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Oct. 30, 2026
Which families are using ESAs? Here’s what we know about Texas’ first school vouchers
(Texas Tribune) More than 111,000 families are participating in the voucher program in its first year. About 17% of voucher recipients attended public schools during the 2024-25 school year.
El Paso ISD releases student data to state comptroller, prompting concerns over undocumented students
(El Paso Matters) El Paso ISD gave the state comptroller a count of students who enrolled with and without Social Security numbers, as part of a state review of district spending. State Rep. Vince Perez and advocacy groups worry Comptroller Don Huffines could use it to target undocumented students. District leaders say the data includes no names and can’t show anyone’s immigration status. Huffines also asked for budgets, payroll documents, contracts, an electronic copy of the district’s school library catalog and board policies on parents’ complaints about human sexuality curriculum.
Irving ISD pay model cut earnings for hundreds of teachers, group says
(Dallas Morning News) Hundreds of teachers in Irving ISD took pay cuts under a new compensation model the district rolled out this year according to the United Educators Association.
San Antonio ISD loosens High 5 classroom mandates after teacher, parent pushback
(San Antonio Express-News) San Antonio ISD has eased its High 5 mandates for some schools after educators pushed back on the strict lesson plans.
See the 13 Houston schools that prepare students for college and careers, per new report
(Houston Chronicle) Most Houston-area students aren’t receiving college or career credit after high school. But 13 schools are bucking that trend, according to Good Reason Houston.
Austin ISD approves selling, leasing 3 closed school properties
(KVUE) The Austin ISD board voted to allow the superintendent to move forward on proposed deals for Bedichek Middle School, Sunset Valley and Dawson Elementary.
Texas high school football championships to air on Nexstar stations
(TheDesk.net) Nexstar Media Group and Mission Broadcasting will provide free live coverage of all 12 University Interscholastic League state high school football championship games across their Texas television stations and streaming platforms in December. The companies said participating stations in 13 Texas television markets will offer the games through local broadcast channels, streaming services or both. For the first time, the games will also be accessible to viewers outside Texas through the participating stations’ digital streaming platforms.
Waco’s First Girls Flag Football Team Cheers UIL Move, Even Though It Plays Under TAPPS
(KWTX) The UIL has approved girls flag football as a pilot program for 2028-29, though not yet as a fully sanctioned sport. Waco’s Vanguard College Prep plays under TAPPS (Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools) instead, but coach Justin Derington sees the move as a sign TAPPS will expand the sport too. His team, likely Waco’s first girls flag football squad, finished state runner-up in TAPPS’s first tournament this year. Related:
Another Texas football team forfeits a game. This school is much larger than most
(Houston Chronicle) Most programs that were forced to forfeit were much smaller. Gainesville has nearly 900 students. What happened?
Argyle star quarterback Hayes Hackney immediately eligible after UIL hearing
(Dave Campbell’s Texas Sports) The UIL State Executive Committee unanimously voted Argyle Eagles quarterback Hayes Hackney immediately eligible for varsity competition, deeming that he lives in Argyle’s attendance zone.
Bryan ISD High assistant basketball coach’s firing sparks community backlash
(KBTX) After 13 years with Bryan ISD, Lashala Nicks says she was fired over how she handled a student’s concerns, prompting criticism of the district’s decision. A friend launched a GoFundMe to help Nicks, which already raised $2500 by Thursday night.
1 student injured, 1 in custody after ‘altercation’ Friday morning at Elgin ISD High School
(KVUE) An altercation between three students at Elgin High School on Friday left one student injured and another in police custody. The campus was briefly placed on hold until police gave the all-clear, and the district says there’s no ongoing threat while an investigation continues.
Northwest ISD school moves outdoor activities after third bullet found on campus
(Fox 4 KDFW) A third discharged bullet has been found on the campus of Barksdale Middle School in Northwest ISD, prompting the school to move outdoor activities and change bus routes. The school’s campus lies around a mile north from Quail Creek Gun Range, and bullets were discovered on the school grounds this past May and July. Northwest ISD previously secured a restraining order against the gun range banning the use of guns that are capable of firing bullets that would reach the school.
Texas A&M applications at all time high, and growing
(Fox 44) Texas A&M reports application numbers for an Aggie education remain strong with applications for incoming freshman rising 24% over the past two years. The report says with tuition rates frozen at 2021 rates and 63% of graduates finishing debt-free demand is at a record high.
Texas Wesleyan University sued by 5 former students over ‘wrongful dismissal’
(WFAA) Five former nurse anesthesia doctoral students are suing Texas Wesleyan University. They say it over-enrolls the program and then unfairly dismisses first-year students after collecting their tuition. They also claim the school denied them due process and disability accommodations. The university says it strongly disagrees and will respond in court.
Law student defies odds: Walks on to SMU football team after overcoming spinal injury
(WFAA) “Super blessed and thankful for this opportunity. It’s been like the semester of my life so far,” Connor Carrera said.
Former Prosper softball coach sentenced to 50 years without parole for sexual abuse of a child under 14
(WFAA) A former youth sports coach in Prosper has been sentenced to 50 years in prison without the possibility of parole following his conviction for continuously sexually abusing a young athlete for nearly a decade. Michael Angel Garcia, 37, of Prosper, was found guilty by a Collin County jury of continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14 and sexual assault of a child, District Attorney Greg Willis announced. Garcia had previously volunteered as a youth baseball and softball coach with the Prosper Baseball Softball Association.
Former McKinney ISD athletic trainer sentenced to 5 years for sexually assaulting student, prosecutors say
(CBS Texas) A former McKinney ISD athletic trainer has been sentenced to five years in prison for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old student she had been treating for a broken arm, the Collin County District Attorney’s Office said Thursday. Lindsey Post, 36, pleaded guilty Oct. 16 to sexual assault of a child and improper relationship between an educator and student. Prosecutors said she violated her bond conditions by talking with the victim by phone. The student’s family has also filed a $1 million lawsuit against Post and the district.
Former San Antonio ISD special ed teacher charged with possessing child porn
(San Antonio Express-News) Carl Alan Atnip, 48, a former special education teacher at San Antonio ISD’s Highlands High School, has been charged with 12 counts of possessing child pornography.
UT Austin Students Tried to Condemn Bo French’s Racism. They Say a School Official Pushed Back
(Texas Monthly) After the candidate for railroad commissioner targeted the university’s students in a racist tweet, students were dismayed by its administrators’ response. Related:
- UT Austin closes Dobie dorm for next year (Midland Reporter-Telegram)
- Noah Kahan to play UT Austin’s football stadium, a first in over 30 years (Laredo Morning Times)
Suspended UT San Antonio basketball coach passed out in car outside convenience store before DWI arrest
(San Antonio Express-News) UT San Antonio basketball coach Austin Claunch was arrested for DWI after police found him passed out in his running car outside a Corpus Christi convenience store. He’s been suspended while the university reviews the case, and an assistant will coach Monday’s season opener. Claunch has apologized.
13 candidates are running for Austin ISD’s board. Here’s what they would do if the state takes over
(KUT) KUT News asked candidates why they decided to run, their priorities if they were to remain on the AISD board and their plans if a board of managers is appointed by the state. Here’s what they told us.
Texas AG’s office sues Harris County clerk over accusations of selectively targeting demographics for voting ads
(KPRC) The AG’s office accuses Teneshia Hudspeth’s office and her Director of Communications of using Meta’s ad tools to intentionally target its “Get Out the Vote” style ads to certain racial and ethnic groups while avoiding targeting other demographics. The release says Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has recused himself from the lawsuit because he is a candidate on the November ballot.
Texas Values donates 110 ten commandments posters to Bloomington ISD
(Crossroads Today) The donation comes as legal challenges continue over a Texas law requiring Ten Commandments displays in public school classrooms.
An Hinojosa win would be a political feat, but she wouldn’t inherit the power Abbott holds
(Texas Tribune) Even if a Democrat were in the Governor’s Mansion, Republicans would likely control the Legislature. Divided government could mean limited political control.
Panhandle Republican group wants all Texas ballots hand counted in the Nov. 3 election
(Texas Tribune) The Potter County Republican Party lawsuit argues, without providing proof, that voting machines could be vulnerable. Texas law already requires a portion of paper ballots to be hand counted.
Greg Abbott Hired an Election Denier to Protect Texas Elections. He’s Using the Job to Attack Muslims
(Texas Monthly) Nate Schatzline, a Christian pastor who left his state House seat to work in the governor’s office, told a GOP group he doesn’t use the term “radical Islam” because “all Islam is radical.”
Voter-approved bonds bring 19 new school buses to Lufkin ISD
(KTRE) Nineteen new school buses purchased through $3 million in voter-approved bonds are now rolling on district routes across Lufkin. Upgrades include extra air conditioning units, child-safety alarms and expanded wheelchair seating.
Legendary Dallas high school football coach dies at age 89
(WFAA) Freddie James is being remembered for the impact he made as the leader of Carter High School football during a nationally recognized run in the 1980s and ’90s.
Oct. 29, 2026
A conservative senator reshaped Texas colleges. He wants the rest of the country to follow
(Texas Tribune) Writing laws to restrict DEI on campuses was just the start. Now as Texas Tech chancellor, Brandon Creighton wants to push the limits on what professors teach.
USPS employee arrested in $4M Spring Branch ISD tax payment theft investigation
(KPRC) Authorities allege the USPS employee possessed stolen tax payment checks as investigators work to unravel a $4 million theft scheme targeting Spring Branch ISD. Eurey Dewayne Smith, 33, is still being processed into the Harris County Jail as of this writing. He’s expected to face charges of mail theft. His arrest comes amid an extensive investigation into 220 victims reporting stolen tax payment checks mailed to Spring Branch ISD worth more than $4 million, according to law enforcement. Smith works at the same post office where the school district has a PO box, according to records.
As Texas cracks down on prosecuting students, Houston school districts are changing course
(Houston Chronicle) Texas schools are sending more children into the juvenile system, an investigation by the New York Times and the San Antonio Express-News found. But Houston-area districts are bucking the trend.
Mercedes ISD superintendent apologizes for ballot mistakes
(Progress Times) Mercedes Independent School District Interim Superintendent Alicia Noyola apologized Tuesday for failing to correctly list four school board candidates’ preferred names on the ballot for the upcoming Mercedes board election and said the district will take steps to prevent mistakes from happening again in the future, though there’s nothing the district can do to fix the ballot now.
‘Legacy of violence’: El Paso advocates say pattern of silence led to racist incident where youths dressed up as Ku Klux Klan, yelled racial slurs
(El Paso Matters) Advocates are calling for El Paso residents to confront anti-Blackness in their community and learn the history of white supremacy after a racist incident went viral over the weekend – raising questions about racism and organized hate, accountability and the boundaries of free speech. A group of reported El Paso teenagers appeared in Ku Klux Klan regalia for a Halloween party on the Eastside, where they walked down the street yelling racial slurs.
Hard topics, closed books: Banned authors challenge North Texas school restrictions
(Dallas Morning News) As Texas leads the nation in school book restrictions, Candace Fleming and Susin Nielsen argue that difficult stories help young readers understand grief, peer pressure and the world around them.
Parents, advocates press Fort Worth ISD to deliver promised special education services
(Fort Worth Report) One student is failing reading. Another missed months of services. Their parents want Fort Worth ISD to do its job.
It’s easier for Tarrant students to be punished in school. What are the impacts?
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) A panel of experts spoke at Texas A&M School of Law about a new state law that expands school discipline, even for the youngest kids.
Family of 16-year-old hit by Clear Creek ISD school bus in Clear Lake raises money for medical costs
(Houston Chronicle) A 16-year-old Clear Lake High School student was struck by a school bus while riding his bicycle off campus on Oct. 16, suffering major injuries that include a bleeding liver and a back injury requiring surgery. He is in the ICU, and a GoFundMe for his medical expenses has raised more than $16,000. Clear Creek ISD has since changed its dismissal bus traffic flow, adding a school resource officer to direct campus traffic and a security monitor for pedestrian and bicycle crossings. No charges were immediately filed, and the Houston Police Department’s investigation is ongoing. The crash came hours after a Dayton ISD student was killed in a separate hit-and-run involving a school bus.
Clear Tech virtual program makes strides in pilot year at Clear Creek ISD
(Community Impact) Clear Creek ISD’s virtual program has seen strong initial progress, a program report shows. The district’s Clear Tech virtual program, launched in March, has nearly 50 students, all passing their courses at a rate of 91% or higher, district officials told the board of trustees at an Oct. 26 meeting.
Killeen ISD weighs school closures, rezoning as enrollment drops by more than 5,000 students
(KXXV) The Killeen ISD Board of Trustees on Tuesday reviewed potential school optimization scenarios as the district works to address declining enrollment, reductions in federal funding and the ongoing costs of operating underutilized school facilities.
With funding tight, San Benito CISD jump-starts aquatic center project
(myRGV) San Benito CISD’s school board picked GMS Architects to plan a long-delayed aquatic center, a project voters approved in a 2018 bond. An earlier attempt was abandoned in 2024 after about $12 million went into a flawed building. Money is tight: costs have risen, only about $6 million in bond funds remains, and the district hopes ongoing lawsuits will bring in more. A site should be chosen by summer, but no construction timeline has been set.
Mission CISD school board passes restructuring resolution
(Progress Times) The Mission CISD school board unanimously passed a resolution addressing a financial crisis driven by falling enrollment and rising staff costs, which the superintendent warns could lead to a state takeover within three years. The superintendent must present a plan by January, and school closures and staff buyouts are possible. A committee formed over a year ago to study these issues never met.
Fort Bend ISD reviewing classroom technology use
(Community Impact) Fort Bend ISD is spending this school year reviewing how technology is used in classrooms, aiming to cut non-instructional use like games and videos while keeping its learning benefits. The district also plans a parent portal showing what students view on their devices. Local parents opposed to heavy screen use spoke at the Oct. 26 board meeting.
Bryan ISD approves bilingual, ESL waivers to aid growing program
(Community Impact) Bryan ISD approved more bilingual and ESL waivers for continued improvements and student instruction at its Oct. 19 meeting following a report of growing teacher proficiency and scores. Bilingual and ESL waivers are meant to give students who use English as a second language more resources for education, along with funding for the programs from the state. According to the Texas Education Agency website, the waivers are a way to serve students who “deserve access to the same programs and instruction that could lead to academic success.”
Hutto ISD increases daily rates for substitute teacher pay
(Community Impact) Hutto ISD raised substitute teacher pay Oct. 22 amid low fill rates for classroom vacancies. “We have enough subs … they just were choosing not to pick up a job,” said Gaye Rosser, the school district’s executive director for talent management and personnel support.
Bastrop ISD administrative staff trade offices for classrooms
(Community Impact) A new districtwide initiative requires all staff to substitute in a classroom at least one day per academic year.
Gainesville ISD High School forfeits Friday football game because of injuries
(WFAA) Gainesville ISD says injuries have left the Leopards without enough healthy players to safely compete against Van Alstyne on Friday.
Texas high school coach’s son scores six touchdowns in emotional win days after father’s death
(San Antonio Express-News) Just hours after his father died, Millsap High School running back Braun Johnson delivered a performance to remember, scoring six touchdowns in a 63-0 victory over Eastland on Friday. Johnson’s father, Bulldogs head football coach Jacob “Jake” Johnson, died Friday morning at age 45 after a battle with leukemia. At the family’s request, the team played its scheduled district game, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.
Silsbee ISD coach credited with using Heimlich maneuver, possibly saving student’s life
(KFDM) Silsbee ISD coach Morgan Robberts used the Heimlich maneuver to help a choking student at Silsbee Middle School, possibly saving the student’s life. The district praised his quick, calm response.
University of Houston to train teachers on special education, literacy skills with $1.25M grant
(Community Impact) Project BRIDGE, or Building Reading Instruction and Dyslexia Guidance Expertise, is funded by a $1.25 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs. The program pays full tuition for a Master of Education in Special Education online degree, which participants can complete while working their regular jobs, said Kristi Santi, the principal investigator on the grant.
Proposed UT El Paso law school gets $5 million matching grant
(KVIA) The University of Texas at El Paso is one step closer to making legal education more accessible to the Borderland. The Woody and Gayle Hunt Family Foundation established a $5 million grant to support UTEP’s efforts to establish a law school — a major milestone for local aspiring legal professionals.
TCU aviation degree launch puts people at center of growing industry
(Fort Worth Report) North Texas aviation leaders cited billions in economic impact but wanted TCU students to center on the people behind those numbers.
Texas A&M kicks four swimmers off team for conduct violations related to hazing
(Houston Chronicle) This is the second hazing-related incident for Texas A&M’s swim team in just over three years. Texas A&M head coach Blaire Anderson did not give specific information on the allegations themselves.
UT San Antonio head men’s basketball coach arrested on DWI suspicion, suspended from team, school says
(KSAT) The head coach of the University of Texas-San Antonio men’s basketball team was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated, according to the school. Austin Claunch was suspended by UTSA on Wednesday.
Houston softball brawl leaves man with brain bleeds; organization cuts ties with team
(Houston Chronicle) A parent fight at a girls’ youth softball game in Sugar Land on Oct. 24 left one man with a fractured skull and brain bleeds after he was hit with a metal water bottle. Kiarious and Jazmine Hall were arrested, and Jazmine resigned as a Lamar CISD assistant principal. The United States Fastpitch Association dropped the team and issued lifetime bans for everyone involved.
Dallas County investigates possible E. coli cases in children, potential link to State Fair of Texas
(CBS Texas) Dallas County health officials are investigating up to seven possible cases of E. coli involving children, some of whom have become seriously ill and required treatment in intensive care units. Investigators are examining whether the illnesses could be connected to visits to the State Fair of Texas, particularly its petting zoo. However, health officials emphasize that neither the cases nor a connection to the fair has been confirmed.
Dolores Huerta, influential labor leader, feminist and civil rights icon, dies at 96
(KERA) Dolores Huerta, who co-founded the United Farm Workers union to improve working conditions in the nation’s fruit and vegetable fields and coined the phrase “Sí, se puede!” that became a widespread rallying cry, has died. She was 96. This year, Huerta sent shockwaves through the Latino community and activist circles when she revealed that she was sexually abused in the 1960s by César Chavez, leading to the birth of two children, a secret she kept for 60 years and long after he died.
How BlackRock Became Texas’ Comeback Kid
(Texas Observer) Once a blacklisted ESG (environmental/social/governance) bogeyman, the Wall Street giant has won back the Republican rulers of Texas as it pours millions into data centers and the gas plants that power them.
This North Texas food pantry says the face of hunger is changing as frustrations with economy grow
(KERA) As people get more frustrated with the economy and rising inflation, Minnie’s Food Pantry says it’s served more guests so far this year than in all of 2025.
Williamson County orders crosswalk safety study near 32 schools
(KVUE) County officials plan to work with school districts, homeowners associations and developers to improve pedestrian safety as the area grows.
Student riding scooter hit at Snyder ISD Primary School
(KTAB/KRBC) A student was hit while riding a scooter at Snyder Primary School Wednesday morning. It’s unclear what happened during the incident, but Snyder ISD officials say the student, who was alert and talking, was transported to the hospital for evaluation.
Oct. 28, 2026
UT Austin pauses school librarian certificate program amid declining enrollments
(Daily Texan) UT will not accept new applicants to its school librarian certificate program for summer 2027, after several years of declining enrollment, according to the College of Natural Sciences. The certificate is a one-year cohort for people who have completed an undergraduate degree and want to become school librarians. The program launched in 2019 to meet demand for school librarians across Texas. “We have a shortage of librarians, but people are more reluctant to enter the field,” said Carolyn Foote, a retired school librarian who taught in the program.
Parents share East Texas school surveillance video after daughter’s choking death
(CBS19) Six months after Adrian Thompson’s tragic choking incident at a Lindale ISD elementary, her parents released surveillance footage, seeking answers about the school’s response.
Grand Prairie ISD sued for canceling play after girl won lead male role
(KERA) Ana Mota, a 17-year-old Grand Prairie ISD senior, has sued the district in federal court under Title IX after she was removed from the male lead in her school’s “Little Shop of Horrors” and the play was canceled. The district cited Texas Senate Bill 12, but the lawsuit says that law doesn’t require actors to match their character’s sex. The suit asks for the play and her role to be restored.
Fort Bend ISD apologizes after security guards remove election signs and poll workers from voting site
(KPRC) Fort Bend ISD is apologizing after security guards at a polling location inside James Bowie Middle School removed election signs and told poll workers and supporters to leave, even though they were not violating any rules. The district says the guards went too far and will no longer be permitted to work security at school facilities used as polling locations. The security guards involved are also receiving corrective action.
These Round Rock ISD sixth-graders were roughhousing at school. They wound up in handcuffs
(Austin American-Statesman) The 2024 incident at a Round Rock middle school is among thousands in which children ages 10 to 13 have been swept into the state’s juvenile justice system.
Grapevine-Colleyville ISD spent $330K on legal fees. What do the bills show?
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Over a roughly two-year period, taxpayers in the Grapevine-Colleyville school district spent more than $330,000 on legal fees — with nearly $30,000 of that spent responding to public information requests, and another $150,000-plus battling a former high school principal in court.
Data breach impacts thousands of Austin ISD employees’ personal information
(Austin American-Statesman) An education software provider’s data breach exposed the personal information of nearly 45,000 current and former Austin Independent School District employees. The breach affected a third-party software system, but the company did not immediately clarify the extent of the incident. Frontline Education, which provides administration software for more than 10,000 school districts and organizations across the country, began notifying Austin ISD employees Monday of the issue.
Texas Completes First School Spending Site Review At Prosper ISD As Taxpayer Scrutiny Intensifies
(Dallas Express) Texas Comptroller Don Huffines announced Tuesday that his performance review team has completed its on-site evaluation of Prosper Independent School District and is now analyzing information gathered during last week’s visit. The team will release a comprehensive review of district operations by the end of the year. Earlier this month, Huffines selected Prosper, along with Austin, Barbers Hill, and El Paso school districts, for detailed performance reviews.
Mission school district to conduct review of falling enrollment impacts
(myRGV) At a meeting on Oct. 21, the Mission CISD school board voted on a resolution for the superintendent to conduct a comprehensive review of programs, services, staffing and expenditures at a time when the district is facing a decline in student enrollment, a budget deficit and a decreasing fund balance. The resolution also directs Superintendent Cris King to develop options and strategies for aligning district programs, services, organizational structures, staffing and spending with current and projected student enrollment and educational needs.
Leonard ISD High School principal arrested for failure to report employee misconduct
(KXII) Police arrested Leonard High School Principal Jansen Trotter on Tuesday. In a social media post, the Leonard Police Department said it arrested Jansen Dru Trotter for failing to report employee misconduct with intent to conceal. Police did not provide details on the misconduct, the employee involved or how Trotter allegedly concealed it. They said the case remains under multi-agency investigation.
