Tasty New NIL Snack Partnership

(Sports Illustrated) The new division has been named Victory Snacks, and the Cougars will be the first school to partner with Victory Campus on the revolutionary new NIL initiative. Victory Snacks will produce a number of premium healthy, organic, and tasty snack and beverage options for athletes, fans, and alumni alike to all enjoy. This will in turn provide a new stream of NIL revenue that will support student athletes.

UT Arlington Research: How math helps to protect crops from invasive disease

(ScienceDaily) New research from The University of Texas at Arlington and the U.S. Department of Agriculture demonstrates how mathematical modeling can predict outbreaks of toxic fungi in Texas corn crops — offering a potential lifeline to farmers facing billions in harvest losses.

Rice launches alternative funding program amid federal research cuts

(Rice Thresher) Rice is launching the Bridge Funding Program for faculty whose federal funding for research projects has been reduced or removed. The program was announced via the Provost’s newsletter April 24. The program provides funding for up to one year for graduate students, postdocs and research faculty whose federal grants have been terminated or reduced. Costs will be split, with half from the researcher’s department and the other half from centralized university sources.

University of Houston officials plan for expansions at Katy, Sugar Land without state capital funds

(Community Impact) The University of Houston will likely not receive over $300 million in capital project requests from the 89th Texas Legislature for the Sugar Land and Katy campuses, as the requests weren’t included in higher education appropriation bills, college officials said.

City government is tackling Fort Worth’s literacy crisis outside of school hours. Here’s how

(Fort Worth Report) The municipality is using its after-school and summer programs as well as new dyslexia screenings to boost reading skills.

Girls Inc. of Tarrant County and UT Arlington team up to support young women through college, careers

(Arlington Report) The university and nonprofit recently formalized their commitment to helping girls develop skills and confidence they need to succeed in college and later in life.

UT San Antonio professor arrested, faces multiple child sexual abuse material charges, DOJ says

(KSAT) The university says Zaid Mashhour Haddad was placed on paid administrative leave; Haddad has been a UTSA professor since 2014, according to the university‘s website.

Former Hays County middle school teacher sentenced to 60 years for possession of child porn

(Fox 7 Austin) On April 29, a Hays County judge sentenced 33-year-old Kevin McLean to 60 years in prison. McLean entered a guilty plea to six counts of possession of child porn and was sentenced to 10 years for each count. The sentences will run consecutively. McLean was a middle school teacher in Hays County when he was arrested in 2022. His wife called police to report finding McLean talking with several female middle school students on his phone. The investigation determined that McLean had been grooming the female students by sending them nude photos of himself and trying to convince them to send him pictures. The investigation further revealed McLean had sold or provided some students with alcohol and illegal narcotics, including THC vape pens and prescription drugs.

Former El Paso ISD police officer files wrongful termination lawsuit

(KVIA) Court documents show that former El Paso ISD Police officer John Solis filed a wrongful termination lawsuit against the school district on February 25, 2025. Solis had been accused of official oppression and tampering with evidence.

Severed rabbit head left in Hutto High School restroom

(CBS Austin) Officials at Hutto High School have identified a student responsible for leaving a rabbit’s head in a campus bathroom, according to the district. The incident, described by officials as involving “inappropriate and disturbing materials,” was discovered Tuesday in a boys’ bathroom at the high school. Campus administrators immediately removed the items, which included the animal remains alongside a message and drawing of a dead rabbit. School officials said they have taken administrative action against the student and are pursuing criminal charges in partnership with local law enforcement.

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