North East ISD: Two sergeants fired, three other officers disciplined over botched response to Serna Elementary School threat
(KSAT) North East ISD fired two police sergeants and suspended three other officers for mishandling an August threat against San Antonio’s Serna Elementary School. The suspect, 23-year-old Nathaniel Carrasco, was arrested on a felony terroristic threat charge after allegedly writing in an AI chat that he planned to shoot children at the school.
Lamar CISD Junior High assistant principal resigns after alleged assault at Sugar Land softball game
(Houston Chronicle) A Lamar Junior High School assistant principal, Jazmine K. Hall, resigned Monday after being arrested over an alleged physical attack at a youth softball game in Sugar Land over the weekend. Hall, who served as the Rosenberg school’s seventh-grade assistant principal, was charged with assault causing bodily injury, a Class A misdemeanor, according to Fort Bend County court records. Lamar CISD confirmed the incident involved an employee who resigned Monday.
Former Prosper ISD JROTC instructor convicted of indecent assault of student
(Dallas Morning News) A former JROTC instructor at a Prosper ISD high school has been convicted of indecent assault for touching an 18-year-old student under her shirt while they were alone in a classroom supply closet, Collin County prosecutors said Tuesday. A Collin County jury found Michael Christopher Songy, 44, of Frisco, guilty of the Class A misdemeanor. Judge David Waddill will sentence him Nov. 12. Songy’s 2025 arrest was one of several cases involving Prosper ISD employees cited in a March lawsuit that seeks to remove five school board trustees for allegedly failing to address problems with how sexual abuse was handled.
14 Year Old Eagle Pass Junior High School Student Detained Following Social Media Threat
(Eagle Pass Business Journal) A 14-year-old male student attending Eagle Pass Junior High School was detained and subsequently placed in a juvenile detention facility following an investigation into a threatening social media post referencing a possible act of terrorism against the school.
Arlington students return to class after bomb threats cleared at 3 schools
(Fox 4 KDFW) Multiple schools in Arlington evacuated Tuesday morning after receiving bomb threats. Some students were moved to Martin High School while police and firefighters searched their campus. The Arlington Fire Department gave the all-clear for all students to return to class just after lunch.
Hamilton ISD campuses evacuate due to bomb threat
(KWTX) Hamilton ISD evacuated their High School, Elementary and Junior High campuses Tuesday after receiving a bomb threat, according to a social media post.
Bomb threat prompts evacuation at Sotomayor High School, Northside ISD officials say
(KENS) Students and staff evacuated Sonia Sotomayor High School around noon Tuesday after a phoned-in bomb threat, according to Northside ISD officials.
UT Dell Medicine officially launches as UT Austin’s academic health system
(KXAN) The University of Texas at Austin officially unveiled UT Dell Medicine on Tuesday, marking the launch of its academic health system designed to bring together patient care, research and medical education under one organization.
Judge dismisses all claims against UTHealth Houston president in Virginia lawsuit
(Houston Chronicle) A judge dismissed all claims against UTHealth Houston President Dr. Melina Kibbe in a lawsuit related to her tenure at the University of Virginia.
Lawsuit claims TCU mishandled campus rape complaint
(Fox 4 KDFW) A $250 million lawsuit filed against TCU alleges the school failed to properly handle a rape complaint, and also accuses the school of deceptive recruitment.
Texas Children’s Hospital opens detransition clinic after $10 million Paxton settlement
(KHOU) Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston has opened a detransition clinic under a settlement announced in May, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said Tuesday. Paxton’s office described the clinic as the first of its kind in the U.S. The clinic provides medical care to patients who previously received gender-transition care. It offers detransition-related medical care to patients through age 21 and detransition-related obstetric and gynecologic care to patients older than 21, according to Paxton’s office.
Map Shows Texas Data Center Boom as Pollution Warning Issued
(Newsweek) A new study warns that Texas’s booming AI data centers could erase decades of air-pollution progress, possibly pushing some emissions back to early-2000s levels by 2031. How the extra power is generated matters a lot, but even the cleanest option would still raise pollution. Gov. Greg Abbott has ordered an audit of data-center projects and paused their environmental permits until it’s done.
Mississippi DEI Ban Can Go Into Full Effect After Fifth Circuit Reversal
(US News & World Report) The U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals vacated a lower-court ruling that prevented portions of a Mississippi ban on diversity, equity and inclusion from being enforced. The Fifth Circuit also ordered that the case be reassigned to a different district court judge after U.S. District Judge Henry Wingate issued a “botch job” temporary restraining order that contained artificial intelligence hallucinations, according to the ruling.
Families heartbroken after Plano Senior High removes memorial honoring students, staff who died
(CBS Texas) A multimillion-dollar renovation at Plano Senior High School has sparked frustration and sadness among families and alumni after a memorial honoring students and staff who died was removed from campus. The Memorial Wall and Garden had served as a place of remembrance for years, honoring members of the school community whose lives were cut short. In a statement, Plano ISD described the removal as temporary and said it was necessary because of ongoing construction.
Pre-K 4 SA hopes to expand partnerships, strengthen childcare ecosystem with future efforts
(Texas Public Radio) Pre-K 4 SA, San Antonio’s sales-tax-funded early childhood program, is asking voters in November to renew it for 20 years. Beyond running four model centers, it trains and supports about 90 local childcare providers and hopes to grow that number to 300.
Dallas ISD students set record number of college credits earned
(Dallas ISD) Dallas ISD students are getting a head start on higher education, earning college degrees and credits before they graduate high school. Through the district’s 19 P-TECH programs and seven Early College High Schools, students are accelerating their education. In the 2025- 2026 school year, a record 1,305 students earned associate degrees, more than double the 628 students who achieved the milestone in 2020. The district also saw record growth in students earning either an associate degree or more than 60 college credit hours, increasing from 686 in 2020 to 1,376 in 2026.
Deaf football player in Arlington ISD gets 10 college scholarship offers
(NBC DFW) Kaleb Phifer says that instead of focusing on limitations, he has proved himself through work ethic and commitment.
Oct. 27, 2026
Texas families can use school voucher money to shop online. Who’s overseeing the spending?
(KERA) Texas families began receiving money from the state’s new billion-dollar private school voucher program this summer, with another round of funding arriving earlier this month. Now, they’re discovering just how much they can buy beyond tuition. Some critics are questioning how broadly the state’s voucher program was written.
A look inside ‘High 5,’ a teaching strategy San Antonio ISD is hoping will turn academics around and keep state intervention away
(San Antonio Report) San Antonio ISD’s new Superintendent Adrian Bustillos now requires the 80 district-run schools to use “High 5,” a standardized teaching model meant to raise test scores and avoid a state takeover. The three campuses run by Third Future Schools are exempt, and the district’s other in-district charter partners, which operate 26 schools, can choose whether to adopt it. At a Monday school board meeting, dozens of teachers called the model formulaic and overly prescriptive. Trustees were split: some pressed the administration to weigh teachers’ concerns, while others backed Bustillos, saying this is the change he was hired to make.
A Texas public school district considers charging families $20K a year
(Houston Chronicle) Could public school cost $20K? Eanes ISD, home to Westlake High, debated charging out-of-district transfers private-school prices before dropping the plan. Related:
Some Webb Middle School parents say they were misled in petition to close the Austin ISD campus
(Fox 7 Austin) Austin ISD’s Burnet and Webb middle schools received five consecutive “F ratings from the Texas Education Agency. Now, the district faces a potential state takeover. Some parents say they’re confused about a petition that could help determine their school’s future. The Webb Middle School PTA held a press conference saying some parents were misled about a petition circulating at both campuses.
Texas schools want to use AI in class without hurting learning. But how?
(Dallas Morning News) As AI-powered tools become a more common feature in Texas classrooms, school leaders are scrambling to figure out what role that technology should play in learning. Some districts are moving aggressively, and others more deliberately.
‘Until I hold you again’: Tribute to Brantley Conner, Dayton ISD teen killed in school bus hit-and-run bus crash
(KFDM) A public memorial for 13-year-old Brantley Conner will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31, at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home in Dayton. Brantley died Oct. 22, six days after a hit-and-run near U.S. 90 and Stilson Road. Dayton ISD bus driver Ricky Eugene Cherry, 70, has been charged with collision causing death. A GoFundMe campaign was created Oct. 17, the day after Brantley was struck.
Nearly 1.45 Million Texas Homeowners Pay No School Property Taxes As Broader Relief Debate Looms
(Dallas Express) Nearly 1.45 million Texas homeowners age 65 or older or with qualifying disabilities pay no school district property taxes, according to figures state Sen. Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston). The findings underscore the effect of existing exemptions while raising a separate question: Should Texas increase the general school district homestead exemption to $200,000 for every eligible primary residence?
Meridian ISD High School cancels remainder of football season due to player injuries
(KXXV) Meridian High School announced Monday afternoon it has canceled the remainder of its football season, citing injuries that have affected the team and its ability to safely continue competition.
‘I feel horrible:’ Austin ISD’s Liberal Arts and Science Academy forfeits the 3 games left on its high school football schedule
(Austin American-Statesman) Austin ISD’s Liberal Arts and Science Academy is forfeiting its last three football games against Pflugerville, Crockett and Bastrop because it doesn’t have enough players, which ends its winless season. It’s the second time in three years LASA’s low numbers have disrupted other schools’ schedules. “I feel horrible, not just for the Austin ISD kids, but for those kids from other districts who worked all offseason and all summer,” said AISD athletic director Jason Glenn, adding: “And not just the football players, but the band, fine arts and cheer kids. Schools deserve to have 10 football games.”
Houston ISD opens new Sunrise Center for families in need at Worthing High School
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD opened its ninth Sunrise Center, which gives families food, clothing, supplies and other help. It’s the first one inside a school, at Worthing High, and the first in the Sunnyside neighborhood, where many families don’t have cars. Residents asked for it, and parents say it will make help easier to reach. Related:
UT Austin is adding a college with no majors. Here’s what it will oversee
(Austin American-Statesman) Unlike UT’s other 17 traditional colleges, University College will oversee and approve undergraduate requirements to protect UT’s new core standards.
TWU holds ceremonial groundbreaking for $30M athletic complex
(Community Impact) Texas Woman’s University ceremonially broke ground on its Chaney Athletics Complex on Oct. 23. The $30 million facility will be constructed on land next to the university’s Pioneer Soccer Park and is expected to cover approximately 35,000 square feet, according to a university news release.
Abilene Christian University’s endowment surpasses $1 billion
(KTXS) Abilene Christian University’s endowment has surpassed $1 billion, marking a historic financial milestone that university leaders hope will expand academic opportunities and strengthen long-term institutional resources.
Second parent alleges Northside ISD Zachry Middle School failed to accommodate nonverbal autistic son
(News4SA) A second parent has accused San Antonio’s Zachry Middle School of mistreating a nonverbal autistic student. Heather Barker says she withdrew her son in 2024 after staff refused to heat his special-diet meals and left him unsupervised despite his education plan requiring a constant aide, at one point letting him fall down the stairs. Northside ISD is investigating, and parents plan to protest Wednesday.
Parents of victim in Metzger MS stabbing speak out seeking justice for their son
(KSAT) The parents of a boy who was stabbed at Metzger Middle School in Judson ISD in September are speaking out. They say he was not bullying the 11-year-old girl accused of the attack, despite claims her family made in court. They say she stabbed him four times after he told her to be quiet during a lockdown drill. He is back at school but still shaken, and his parents want justice.
VIDEO: Husband, wife arrested after fight at Sugar Land youth softball game leaves man unconscious
(KPRC) An argument over cheering at a Sugar Land youth softball game on Oct. 24 turned into a fight that left one man unconscious, and police arrested Kiarious Hall and his wife, Jazmine Hall. Jazmine Hall, a Lamar CISD employee charged with misdemeanor assault, resigned from the district on Oct. 26.
United ISD opens new $55M child nutrition center
(Laredo Morning Times) United ISD has opened its new $55 million Child Nutrition Center, a state-of-the-art facility serving more than 55,000 meals each day to students.
What new spending did Fort Worth ISD managers OK in October? Copiers, insurance and security
(Fort Worth Report) The managers approved nearly $3.3 million for printing services, student-device insurance and security patrols.
Lamar CISD adopting Avant World Languages Assessment requirements
(Community Impact) Lamar Consolidated ISD students will soon go through a new testing process for international languages.
Losing an election taught Hurst-Euless-Bedford ISD student how to lead
(Fort Worth Report) Suchit Agarwal, a 17-year-old student at L.D. Bell High School in Hurst, was named one of Tarrant County’s 18 Under 18 for his leadership and community service. He ranks near the top of his class, helps lead the student council, and teaches CPR to fellow students. After losing a race for regional student council president, he congratulated the winner and said the loss taught him that you don’t need a title to make a difference.
Black Texans Built More than 400 Schools When the State Would Not
(Texas Observer) What we can learn from Rosenwald schools and Jeanes teachers today.
Fox falls through ceiling during LEE High School lunch period, North East ISD officials say
(KENS) According to the district, the fox likely found an entry point somewhere along the roofline, eventually falling through a ceiling tile during LEE’s fourth lunch. The cafeteria was immediately evacuated, and officials were able to capture the fox.
‘Absolutely ridiculous’: Dallas still hasn’t received Republican midterm convention reimbursement
(KERA) Dallas city staff have released the final bill for hosting the Republican midterm convention at the American Airlines Center for two days in September: $800,000. The Republican National Committee has yet to reimburse the city, and it’s unclear if they will. “That’s absolutely ridiculous,” council member Maxie Johnson said during a Monday afternoon council meeting. “I’m just really uncomfortable, and I feel that this is wrong that this has not been rectified at this moment.”
Oct. 26, 2026
From the bleachers to the ballot box, a community weighs a changing Texas
(Houston Public Media) At a Deer Park High School football game outside Houston, voters grapple with rising costs, immigration and shifting political loyalties as Democrats mount competitive challenges in two of Texas’ highest-profile races.
9 years after deadly mass shooting, Santa Fe High-School will get its long-awaited victims’ memorial
(Houston Chronicle) The names of each of the eight students and two teachers who died in the 2018 Santa Fe High School shooting will soon anchor a long-awaited victims’ memorial that could stand on campus as soon as May.
Dozens of Texas agencies say they can’t afford to make state-mandated budget cuts
(Community Impact) Texas leaders have told most state agencies and universities to cut their budget requests by 3% for 2028–29 to make room for more property tax relief. Dozens of agencies, including the comptroller, prisons, and university systems, warn the cuts would harm essential services. Public school funding and some required programs are exempt, and lawmakers will make final decisions during the 2027 session.
Killeen ISD sees enrollment drop over 3 years
(KCEN) Killeen ISD reported that enrollment numbers have dropped over 5,000 students over the past three years.
Teen struck by Dayton ISD bus driver in hit-and-run has died, father says
(KTRK) A 14-year-old who was struck by a Dayton ISD school bus driver who allegedly left him injured at the scene died on Thursday, according to his father. ABC13 reported on Oct. 17 that Brantley Conner’s father said he was “fighting for his life” after the hit-and-run crash. In a tragic update on Saturday, Andrew Conner confirmed his son had died. The Dayton ISD bus driver, now identified as Ricky Eugene Cherry, was arrested hours after the crash, according to the Dayton Police Department. Police said that Brantley was not a student passenger, but a pedestrian in the area when he was struck.
Wylie ISD band bus driver arrested in connection to fatal crash
(KTAB/KRBC) A Wylie ISD band bus driver, John Alexander De La Garza, was arrested and charged with collision involving death after allegedly hitting a pedestrian who was out of his vehicle on I-20 near Tye on Oct. 17, seconds after another vehicle had struck the man. Court documents say bus video shows him watching his phone at the time of the crash before briefly checking the bus and driving away. A statement from Wylie ISD states De La Garza hit what he believed to be debris in the road at the time of the crash, stopped to inspect his bus, then kept going. He is being held on a $50,000 bond.
Clear Lake ISD High School student seriously injured after school bus hits bicycle
(Fox 26 Houston ) A Clear Creek ISD school bus pulling out of Clear Lake High School on Oct. 16 hit 16-year-old Jakxon Kessler as he biked home, dragging him about 30 feet. He suffered serious injuries, including spinal fractures that required surgery. His mother says his helmet saved his life and urges other parents to make sure their kids wear one. Houston police are investigating.
Boyd ISD trying to remove school resource officer connected to locker room hazing investigation, documents show
(Fox 4 KDFW) After four students were arrested for an alleged hazing incident at Boyd High School in Wise County in September, Fox 4 has uncovered documents revealing Boyd ISD officials are trying to remove a school resource officer connected to the investigation.
Wife of former Hardin-Jefferson ISD coach faces evidence-tampering charge
(KBMT) Sharon Peveto faces a tampering charge as investigators claim she deleted Facebook accounts amid a probe into her husband, Derek Peveto’s, alleged crimes.
Records: Starr County teacher admits to having sex with student more than 10 times
(ValleyCentral) Criminal complaints obtained by ValleyCentral allege that a teacher arrested on felony charges in Starr County admitted to engaging in sex acts with a student multiple times on and off campus. Francisco Contreras Jr. was arrested earlier this month on a charge of improper relationship between educator and student, a second-degree felony, and two counts of sexual assault of a child, a second-degree felony. A spokesperson for the Starr County Sheriff’s Office confirmed to ValleyCentral that the alleged incident occurred within the Rio Grande City Grulla Independent School District.
North Texas teacher allegedly sent students poop, porn and genital memes
(Houston Chronicle) A former Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD teacher, Landon Beck, 32, was indicted Oct. 7 on a federal charge of lying to the FBI, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas. Prosecutors say Beck, who had worked for the district since March 2023, used the district’s internal messaging system to send students inappropriate images. These allegedly included crude and sexual photos and memes. They also say he talked about a pornography website with a special needs student and used a demeaning nickname for another. When investigators asked him about the messages, prosecutors say, he falsely claimed the students had sent them.
Ex-Liberty Hill ISD staff member under investigation after inappropriate communications with student
(KXAN) A staff member at Legacy Ranch High School is no longer employed with Liberty Hill ISD after the district learned of allegations Oct. 16. According to LHISD, the employee was accused of inappropriately communicating with a student outside of school hours. The district said it promptly reported the incident to Texas Child Protective Services, local law enforcement and the Texas Education Agency.
Parents and students question Northside ISD Briscoe Middle School’s response after reported threat
(News4SA) A student’s threat against Briscoe Middle School in Northside ISD frightened families and led to long pickup lines. Police detained the student while they checked whether the threat was credible. Parents say the district’s one email didn’t tell them enough about safety, and at least one is keeping her child home Monday until she gets answers.
Gun found at Houston ISD’s Hogg Middle School; student in custody
(Fox 26 Houston) A student was taken into police custody after a firearm was found at Hogg Middle School on Friday morning, according to Houston ISD. No students or staff were harmed, according to the district.
Former Texas Tech professor sentenced to 40 years for making, selling fentanyl including ‘pink flamingo’
(KFDA) A former Texas Tech University professor who manufactured and distributed fentanyl — including a pink-dyed mixture branded as “pink flamingo” — was sentenced to 40 years in federal prison. Daniel Taylor, 51, pleaded guilty July 1 to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. U.S. District Judge James Wesley Hendrix imposed the 480-month sentence Friday. According to court documents, Taylor was an assistant professor of supply chain management at Texas Tech’s Rawls College of Business when he began distributing fentanyl powder in the Lubbock area.
“Silence is getting a bit loud”: Emails show UT leaders took heat for slow response to Bo French post
(Texas Tribune) Despite pressure from students and graduates to condemn the remarks as racist, University of Texas officials took a more careful approach. Related:
University of Houston reports a 61% increase in reports of violence against women
(Houston Chronicle) Reports of violence against women at University of Houston increased 61.11% from 2024 to 2025, according to the university’s annual Security and Fire Safety Report, which was released on Sept. 30. Violence against women includes dating violence, domestic violence and stalking.
UNT gets $500K to bring North Texas college dropouts back to school
(Houston Chronicle) Started college, got busy with life and never finished? UNT just got $500K from the Andrew Carnegie Foundation to help North Texans go back and prepare for in-demand careers.
Texas Mother Sentenced to 25 Years for Trying to Treat Daughter’s Fatal Neck Injury With Smoothies
(Globe) A Texas mother, Denise Balbaneda, was sentenced under a plea deal to 25 years in prison for failing to get medical care for her 12-year-old daughter, who died of a neck injury in 2024, according to the Pleasanton Express. Instead of taking her to a doctor, Balbaneda and her husband kept the girl on a pallet at home for four days and gave her smoothies and oxygen. The girl’s stepfather faces the same charge, and his case is still pending. It remains unclear how the girl suffered the initial neck injury.
UT Rio Grande Valley can’t stop selling out football games. Is its stadium big enough?
(Houston Chronicle) They’ve sold out every home game in program history, with more than 12,000 fans on the season-ticket wait list.
Rice is breaking ground on a massive new tower-but saving the trees first
(Houston Chronicle) Rice University is moving two historic live oaks-including a 750,000-lb tree-to build a new park and $170M residential tower near Rice Village.
Austin man sentenced to 41 months in federal prison for $1 million University of Austin investment fraud
(Fox 7 Austin) John Stuart Robison, 63, was sentenced to 41 months in federal prison and ordered to pay $1 million in restitution for wire fraud and money laundering. Robison convinced an investor to wire $1 million under the pretense of supporting the University of Austin, but spent virtually all of it within months. Prosecutors revealed Robison transferred $250,000 to his personal account just one day after receiving the wire transfer and used falsified property contracts.
EXCLUSIVE: State Sen. Taylor Rehmet’s Campaign Sent Fundraising Appeals To Carroll ISD As Superintendent Raised Electioneering Concerns
(Dallas Express) Carroll ISD’s superintendent raised electioneering concerns after the office of state Sen. Taylor Rehmet (D-District 9) requested a football game “shoutout,” emails obtained by The Dallas Express show.
Fort Bend County approves $10B Tesla deal with 10-year tax break tied to 8,700 jobs
(Houston Public Media) If Tesla chooses Fort Bend County as the location for the new solar manufacturing facility, the company will be required to employ a minimum of 8,700-plus workers by the time the site is fully operational, in exchange for the tax break from the county.
Texas youth prison director resigns following controversial multiday lockdown
(Texas Standard) Shandra Carter’s sudden departure comes weeks after KERA and The Texas Newsroom revealed the disturbing effects of an unprecedented lockdown across the agency’s facilities.
North Texas football team banned from playoffs due to use of ineligible players
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Blue Ridge football has been banned from the University Interscholastic League playoffs for the use of multiple ineligible players, a 7-3A Division II district executive committee (DEC) member confirmed to the Star-Telegram. Blue Ridge ISD placed head coach and athletic director Jason Russell on leave on Oct. 5 when it initially discovered eligibility issues. The DEC ruled Russell will receive an official reprimand and will also refer the matter to the UIL state executive committee with a recommendation for additional penalties.
Millsap ISD community honors beloved football coach that died after years-long battle with cancer
(WFAA) Jacob Johnson, 45, the head football coach and athletic director at Millsap High School died Friday morning after a three-year battle with leukemia. Johnson has been a pillar in this small community for more than a decade. He had been fighting leukemia for the past three years. But he continued to coach and to motivate his student athletes as long as he could. Johnson died early Friday morning at a Dallas hospital.
Texas custodian Marilyn Hampton breaks down in tears as new elementary school is named in her honor
(New York Post) A Texas school custodian burst into tears after she learned a new elementary school would be named in her honor — 39 years after she first started working for the district. Marilyn Hampton, who retired this year, was surprised when the Aubrey Independent School District board of trustees announced Wednesday that “Elementary School Number Five” will be known as “Marilyn Hampton Elementary School” when it opens next year. “She may not have the official title of an educator, but she was in every meaningful sense a teacher and an educator at heart,” Superintendent Shannon Saylor said of Hampton, according to footage that the school shared on social media.
Oct. 23, 2026
Texas won’t say which private schools and vendors are profiting from state vouchers
(Houston Chronicle) Texas Comptroller Don Huffines has repeatedly touted himself as an open-government advocate championing taxpayers who want to know how the state is spending their money. Yet when it comes to the state’s new $1 billion school voucher program – arguably the most high-profile pot of money under his supervision – he’s repeatedly kept the spending secret. In response to public information requests over the last month, his office has refused to say how millions of dollars of state funds have been distributed to private schools and vendors through the program. Related:
Texas Education Agency outlines mandatory reporting policies for educator misconduct
(KCBD) TEA logged 19,766 educator misconduct reports in fiscal year 2026, triple the prior year. Levi Fuller, TEA’s Inspector General for Educator Misconduct, said the agency is prioritizing grooming cases. He also stressed that administrators who fail to report misconduct within the required deadlines face criminal charges, ranging from a Class A misdemeanor to a state jail felony for intentional concealment. Fuller encouraged parents to report directly to TEA, noting the agency can’t act on misconduct it never hears about.
Houston ISD plans to expand Mike Miles’ Future 2 AI model to 25 more campuses next school year
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD plans to deepen its focus on artificial intelligence through more Future 2 schools, an AI course for high school students and AI-assisted special education plans.
Teachers, students press Beaumont ISD board for changes, voice concerns about superintendent
(KFDM) Major concerns about leadership in the Beaumont Independent School District spilled into a tense and emotional school board meeting Thursday night as students, teachers and parents lined up to demand changes aimed at BISD Superintendent Sandi Massey. “Unfortunately, you have brought this community together in opposition to your initiatives, and that should say something,” said Tamara Richards, president of the Region 5 Association of Texas Professional Educators. Richards joined other teachers, students and parents in stepping up to the podium one after another, demanding leadership improvements in BISD and calling for the removal of Sandi Massey if that doesn’t happen.
Round Rock ISD now facing budget deficit
(KXAN) Round Rock ISD says inflation is hitting their district hard, with a now projected $10.9 million deficit expected. The district was projecting a $75,000 budget surplus before the costs rose so high. Rising diesel costs have Round Rock ISD Transportation Director Tina Fausett looking at ways to save, but that can be a challenge. Fausett says she is expecting to pay about $600,000 more than they budgeted for if prices don’t drop. That’s not the only increase the district expects to see, increasing healthcare costs are causing the district headaches as well.
College Station ISD board divided: Accusations, new rules, and frustrated teachers
(KBTX) College Station ISD’s school board has been split since July, with one trustee accusing others of secret real estate inquiries and the board president responding with stricter rules for meetings. Meanwhile, teachers are telling the board they’re overworked and underpaid, with one veteran working two extra jobs and another quitting due to burnout.
Fewer babies, more empty nesters and ‘fierce’ competition: Why North East ISD is proposing the closure of 3 elementary schools
(San Antonio Report) North East ISD in San Antonio may close three elementary schools next year, with a board vote as soon as November. The district has lost about 10,000 students in a decade due to falling birth rates, aging neighborhoods and competition from charter and private schools, and closing the schools would save about $4 million of a $20 million deficit. The superintendent says more closures are likely in coming years.
On the Bus and in the Hallways: Rising Misbehavior Strains Texas School Districts
(KSST) Texas middle schoolers are increasingly being sent to juvenile court for minor misbehavior. The causes are strict state discipline laws, more police on campuses, and overcrowded alternative schools. A bus driver shortage has also made rides longer and more crowded, which leads to more fights. Critics warn this gives kids early criminal records. Schools say they need more staff and better options.
Surging Diesel Prices Push School Districts to Cutting Field Trips, Re-routing Buses, and Scrutinizing Away-Game Travel
(KSST) Diesel prices near $6 a gallon are squeezing school budgets, and more than half of districts went over their fuel budgets last year. To save money, districts are cutting field trips, cutting back on away-game travel, and combining bus routes.
S&P Global: DeSoto Independent School District, TX Bond Rating Cut Six Notches To ‘BB-’ On Financial Deterioration; Outlook Neg
(S&P Global) S&P Global Ratings lowered its underlying rating on DeSoto Independent School District, Texas’ unlimited-tax general obligation (GO) debt outstanding and its limited-tax maintenance tax notes to ‘BB-‘ from ‘A-‘. The outlook is negative. “We do not expect the district’s finances to improve materially in the near future, and we expect cash flow to remain strained, potentially hindering the district’s operations and raising the risk of nonpayment of its debt.”
Arlington ISD will pay for some failed athletic and fine arts items with banked bond earnings
(Arlington Report) The district has roughly $45 million in 2019 bond interest earnings. The items will cost roughly $17 million.
Texas high school QB reinstated after stunning UIL reversal
(USA Today) Lewisville junior quarterback Laykon Brassfield has been ruled eligible by the University Interscholastic League. The UIL executive committee’s unanimous vote overturns a previous UIL district ruling that found him ineligible over a dual-residency issue.
Former Belton High teacher sentenced to 78 months in federal child porn case
(KWTX) A former Belton High School teacher was sentenced Wednesday to 78 months in federal prison for possession of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas announced. Pietro Victor Giustino, 40, will also serve five years of supervised release and was ordered to pay a $5,000 Victims of Trafficking Act assessment and a $10,000 Amy, Vicky, and Andy Assistance Act assessment by U.S. District Judge Christopher Wolfe.
San Antonio ISD teacher fired after investigation into 11-year-old hit in head five times
(News4SA) An 11-year-old boy’s family said it is finally getting answers weeks after they reported the fifth grader was repeatedly hit in the head by a substitute teacher at Bowden Academy. Angelica Cerda said her son, Narcisso Sanroman, asked the substitute for help with a math question. Cerda said that is when the substitute hit him in the head five times with his own notebook. Cerda said she has now received a letter from San Antonio ISD confirming the district’s investigation found the alleged misconduct occurred. San Antonio police are investigating whether criminal charges should be filed.
Termination proposed for Fort Worth ISD high school coach; TEA investigates misconduct
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) A Fort Worth ISD high school golf coach was proposed for termination during a school board meeting last week as the Texas Education Agency reviews allegations of misconduct, district officials confirmed Thursday. North Side High School coach Jesus Sanchez-Ontiveros faced the board action during an Oct. 13 meeting. He has a right to appeal this decision prior to any final action by the board to terminate his contract, Fort Worth ISD officials said in a statement. Further details regarding the reason for the proposed termination were not released.
Police: Former Pflugerville ISD teacher arrested for having relationship with student
(Fox 7 Austin) Pflugerville police said on Oct. 20, with the help of the San Marcos Police Department, investigators arrested 21-year-old Angel Dominguez in San Marcos. Dominguez is accused of having an improper relationship with a student at Hendrickson High School. He worked as a band tech last year.
Northwest ISD says multiple fights ‘distracted’ its ‘learning environment’ Wednesday, denies rumors of gun on campus
(WFAA) Northwest ISD said in a letter to parents that after breaking up multiple fights on Wednesday morning, school resumed as normal and denied rumors of a gun on campus.
Affidavit reveals Lewisville ISD Hebron High School teacher’s alleged relationship with student
(CBS Texas) Lewisville ISD teacher Gloria Resendiz, 35, has been charged with child grooming and indecency with a child after police say they found evidence of an inappropriate relationship with a former student. Investigators cited text messages showing she gave the student gifts, along with journal-style notes on the student’s phone describing physical contact and the need to keep the relationship secret. The school resource officer also learned the student had been spending lunch periods alone in Resendiz’s classroom. The district says she remains on administrative leave and is barred from all district facilities.
United ISD police investigating after teen hit by car outside campus
(KGNS) A United High School student was taken to a hospital after being hit by a car near the school’s entrance. United ISD said the teen was walking toward the school’s entrance when she was hit from behind by a car on Wednesday, Oct. 21. Laredo Fire said crews responded to the campus and found the 17-year-old hurt on her left side. She was taken to a hospital for treatment. UISD police are leading the investigation.
Family seeks answers after Plano Senior High memorial is removed
(WFAA) A North Texas family is urging Plano Senior High School to restore a memorial for students who died, including a loved one, after it was removed during renovations.
TCU chancellor resigns after less than two years at helm
(Texas Tribune) Daniel Pullin’s time at the private Fort Worth institution included disputes over academic priorities and faculty input. Victor Boschini Jr., who led TCU for 22 years, is replacing him.
UT Austin announces new University College to teach core curriculum
(KUT) UT Austin is creating a new University College, led by professor Devin Stauffer, to run a slimmed-down core curriculum that cuts hundreds of courses and drops required credit hours from 42 to 36. The plan still needs state and regent approval, and critics say it favors Western civilization, duplicates a college UT eliminated in 2025, and was rolled out without faculty input. Students also protested President Jim Davis’s silence on recent racist incidents on campus. Related:
More than 100 years coming, TWU acknowledges a historic injustice with new Quakertown Memorial
(KERA) It has taken 103 years. On Tuesday morning, Texas Woman’s University leaders gathered with the descendants of Quakertown, a thriving Black community that flourished near downtown Denton from the mid-1870s until the residents of the freedman’s town were forcibly relocated between 1922 and 1923. Together, the descendants of Quakertown and TWU leaders officially opened the Quakertown Memorial.
Texas State University fraternity pledges arrested for hazing ‘tradition,’ San Marcos police say
(KSAT) San Marcos police arrested four Phi Delta Theta pledges at Texas State University after callers reported several men forcing another man into a pickup truck late Tuesday night. According to an affidavit, the 18-year-old, an active fraternity member, had his mouth taped and yelled for help, but he was not hurt. The group told officers the act was a tradition and part of their initiation. All four were charged with misdemeanor hazing and given a magistrate warning.
West Texas DA opens forgery investigation into disputed transgender mailers
(Texas Tribune) The pamphlets appear to be an attempt to anger voters ahead of the midterm elections, said Sarah Stogne Republican District Attorney for Loving, Reeves and Ward counties.
Fort Bend County tax assessor federally indicted for allegedly using county funds to pay for her mother’s caretaker
(Houston Public Media) Fort Bend County’s tax assessor, Carmen Turner, was arrested on federal charges for allegedly misusing county money. Prosecutors say she paid two people as county tax clerks when they were really caring for her 81-year-old mother. She’s also accused of putting her son’s father on the county payroll while he worked a full-time job in Chicago. Two others were charged with her, and she’s still in office while the case moves forward.
Trump administration: English learner, other minority protections ‘not enforceable’
(K-12 Dive) The Trump administration is abandoning a slew of guidance documents, resources for districts, and civil rights enforcement approaches meant to make education more accessible for English learners, Black and other marginalized students, according to an update scheduled to be published in the Federal Register Oct. 23.
Texas SNAP participation drops to a 17-year low as the feds tighten eligibility
(Texas Tribune) The state health agency is also processing 64% of SNAP applications in a timely manner — within 30 days — even though the required rate is 95%.
Alleged voter fraud from past elections in Texas under investigation, U.S. attorney says
(KSAT) Justin Simmons says his office has a ‘handful’ of active investigations, but did not provide an exact number.
Austin proposal to restrict tobacco sales near schools, daycares draws concerns from businesses
(KVUE) Austin officials said zoning changes could limit youth access to tobacco and vapes, but some business owners worry the rules could restrict growth.
Tuloso-Midway ISD students get a major upgrade with new career training facility
(KIII) The new facility provides high school students with hands-on training, including medical labs, to prepare them for college and future careers.
Homegrown workforce depends on Tarrant County schools, employers working together
(Fort Worth Report) Students want more career exposure. A Fort Worth Report Growth Summit panel says schools, colleges and employers must work together.
Oct. 22, 2026
Four key November races could push Texas education board further right
(Texas Tribune) Three conservative Republicans known for compromise on divisive topics did not seek reelection, while a seat representing the Rio Grande Valley could sway in either political direction.
How Boerne ISD’s new in-school prayer period will work
(San Antonio Express-News) Boerne ISD’s prayer period policy creates daily blocks for prayer and religious readings at every school.
Houston parents ‘appalled’ by Texas’ new social studies curriculum
(Courier Texas) Houston ISD’s state takeover and Bluebonnet Learning curriculum are drawing parent critiques, and in some cases, are prompting parents to pull their children out of the district.
Humble ISD trustees streamline process for acquiring some library materials
(Community Impact) Humble ISD trustees approved a change to the rules stipulating how the district’s School Library Advisory Council approves certain materials, a move that should streamline the process for committee members and librarians.
Ysleta ISD renames Cesar Chavez Academy
(KTSM) In a 6-1 vote, the Ysleta Independent School District Board of Trustees approved renaming Cesar Chavez Academy on Wednesday, Oct. 21 to The Academy. Dissenting school board member Shane Haggerty argued that there should be another name for the school that reflects the Mexican-American roots of the community.
Beaumont ISD: Sandi Massey has passed Superintendent Certification Exam
(KFDM) Beaumont ISD says superintendent Sandi Massey completed the Superintendent’s Certification exam and received notification that she has passed. Massey had said she was working toward the certification when the TEA appointed her to the position after the agency took over BISD.
2 months in, Austin ISD bus hubs draw continued concerns from parents
(KVUE) Austin ISD estimates its new high school transportation hub system will save about $1.8 million, but some parents say the changes have added transportation challenges and raised concerns about student safety. The district introduced centralized bus hubs for high school students this school year as part of efforts to reduce transportation costs. Elementary and middle school students continue to use neighborhood bus stops.
KHOU 11 Investigates: Houston-area school districts failed to report bus crashes to TEA
(KHOU) Nine districts reported no bus crashes to TEA for at least two of the past three years, despite other state data showing crashes within their boundaries.
Frisco ISD introduces fee-based bus service, expanding the number of students it serves
(WFAA) Frisco ISD will now offer bus services to students who previously didn’t have it, but families will have to pay a fee. The new fee-based system will provide bus service to students who do not currently qualify for it, the district said in a statement. The fare-based busing will only be available for established bus routes with available seats, officials said. No additional routes will be added, the district said. Families will pay $500 for the 2026-2027 busing service, while students on the free and reduced meal program will pay $175, officials said.
Austin ISD to end monthly health savings account contributions for employees in 2027
(KVUE) Austin ISD will stop contributing to employee health savings accounts in January 2027, a change the district estimates will save $9.2 million as healthcare costs continue to rise nationwide. The district currently contributes $133 a month to health savings accounts for employees enrolled in high-deductible, employee-only health plans. According to AISD, 5,274 employees are enrolled in this type of coverage.
New San Antonio ISD learning program praised for clarity, criticized as too rigid
(News4SA) San Antonio ISD has introduced the High Five Learning Initiative at most of its schools, a structured program built around posted daily objectives, weekly progress tracking, and end-of-class exit tickets. Some principals say it gives clearer direction. The San Antonio Alliance of Teachers and Support Personnel says it’s too rigid, with scripted slides and required classroom layouts, and that schools already doing well shouldn’t have to adopt it.
Advocates demand action after adults allegedly threaten to call ICE on students’ parents at High School volleyball game
(KPRC) Community advocates, the FIEL Houston immigrant family rights organization, and state representatives are demanding accountability from Houston ISD after adults at a high school volleyball game allegedly threatened to call ICE on students’ parents, and the confrontation was caught on video. The incident happened during a volleyball game between Austin High School and Kashmere High School. A video of the confrontation captured an adult saying: “We’re gonna call ICE on your parents.”
Northside ISD investigates allegations of abuse of nonverbal autistic student at Zachry MS
(News4SA) A Northside ISD teacher is under investigation. She’s accused of abusing a special needs kid at Zachry Middle School.
Former San Antonio charter teacher indicted on child sex abuse charges, records show
(KSAT) Priscilla Castro allegedly engaged in inappropriate behavior with a 15-year-old student during school hours at KIPP University Prep High School, police say. Records show Castro was indicted on one count of indecency with child sexual contact and one count of improper relationship between educator and student on Monday.
Trespassing student found with knife on Tomball ISD campus
(Fox 26 Houston) A Tomball ISD student was taken into custody on Tuesday after trespassing at another school with a knife, according to the district. The student reportedly followed other students through an entry door. A student who attends the school alerted staff to the trespassing student. School administration reportedly approached that student and found a knife in their backpack.
Inside the Conservative Takeover of the University of Texas
(Texas Monthly) A secretive president. A crusading provost. A domineering legislature. What are UT’s new leaders building? Related:
- ‘Texas is on the rise’: UT Austin President Jim Davis promotes accomplishments, announces new projects in ‘State of the University’ address (Daily Texan)
- UT Austin to establish University College to oversee new core curriculum (CBS Austin)
- UT Austin students and staff voice accessibility concerns, propose changes in University forum (Daily Texan)
Texas A&M University-San Antonio opens new $55M public health and education building
(San Antonio Report) Texas A&M University-San Antonio opened the doors on a new $55 million Public Health and Education Building on Wednesday, which will serve over 1,200 students working toward degrees in education, public health and medicine.
UT El Paso professor uses graphic novels to engage reluctant readers, teach complex subjects
(El Paso Matters) From garbage to climate change, Brianna Anderson shows how graphic novels can build reading skills, empathy and environmental awareness in classrooms and youth programs.
Eligibility issues continue for top athletes in North Texas. Here’s what to know
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Argyle quarterback Hayes Hackney was ruled ineligible for not meeting UIL residency rules after transferring, and the district plans to appeal. His case is the latest in a year of North Texas eligibility problems, which knocked several baseball and softball teams out of the playoffs and sidelined top football transfers.
Texas is lobbying for the new U.S. Space Academy. Taxpayers could foot a $100 million bill
(Houston Public Media) There’s bipartisan momentum from Texas officials to make the Lone Star State the home of the U.S. Space Academy. A state commission suggested spending up to $100 million in taxpayer money to secure the selection.
Texas Comptroller announces executive order barring proof of COVID vaccination for businesses
(KAUZ) The Office of the Texas Comptroller Don Huffines has issued an executive order barring any business that demands proof of COVID-19 vaccination or recovery from its customers from receiving a Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts contract or grant. Under the order, every contractor and grantee must certify that it complies with Section 161.0085, Texas Health and Safety Code, and does not require customers to show COVID-19 vaccination or post-transmission recovery documentation to enter, gain access to, or receive service from its business.
P95 Academy brings baseball, softball and high-performance sports training to Katy area
(Covering Katy) P95 Academy, a sports training facility in Richmond near Katy and Fulshear, opened Aug. 1. It offers personalized strength, speed and agility training for athletes in many sports, with a special focus on baseball and softball. Players train in 70-foot indoor batting cages and use technology that tracks things like pitch speed and how hard the ball is hit. Owner Tim Clark says the goal is to help serious athletes reach the next level, from high school teams to college or the pros.
A Texas farmer donated his land before he died. Now it’s sending hundreds of students to college
(KENS) A Texas Panhandle farmer named Carl Nielsen left his land to the Gruver school district when he died. Local farmers now volunteer to farm it and sell the crops to fund scholarships. The program has given out more than $3 million and helped hundreds of Gruver graduates go to college or trade school.
Pine Tree ISD teachers save choking student’s life with Heimlich maneuver
(KLTV) During lunch on September 30 at Pine Tree ISD’s Parker Elementary in Longview, staff member Ashley Peterson noticed third-grader Kassidy Childress giving the choking signal. Peterson patted her on the back and called for help, and Assistant Principal Kyle Burns then performed the Heimlich maneuver, dislodging the obstruction. Both staff members credited their training. Kassidy’s mother said she felt blessed and forever grateful, and Kassidy thanked the staff for saving her life.
Oct. 21, 2026
Dallas ISD to pay $1 million settlement tied to former teacher accused of sexual abuse
(KERA) The U.S. Justice Department announced a $1 million settlement with Dallas ISD over allegations the district failed to properly report a teacher accused of abusing multiple children – and who went on to allegedly abuse more in Forney ISD. Dallas ISD will pay $145,000 in a penalty and $855,000 for district-wide reforms, including posting mandatory signage outlining child-abuse reporting duties, conducting compliance audits, and reviewing all sexual misconduct allegations dating back to 2022 and sharing the findings with the Texas Education Agency. The settlement comes as part of Project Safe Schools, which North Texas law enforcement agencies launched in August to hold districts accountable for alleged abuse.
Fort Worth ISD seeks operators to redesign schools. 6 organizations are interested
(Fort Worth Report) Fort Worth ISD says it is seeking new programs, not takeovers of struggling campuses, clarifying Superintendent Peter Licata’s August remarks.
Houston ISD cut or moved 360 employees as schools lost more students than expected this year
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD schools have terminated or reassigned at least 360 employees, including teachers and librarians, as the district adjusts staffing levels to account for lower-than-expected enrollment.
San Antonio ISD bets on strict classroom structure to improve schools
(San Antonio Express-News) The San Antonio Independent School District is rolling out sweeping, prescriptive changes to the way most of its 42,000 students learn in a bid to avoid state intervention and improve chronic academic issues. “High 5,” the new initiative developed under Superintendent Adrian Bustillos, requires teachers to adopt district-created lesson plans at more than 70 of SAISD’s 80 campuses, including at high-performing schools, magnet programs and most district charters – which historically have had flexibility over what goes on in the classroom.
San Marcos CISD considers affordable housing community for teachers
(KXAN) During a school board meeting Monday night, representatives with Upward Communities presented a potential partnership to develop a housing community for district employees. The board did not make a final decision and tabled the proposal for a future meeting.
Ballots in two San Antonio-area school districts missing information at start of early voting
(San Antonio Express-News) Voters in at least two San Antonio-area school districts reported problems on their ballots during the first day of early voting in the 2026 midterm elections. The issues, reported at Edgewood and East Central independent school districts, include missing tax rate proposals and school board candidates or added ballot items from other public school systems.
A CDL or a pay cut? Texas coaches push back on controversial district policy
(Houston Chronicle) Alvin ISD requires new coaches to get a commercial driver’s license (CDL) within a year so they can drive team buses. Coaches who don’t get one have their coaching pay cut by 25%, then 50%, and are eventually pushed out. Coaches across Texas criticized the policy as unfair, saying it punishes already underpaid staff and could worsen the coaching shortage. Some other districts instead pay for the license or give bonuses.
REPORT: Texas Rangers find no criminal offense in Lindale ISD choking death investigation
(CBS19) Documents from a Texas Rangers report show staff at Lindale ISD used an adult-sized choking rescue device rather than a child-sized on 8-year-old Adrian Thompson, who fatally choked in April. The report also states the investigation found “no criminal offense” happened in relation to her death. Adrian Thompson died in the early morning hours of April 16 this year after experiencing a medical emergency the previous day while eating lunch at Velma Penny Elementary School.
Mother sues Manor ISD, Texas officials over 2024 deadly stabbing
(KVUE) The mother of a student stabbed to death at Manor Senior High School nearly two years ago has filed a lawsuit against Manor ISD and state education officials, alleging failures to protect her son and provide support for his disabilities.
14-year-old detained after online school threat in Laredo
(KGNS) Laredo police detained a 14-year-old girl as the main suspect after an online threat against an unnamed campus. The FBI alerted the Laredo Police Department’s Texas Anti-Gang Unit, and investigators traced the threat to a home. With her parent’s cooperation, the girl was interviewed and the family agreed to a search, during which officers found a loaded 9 mm handgun at the back of the house. After consulting the Webb County Attorney’s Office, police charged her with making a terroristic threat, a third-degree felony.
Texas A&M Law dean, Fort Worth ISD manager helped grow Fort Worth. Now he’s leaving for New York
(Fort Worth Report) A chief operating officer helping develop a university campus in downtown Fort Worth. A board member shaping Fort Worth ISD’s future. A partner to local business leaders. Now Bobby Ahdieh is leaving for New York.
Texas College Among Founding Members of New Higher Education Accreditor
(Texas Scorecard) The National Association for Academic Excellence (NAAE) announced that Houston Christian University, Merrimack College in Massachusetts, Benedictine College in Kansas, the University of Mount Saint Vincent in New York, and Bellevue University in Nebraska will help establish a new model of institutional accreditation. The new accrediting organization aims to promote academic excellence, institutional independence, and greater accountability in higher education.
UT Austin’s Regional Security Operations Center opens office in Perry-Castañeda Library
(Daily Texan) UT Austin’s state-funded Regional Security Operations Center, created in 2024, has opened a new office in the Perry-Castañeda Library. The student- and professional-staffed center offers free cybersecurity services to school districts, nonprofits, and infrastructure facilities that lack security teams or big budgets. The new space allows more collaboration, and the center plans to train more than 50 new students this semester.
Denton’s Texas Woman’s University Unveils Quakertown Memorial a Century After Black Community’s Forced Removal
(Hoodline Dallas) Texas Woman’s University held two ribbon-cutting ceremonies Tuesday for the Quakertown Memorial and a new outdoor trail system, marking a long-awaited public tribute to a Black community that was forcibly displaced from the land nearly a century ago. Quakertown was a predominantly Black community whose residents were forcibly relocated to southeast Denton by the local government in the 1920s, as previously reported by Community Impact.
Taxpayers are funding private school tuition. It’s helping classical Christian schools expand
(AP) Conservatives are banding together to grow classical Christian schools by leveraging new taxpayer-funded scholarships. Classical Christian education is known for combining rhetorical teaching and the study of Western history with a Christian worldview. Its increased popularity across the country has coincided with a nationwide push to use public funds for private education.
Texas Comptroller Don Huffines issues series of “executive orders,” raising questions about his office’s authority
(Texas Tribune) Texas Comptroller Don Huffines has signed four “executive orders” on taxes, surveillance cameras, and DEI, but they mostly just tell his staff to start rule changes he could already make. Critics say he’s acting like a governor to build a record before his close November race against Democrat Sarah Eckhardt.
Texas Republicans plan to strip lieutenant governor powers if Democrat wins
(Raw Story via News Minimalist) Texas Republicans are reportedly planning to strip the lieutenant governor of legislative powers if Democratic nominee Vikki Goodwin defeats incumbent Dan Patrick in next month’s election, according to the Quorum Report. The proposal, confirmed by multiple sources, would involve state senators changing chamber rules to limit Goodwin’s control over committee assignments and bill flow, as many of the office’s powers are granted by the Senate rather than the Constitution.
Mysterious group behind transgender mailers formed weeks ago in Wyoming
(Houston Chronicle) A newly formed group called the Texas Transgender Student Union sent mailers and texts with resources for trans students to many Republican voters as early voting began in Texas. The group was registered just weeks ago as a Wyoming LLC using a mass-registration address, and the real Texas trans advocacy group it cited denies any involvement. Many suspect the mailings were a political tactic to rile up GOP voters rather than a genuine effort to help trans youth.
Teen on electric dirt bike hit by vehicle on way to school in Leander
(CBS Austin) A 17-year-old girl riding an electric dirt bike to school was hit by a vehicle Monday morning in Leander, police said. A preliminary investigation found the teen was riding the 6,500-watt electric dirt bike on the sidewalk and tried to cross the road when she was struck, police said. She was wearing a full-face helmet. According to police, she was treated at the scene and later taken to a hospital by a parent. Police reminded residents that electric dirt bikes are not legal on public roads or sidewalks and are meant for use only on private property.
Free school lunch is no longer on the menu for many kids. It’s one of many strains on cafeterias
(Texas Standard) Schools in the U.S. serve almost 30 million lunches every day. But rising food costs, regulations and cuts to food assistance mean school kitchens have to do more with less.
Mariachi continues growing in Texas schools
(Spectrum) At San Antonio ISD’s Fox Tech High School, David Zamarripa has led the mariachi program for more than 30 years, and it now has over 300 students. Mariachi became a statewide UIL competition in 2016, and the number of schools competing has grown from 55 to 100. Students say the program gives them pride in their culture and a sense of family.
Texas football player back on the field after rare knee condition nearly ended his career
(NewsWise) Klein (ISD) Collins High School football player Brody Powers is back on the field after a rare knee condition nearly ended his career. After a second surgery and nine months of rehab, he recently scored a touchdown.
GoFundMe raises $100K after airman’s Alamodome fall in San Antonio
(MySA) The tragic accident came before UTSA and Navy’s football game on Saturday.
New “EarlyConnectSA” search tool aims to increase childcare access by connecting providers and families
(Texas Public Radio) Pre-K 4 SA and Early Matters San Antonio — initiatives dedicated to improving the early childhood education landscape — have officially launched a search tool called EarlyConnectSA. The new search tool, which covers Bexar, Comal and Guadalupe counties, consolidates information about quality ratings, programming, availability and financial assistance. It also offers location-based search results to connect families with a quality childcare provider to best serve their children.
Chickenpox outbreak reported at Shepherd ISD High School, district says
(KTRK) The Shepherd Independent School District announced a chickenpox outbreak at Shepherd High School, possibly stemming from the homecoming dance on Oct. 3.
Oct. 20, 2026
Hundreds of thousands of potentially eligible Texas homeowners aren’t claiming their property tax savings
(Texas Tribune) Homeowners aren’t claiming a homestead exemption because they do not know about it or find the process too complicated, experts say.
Texas lawmakers rethinking 4-day school week for students
(Austin American-Statesman) During the pandemic, a four-day school week grew in popularity, but some Texas lawmakers are reconsidering the rules that allowed districts to create the model.
Playtime pays off for kids. But Texas schools are reluctant to give them more
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Research spearheaded by a Texas Christian University professor shows students can benefit academically from having an hour of outdoor play per day. But convincing educators to budget this much time into the school day is a challenge.
Frontline data breach may have exposed personal information of 38K, including Klein ISD employees
(Houston Chronicle) A data breach involving education software company Frontline may have exposed personal information of 37,966 people, including Klein ISD employees, according to a report filed with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office. The Oct. 16 report says the information potentially exposed includes addresses, Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers and other personal details.
Houston ISD spent millions building its own curriculum. Now other school districts are using it for free
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD invested millions in taxpayer funds to develop its own curriculum and is sharing its materials for free with other school systems – a move that experts call rare and that expands the reach of state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles’ model in Texas and his home state of Colorado. Public school districts, including Beaumont, Garland and Tyler ISDs, the charter network International Leadership of Texas, and the Montezuma-Cortez School District in Colorado have all used HISD’s curriculum to some degree, according to records and a district statement.
New U.S. News rankings crown the best elementary and middle schools in Texas
(Houston Chronicle) Some Texas elementary and middle schools soared more than 20 spots in the new national ranking by U.S. News and World Report, while others lost ground in the race to be named the best.
‘It was so heartbreaking’: Dallas ISD pulls library books for review amid pressure from Austin
(Dallas Morning News) Dallas ISD pulled thousands of books for review after Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick warned districts they could face consequences if they don’t remove “vulgar” titles from libraries. Seventh grader Maya Madabhushi checked out several of the targeted books before they were boxed up, and she and her mother are now pushing back against the district and state policy.
Austin ISD Webb PTA asks TEA to investigate disputed petition to close school
(Austin Current) Hundreds of Burnet and Webb parents signed petitions to close their children’s schools to avoid a district takeover, but some parents say they were pressured.
Who earns the most in Abilene ISD?
(Abilene Reporter News) Salary records obtained by the Reporter News through a public information request offer a closer look at Abilene ISD’s top earners, highlighting the administrators and educational leaders responsible for overseeing campus operations, instruction and districtwide initiatives.
Canyon ISD is in its fifth consecutive deficit budget year
(Amarillo Tribune) Supply and insurance costs have risen faster than local and state revenue; departments across the district determined how to make 6% budget cuts.
North East ISD names 3 campuses for possible closure before next fall
(San Antonio Express-News) The North East Independent School District on Monday released a tentative plan to close three campuses by next fall. District officials proposed Montgomery, Oak Grove and Dellview elementaries for closure, according to a presentation by CFO Susie Lackorn at a Monday night board meeting. NEISD leaders plan to present their official recommendation to trustees on Nov. 9. The school board is scheduled to vote on the plan that same night.
A board in waiting: South San Antonio ISD trustees prepare for an uncertain return
(San Antonio Express-News) Texas took over South San Antonio ISD in February 2025 after years of board infighting and mismanagement, leaving its elected trustees sidelined with no official role. The district must hit certain benchmarks, including at least a C rating and financial stability, before the trustees can return, possibly as early as 2027. So far, the state-appointed board has raised the district’s rating from a D to a C and plans a gradual handoff to keep the old problems from returning.
United ISD addresses staffing shortages as special education vacancies grow
(Laredo Morning Times) United ISD reported campus staff vacancies, including numerous special education aide positions. Officials said substitutes are covering many openings while officials plan hiring efforts.
Dayton ISD bus driver back in custody after crash leaves teen fighting for his life
(KHOU) A Dayton ISD bus driver accused of striking and seriously injuring a 14-year-old boy has been arrested after police obtained a new warrant in the case. The family identified the boy as Brantley and confirmed he was the student involved in Friday morning’s collision near U.S. Highway 90 and Stilson Road. He remains hospitalized at Texas Children’s Hospital, where his family says he is receiving intensive medical care. Dayton Police Chief Shane Burleigh said Ricky Eugene Cherry, 70, was driving a school bus along Highway 90 when he struck a juvenile walking along the highway. The chief said Cherry continued driving without stopping to help.
Terroristic threat charge: Lumberton ISD MS student lied about weapon on campus
(KFDM) A Lumberton Middle School student faces a terroristic threat charge and will be placed in Hardin County juvenile detention after allegedly claiming to have a weapon on campus. Administrators located the student right away and put the campus on a precautionary hold. Police, school resource officers, and district safety staff, using a contraband-detection dog, searched the campus, found no weapon, and lifted the hold.
Gainesville ISD school custodian arrested for indecency with a child
(Fox 4 KDFW) Hervey Nava, a 62-year-old custodian at Gainesville Junior High, was arrested Friday and charged with indecency with a child following an investigation into allegations by a 13-year-old student. Police began investigating Nava earlier this month after a 13-year-old Gainesville Junior High student reported that he had hugged her and touched her inappropriately after a brief conversation in a classroom. The victim left the classroom and immediately told another school employee what had happened, police said.
Former Kingsville youth football board member indicted in $9K theft case
(KRIS) Nearly a year after more than $9,000 went missing from a Kingsville youth football league, a former board member has been indicted. Here’s what we know about the case. Francisco Villarreal Jr. is now facing a theft charge after money was reportedly taken from the league’s Cash App account over several months.
Some East Central ISD voters got incomplete ballots Monday. Bexar County blames it on state-run elections system
(San Antonio Report) In a mass email to the press on Monday afternoon, district officials said some East Central voters reported not seeing the measure, titled Proposition A, on their ballot, instead seeing an item from a different school district. Bexar County spokesperson John Moreno confirmed the discrepancy and said it’s related to the Texas Election Administration Management system, the state’s central platform to manage voter registrations and elections. “I can confirm this has been resolved for Bexar County and affected less than 1% of our eligible voters,” Moreno said.
UT Austin Cuts Foreign Research Ties Flagged As National Security Risks
(Dallas Express) The University of Texas at Austin cut foreign research relationships flagged as national security risks following Pentagon scrutiny, the Department of War announced Monday as it reported the results of security audits at 30 universities.
Randall County jail academy pipeline to become statewide mode
(KFDA) Randall County is turning a first-of-its-kind program into a model for the rest of Texas. In 2024, the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement gave the Randall County Sheriff’s Office a waiver to let high school students attend its jailers academy. Only one other sheriff’s office in the state has this permission. Students who complete the academy can take the state test and earn a Texas jailer license. Canyon ISD students have gone through three academies so far. Nine have graduated, and seven of them have been hired.
For undocumented students, the path from high school to college is shrinking
(Chalkbeat) “It has been a little bit bleak and disappointing,” said Martinez, a college counselor in Texas, which is one of the states that has backtracked on in-state tuition for undocumented students. (Chalkbeat is only using her last name because she is in the process of gaining citizenship and concerned about immigration enforcement.)
Feral hogs damage Forestburg ISD junior high practice field
(KAUZ) Feral hogs have torn up part of Forestburg ISD’s junior high football practice field, prompting the district to ask the community for help. While the varsity team practices on the main field, the junior high team uses a smaller practice field twice a week. Forestburg ISD Athletic Director Cori Hayes said the damage has limited the space available for practices. “It’s just something that’s recurring. The way that they populate, there’s not much you can do to deter them, especially on open land like this,” Hayes said.
Oct. 19, 2026
Educator misconduct reports triple since new Texas reporting requirements took effect
(Dallas Observer) It’s been a year since Texas cracked down on educator misconduct. Since then, reports have skyrocketed.
Catastrophic’ insurance issue causes $3M deficit at Sharyland ISD
(Progress Times) Sharyland ISD’s health insurance fund is in a $3 million deficit following a series of high claims from the last two to three months. Administration said SISD’s insurance advisor Valley Risk Consulting didn’t warn the district before the loss grew to its current level, leaving staff and the board of trustees blindsided.
Burnet and Webb Austin ISD middle school parents meet petition deadline to close their schools, but some say they felt pressured to sign
(Austin Current) Parents of more than half of the students enrolled at two embattled Northeast Austin middle schools have signed petitions seeking their closure, Austin ISD announced, clearing a threshold that many doubted volunteers could reach in the final hours of a campaign that divided the school communities. Some parents now say they felt pressured to sign it or did not understand what the petitions could set in motion.
Alief ISD loses nearly 10,000 students, weighs school closures
(Houston Chronicle) Alief ISD has lost nearly 10,000 students in eight years. Now the southwest Houston district is asking families how to respond — including potential campus closures.
Judson ISD censures trustee over media comments after middle school stabbing
(San Antonio Express-News) For the fourth time in a six-month period, Judson Independent School District trustees publicly censured school board member José Macias. He now faces more extreme sanctions – including only being able to contact interim Superintendent Ann Dixon via email – for speaking to a media outlet after a student allegedly stabbed a classmate at Metzger Middle School on Sept. 30. Board President Monica Ryan said Macias violated student privacy laws and released confidential information he received from Dixon when he confirmed the altercation to a TV station rather than referring the media outlet to a district spokesperson.
Fort Worth ISD board president welcomes student letter as district seeks more community feedback
(CBS Texas) Fort Worth ISD’s board president welcomed an open letter from 68 students asking state and district leaders to rethink changes made during the state takeover. The district has reopened its community survey because the first round got only about 3,000 responses, mostly from white families, in a district of more than 60,000 mostly minority students. Leaders are now visiting schools and working with groups like the YMCA to reach more families before the survey closes Oct. 25.
United ISD addresses staffing shortages as special education vacancies grow
(Laredo Morning Times) United ISD has 22 open campus jobs, mostly special education aide positions, and is relying on substitutes to fill many of them. To attract and keep workers, the district plans a special education job fair on Oct. 28 and proposed bonuses of $500 for elementary aides and $650 for secondary aides who stay through the school year. Trustees worried that aides may be underpaid compared with substitutes, that college-hour requirements make hiring harder, and that aides face physical risks on the job. The district is also considering training substitutes to handle personal care for special education students.
This San Antonio elementary’s math scores soared this year — a pattern East Central ISD hopes to replicate
(San Antonio Report) A San Antonio elementary school, Highland Forest, turned around from failing to an A rating, and 74% of its fifth graders now pass the state math test, far above the state average. The principal credits strong teachers, close tracking of student progress, and low staff turnover. The district is copying the approach at its other schools. Budget cuts could put that progress at risk if voters reject a tax increase in November.
Dayton ISD bus driver arrested after hit-and-run leaves 14-year-old boy fighting for his life
(KPRC) Police say Ricky Eugene Cherry, 70, of Dayton, TX, struck a juvenile walking along Highway 90 and continued driving without stopping to help.
Flour Bluff ISD school board member charged with racing on highway, unlawful weapon after weekend arrest
(KRIS) According to Nueces County online jail reports, 48-year-old David Gerlach was arrested on Saturday and charged with racing on the highway and carrying an unlawful weapon.
Prosper ISD JROTC Teacher Guilty of Sexual Contact With Student
(Texas Scorecard) A Collin County jury convicted Michael Songy of indecent assault, a Class A misdemeanor. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 12.
Former Cotulla ISD technology director to remain detained until trial in child pornography case
(Laredo Morning Times) A federal judge ordered a former Cotulla ISD technology director Joseph Yanez, 28, of Pearsall, to remain detained pending trial in a child pornography case, finding that no conditions of release would adequately protect the community or assure his appearance in court. A forensic examination of the cellphone recovered 32 videos and 738 images consistent with child sexual abuse material, court records show.
Second LBJ band director charged in sexual abuse case involving same Austin ISD student
(Austin American-Statesman) An arrest warrant accuses former LBJ head band director Dashon Hayes of a sexual relationship with a student also involved in a case against another school employee.
Records: Woman arrested on DWI charge after driving through crosswalk near Alamo Heights elementary school
(KSAT) Margaret Oliver almost hit pedestrians, including a child, while driving through a crosswalk, affidavit says.
Airman dies after rappelling accident at UT San Antonio-Navy football game
(News4SA) The service member died at a hospital after plunging to the ground during an Air Force rappelling demonstration before Saturday’s UTSA-Navy game.
Our Lady of the Lake president resigns amid enrollment declines at San Antonio university
(San Antonio Current) Abel Chávez said Friday he will resign Dec. 31 after more than four years as president of Our Lady of the Lake University. Chávez was the 10th president of the university since OLLU opened as a two-year college for women in 1911 and the first Latino to hold the role. Although OLLU officials didn’t specify why Chávez is stepping down, the West Side institution has faced significant challenges. Last month, the Catholic university said it hired an outside consultant to help boost enrollment numbers, which have plummeted 47% since 2015, according to the San Antonio Express-News. Last year, OLLU also eliminated 16 academic programs while launching a three-year bachelor’s degree and a “no-cost” master’s plan to help stabilize enrollment.
UT Austin faculty ‘mourn’ the loss of academic freedom in campus walks
(Houston Chronicle) Since September, about 20 UT Austin professors have been walking silently across campus four days a week, dressed in black and holding signs. They’re upset about recent changes, such as merging ethnic and gender studies departments, cutting courses and majors, and getting rid of the Faculty Council. The group’s leader, Karma Chávez, says faculty feel ignored, and the walks are a way to show their grief and keep attention on what’s happening.
UT Rio Grande Valley faculty raise concerns over academic freedom due to new Texas law
(myRGV) The American Association of University Professors-American Federation of Teachers at UTRGV (AAUP-AFT) issued a statement regarding academic freedom and quality at UTRGV and also said faculty want to have a meaningful role in decision making without fear of retaliation. “AAUP-AFT UTRGV believes that the freedom to examine evidence, question assumptions, and discuss competing ideas is not only fundamental to achieving UTRGV’s educational mission but also to maintaining a robust and healthy democracy,” the statement said. “Academic freedom and shared governance are essential to fulfilling this mission by ensuring that faculty expertise informs decisions about teaching, research, and student learning.” Related:
Out-of-state universities are choosin’ Texas. Tarrant-area colleges hope students do, too
(Fort Worth Report) Texas’s growing number of high school graduates, among the few rising pools in a shrinking national market, has made North Texas a recruiting battleground. Out-of-state schools like the University of Arkansas, which now enrolls more than 9,400 Texans, use regional recruiters and nonresident tuition discounts to draw top students away. Local universities are pushing back and posting record freshman classes.
UT System launches $60M expansion of Laredo Center
(Laredo Morning Times) The University of Texas System broke ground on a $60 million expansion of its Laredo Center, marking the next phase of an effort to expand higher education opportunities and strengthen the region’s health care workforce. The three-story, 56,000-square-foot multidisciplinary building will add classrooms, teaching laboratories and research space as enrollment and academic programs at the center continue to grow.
Cedar Hill offensive coordinator comes to defense of head coach placed on leave
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Some members of the Dallas-Fort Worth football community are voicing support for Cedar Hill head coach Nick Ward after Cedar Hill ISD placed him on administrative leave Thursday. Cedar Hill ISD declined to explain the sudden midseason change, saying federal privacy laws prevent the district from divulging specifics on personnel matters. An investigation is pending. “Man this doesn’t even seem real! Nor is it right,” Cedar Hill offensive coordinator Chason Virgil wrote on X on Friday. South Oak Cliff coaches were also vocal in his defense, with SOC defensive coordinator Domenic D. Spencer calling Cedar Hill ISD’s move “terrible once again” with a “free Nick Ward” hashtag on X.
It’s happened again: Another Katy-area child killed in electric bike crash
(Covering Katy News) A 15-year-old was killed when his electric bicycle collided with a car on Woods Road on Oct. 10, according to a report by FOX 26, which obtained the information from the Texas Department of Public Safety. The teenager was riding against traffic without lights when he collided with a Honda Civic. The crash followed the Sept. 10 death of an 11-year-old Tays Junior High School student riding an electric scooter in the Pine Mill Ranch subdivision. Fort Bend County Sheriff Eric Fagan issued a video warning Friday, Oct. 16, saying deputies have responded to more than 30 incidents involving electric bicycles, scooters and children ages 11 to 15 this year.
Texas approved a North Texas woman’s home daycare. The city of Venus says she can’t open it
(KERA) Rosi Paredes said shortly after she received approval from the state to operate a daycare in her Johnson County home, the city of Venus sent a warning say home-based daycares aren’t allowed, and that she could face fines of up to $2,000 a day if she opened one. Now she’s suing the city of Venus with help from the Institute for Justice, a nonprofit law firm that challenges government restrictions on businesses.
15,000 Texas voter registrations caught up in backlog after another state software error
(Texas Public Radio) A software error has caused another backlog in Texas’ voter registration logs.
Heavier mail-in ballots raise postage questions in Tarrant County
(WFAA) A Tarrant County voter found that this year’s two-page mail-in ballot needs 29 cents more postage than one stamp covers. She worried other voters wouldn’t know. Election officials say the Postal Service will still deliver ballots that are short on postage, and the county will pay the difference.
Oct. 16, 2026
Meet the candidates running for Texas’ State Board of Education in 2026
(Texas Tribune) Here are the nine candidates who are running and what’s at stake.
Here’s how Texas governor candidates Greg Abbott, Gina Hinojosa want to reshape education
(Dallas Morning News) Both candidates have made education issues a pillar of their campaigns, taking opposing stances on topics such as school vouchers, state takeovers and public education.
Texas gave parents a way to protest books in school libraries, but few people are speaking up
(Dallas Morning News) Created under a state law enacted in 2025, the parent-led panels have reviewed thousands of proposed books, but encountered few formal challenges.
Grand Prairie ISD defends cancellation of ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ over casting, names new play
(Dallas Morning News) A Grand Prairie high school will perform the musical Frozen after administrators last week canceled Little Shop of Horrors over the casting of a girl in a lead male role, provoking an outcry among students and theater professionals. Board President Emily Liles defended the district’s move but said the reason for the cancellation was widely misunderstood. Superintendent Gabe Trujillo did not cancel the show because of Texas Senate Bill 12 passed in 2023, she said, which restricts some drag performances. Rather, Liles said, the superintendent canceled the performance to comply with Senate Bill 12 passed in 2025, which bans diversity, equity and inclusion measures in public schools, school-sanctioned clubs based on sexual orientation or gender identity and instruction or guidance acknowledging transgender identities. Related:
Pilot Point ISD superintendent, police chief on paid leave amid investigation; board names acting superintendent
(WFAA) Pilot Point ISD’s superintendent and police chief are on paid administrative leave while an outside attorney, Scott Cummings, conducts an independent third party investigation. The school board named retired Howe ISD superintendent Kevin Wison as acting superintendent. The board first notified parents of the leaves in an email Wednesday night, but it did not describe the complaint. Some parents say they want more information.
Majority of families sign petitions to close Burnet, Webb schools, Austin PTA says
(Austin American-Statesman) A frantic rush to collect signatures for a petition to close Burnet and Webb middle schools wrapped up Thursday, in an effort to avoid an Austin ISD takeover.
Moms For Liberty Puts 13,000 School Districts On Notice With AI Watchdog
(Dallas Express) Moms for Liberty unveiled an artificial intelligence program at its national summit in Dallas on October 9 that the organization says will monitor school board agendas across approximately 13,000 school districts and alert parents before boards vote on policies it considers threats to parental rights. Tina Descovich, co-founder and CEO of Moms for Liberty, introduced M4L AWARE during the organization’s 2026 Joyful Warriors National Summit. The acronym stands for “Agenda Watch, Alert, Respond, Engage,” according to the organization’s announcement.
Texans react to plan to redirect $250M in school property tax to Dallas NHL arena
(Houston Chronicle) Plano ISD, despite facing a projected $44.8 million budget deficit for 2026-27, has approved an agreement to direct up to $250 million in property tax revenue over 25 years toward a proposed Dallas Stars arena at the former Shops at Willow Bend site, and the Plano City Council approved its share Monday. The district says the money would mostly come from revenue that would otherwise go to the state through Texas’ recapture (“Robin Hood”) system, not from its classroom budget. Residents on Reddit pushed back sharply, questioning the priorities and arguing that redirecting recapture dollars hurts the poorer districts that receive them. Some critics also questioned using a school-tax mechanism to help finance a professional sports venue for a billionaire owner.
Amarillo ISD faces tough choices as enrollment declines, but will new options bring families back?
(High Plains Pundit) Amarillo ISD expects about 13 percent fewer students over the next five years. To respond, it closed three schools, started an online program that has drawn 133 students back, is considering raises for hourly workers, and is opening a new child care site. It’s too early to tell whether these changes will keep families in the district.
Beaumont ISD implements new campus safety measure after Oregon shooting
(KBMT) Beaumont ISD is implementing an immediate campus safety measure, directing all schools to keep doors, including classroom doors, closed and locked throughout the day. The district said the change comes in light of recent events across the nation and is intended to help maintain safe and secure learning environments for students and staff.
2 Cisco ISD High School students stabbed at field house; 1 detained
(Fox West Texas) Two students were injured in a stabbing Thursday afternoon at the Cisco High School football field house, according to Cisco Independent School District. The incident happened after school hours. Both students sustained non-life-threatening injuries, the district said. The district canceled all junior high and junior varsity football games scheduled for Thursday evening.
Lamesa ISD bus driver arrested on assault, unlawful restraint involving 13-year-old girl
(KMID/KPEJ) A Lamesa ISD bus driver, Michael Mojica, 60, was arrested Wednesday after a complaint involving a 13-year-old girl on his bus route. He is charged with assault and unlawful restraint of a minor, a state jail felony. The district has placed him on unpaid leave, and the sheriff’s office and Texas DPS are still investigating.
Records: Rio Grande City teacher admitted to having sexual relationship with student
(KRGV) A Rio Grande City High School teacher was arrested after “flirty” text messages between him and a student were shown to another teacher, according to a criminal complaint obtained by Channel 5 News. The teacher, identified as Francisco Contreras Jr., admitted to investigators that he had sex with the student “on more than 10 occasions,” and one of those times was at the school, the complaint said.
Ector County ISD College Prep student arrested in connection with reported active shooter prank calls
(NewsWest9) A 13-year-old Ector College Prep student has been arrested and charged with two counts of theft of property and three counts of false alarm as a result of an investigation by the Odessa and Ector County ISD police departments. Police reported that based on witness statements and video evidence, investigators believe that the student stole two different students’ cell phones while the students were in athletics, and made three 911 calls to Odessa Dispatch at around 7:45 a.m. After stealing the phones, the student allegedly reported a “shooter” was at the school’s tennis courts.
Brownsville ISD student charged with bringing a gun to school
(KRGV) Brownsville jail records show Luis Diaz, 17, was booked on Thursday and charged after the Brownsville ISD said he was found in possession of a gun on the Brownsville Early College High School Campus, which was placed on a temporary lockdown following the discovery.
Fort Worth-area athlete dies due to head injury in college football game
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Former Azle ISD high school football player Tyler Ulrich died Thursday, the Ulrich family announced on Facebook. Ulrich, 21, suffered a critical head injury Saturday while playing football for Southern Nazarene University in an away game against Ouachita Baptist University in Arkansas. Southern Nazarene, located in Bethany, Oklahoma, plays in the Great American Conference in NCAA Division II.
Houston felon convicted for meth trafficking, arrested after crashing into Alief school field
(Fox 26 Houston) A Houston felon, Eduardo Nevares, was convicted of meth trafficking and illegally having a gun after fleeing a traffic stop and crashing onto an Alief school campus. Police found a pistol and more than a pound of meth in his car, and he now faces up to life in prison and a $10 million maximum fine.
Cedar Hill football coach Nick Ward placed on leave for second straight season
(Dallas Morning News) Cedar Hill head football coach Nick Ward has been placed on leave for the second straight season. It is pending an investigation, according to a letter sent by Cedar Hill principal Courtney Washington to parents.
Lockhart ISD screen time cutbacks show early success to ‘unlock childhood’
(KXAN) In August, Lockhart ISD started “Childhood Unlocked,” a program that gives kids more recess and free play and cuts classroom screen time roughly in half. It’s too early to tell if grades are improving, but attendance is up at most campuses, and tech use in classrooms has dropped about 40%. Parents in Round Rock and Austin are now pushing their districts to do the same.
Del Valle ISD superintendent to leave in November
(KVUE) Dr. Matthew Gutierrez is leaving the district on Nov. 6 to take a job with the Region 4 Education Service Center in Houston.
New Edinburg CISD policy prohibits energy drinks during school
(myRGV) Edinburg CISD now bans energy drinks and high-caffeine snacks at school this year. Staff will throw away or hold the items and call parents instead of punishing students. The district made the rule after some middle and high school students who drank energy drinks fainted, had a racing heart or very high blood pressure, and a few needed an ambulance.
Port Neches-Groves ISD unveils design for $8 million transportation center
(KBMT) Port Neches-Groves ISD unveiled plans for an $8 million transportation center, replacing a 60-year-old facility. Freeing up space on its growing high school campus.
The Daily Texan explains: Who makes up the UT System Board of Regents?
(Daily Texan) With the next Board of Regents meeting spanning Nov. 18 to 19, The Daily Texan took a closer look at UT System websites to learn more about each regent.
Massive Texas backlog of voter registrations that scrambled workers has been cleared, state says
(AP) A massive backlog of voter registration applications in Texas that frustrated counties and raised concerns among Democrats nationally has been cleared days before early voting begins, state election officials said Thursday. The backlog, which state officials attributed to a software glitch, left counties big and small scrambling to process scores of voter registrations late in an unusually competitive midterm election season in Texas. Early voting in the state begins Monday.
Starr County voters face separate early voting sites for local and general elections
(KRGV) Early voting is coming up in Starr County, but voters will need to use different sites for the school board election and the general election. That means people who want to vote in both elections during early voting will have to go to two separate polling places. Rio Grande City Grulla ISD will have four early voting locations. San Isidro ISD will have one polling location. Starr County will have five early voting locations for the general election. On Election Day, Starr County voters will be able to vote at any polling location.
Why Baylor University’s live bear habitat just lost its zoo accreditation
(Houston Chronicle) Baylor held this distinction for five years. Now it’s gone.
Oct. 15, 2026
Property tax cuts aren’t supposed to affect Texas schools. Districts say it doesn’t always work
(KERA) Texas officials say nearly 1.5 million homeowners now pay zero school property taxes. The state is supposed to hold districts “harmless,” but some say there is a “gap.”
Managers stress teacher trust as they revise draft of Fort Worth ISD goals, limits on superintendent
(Fort Worth Report) Fort Worth ISD’s state-appointed board rewrote its draft rules for Superintendent Peter Licata after district staff removed language requiring teacher input on curriculum changes. The board put that requirement back, though it rejected one member’s push to use the word “autonomy.” It also added a separate rule requiring Licata to give teachers a regular say in classroom decisions. The board plans to adopt the final rules Nov. 10. Related:
- Fort Worth ISD parents say special education students are left behind by district (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
Most Tarrant County graduates are labeled college-ready. Are they?
(Fort Worth Report) More than 80% of all public high school graduates from Tarrant County were deemed college-ready in 2025. But only 1 out of every 4 met the same standard using either the SAT or the ACT — both of which are considered by researchers to be among the best indicators of a student’s success in higher education. The difference is at the heart of a new report issued by the Fort Worth Education Partnership on Oct. 13. Brent Beasley, president and CEO of the Fort Worth Education Partnership, said the results show how the state’s education system may mislead parents about whether their child is prepared.
‘All means all’: How this San Antonio ISD high school became one of the city’s highest rated
(San Antonio Express-News) Brackenridge High School serves students from low-income households and affluent neighborhoods. In August, it became the first San Antonio ISD neighborhood high school to earn an A on state ratings.
TEACHER VOICE: How I rethought disciplinary school in Texas
(Hechinger Report) An investigation found what Texas disciplinary programs look like at their worst. This is what they can look like when someone decides to do it differently.
Inside the Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD Strategy Getting Texas Attention
(Texas Border Business) PSJA’s leadership and teachers are drawing attention to what is possible in public education.
For Texas schoolchildren, minor misbehavior can mean serious punishment
(New York Times via San Antonio Express-News) More students ages 10 to 13 are ending up in the justice system after vaping, making threats or lashing out at school.
Teacher Pay and a Controversial Curriculum: Inside District’s 10th State Takeover
(The 74) Texas took over South San Antonio ISD in 2025, its 10th state takeover since 2000. The new state-appointed leaders cut administrative jobs, raised teacher pay, and adopted a single curriculum. The district has already improved by one letter grade on its state report card. In an interview with The 74, board president Ray Tijerina credits careful trustee vetting and community-known appointees for the district’s one-letter-grade improvement this year, while acknowledging ongoing challenges like declining enrollment and the need to prepare future elected leaders to sustain the gains.
Cy-Fair ISD launches framework for balanced instructional technology usage
(Community Impact) Informed by research and developed by the district’s curriculum and instruction department, Cypress-Fairbanks ISD’s “Technology’s Presence & Purpose in Instruction” framework establishes districtwide expectations for device usage, parent choice, hands-on learning and teacher-led instruction, according to a news release.
Tomball ISD board reviews new details for virtual cybersecurity academy
(Community Impact) At the Oct. 13 workshop board meeting, the Tomball ISD trustees received an update on the curriculum and student standards for the proposed virtual cybersecurity program. TISD Chief Academic Officer Michael Webb provided the board with some clarity on how the proposed online program would operate. The board will vote on the project’s official approval this October and submit its Early College Amendment application to the Texas Education Agency by Dec. 4.
Pflugerville ISD identifies site for 202-unit teacher housing project
(Community Impact) Pflugerville ISD has identified a site for its teacher housing development. PfISD Chief Operations Officer Victor Valdez said the facility will be built near the district’s upcoming Advanced Pathways for Excellence Center. “It really makes a nice blended area … a nice place for teachers to live and feel like they’re in a residential area,” Valdez said. “Development of our complex fits really well there.”
Lubbock ISD considers school changes as district reviews enrollment costs
(Everything Lubbock) Lubbock ISD is reviewing how it operates its schools as declining enrollment, rising costs and limited funding put pressure on the district’s budget. The district’s school optimization plan evaluates campuses based on enrollment, building utilization and the cost of educating students. District leaders say the data will help guide decisions about how to use resources more efficiently while maintaining opportunities for students.
Round Rock ISD Residents Request Less Screen Time for Students
(Texas Scorecard) Individuals in a local chapter of “Schools Beyond Screens” are requesting Round Rock ISD change its policies surrounding technology use in classroom instruction.
Texas transgender rights group says it didn’t send texts that prompted call for an investigation
(Texas Tribune) The Transgender Education Network of Texas sent cease-and-desist letters to messaging companies Peerless Network and Infobip after unauthorized texts promoting TENT’s guides on school bathrooms and gender-affirming care were sent Monday and Tuesday. TENT says it did not send the messages and has faced threats and hateful responses. The texts appeared aimed at Republicans and arrived days before early voting in a competitive election in which Ken Paxton has criticized James Talarico over his support for transgender youth.
Northside ISD substitute suspended after students report remarks about ICE, police
(San Antonio Express-News) A Northside Independent School District substitute has been suspended from assignments while officials investigate a student’s report that the substitute mentioned calling ICE and police on a class. The student reported the incident Oct. 6 at Rayburn Middle School, district spokesman Barry Perez said. Officials said the substitute made the remark while addressing a fourth-period class about students’ behavior.
IDEA Public Schools bus driver refuses to drive over safety concerns, cites potential mechanical issues
(Fox 26 Houston) A school bus driver with nearly 30 years of commercial driving experience, is refusing to operate his bus over an active Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) warning light. IDEA Public Schools says that vehicles with defects compromising safety must be addressed before returning to service and that drivers are expected to report unsafe conditions. The driver maintains he properly reported the safety concern according to protocol, but says the defect remains unaddressed. Follow-up inquiries regarding Clarence Lenton’s specific claims have been sent to IDEA Public Schools administration, but a response is still pending.
Here’s why many North Texas school buses still may lack seat belts by 2029 deadline
(Dallas Morning News) State law now requires Texas school buses to have three-point seat belts for students by Sept. 1, 2029, but many North Texas districts say they cannot afford the upgrades.
Records: Cotulla ISD tech director accused of owning 750+ child sexual abuse files on phone
(KSAT) Police allege Joseph Yanez uploaded child sexual abuse files to a social media account.
Melissa ISD school bus driver fired following arrest on child pornography charge
(Fox 4 KDFW) Phillip Bates, a Melissa ISD driver for Route 15, was arrested Tuesday by McKinney police on a child pornography charge and immediately fired. District officials stated there is currently no evidence connecting the criminal charge to any Melissa ISD students or school activities.
How limits on teaching race, history have reached Texas private universities
(San Antonio Express-News) A new Texas law requires every teacher-training program, including those at private universities, to follow the same limits on teaching race, sex and history that apply to K-12 schools. The state made each program sign a promise to comply, and programs that don’t sign could lose state funding and the ability to certify teachers. Professors say the rules are so vague that they’re cutting material from their classes to stay safe.
Texas State University launches first-ever satellite into space
(Fox 7 Austin) A Texas State University student-built satellite lifted off aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. This marked the university’s first-ever satellite launch. The satellite’s primary scientific objective centers on atmospheric defense.
City of Austin, UT Austin close to agreement on preserving Muny Golf Course
(Fox 7 Austin) The City of Austin and the University of Texas at Austin are close to an agreement to preserve Lions Municipal Golf Course, known as “Muny.” The proposed deal will give ownership of the golf course to the city. In 1950, Muny became the first public golf course in the south. It allowed people of color to play on the course. It was then listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a civil rights landmark.
UT San Antonio students demand answers months after tornado
(News4SA) Nearly three months after a tornado damaged a student apartment complex near the University of Texas at San Antonio, some students say they are still paying full rent without access to several amenities they expected when signing their leases.
Huston-Tillotson University parking dispute video sparks protests outside Austin home
(Fox 7 Austin) A parking dispute video near Huston-Tillotson University in East Austin has gone viral. A couple who lives along East 9th Street were seen telling people not to park in front of their home. They were also seen making comments about the university. The City of Austin said parking is allowed on those blocks of East 9th Street.
Prairie View bars private parties during homecoming after Labor Day violence reports
(Houston Chronicle) As Prairie View A&M University prepares to celebrate its 150th anniversary homecoming, city officials are cracking down on large, privately organized gatherings by denying permit applications. The restrictions follow reports of violence during Labor Day weekend.
Fall enrollment grows at most San Antonio colleges and universities. Here’s how each school fared
(San Antonio Report) Enrollment across most of San Antonio colleges and universities increased this fall, with more than 166,000 students attending public and private institutions in the city. Our Lady of the Lake University was the only institution to report a loss in student enrollment of nearly 12% since last fall, landing at 1,550 total students this fall.
UT El Paso enrollment hits record 27,000 while students face parking shortages
(KVIA) Fall 2026 marks the first year UTEP’s enrollment has surpassed 27 thousand, a 10% increase from 2020, when the university had fewer than 25,000 students, according to the university communications. Students say the number of parking spots isn’t keeping up with those higher enrollment rates. Limited parking spots is forcing commuters to plan for extra time on their drive and possibly a long walk to class.
Sex crimes and stigma: reports and reporting culture across five Texas universities
(CBS Austin) CBS Austin looked at sex-crime reports at five big Texas public universities after a Texas State student was assaulted on Oct. 11. Each school records these crimes a little differently, and Texas A&M’s reported rapes dropped by about half after 2023. UT students said that even though help is available, many victims don’t report because they fear being exposed or judged. None of the universities responded to CBS Austin before the story ran.
SMU announces first-of-its-kind Texas athletics partnership as university reports surge in applications
(WFAA) Texas Capital Bank’s logo will appear on uniforms for all 17 SMU teams as university leaders report a 65% increase in undergraduate applications since joining the Atlantic Coast Conference. SMU Athletics and Dallas-based Texas Capital announced Tuesday a jersey patch partnership covering all 17 of the university’s varsity sports programs, marking what officials say is the first all-sports agreement of its kind for a Power Four athletics program in Texas.
A Dallas private school wants to serve gifted students with special needs. What to know about twice-exceptional learners
(Dallas Morning News) Twice-exceptional students embody an unexpected combination. They’re intellectually gifted but have learning challenges, such as dyslexia, autism and ADHD.
Private school in Tyler builds personalized learning environments for dyslexic students
(KLTV) Bridgemark Center for Learning Differences is private school specializing in providing learning environments for students with learning disabilities.
City of Liberty falls victim to $600,000 wire transfer fraud, officials say
(KTRK) Officials with the City of Liberty said it fell victim to a fraudulent wire transfer of about $600,000. The city said it initiated the transfer in response to a payment request from an email domain that appeared to impersonate a legitimate vendor to whom the city owed payment.
Texas town gets $31 million to ditch septic tanks, with schools first in line for sewer hookups
(The Cool Down) More than $31 million in federal funding will help Ben Bolt, a small South Texas town, move away from septic tanks and begin building a modern sewer system. The first connections are expected to go to local schools as the long-delayed project gets underway.
Katy ISD turns to robots to fill custodian shortage
(KTRK) Katy ISD has deployed cleaning robots at 17 of its schools after struggling to find enough people to fill custodial positions. District officials say they are short 100 custodians districtwide.
Oct. 14, 2026
Half of Texas third graders aren’t reading on grade level. TEA Commissioner Morath says schools must act
(Houston Chronicle) About half of Texas third graders can’t read on grade level, and the problem is worst in low-income districts. Speaking to school board members and administrators Saturday at the txEDCON convention in Houston, Education Commissioner Mike Morath called this a systemic failure. He urged districts to use proven reading methods and state-approved materials, including Texas’s own free curriculum, which has been criticized for including Bible lessons. The state has also been taking over struggling districts like Houston ISD, though Morath still called local school boards the most important institution in the country.
Taxpayers pay the price when Texas education department takes over school districts
(Texas Tribune) Cash-strapped Austin ISD faces big changes under a potential state takeover. It could also face increased costs at a time when reserves are running dry.
Texas vouchers promised school choice. Now lawmakers are questioning the results
(Dallas Observer) Did you miss seeing school vouchers in headlines? Come January, the $1 billion program could be seeing some changes. Related:
When a rural Texas school district struggled with growth, charter schools filled the void
(Texas Tribune) Rapid growth in rural Liberty County overwhelmed Cleveland ISD, so the state invited ILTexas to open charter schools there, and charter enrollment soon grew faster than the traditional districts. Cleveland ISD couldn’t keep up because state growth funding is capped, the funding formula treats its cheap land as wealth, and voters rejected its bonds. Now enrollment is slowing, the district is cutting staff, and educators say Texas needs a fairer funding system for both districts and charters.
Texas health agency proposes eliminating children’s autism program
(Texas Tribune) The proposed elimination of the program, aimed at serving lower-income families, comes as Texas leadership has called on agencies to reduce budgets by 3%.
Grand Prairie ISD cancels musical after female student cast in male role
(Fox 4 KDFW) A performance of ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ at South Grand Prairie High School was canceled after a female student was cast in a traditionally male role. Grand Prairie ISD cited concerns over the musical’s themes involving an abusive relationship, and complying with Senate Bill 12, which restricts drag performances. The student in question tells FOX 4 the district attempted to recast her before canceling the musical altogether.
Plano ISD to contribute up to $250 million to Dallas Stars arena funding
(Dallas Morning News) Plano ISD will contribute up to $250 million, or for up to 25 years, toward a proposed $1 billion Dallas Stars arena and entertainment district at The Shops at Willow Bend. It will do this by joining the city’s tax increment reinvestment zone and giving half of its captured tax increment each year. The school board approved the deal in August, and the Plano City Council approved it Monday. It adds to the city’s $700 million bond commitment and lets the district hold graduations and other events at the arena. District officials say the money would otherwise go to the state through recapture, so the deal benefits students without new residential taxes. Opponents question the deal as the district faces a projected $44.8 million deficit and school closures, while voters also decide on up to five new taxes to help fund the project.
El Paso ISD considers short-term loan amid projected cash flow issues
(KVIA) Projected cash flow issues in spring 2027 could result in the El Paso School District Board of Trustees getting a short-term loan. During the board’s Monday meeting, EPISD trustees received an update on the cash flow and ending balances for the school year. A temporary cash shortfall may hit the books May and June of 2027, forcing the district to seek alternative actions for now. No action was taken, but the board instructed administrators to monitor the cash flow and discuss possible approval of a short-term loan, which would happen in March or April.
Houston Democrats push for guardrails on school takeovers
(Texas Tribune) A commission led by area lawmakers recommended raising the bar for when the TEA chief can intervene and setting guardrails for state appointees during a takeover. Related:
Grapevine-Colleyville ISD releases ‘poison’ employees list after yearslong legal fight
(NBC DFW) A list of 18 Grapevine-Colleyville ISD employees that a former school board member described as “poison teachers” has been released after a yearslong legal battle, leaving some current and former district employees questioning why their names were included.
Bullard ISD accepts superintendent’s resignation, appoints acting superintendent
(CBS19) The Bullard ISD Board of Trustees unanimously accepted Superintendent Dr. Micah Dyer’s voluntary resignation, effective immediately, and appointed Jodie Albritton as acting superintendent during a special meeting Tuesday evening. The meeting followed a decision by the trustees last week to place Dyer on paid administrative leave. Dyer had been in the position since March 30.
Petition asks state to close Austin ISD schools to prevent district takeover
(CBS Austin) Burnet and Webb middle school parents are weighing a petition that could prevent a state takeover of Austin ISD, but at the cost of closing their schools. Austin ISD announced Thursday it received a fifth consecutive “F” rating from the Texas Education Agency at both Webb and Burnet Middle Schools. Pending any appeals, the grades will trigger state intervention by state law, which could include a state takeover of the district. However, the Texas Education Code outlines an alternative route: a Parent Petition for Action requesting that Morath close the failing schools rather than taking over the whole district.
Disability Rights Texas outlines next steps after judge orders Klein ISD to allow monitoring access
(Fox 26 Houston) Disability Rights Texas says advocates will visit Klein ISD schools and speak with students and staff following a federal judgment requiring monitoring access. The organization says concerns from parents and employees prompted its efforts in 2023, followed by a lawsuit after repeated access restrictions and criminal trespass warnings. Klein ISD says it will work with DRTx under court-ordered protocols but continues to raise concerns about student safety, privacy and private conversations without prior parental consent.
New Braunfels ISD looks to consolidate 2 elementary schools amid projected $7M budget shortfall
(Community Impact) New Braunfels ISD officials have identified 11 possible scenarios for consolidating two elementary schools for the 2027-28 school year, after projecting a $7 million budget shortfall for the next two fiscal years, according to a district news release.
Clint ISD approves one-time retention stipend plan; to pay $750 to full-time staff
(KFOX) Clint Independent School District employees will receive a one-time retention stipend after the district’s attendance came in slightly higher than anticipated, the district announced on Tuesday. Under the plan, full-time Clint ISD teachers and staff will receive $750. Part-time Clint ISD staff serving in regularly scheduled, full-year positions will receive $300. The stipends are scheduled to be paid Wednesday, Nov. 18.
Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD board votes to end meeting ban for trustee
(Progress Times) The PSJA ISD school board voted 4-3 to lift Trustee Cynthia Gutierrez’s ban on attending meetings in person, a restriction in place since June 2025, when the board censured her for disruptive behavior and barred her from district property. A judge later allowed her back on district property, but she still had to attend meetings remotely.
Report: Texas Schools May Have an Islamist Problem
(Texas Scorecard) A Texas Public Policy Foundation report shows a web of interlinked Muslim organizations and public education institutions.
Amarillo ISD renews good-cause exception for school safety requirement
(KFDA) Amarillo ISD has renewed its Good Cause Exception, which lets the district use alternative safety measures instead of meeting House Bill 3’s 2023 mandate for an armed officer on every campus. Board President Jon Mark Beilue called HB 3 an underfunded mandate. He said AISD police and Amarillo city police cover most campuses but not all of them. To fill the gaps, the district relies on teachers trained under its guardian/defender program, and it says every campus has an assigned officer even if that officer isn’t stationed there full-time. District leaders said the AISD police force has been growing and will keep expanding over the next several years to get closer to full compliance with the state requirement.
Birdville ISD Coach Resigns Over Alleged Sexual Misconduct
(Texas Scorecard) Richland High School girls’ softball coach Rylee Johnson is under police investigation for an alleged “inappropriate relationship” with a student.
Baytown mother pushes for ‘Andrew’s Law’ after 16-year-old son killed at school
(Fox 26 Houston) A Baytown mother, Rebecca Meismer, is pushing for “Andrew’s Law” after her 16-year-old son was allegedly stabbed to death by a classmate at Goose Creek CISD’s Sterling High School in December 2025. The proposed law would require serious injury-causing assaults in Texas schools to be reported to police and reviewed for criminal charges, not just handled by school discipline. She is working with local lawmakers and hopes to have a bill drafted soon.
Employee at South Texas school district arrested in Laredo on federal child pornography charge
(Laredo Morning Times) A man publicly listed as Cotulla ISD’s director of technology was arrested in Laredo on a federal child pornography charge following an investigation into an X account that was accessed through an IP address assigned to the district’s technology building. Joseph Yanez of Pearsall faces a federal charge of possession of child pornography, according to court records filed in the Southern District of Texas.
School is going to tremble: Teen arrested after videos threatening to put bullets in students
(San Antonio Express-News) An arrest affidavit accuses a 17-year-old of posting social media videos showing a handgun and threatening to shoot former classmates at a San Antonio charter school. She was arrested Wednesday. Daniella Marino was charged with making a terroristic threat, a third-degree felony. The affidavit says the school reported the threats to San Antonio police on Oct. 2 after a student’s mother alerted officials to the videos.
North Texas family sues charter school over alleged child sexual abuse by teacher
(CBS Texas) The family of an 8-year-old boy is suing a Little Elm charter school and its principal, alleging they failed to report a disclosure that a teacher sexually abused the child. The civil lawsuit names North Texas Collegiate Academy and principal Donica Hill. It alleges the school failed to notify law enforcement after the boy documented what he says happened to him in a written statement last December. The teacher, Eric Moore, was arrested in January and indicted on multiple counts of indecency with a child and sexual assault of a child.
Debate ended after UT Austin guest speaker uses racist and homophobic slurs, creating backlash
(Austin American-Statesman) UT Austin students, parents and Black student groups are questioning the decision to allow a far-right speaker on campus amid concerns about racist speech at UT. UT says the law doesn’t let it ban speakers for their views, but it can stop events that turn dangerous or disruptive.
Rice expands AI push with 75 faculty hires, new master’s degree
(Houston Chronicle) Rice is making a major push into artificial intelligence as part of a 10-year plan to become a hub for “responsible AI.”
Some Texas colleges get OK for new Workforce Pell that pays for job training
(KERA) The community colleges recently received the stamp of approval from the U.S. Department of Education, marking the first time low-income Texas students can use the federal grants money for short-term workforce training.
Texas football power Lake Travis ISD unveils its $48M stadium upgrade
(Houston Chronicle) Growing enrollment and years of sellouts prompted one of Texas’ biggest stadium overhauls for the powerhouse program.
Pathway Academy charter cancels remainder of the 2026 football season
(NewsWest 9) Pathway Academy’s football season was cut short late Tuesday night as the Big Spring charter announced the cancellation of its remaining games. The announcement states low roster number as the main reasoning to end the season early. The Warriors were 0-4 in their inaugural UIL season and previously cancelled two games earlier in the season.
Driver collides with Midway ISD school bus after running a stop sign
(KWTX) A Midway ISD bus was on its way to drop off kids at school when a driver collided into the front right tire of the bus Thursday morning, according to Midway ISD’s public information officer. 30 students were on the bus at the time of the accident. One student complained of a minor injury and was transported to receive care. No further injuries are known.
Houston’s Folgers coffee plant-turned-music and arts charter school gets $20M donation
(Houston Chronicle) A Houston family foundation is giving $20 million to a new free charter school for music and arts. The school, named after the late Frank Liu Jr., will open in August 2027 inside the old Folgers Coffee plant in Houston’s East End. It will serve kindergarten through 8th grade, focus on low-income students, and grow from 200 to 875 students over time. Local leaders celebrated the school even as Houston ISD has been cutting its own arts programs.
Former Abilene ISD superintendent returns to Mineral Wells ISD
(KTAB/KRBC) Dr. John Kuhn, who stepped down as Abilene ISD superintendent in February after a health incident and later served as the district’s director of multilingual achievement, left AISD effective September 30, 2026. Kuhn has returned to Mineral Wells ISD, where he was previously superintendent, and now serves as its instructional multi-tiered system of support coach and leadership mentor.
Oct. 8, 2026
Texas School Funding Rises Per Student Amid Enrollment Declines
(Texas Scorecard) Texas education officials told lawmakers that public school funding has increased on a per student basis even as districts face budget pressures from declining enrollment.
Texas senators discuss tightening school library book law
(KERA) During Wednesday’s Texas Senate Education Committee meeting, lawmakers hinted at possibly strengthening a law designed to give parents more control over library materials.
Texas teachers fight state rule over charter school staffing authority
(Courthouse News Service) The Texas Supreme Court heard arguments Wednesday over a state rule that lets charter operators decide which teachers work at struggling schools they take over from districts. Lower courts struck the rule down, and the Texas State Teachers Association argued it undercuts superintendents’ authority and teachers’ right to file grievances. The state said districts can simply refuse the charter deal, but several justices questioned whether that’s a real choice when the alternative is closure or a state takeover.
How Austin ISD ended a partnership to stave off state intervention at 3 middle schools
(Austin American-Statesman) Austin ISD and Texas Council for International Studies severed ties in July after the Texas Education Agency denied a key funding incentive.
Plano ISD trustees set legislative priorities ahead of 2027 session
(Community Impact) The four priorities focused on school funding, the state’s accountability system, student health and safety, and the educator workforce.
Mission CISD ends food truck endeavor
(Progress Times) The Mission Consolidated Independent School District Board of Trustees voted Tuesday to list its food truck fleet as surplus property, likely marking the end of the district’s foray into food truck nutrition. In 2019, Mission CISD’s school board voted unanimously and without discussion to spend about $413,000 on a fleet of seven food trucks meant to feed students at the district’s campuses. Those trucks weren’t officially opened until 2021, and when they were opened, they proved to be relatively unpopular.
Lubbock ISD employee data exposed in Frontline Education security incident
(KCBD) Lubbock ISD leadership was notified Tuesday by Frontline Education that the company experienced a data security incident on Aug. 14, 2026, that exposed district employee information. Frontline said it discovered and remediated the incident on Aug. 15, 2026. The exposed information included employee Social Security numbers, email addresses and physical addresses, according to Frontline. Frontline has advised that no Lubbock ISD student information was exposed in the incident.
McAllen school board OKs Quinta Mazatlán funds
(Progress Times) McAllen ISD will send about $3 million to the City of McAllen for improvements at Quinta Mazatlán (the city’s historic mansion and nature center), resolving a dispute over a 2021 agreement in which the district pledged $4 million to the project. The district had considered backing out when it faced financial problems, and the disagreement nearly led to litigation. With its finances now stabilized, the district supports the project and expects students to benefit from educational opportunities at the nature center.
Investigation launched into Wichita Falls ISD PD Chief
(KFDX/KJTL) An investigation is pending with the Wichita Falls ISD Chief of Police after being put on administrative leave involving a personnel matter. According to WFISD Communications Officer Ashley Thomas, WFISD Chief of Police Anthony Smith is on administrative leave due to an ongoing investigation. Because it is a personnel matter, the district cannot provide additional details at this time. Thomas also stated that WFISD can confirm the investigation does not involve students and that a student’s safety was never compromised.
‘Didn’t give them gloves’ — Northside ISD O’Connor High School mom questions cleanup process after reported impetigo cases
(KENS) A Helotes mom says O’Connor High families weren’t told about a reported impetigo outbreak among football players, and that her daughter and other athletes were made to pick up discarded bandages from a shared field without gloves. Northside ISD says the 10 to 14 cases were treated, there are no active cases, and enhanced cleaning is in place, but it didn’t address the gloves allegation.
Aldine ISD student dies after medical emergency inside school gym, district says
(KHOU) Aldine ISD is mourning the death of a Davis High School student who experienced a medical emergency on campus, according to the district. The district said the student experienced the medical emergency during a physical education class inside the school gymnasium. School staff responded and contacted emergency medical services, according to Aldine ISD. Emergency assistance was provided until first responders arrived and took over the student’s care. The student was taken by ambulance to a local hospital, where the student was pronounced dead. Aldine ISD did not provide additional information about what caused the medical emergency or identify the student.
Sonora ISD campus evacuated after swatting threat
(Concho Valley Homepage) Sonora ISD has released a statement after its secondary campus was evacuated Wednesday morning for what the district called a “swatting threat.”
Teen charged with terror threat after airsoft BB gun incident at Comal ISD Pieper High School
(KENS) A 15-year-old faces a terror threat charge, accused of brandishing an airsoft gun, sparking a lockdown. A second teen is not charged at this time. Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said the weapon turned out to be a realistic looking airsoft BB gun. The fear and reaction at the school, which has about 2,000 students, was enough to cause a lockdown that lasted several hours while officers worked to make sure the campus was secure.
New charge for former College Station ISD employee charged with Possession of Child Porn
(Fox44) A 22-year-old former evening custodian at College Station ISD’s Greens Prairie Elementary, Gerardo Antonio Gonzalez, was arrested September 23 on a child pornography possession charge after the Brazos County Sheriff’s Office received a CyberTip about videos linked to him. The Sheriff’s Special Investigative Unit kept working the case and has since added a first-degree felony charge of Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Young Child (victim under 14). Investigators say they have no information tying the alleged offenses to his job with the district, which had employed him since February 2025, fired him once it learned of the charges, and has conducted a security sweep of the campus.
Alamo Colleges Student’s First Amendment Claim Fails After Electrical Lab Dispute
(LawNews) In Soliz v. Alamo Colleges District, decided September 16, Judge David Ezra of the Western District of Texas adopted Magistrate Judge Richard Farrer’s recommendation and dismissed pro se student Joseph Soliz’s First Amendment retaliation, Fourth Amendment, and due process claims against the Alamo Community Colleges District. The dispute began in January 2024 at St. Philip’s College, when Soliz clashed with instructor Roy Ruiz over a lab exercise, rejected staff mediation, and returned to class after being asked not to, prompting a campus police call that canceled the session.
Huston-Tillotson University rebrands, eyes campus expansion
(KXAN) Huston-Tillotson University, Austin’s only HBCU, unveiled a brand refresh in September that expands its traditional maroon and gold into a broader palette of reds, golds, tans, browns, and greens, marking a new chapter in its 151-year history. The rebrand follows a $150 million gift from the Moody Foundation announced during the school’s sesquicentennial in September 2025. The university’s master plan includes a new academic building next to a new student union, plus three residence halls. HTU aims to grow enrollment to 1,700 students over the next decade, pitching itself as a way for local students to study, graduate, and build their lives in Austin. Construction on the new buildings is expected to start in 2028.
‘We will have growth’: Our Lady of the Lake University enrollment falls again as university leaders renew turnaround efforts
(San Antonio Report) Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio opened fall 2026 with 1,550 students, its lowest enrollment yet, down nearly 12% from last year and 44% since fall 2020. The decline has cost the school over $14.7 million in tuition and fee revenue between fiscal years 2021 and 2025, and it cut 15 academic programs last year. University leaders point to a new enrollment vice president, Shobi Sivadasan, a three-year “Lake Express” degree option, rising applications, flat first-year numbers, and 20% transfer growth as signs of a turnaround, though first-year retention slipped from 74% to 68%. Sivadasan predicts fall 2026 will be the last year of overall decline, with growth expected in 2027.
University of Houston student arrested after alleged catfishing scheme, leaking intimate video
(Fox 26 Houston) 18-year-old University of Houston student Tyler Burrel faces a state jail felony charge for allegedly posing as a woman on Snapchat to catfish an 18-year-old male former acquaintance. After obtaining an explicit video from the victim under false pretenses, Burrel allegedly shared the footage with the victim’s friends.
Eden CISD switches to junior varsity football schedule for rest of season
(Fox West Texas) Eden CISD has switched its varsity football schedule to a junior varsity schedule for the remainder of the season, the district announced in a community update on September 24, 2026. The district did not give a reason for the change but said it wants students to continue experiencing the traditions and community support that come with football season.
Sabine ISD athletic director, head football coach, temporarily steps down from positions
(CBS19) Tim Russell, who was appointed in April, is stepping back due to an “immediate and unforeseen health concern.”
They Survived Uvalde, Parkland and Other School Shootings. These Photos Show Life After the Gunfire
(People) Photographer Kathy Shorr portrays students, parents and teachers carrying the visible and invisible effects of school shootings.
Aldine ISD breaks ground on new $120M arts center, slated to open in 2028. See the renderings
(Houston Chronicle) For years, Aldine ISD students have performed marching and dance showcases at the M.O. Campbell Educational Center, a venue built for sports, rather than the arts. Now, with funding from the 2023 bond, the district broke ground this week on a long-awaited Education and Performing Arts Center, a 100,000-square-foot facility with dedicated spaces for theater, dance, music and visual arts. The $120 million project is expected to open in 2028, creating a permanent hub where Aldine ISD’s growing arts community can rehearse, perform and showcase its work without leaving the area.
Fort Worth needs skilled workers. College partnerships aim to meet that demand
(Fort Worth Report) At an Oct. 6 higher education panel hosted by The Business Press, Fort Worth-area college and business leaders described how partnerships with employers, nonprofits and public agencies help students stay in school and prepare for careers.
PossAble Dream aims to give Rio Grande Valley high school dropouts a chance to ‘change the story’
(Texas Standard) The charter pilot program is giving adults opportunities to earn their diplomas and receive workforce training.
Oct. 7, 2026
STAAR rescoring requests triple after more Texas schools question computer grading
(Texas Tribune) Thousands of STAAR reading results improved after humans rescored students’ written answers. Most of the initial grading was done by an automated engine.
Mike Miles says Houston ISD may lose twice as many students as projected as cuts hit school budgets
(Houston Chronicle) Houston ISD’s state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles estimated enrollment this school year will be 160,000 students — double the loss the district planned its budget around — at a Texas Senate Education Committee meeting on Tuesday.
Texas Senators Examine Four-Day School Weeks Amid Concerns Over Student Learning
(Texas Scorecard) Testimony before the Texas Senate Committee on Education suggested that shorter school weeks may come at the expense of student achievement.
Judge rules Klein ISD violated federal law by restricting disability watchdog’s campus access
(Fox 26 Houston) A federal judge ruled Klein ISD unlawfully restricted Disability Rights Texas’ monitoring access to campuses and private communications with students with disabilities. A permanent injunction requires the district to allow access under court-ordered protocols and prohibits retaliation against people who communicate with the organization. The ruling follows a dispute involving criminal trespass warnings issued to advocates in 2023. FOX 26 reported on the lawsuit in August.
Parents of Sanger ISD teen killed in bus crash search for answers amid grief
(CBS Texas) The parents of 13-year-old Julian Amador, who died when a Sanger ISD school bus overturned in Denton County, are speaking out. They told CBS News Texas that the unimaginable loss has left them heartbroken, but what’s even more difficult is not knowing what caused the crash. “It’s hard for sure. Waking up and not seeing him there or going to sleep and not being able to kiss him a good night,” said Julian’s mother, Brenda Lopez.
‘I walk in with dread’: Students slam scripted lessons in Ft. Worth ISD takeover
(Houston Chronicle) Fort Worth students have penned a searing letter against the state takeover of their district, arguing the changes have “drained the life” from their classrooms and have pushed them away from learning. “We miss when we could listen to a teacher tell us about interesting things, things we cared about. When we could hear about the hidden meanings and power in words on a page,” the roughly 1,300-word letter signed by 57 students ranging from third graders to high school seniors says.
- Over 1,000 people sign Fort Worth ISD students’ petition against scripted lessons (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
Mansfield ISD may change how trustees are elected. Residents are asking why
(Arlington Report) The school board voted 4-3 to explore single-member districts. A former superintendent and the mayor oppose replacing at-large elections.
Austin ISD struggled to respond last year as gunman was on the loose near schools, documents show
(KUT) An internal conversation between AISD officials the morning of Sept. 10, 2025, shows confusion as they tried to make decisions on what to communicate with families and whether to delay school. Since then, the district has updated its crisis communication protocols.
Allegations against former Conroe ISD coach sent to sheriff’s office for review after Paxton opinion
(Houston Chronicle) The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office are reviewing allegations of inappropriate behavior by a former Woodlands High School wrestling coach after Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said in a September opinion that school district police are not the right agency to handle such investigations, Conroe ISD officials said Tuesday.
Lewisville ISD Hebron H.S. educator turns herself in on multiple child sex crime warrants
(Fox 4 KDFW) 35-year-old Gloria Reséndiz turned herself in to the Carrollton Jail on Tuesday, October 6. Reséndiz, a teacher at Hebron High School in Lewisville ISD, was charged with indecency with a child – sexual contact and child grooming on Monday, October 5. Carrollton PD say they obtained the arrest warrants for Reséndiz after an investigation revealed evidence of an inappropriate relationship between Reséndiz and a juvenile student.
2 teens detained after student allegedly threatened with realistic gun at Comal ISD Pieper HS
(News4SA) Two 16-year-old boys were detained Tuesday morning after a student was allegedly threatened with what appeared to be a real gun in the parking lot of Pieper High School. Bexar County Sheriff Javier Salazar said the school is safe and investigators do not believe there was ever an active threat inside the building. Deputies recovered a realistic-looking Airsoft gun, a knife and alcohol from a vehicle in the school parking lot.
Odessa teen arrested for false school shooting threat
(NewsWest9) A 13-year-old boy was arrested after Odessa police were alerted to a terroristic threat posted to social media. Officials say that detectives with the Odessa Police Department were contacted on Monday about a social media post on TikTok; the post warned students at IDEA Yukon School in Odessa that a shooting would occur the following day.
Affidavit: Pornographic images and videos of student found in ex-Connally ISD teacher’s phone
(KWTX) A search of a now former-Connally Independent School District teacher’s phone revealed thousands of text messages between the teacher and a student, and “videos and images depicting sexual relations between the both parties,” an arrest warrant affidavit obtained by KWTX states. David Ezequiel Martinez-Saraoz, 23, surrendered to Lacy Lakeview police earlier this week. He was charged with improper relationship between educator and student, possession of child pornography, and sexual performance by a child.
Klein ISD classroom aide facing felony charge highlights Texas special education camera law
(Fox 26 Houston) A former Klein ISD classroom aide, 26-year-old James Theodor Broussard, was fired and arrested by district police on a felony Injury to a Child charge after allegedly hurting a student five days into the school year. The mother of a nonverbal autistic student in the same classroom criticized the district for giving vague information and said she hadn’t known classroom cameras had to be requested to be turned on. Under Texas Education Code § 29.022, districts must install and operate cameras in self-contained special education classrooms only after a written request from a parent, staff member, or board member, and that request must be renewed each school year. Special education advocate Louis Geigerman linked abuse risk to inadequate staff training and urged families to submit written camera requests right away.
Monte Alto ISD nurse accused of inappropriately touching 10-year-old student ‘several times’
(KRGV) A 46-year-old nurse for the Monte Alto Independent School District touched a 10-year-old’s genital area “several times in the course of a year,” according to a criminal complaint obtained by Channel 5 News. According to the complaint, the unidentified student told authorities nurse Ruben Del Toro touched her genitalia while at the school nurse’s station “when she was being treated for pain to her foot.”
The child reiterated the outcry during a forensic interview and a sexual assault nurse examiner (SANE) exam.
Texas Southern University students return to Science Building, report persistent mold smells and safety concerns
(Fox 26 Houston) After nearly two months, Texas Southern University has reopened its science building after mold issues, but students voice ongoing concerns about air quality and health risks.
UT Austin college council advisers take more control, enforce University policy
(Daily Texan) Some UT Austin college council advisers will enforce stricter control over social media, finances and community events within the organizations this year. These changes are part of a larger plan to ensure University-sponsored organizations act in accordance with the mission and goals of the school, according to an email from Cassandre Alvarado, senior associate dean and Communication Council adviser. Almost every college at UT has a college council made up of students who “provide programming on the academic environment, student-faculty interaction, and the university community,” according to the Senate of College Council’s website. Members work on committees to create content, policy change and community engagement on behalf of their respective colleges.
North Texas football player injured at practice, flown by medical helicopter for treatment, officials say
(CBS Texas) A Crandall High School football player was injured during practice on Wednesday and flown by medical helicopter for treatment, the district said. The district also asked the community to respect the family’s privacy.
Northside ISD chief defends decision to euthanize K-9 Donna
(San Antonio Express-News) The Northside Independent School District’s chief of police on Monday defended his decision, made nearly two months ago, to euthanize Donna, a district K-9. Chief Richard Palomo said officials considered her health, age and quality of life before choosing what he called a “peaceful, dignified release.” Palomo released a prerecorded message after KSAT Investigates reported that working-dog advocates criticized the district’s decision, saying it should have spent $7,000 on surgery they said could have saved Donna. Related:
Northside ISD: 10 O’Connor student-athletes had contagious skin infection nearly a month ago; currently no active cases
(KENS) About three to four weeks ago, officials at the school identified 14 possible cases of impetigo among student-athletes. Of those 14, 10 were confirmed as impetigo. As of Tuesday, there are no active cases on campus and all 14 were cleared to return to school by a medical professional.
Galveston ISD’s Ball High School holds an incredible Texas sports record
(Houston Chronicle) Galveston ISD’s Ball High School Tornadoes, seen in a recent District 9-5A game against Baytown Sterling, have sent 27 players to the NFL, more than any other Texas high school program.
Crane ISD mourns athletic trainer Michael ‘Doc’ Hailey
(NewsWest9) The community of Crane is in mourning after the sudden passing of beloved athletic trainer Michael ‘Doc’ Hailey. The cause of Hailey’s death is not yet disclosed; Hailey collapsed at a junior high volleyball game on Monday evening.
Oct. 6, 2026
Four Texas School Districts Face Comptroller Spending Review
(Texas Scorecard) Austin ISD and El Paso ISD were previously flagged for rising administrative costs, while Barbers Hill ISD recently faced scrutiny over its education foundation. Prosper ISD is the fourth district to be scrutinized.
Election officials in Texas scramble to process voter registration backlog with system they say doesn’t work
(San Antonio Current) Frustrated election officials say technology glitches with the state’s voter registration and management system, known as TEAM, are making it harder to get through a backlog the state revealed last month.
PEN America: Nearly 12,000 school book bans in a year, a record high
(AP) Many of the bans took place in Florida and Texas, where restrictive laws have been passed and both politicians and conservative activists have pushed for removals. PEN has also found that school district administrators rely increasingly on AI to determine which books should be pulled. Related:
- Bad Takes: Banned Books Week arrives as Texas librarians face mounting censorship (San Antonio Current)
Judge blocks Calhoun County ISD from moving forward with new budget, tax rate, school consolidation and November voter tax election
(Crossroads Today) A lawsuit claims the district violated the Texas Open Meetings Act.
Bullard ISD board votes to put superintendent on paid administrative leave
(KLTV) The board of Bullard Independent School District voted unanimously Monday Night to place the current superintendent on paid administrative leave due to what the school’s public information called a “personnel matter.”
This small Austin school went from F to B. Has it found Austin ISD’s formula for success?
(Austin American-Statesman) Bertha Sadler Means Young Women’s Leadership Academy, a 222-student all-girls middle school in Austin ISD, jumped from an F to a B (85) in this year’s TEA ratings. Principal De’Sean Roby credits a data-driven approach in which students track their own STAAR and classroom performance, along with a “Fab Five” framework built on relationships, hands-on and small-group instruction, and writing across subjects. District leaders, facing a possible state takeover after Burnet and Webb middle schools hit five consecutive F ratings, are holding the campus up as a model for 18 chronically failing schools.
Connally ISD’s state-appointed leaders make merging schools part of their turnaround strategy
(Waco Bridge) With grades K-5 now under one roof, the district’s state-appointed board and superintendent are seeing cost savings and expecting more effective monitoring of student progress.
Former Edinburg CISD school board trustee sues district
(Progress Times) Former Edinburg CISD school board member Miguel “Mike” Farias sued ECISD last week, alleging the district had violated the Texas Open Meetings Act several times over the course of the last year. Farias, formerly the board’s president, served as a trustee until he declined to run for reelection in 2024. In his suit, Farias alleged ECISD had failed to follow the Texas Open Meetings Act on a few occasions this year and at one point last year.
These Crowley ISD students returned to class early in July. How many attended?
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Elementary students at four Crowley ISD schools returned to class for the 2026-27 school year while the summer heat still baked the region with record-breaking temperatures. Although time will tell whether academic gains will follow these additional school days, attendance percentages offer a glimpse of how many students were in the classroom during this time.
Rice study shows how declining fertility rates could impact schools as Fort Bend ISD weighs rezoning
(KTRK) A new Rice University study warns that declining birth rates could make Fort Bend ISD’s enrollment drop even worse as the district considers shifting more than 1,000 students. Related:
Blue Ridge football coach placed on leave amid investigation into potential eligibility violations
(KXII) In a letter to the Blue Ridge community, Superintendent Matthew Brown said Head Football Coach and Athletic Director Jason Russell has been placed on leave as the district investigates allegations of eligibility documentation violations for some football players. Brown said the district is reporting their findings to the District Executive Committee and UIL. He stated the district will comply with any potential forfeiture requirements.
Jack County man arrested after reportedly watching ‘inappropriate material’ in front of students at high school football game
(WFAA) A North Texas parent was arrested Saturday night after reportedly watching “inappropriate material” in front of students at a high school football game, according to the Jack County Sheriff’s According to JCSO, the suspect, Chad Whitworth, was reportedly watching the material in front of the student section of the stands, where several students could see it. Within a few hours, officials say they gathered enough information and statements to arrest Whitworth and charge him with display of harmful material to a minor, a class A misdemeanor.
Affidavit: Aunt arrested after slamming child to ground at Waco middle school
(KWTX) A Waco woman, Daykayla Jefferson, has been charged with injury to a child with intent to cause bodily injury, a third-degree felony, after Waco ISD police say she assaulted her 11-year-old nephew on the Tennyson Middle School campus. According to the affidavit, Jefferson came onto school property, argued with the boy, and after he pushed her, struck him in the head, then lifted him and slammed him to the ground during a roughly one-minute altercation captured on surveillance video before leaving. School staff who witnessed the incident gave statements consistent with the footage, and the child, who was covered in mud and reported feeling pain, told officers that similar physical treatment happens repeatedly at home.
Police actively searching for Lewisville ISD educator on multiple child sex crime warrants
(Fox 4 KDFW) 35-year-old Gloria Reséndiz, an educator in Lewisville ISD, has been charged with two child sex crimes by the Carrollton Police Department. Reséndiz has been placed on leave by Lewisville ISD, but Carrollton PD say they have not yet arrested her and are actively searching for her location. The exact nature of the incident or incidents that led to the charges against Reséndiz are not publicly known.
Family of Marcus HS football hazing victim sues teens, parents & Lewisville ISD
(NBC DFW) A North Texas family is suing over an alleged hazing incident involving Marcus High School football players. The lawsuit says teammates restrained their 16-year-old son, stripped him to his underwear, ordered him to dance, and shot him with a CO2-powered pellet gun at an off-campus team dinner in October 2025. Four teens were charged with hazing, and two also face assault charges. One has taken a plea deal, but the boy’s father, Doug Turner, says the cases haven’t gone far enough. A Lewisville ISD investigation found a history of hazing among a small group of athletes but no evidence of program-wide hazing. The district has added locker room supervision and anti-hazing training.
Northside ISD declined $7K surgery for police K9 Donna. Hours later, she was euthanized
(KSAT) A $7,000 dollar surgery could have allowed a Northside ISD police K9 to continue working. Instead, records reveal the district’s police chief made the decision to euthanize Donna, a 7-year-old Belgian Malinois. A tip led KSAT Investigates to uncover key details about Donna’s final days that the district initially blacked out of public records. Working dog advocates and experts argue the district chose to save money instead of Donna’s life.
Junction ISD reports educator misconduct allegations involving former employee
(Fox West Texas) Junction Independent School District says it terminated a former employee after learning of allegations of educator misconduct and reported the matter to Child Protective Services, local law enforcement and the Texas Education Agency. The district said it is cooperating with law enforcement and other agencies investigating the allegations.
Tarrant County College corrects overstated property value decline after tax increase
(Fort Worth Report) Tarrant County College overstated the decline in its taxable property values by nearly $36 billion before trustees approved a tax increase in early September.
Shock, concern at University of Texas at Arlington after 2 sexual assault reports
(CBS Texas) There is shock and concern on the University of Texas at Arlington campus after two sexual assault reports. On Thursday, the University of Texas at Arlington Police Department sent a safety bulletin email to the university community, reporting two sexual assault incidents that allegedly happened about three weeks ago. The bulletin from the police department said the first sexual assault happened on or around Sept. 15 in West Hall, a student dorm. It said the victim also alleges a second sexual assault happened shortly after the first, in a restroom in the same building.
Texas college campus protest law faces First Amendment challenge
(Texas Tribune) A federal appeals court will consider whether restrictions on protests at Texas’ public universities and colleges violate constitutional rights.
Investigation reveals Texas A&M pepper spray robbery never happened
(Fox 26 Houston) Texas A&M University Police confirmed that a reported Sept. 28 robbery at the West Campus Garage did not actually occur. Police originally issued a campus alert after a woman claimed she was pepper-sprayed and robbed of her Corps of Cadets freshmen spurs. Following a detailed investigation, authorities confirmed the incident was fabricated and there is no active threat to the campus community.
As AI spreads in classrooms, North Texas students help shape school policy
(Dallas Morning News) Student groups are helping peers use AI responsibly and curb mindless screen time.
Longview ISD opens esports arena to connect students across campuses
(KLTV) Longview ISD celebrated the opening of its Lobo Gaming and Digital Science Esports Arena at LEAD Academy High School with a ribbon cutting, introducing a space where students can compete on screen, produce the broadcast behind it and share their work with classrooms across the district. The arena brings competitive gaming, digital media and live production together as part of the district’s Gaming Science and Digital Media magnet pathway.
San Antonio ISD Foundation opens free school supply store for educators
(Texas Public Radio) The teacher supply store, housed at the Young Men’s Leadership Academy in San Antonio opened on World Teacher Day on Oct. 5 to offer teachers free school supplies. The store is the first free supply store in San Antonio, created specifically for San Antonio ISD PK-12 educators. The foundation has provided teacher grants for 20 years, but the new store is designed to reach more educators.
City of Princeton says third-party investigation reveals cybersecurity incident could have exposed personal information, officials say
(WFAA) City officials state they will notify impacted individuals personally in accordance with the law and help provide resources to protect their information.
ICE releases Austin woman minutes after stopping her near school bus stop
(Austin American-Statesman) ICE said it released Araceli Naranjo Lezama after learning she was the sole caregiver for children who may have been left without supervision.
Controversy stirs over ‘gender’ of Snyder ISD mascot
(KTAB/KRBC) Snyder ISD administrators initially asked female sophomore Boston, who plays the high school’s tiger mascot “T” in her first year in the role, to change the character’s look from a girl (complete with tutus) to a boy after some people raised concerns.
Oct. 5, 2026
More errors plague Texas voter registration software, weeks before midterm election
(Dallas Morning News) Despite assurances from the state that fixes are coming, county officials and residents have encountered confusion and inaccuracies using Texas’ statewide voter registration system for a year.
Abbott Says $7.5 Billion Border Reimbursement Could Help Fund Property Tax Relief
(Texas Scorecard) The governor says he wants to dedicate “as much as possible” to property tax relief while maintaining border security funding.
What civil rights enforcement cuts mean for students with disabilities – fewer staff, closed offices, longer waits
(Dallas Observer) For decades, the Office for Civil Rights, or OCR, served as a critical safety net when local schools failed to meet federal disability standards. Now, sweeping budget and workforce cuts have restructured the office, leading to the dismissal of thousands of complaints without investigation and raising urgent questions about who will enforce federal special education laws when states fall short.
School Librarians Hesitant to Discuss Books Amid Texas Battles to Restrict Titles
(The 74) Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick’s latest push to restrict what students can access adds to Texas school librarians’ angst, the educators say.
North Texas teachers living farther from the schools they serve in Dallas
(Dallas Morning News) Rising housing costs are forcing some Dallas-area teachers into longer commutes to the schools they serve.
Texas school bus funding falls short as districts face route cuts and rising transportation costs
(KPRC) A KPRC investigation finds that Texas school districts are spending far more on student transportation than the state reimburses. State Sen. Carol Alvarado said transportation funding may get more legislative attention because school closures are lengthening commutes and districts face new seatbelt requirements and aging bus fleets.
Fort Worth ISD teacher departures more than doubled in August. What drove the increase?
(Fort Worth Report) Nearly 70% left after classes began as longtime teachers described mounting workload and tighter instructional expectations. Related:
Third Future Schools took over 4 San Antonio schools this year. Here’s a look inside one of them
(San Antonio Report) Third Future Schools, a Colorado-based network, took over Hirsch Elementary and three other failing San Antonio-area schools this year under a state law that gives districts extra funding and a reprieve from state penalties. The network uses a highly structured model with longer school years and daily mastery checks, aiming to close learning gaps quickly. It has turned schools around before, though gains have sometimes faded after it leaves.
Weeks out from early voting, San Antonio ISD won’t say which schools could be included in its $600M bond proposal
(San Antonio Report) With early voting fast approaching, San Antonio Independent School District doesn’t plan to have a school project list for a $600 million bond package that will be on the Nov. 3 ballot. When going out for school bonds, districts usually release detailed project lists so the public knows exactly which campuses are getting bond dollars and for what. Northside ISD is also going out for a bond this November, and the district website has a project list outlining how many dollars are going to each campus and why.
Beaumont ISD offers prizes to encourage student attendance
(KBMT) Beaumont ISD launched an attendance incentive program Sept. 25 to address more than 31,000 absences so far this school year. Students who reach at least 95% attendance during an incentive period can earn rewards such as candy, popsicles, pizza, popcorn or gift certificates, which vary by campus, said Richard Yoes, chief of schools and academics. High school students may also be entered into raffles for larger prizes. Yoes said the rewards come from community donations, not district funds.
Post ISD band director arrested on child pornography possession charge
(KCBD) Bruce Bailey Jr. was a band director at Post ISD. A Garza County Sheriff’s deputy confirmed Bailey is charged with possession of between 10 and 50 images of child pornography.
DOJ: Former Texas Southern University adjunct professor sentenced for nearly $1 million in student aid fraud
(Fox 26 Houston) A former adjunct professor for Texas Southern University is said to have been sentenced for collecting nearly $1 million in fraudulent student financial aid. The U.S. Department of Justice says 43-year-old Emmanuel Olugbaike Finnih has been ordered to serve 6.5 years in federal prison, followed by three years of probation. Finnih reportedly received almost $1 million from making over 100 financial aid applications using Texas students’ information.
Gause ISD kindergartener brings handgun to school
(KBTX) A Gause ISD kindergartener brought a handgun to school Friday morning, district officials confirmed. According to Brad Jones, the district’s safety coordinator, the student’s parent called the school at 7:54 a.m., alerting the school that there might be a gun in the child’s backpack. By 7:55 a.m., school officials had located the backpack and secured the weapon. The first bell at Gause ISD rings at 7:35 a.m. “The student involved has been removed from campus, and the incident is being handled in strict accordance with law enforcement protocols and school district disciplinary policies,” the email stated.
Teens shot, one critical: Chaos at large Beaumont homecoming party, many witnesses uncooperative
(KFDM) What Beaumont police believe was an organized homecoming party erupted into chaos and resulted in multiple shots fired, leaving two teens injured, one critically, and many witnesses refusing to cooperate despite the serious nature of what unfolded.
2 high school students arrested after reportedly bringing gun on campus, Denton ISD says
(WFAA) Two high school students at Guyer High School in Denton were detained Friday after one of them reportedly brought a gun onto the campus, officials say. According to Denton ISD, high school administrators received a report from other students that one of the students had made a comment about a gun. Administrators and the school resource officer immediately responded, and while investigating, found a second student who reportedly had a gun in his backpack.
China Spring ISD school district investigating manipulated images of students
(KWTX) China Spring High School families have been warned about manipulated photos circulating among students. The district sent a letter to parents saying officials are actively investigating and that anyone found responsible faces discipline under the Student Code of Conduct. Multiple China Spring High School parents have reached out to KWTX angry and demanding answers. No one has been charged. Waco police confirmed an investigation is underway but said no further information is available at this time.
Joint child-exploitation probe leads to major narcotics seizure, firearms and 3 arrests in League City
(KPRC) A cyber tip from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children in July led to a search that produced electronic devices, narcotics and weapons.
Northside ISD: Student-athlete transported to hospital following injury in middle school football game
(KENS) A seventh grade student was transported by emergency medical services Saturday after suffering an injury during a middle school football game at Harlan High School, according to the Northside Independent School District. According to NISD Assistant Superintendent of Communications Barry Perez, the student-athlete is from Hobby Middle School. He was alert when taken to the hospital, according to Perez. The student was taken to be evaluated as a precaution. The district has not released additional information about the nature of the injury or the student’s condition.
Senior at University of Houston Downtown prevails after being accused of handing in assignments that were AI generated
(Fox 26 Houston) Mark Pieterson, a senior studying business management, said he was shocked after receiving an “F” in a music appreciation course. His professor accused him of submitting journal entries and discussion posts that were copied and generated by AI. After losing appeals to the professor and department chair, a student discipline committee ruled in Pieterson’s favor, citing concerns about the evidence’s reliability and consistency.
Baylor’s undergraduate enrollment is at a 12-year low. Here’s why
(Houston Chronicle) Baylor University’s enrollment has fallen to its lowest level in 12 years, but the university says the decline tells only part of the story.
Cornell case renews questions about campus sexual assault. What do the numbers show at UT Austin?
(KVUE) A former Cornell student’s lawsuit alleging a fraternity sexual assault has renewed attention on campus sexual violence. At UT Austin, 1,213 reports of sexual assault, harassment, dating violence or stalking were made in 2024-25, but most were confidential and only 47 led to investigations. The university says many people report incidents to seek support rather than an investigation. An attorney who has worked with survivors for two decades says campus data alone can’t capture the full picture of sexual assault.
San Antonio school communities pushed for new traffic safety measures. Here’s how the city responded
(San Antonio Report) Parents and advocates at two San Antonio Westside schools are pushing for better traffic safety. At Cleto L. Rodriguez Elementary (San Antonio ISD), a parent petition helped prompt new “No Parking” signs, while at John Jay High School (Northside ISD), the city added flashing crosswalk lights after a student was killed crossing Marbach Road. Parents say more improvements are needed, with possible funding coming from upcoming school bond measures.
Applying to North Texas private schools? How to study for the Independent School Entrance Examination
(Dallas Morning News) Many private schools rely on the ISEE to evaluate applicants. Tutors and admissions consultants shared tips on how to prepare for the notoriously difficult test.
Private Schools: Admission Accomplished — Tips From Education Consultants
(D Magazine) Dallas education consultants offer a roadmap for admissions-weary parents seeking the best private school fit for their budding scholars.
North Texas childcare providers face higher insurance costs, fewer carriers
(Dallas Morning News) North Texas childcare providers say rising insurance costs are pushing up tuition and squeezing already-thin budgets, adding another burden to an industry struggling to keep care affordable for families.
Texas Rangers believe Camp Mystic leaders ‘recklessly caused’ 27 flood deaths, warrants show
(KSAT) Search warrants seek digital records from Camp Mystic owners, family members and employees.
Texas to build 2 new juvenile centers, including 1 in Brazoria Co., as youth gun crime increases
(KTRK) For the first time in 25 years, Texas is building new state juvenile detention facilities, a major investment that comes as the number of young people referred to the juvenile justice system for gun-related crimes has risen sharply. Texas is spending $300 million to build two new secure juvenile facilities, one near Rosharon in Brazoria County and another near Waxahachie in Ellis County.
Anna ISD Superintendent hatches ducks in his office and sparking lessons in the classroom
(NBC DFW) Anna ISD Superintendent Toby Tucker, who comes from a farming family, incubated fertilized duck eggs in his office as a way to connect his work with the district’s classrooms and give city kids a hands-on look at raising animals.
Oct. 2, 2026
How Mike Morath’s agency helped get an AI tool in Texas public school classrooms
(Texas Tribune) The State board of Education raised concerns about Alpha School’s AI tool. Then the Texas Education Agency helped pilot it in public schools.
Court orders Galveston ISD to display Ten Commandments posters in classrooms
(Texas Tribune) A Galveston ISD official said it would follow the judge’s order. The district, along with two others, was sued by the state in 2025 for alleged noncompliance of the new state law requiring the display. The judge’s order applies only to Galveston ISD.
Texas education savings accounts boost special needs kids’ funding, but schools can be hard to find
(Texas Standard) Texas’ voucher program offers students with disabilities awards that can reach tens of thousands of dollars. But some families are finding that qualifying for additional funds doesn’t mean they can actually find appropriate services.
IRS proposes rule for groundbreaking school choice program
(K-12 Dive) The controversial program is estimated to provide $26 billion in taxpayer contributions annually for education expenses for public and private school students.
El Paso ISD unveils financial dashboard to make district budget data clearer for the public
(KFOX) The El Paso Independent School District has launched a public financial dashboard so people can keep track of the district’s “financial health.”
Houston ISD‘s Bellaire vs. Lamar football game canceled over staph infection cases
(Fox 26 Houston) The Friday football game between Houston ISD high schools Lamar and Bellaire is canceled after confirmed staph infections among Bellaire players. Under UIL guidelines, the canceled game will be officially recorded as a win for Lamar High School. A disease expert says staph infections are common for sporting teams from high school to the professional level.
Texas school district makes $12.9M deal with Apple as Chromebook repair costs skyrocket
(Apple Insider) Beaumont ISD will replace a worn-out Chromebook fleet with 14,585 iPads and MacBook Neos for students and teachers over four years, citing $470K in annual support costs. Deputy superintendent Rachel Harrah has said current devices are becoming increasingly difficult to repair, with replacement part costs well over $100 per piece in some cases.
Austin ISD high school bands face new transportation hurdle as semi-tractors fall short
(KVUE) Austin ISD says a vendor shortage is affecting four marching bands, forcing schools to share semi-tractors or use box trucks to haul equipment. The district said the issue is separate from budget reductions that previously cut back on student bus transportation for marching bands. The district owns trailers configured for the individual band programs but relies on a contracted commercial vendor to provide the semi-tractors needed to pull them.
Edinburg CISD faces $3 million lawsuit over alleged student bullying attack
(KRGV) A family is suing Edinburg CISD for $3 million and claims the district failed to protect their child from repeated bullying and a violent attack. The lawsuit filed Thursday says a student bullied the minor, and at one point the student attacked the minor during football practice in August 2025, breaking his clavicle and requiring surgery. The lawsuit alleges coaches and administrators knew about the threats beforehand but still let the accused student keep playing. The minor later transferred to another district. In a statement, the district said it is aware of the claims, emphasizing that student safety is a priority, and that bullying and hazing are prohibited by district policy.
Canutillo ISD High School teacher placed on leave amid misconduct investigation
(KVIA) A Canutillo High School teacher is on paid administrative leave after a report alleged potential misconduct, the Canutillo Independent School District said Thursday. CISD did not specify what the teacher is accused of, nor their identity.
First grader brings pocket knife to Navasota ISD elementary school, threatens classmate
(KBTX) Navasota ISD officials notified families after a first grade student brought a mini keychain knife to school and threatened a classmate Thursday at John C. Webb Elementary School. District officials cited federal privacy laws, including FERPA, noting they cannot disclose specific disciplinary actions taken against the student.
Celina ISD student arrested for child porn, invasive recording in locker room
(NBC DFW) A former Celina ISD student, who is a juvenile, was arrested and taken into custody for allegedly obtaining pornographic images of children online, Celina police announced. Detectives discovered four additional images that were taken by the student in a locker room at Celina High School during the 2025–2026 school year and involved a total of six students.
11-year-old accused of stabbing student at Judson ISD Metzger Middle School will remain in custody
(KSAT) A Judson Independent School District student who is accused of stabbing another student at Metzger Middle School on Sept. 30 will remain in custody pending an Oct. 11 hearing. The 11-year-old girl, who is accused of stabbing a boy during a scheduled lockdown drill, appeared in court on Thursday morning. During the hearing, prosecutors revealed a Judson ISD campus police officer had to draw his gun on the girl during the incident. Multiple knives were found inside the girl’s backpack, trustee Jose Macias previously told KSAT. The district declined to provide information on the boy’s condition.
Monte Alto ISD school nurse charged with indecency with a child
(KRGV) The Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office charged a 46-year-old male Monte Alto Independent School District school nurse with two counts of indecency with a child following a months-long investigation. Ruben Del Toro faces two second-degree felony charges. The investigation began when a child’s mother contacted the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office and reported that the child said a male school nurse had touched the child inappropriately during school hours. The child also told the mother that similar incidents had occurred several times over the course of the year.
Jacksonville ISD approves weapons detection systems following recent gun incidents
(KETK) Jacksonville ISD is taking a major step to strengthen campus safety after two recent incidents involving firearms at Jacksonville High School. During a special meeting Thursday, Jacksonville ISD trustees unanimously approved the purchase of a new weapons detection system for district campuses. The decision comes just days after a firearm was discovered at Jacksonville High School on Sept. 25. No one was injured. The district plans to install walk-through detection systems made by OpenGate.
Lubbock ISD launches P-TECH, a partnership focused on helping the next generation after high school
(KCBD) Lubbock ISD has launched a P-TECH (Pathways in Technology Early College High School) program at Coronado High School in partnership with South Plains College, Texas Tech University, and industry partners CoNetrix, City Bank, and Tyler Technologies. The free, open-enrollment program prioritizes at-risk and economically disadvantaged students, letting them earn a diploma alongside up to 60 college credit hours, industry certifications, and an Associate of Applied Science degree from SPC in fields like STEM, cybersecurity, computer science, and business.
Texas experts warn of deadly new synthetic opioid 10 times stronger than fentanyl
(Houston Chronicle) A new synthetic opioid is raising alarm among Texas health and forensic experts as reports continue to link the laced substance to rising overdoses nationwide. Cychlorphine has been linked to over 50 overdoses across the nation within the last year, according to officials, and experts are concerned about its potential spread on college campuses.
Rice Stadium gets new name through 20-year First Community Credit Union partnership
(KPRC) The deal ties the Houston credit union to Rice Athletics while adding financial education, internships and banking programs for the university community.
Texarkana College partners with energy industry to prepare students for lithium careers
(KTBS) The lithium boom developing across the Smackover Formation could bring thousands of jobs to the ArkLaTex, and Texarkana College is working to ensure local students are ready to take advantage of those opportunities. As energy companies continue investing in lithium production across the region, the college is building partnerships that connect classroom learning with real-world industry experience.
Texas youth prison lockdown prompts calls for reform ahead of new facility builds
(Texas Standard) Advocacy groups demand changes at Texas’ youth prisons after KERA News and The Texas Newsroom reported that children have been subjected to unprecedented levels of isolation.
Opinion: Texas Tells Students to Report Threats. It Should Give Us a Seat at the Safety Table
(Texas Observer) 15-year-old Round Rock ISD student Arjun Sharda: State law requires parents, educators, police, and administrators to be a part of district safety committees, but not the kids who are expected to recognize and report danger.
Texas childcare providers face more fraud investigations under Abbott-ordered changes
(Dallas Morning News) Texas Workforce Commission fraud investigations of child care scholarship providers rose to 473 so far this fiscal year, up from 124 all of last year, after Gov. Greg Abbott ordered a crackdown. The agency has sped up investigations and now refers qualifying cases for prosecution. Confirmed provider fraud totals about $385,000, compared with nearly $2 million in parent overpayments. The added oversight will cost about $3.9 million in 2027, but the agency hasn’t shown it’s reducing improper payments or released data on prosecutions.
Childcare is a workforce problem for Fort Worth employers, education leaders say
(Fort Worth Report) Childcare is increasingly becoming a workforce problem for Fort Worth employers, early education leaders said Sept. 30. But Fort Worth and Tarrant County’s local system is still reaching only a fraction of the families who qualify for help, Child Care Associates president and CEO Kara Waddell said during the nonprofit’s annual Early Childhood Investors’ Luncheon.
Texas handgun permit moved to new program online. Here is what to know
(Dallas Morning News) Texas DPS launched RSD Connect on Thursday, allowing applicants and license holders to submit applications, renew licenses and track their status.
Trump Accounts have auto-enrolled more than 60 million children, Treasury says
(CNBC) More than 60 million children have been automatically enrolled in Trump Accounts, according to an announcement exclusively provided to CNBC. Trump Accounts launched on July 4 and can come with free funds for eligible children. Families must still claim the account to unlock the seed money from the federal government.
RFK Jr. launches school fitness challenge in Austin
(KXAN) U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. visited Austin on Thursday to announce a new Presidential Fitness School Innovation Challenge and launch Fitness.gov, a federal website aimed at promoting youth fitness. The launch was held at Westlake High School and will introduce a challenge designed to encourage schools, education agencies and youth organizations to develop new ways to help students become more physically active and build healthy habits.
Oct. 1, 2026
Exclusive: Texas public schools could lose $227M from voucher exodus, estimate shows
(Houston Chronicle) Hundreds of Texas school districts don’t know how many students they’re about to lose to vouchers. Large urban-area schoool districts have seen the most students leave. But the effect could be felt more acutely among smaller school districts, where losing a few students can be a big financial hit. The analysis by the Texas Center for Voucher Transparency and Every Texan, two advocacy groups that oppose vouchers, provides the first glimpse into the program’s effect on public schools. Related:
Texas schools reported losing 14,200 immigrant kids last year. The true number is likely higher
(Texas Tribune) The actual enrollment loss amid increased deportation efforts is much higher as the federal definition that identifies immigrant students is limited, experts said.
Exclusive: Spending on state-led Bluebonnet curriculum could top $1B
(Houston Chronicle) Since 2024, state lawmakers have allocated at least $504 million to craft the Bluebonnet curriculum, print it, distribute it, train teachers and administrators and entice school districts to use it. By 2029, the cost could grow to more than $1 billion. That’s according to a Houston Chronicle analysis of more than 2,500 pages of state budgets and the Texas Education Agency’s most recent budget request. The amounts are the first public accounting of the program, which is part of a broader overhaul of the state’s K-12 education system under Gov. Greg Abbott that includes a conservative rewrite of its social studies curriculum and a $1 billion-per-year voucher program.
Judge dismisses childcare providers’ challenge to Northwest ISD’s new pre-K centers
(KERA) A Tarrant County district judge on Tuesday dismissed a lawsuit by the Texas Licensed Child Care Association and Horizon Kidz against Northwest ISD, which argued the district should have pursued partnerships with existing childcare centers before building its own pre-K facilities. The ruling lets Northwest ISD proceed with plans for three more pre-K centers, though the judge reportedly wanted more guidance from the Texas Education Agency on what state law requires.
Houston ISD teachers facing sudden mid-semester layoffs amid ‘campus leveling’ budget cuts
(Fox 26 Houston) Several Houston ISD teachers were notified last Friday that their positions were being eliminated, leaving displaced staff facing a Oct. 2 pay stop. While HISD’s annual campus leveling traditionally reallocates staff based on fall student enrollment, teachers and union representatives report this year’s process resulted in direct job eliminations rather than transfers. HISD officials defend the adjustments as necessary to keep expenditures aligned with revenue shifts, pointing to a current $730 million fund balance following major central office budget cuts over the past three years. Related:
Managers draft Fort Worth ISD goals, superintendent limits. Here’s what they propose
(Fort Worth Report) The draft goals and limits will shape how Fort Worth ISD’s Texas-appointed board holds Superintendent Peter Licata accountable. Related:
- After announcing zero vacancies, Fort Worth ISD has dozens of teacher openings (Fort Worth Star-Telegram)
Rising diesel prices put pressure on Southeast Texas school districts
(KBMT) Rising diesel prices, about $5.87 a gallon in the Beaumont-Port Arthur area, are squeezing Southeast Texas school transportation budgets. Vidor ISD raised its fuel budget from $170,000 to $240,000 for its 18 diesel buses, and Port Arthur ISD’s monthly diesel spending for 30 buses has climbed from about $12,000 to $20,000. Beaumont ISD runs 80 diesel buses and used more than 167,000 gallons of diesel last year. Little Cypress-Mauriceville CISD has cushioned the impact with 10 grant-funded electric buses alongside eight diesel ones, though its superintendent noted that electric buses are harder to deal with when they break down. Despite the higher costs, districts say they don’t plan to cut routes or activities, and Vidor ISD says it will keep transporting students no matter how high prices go.
Friendswood ISD approves $1.3M for Westwood Elementary mold and moisture remediation
(Community Impact) Following the discovery of increased moisture and visible surface mold at Westwood Elementary in July, the total cost of remediation reached around $1.3 million after the board approved the emergency expenditure at its Sept. 28 workshop. The nearly $1.3 million remediation project, performed by Texas General Contractors, was completed and funded during the 2025-26 fiscal year through the district’s capital projects fund as an emergency expenditure, district documents show.
This campus got a fourth straight F. Is a state takeover coming for Richardson ISD?
(Dallas Morning News) Earlier this year, Richardson ISD Academy, an elementary school in northern Dallas, received its fourth F rating in as many years. Does that mean Richardson ISD is on the brink of a takeover? The simple answer is no, or at least not yet.
Waco ISD chief discusses strategy, Third Future deal in statewide panel
(Waco Bridge) Superintendent Tiffany Spicer says handing over struggling schools to a charter school was the price to keep local control of the district.
Fired Texas teacher sues GOP lawmaker Briscoe Cain who accused her of mocking Charlie Kirk
(Houston Chronicle) A former Crosby ISD teacher has filed a lawsuit against state Rep. Briscoe Cain, accusing him of defamation over a series of social media posts in 2025 calling for her firing after he said she was “mocking” conservative activist Charlie Kirk in the wake of his assassination. Jacqueline Marie Brookreson filed a lawsuit in September against state Rep. Briscoe Cain, a Republican who represents the Deer Park area. Brookreson’s lawyers described her as a private person who was “thrust into the spotlight solely” because of Cain.
Man arrested on suspicion of planning an attack on the Texas Capitol, authorities say
(AP) Benny Caldera Jr. was charged with making a terroristic threat against a public servant, a felony, the DPS statement said. The tip came in Tuesday evening, and SWAT officers made the arrest about 3 a.m. Wednesday at a residence in Converse, near San Antonio. DPS said Benny Caldera Jr. was in federal custody after being arrested by the FBI to face additional federal charges.
Schools warned to be on the lookout for ‘swatting’ calls faking bombs or active shooters
(KHOU) The new federal guidelines offer advice for schools to quickly determine whether a call about an emergency is real or a hoax.
Disappearing messages, permanent proof: How group chats are investigated in criminal cases
(Fox 26 Houston) A high-profile civil lawsuit alleging a 2024 gang rape at a Cornell University fraternity has sparked a reopened criminal investigation in New York and ignited a viral online debate: Should everyone in a private group chat be held legally accountable when a crime is broadcast in real time, or only those who participate? Under Texas criminal law, simply receiving a group message away from a crime scene does not automatically make someone an accomplice unless they actively participate, encourage, or recruit others. Legal and tech analysts warn students and parents across Greater Houston that remaining silent in a toxic or illegal group chat can still draw users directly into police investigations and subpoenas.
Girl stabs boy at Metzger Middle School, Judson ISD board member says
(KSAT) Judson ISD police are investigating after a stabbing unfolded at Metzger Middle School on Wednesday morning, district officials confirmed to KSAT. Trustee Jose Macias told KSAT that he was informed that a girl stabbed a boy at the middle school. Macias said the girl had multiple knives inside her backpack. The ‘student-related incident’ happened during a scheduled lockdown drill, Judson ISD says. “The situation was quickly contained. Appropriate disciplinary action is being taken, and the matter has been referred to law enforcement for further review,” a district spokesperson said.
Houston family of slain Westbury High School student plans to turn grief into action
(Fox 26 Houston) The family of LePaul Warren, the 17-year-old student shot and killed near Houston ISD’s Westbury High School last Friday, is speaking out for the first time. His mother and uncle are hoping to turn their heartache into a community rally to combat local youth violence. A 17-year-old former student, Travoris Hines, was denied bond after being charged with murder in the fatal shooting of LePaul.
Hasan Piker speaks to supportive crowd at UT Austin
(KUT) Controversial Twitch streamer and self-described socialist Hasan Piker came to the Forty Acres on Wednesday. The journey here wasn’t a smooth one. Piker told the crowd that the event served as a counterweight to UT’s previous crackdowns on progressive-leaning — and pro-Palestinian — demonstrations.
New Texas A&M director of colonias program in McAllen seeks to empower
(myRGV) Pablo Javier Almaguer, a legal aid attorney with about 28 years of experience, has been named director of the Colonias Program at the Texas A&M Higher Education Center in McAllen. He plans to expand legal resources and know-your-rights training and to rebuild trust with residents, who he says have grown wary of seeking services because of fear tied to ICE activity. He also wants to involve Texas A&M’s medical, nursing, and law schools more, giving students hands-on experience while keeping the existing literacy, job training, and health programs. His long-term goal is to ease burdens on colonia families and create a pipeline that brings colonia youth to Texas A&M.
In the NIL era, some Dallas-area players refuse to ‘chase the money’ during recruitment
(Dallas Morning News) Three Dallas-area football recruits (Richland running back Jayshon Gibson, headed to UCLA; Southlake Carroll receiver Blake Gunter, committed to Cal; and Anna lineman Peyton Miller, committed to Florida) say they chose their colleges based on fit, relationships, and personal ties rather than the biggest NIL (name/image/likeness) offer. Their families say reputable agents helped them understand the market, and they contrast these agents with predatory ones who take 20–30% cuts. Gibson’s father warned that families who chase bidding wars often see their kids back home within a year or two.
Community remembers Stockdale Superintendent Todd Deaver
(Wilson County News) Stockdale ISD Superintendent Todd Deaver, who had led the district since August 2022 and previously served as principal of Poth High School, died suddenly in late September 2026. Friends and colleagues, including Poth ISD board president Clint Garza and retired Stockdale counselor Sonya Pruski, remembered him as a “bigger than life” gentle giant who greeted students with high fives on the morning car line, worked alongside custodians, and attended every school and community event. A celebration of his life is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 3, at 11 a.m. at the Stockdale Church of Christ.
Best-selling Christian authors from North Texas arrested following investigation into child abuse
(Fox 26 Houston) Best-selling Christian authors Seth Day and Heather Thompson Day were arrested in Keene following an investigation into alleged child physical and sexual abuse. Authorities allege Seth Day physically and sexually assaulted a child, while Heather Day attempted to conceal the abuse and failed to intervene. Southwestern Adventist University in Keene, where Seth Day is a psychology professor, said in a statement Tuesday that he was placed on administrative leave.
Austin executive sues Dads Against Predators after H-E-B assault, alleged extortion
(Austin American Statesman) An Austin executive says a vigilante group’s confrontation destroyed his career. The group denies wrongdoing.
New state agency rule change would eliminate double tax for businesses, gig workers
(Center Square) The Office of Texas Comptroller is amending an agency rule, 3.330, that it says was previously misused to create a double tax on businesses, gig workers and others.
Texas AG opens probe into American Bar Association’s law school accreditation practices
(Fox 26 Houston) The Texas Attorney General’s Office has opened an investigation into the American Bar Association’s accreditation of law schools. The investigation is focused on determining whether the ABA used its accreditation authority to restrict competition and increase the cost of legal education, according to a release from the attorney general’s office. A news release cites multiple concerns, including allegations that the ABA artificially inflated faculty salaries, imposed costly accreditation requirements, and excluded certain law schools that “challenged” the organization’s views — and claims that the national organization enforced “unconstitutional racial and gender preference requirements on law schools’ admissions and hiring processes.”
Laredo ISD installs yellow crosswalk signs to protect deaf students
e(KGNS) Laredo ISD is installing bright yellow “SLOW Deaf Child Area” crosswalk signs outside its schools to bring attention to deaf students, starting with Cigarroa High School, home of the district’s Program for the Deaf. The signs are debuting during National Deaf Awareness Month. The initiative is expanding beyond Cigarroa to additional LISD campuses in the coming weeks.
Arlington ISD offers free classes to families of infants, toddlers. Here’s why
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) At an Infant Time class on Tuesday, parents learned about safe sleeping practices for their children from Cook Children’s Hospital staff.
Treasury launches student loan support center as new data show 9.3 million borrowers in default
(CNBC) The Trump administration announced on Wednesday that it was launching a Default Loans Support Center for student loan borrowers who’ve fallen behind. As of June 30, roughly 9.3 million federal student loan borrowers were in default, up from around 6.2 million at the same time in 2016, according to new Education Department data released earlier this month. The new online portal will provide defaulted borrowers with information and options to get current on their loans, according to a press release from the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
Public high school set to open in Fort Worth will have unique mascot
(Fort Worth Star-Telegram) Northwest ISD is set to open its new high school in 2027, and its mascot will be the Diamondback, the district announced. Davis High School will be the first in the Fort Worth-area to use Diamondback as a mascot. It’s somewhat of a rarity for snakes to be a mascot in Dallas-Fort Worth. In the greater Fort Worth-area, the only other school to utilize a snake is the Tolar Rattlers in Class 3A.
