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More than 100 parents, teachers, and students protested against Austin ISD's consolidation plan, arguing it would damage communities. Joe Smyth, a parent, expressed concern about the impact of closing Becker Elementary School, asking: "What is the long term vision of closing a school with such a strong community like that?" The district's proposal aims to address a $19.7m budget deficit and declining enrollment, potentially affecting nearly a quarter of its 70,000 students. Critics, including Adam Sparks, founder of Let's Get it Right, AISD, called for more community engagement, saying: "This is a process that is actively eroding trust." The board is set to vote on the plan on November 20, with community input deemed essential for refining the proposal.

 

Austin American-Statesman

10 Expert Tips to Prevent Bullying and Suicide in Schools  

In recognition of Bullying Prevention Month, this guide provides 10 evidence-based strategies for K-12 leaders to help reduce bullying and suicide risk. From staff training to parent involvement and policy creation, discover practical steps to build a safer and more connected school community.  

Download Guide

 

On Friday, the White House issued reduction-in-force (RIF) notices across the federal government, including at the Education Department. According to court filings, 466 employees across the department were inpacted, including most of the staff at the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP). The National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NADSE) has suggested that only the most two senior staff remain in OSEP, while just one staff member remains in the Rehabilitation Services Administration. The Education Department still has not officially confirmed the specifics of the layoffs. “These RIFs, if true, will make it impossible for the Department to fulfill those responsibilities,” the NASDSE statement said, continuing to say that there is "a significant risk that not only will Federal funding lapse, but children with disabilities will be deprived” of a free, appropriate public education. Meanwhile, Myrna Mandlawitz, policy and legislative consultant for the Council of Administrators of Special Education, said on Sunday that the OSEP staff reductions will put an “extreme burden on states and locals that are already really stretched." The federal staff reductions take away “one very vital piece of the partnership. It’s just hard to understand how it can possibly function,” she added.

 

AP News

USA Today

K-12 Dive

PBS News

Despite comprising one in four students in the United States, Hispanic families remain underrepresented in public and private school choice programs. A recent analysis by Conoce tus Opciones Escolares and Child Trends highlights that where data is available, Hispanic families often participate at lower rates than their overall student population share. The lack of consistent state-level data obscures the true extent of this issue, making it difficult to assess whether programs are equitably reaching Hispanic families. Krissia Campos Spivey, senior director of navigation programs and partnerships at Conoce tus Opciones Escolares, emphasized: "Parents are making tough choices and searching for schools where their children will be safe, supported, and inspired. The least the system can do is make sure those opportunities are visible and that participation is reported effectively."

 

Missoulian

In Texas, vaccine delinquency among kindergarteners has surged, with some districts reporting up to 44% non-compliance with state vaccination requirements. Alana Bejarano, executive director of health services for Austin ISD, noted, “We definitely were on a better trajectory [before the pandemic].” The pandemic has exacerbated the issue, leading to a doubling of the statewide measles vaccine delinquency rate, which now stands at 2.68%. The decline in vaccination rates is concerning, as it leaves children vulnerable to preventable diseases. Experts like Dr. Erin Nicholson from Texas Children's Hospital emphasize the importance of maintaining high vaccination levels to protect those with compromised immune systems. The situation is further complicated by reduced access to vaccines and increased vaccine hesitancy among parents. Schools are caught in a dilemma, needing to balance compliance with enrollment pressures, as funding is tied to student attendance.

 

Killeen Daily Herald

The Texas Tribune

With the deadline for applications for permanent superintendent of Killeen ISD (KISD) approaching, the board of trustees may name a finalist as early as next week. Mike Moses, a consultant with Thompson & Horton, stated, “The board's not made any final decisions, and we haven't closed the search.” The application period ends on October 17, with interviews scheduled for the last week of October. KISD's board president, Brett E. Williams, emphasized the importance of selecting a strong superintendent, saying: “We need a superintendent that is authentic, truly cares about every aspect of our community.” KISD has been without a permanent superintendent since Jo Ann Fey's resignation in late July, with King Davis currently serving as interim superintendent. The board aims to expedite the process to enhance educational outcomes for students.

 

Killeen Daily Herald

Leander ISD's Early College High School (ECHS) will have a new principal, Erika Cruz, currently the principal at Danielson Middle School. District officials announced her appointment on October 10. Cruz stated: "I will work with our incredible assistant principals to ensure there is no disruption to your child's educational experience as I will support both campuses during this transitional phase." Cruz has a background in education, having served as principal of Plain Elementary from 2021 to 2023 and held assistant principal roles in Round Rock and Pflugerville ISDs. The ECHS, which opened in the 2022-23 school year, allows students to earn a high school diploma and college credits.

 

Community Impact Newspaper

Fort Bend ISD officials shared updates on the district's $1.26bn facility upgrade program during an Oct. 6 board meeting. Chief Operations Officer Thomas Lawing highlighted that over 50 campuses received enhancements during the summer, including new classroom furniture and renovated athletic facilities. "The overarching goal was to create learning environments that are more engaging, comfortable and functional for our students," Lawing said. To date, $356.4m has been spent, with $411.02m in approved but unspent funds remaining. Key projects included modernized martial arts spaces and a library redesign at Kempner High School. Deputy Superintendent of Operations Kathleen Brown emphasized the importance of HVAC upgrades, remarking: "Research consistently shows that air quality and temperature control in classrooms directly impact how well students learn." Moving forward, the district anticipates presenting several new projects to the board this school year.

 

Community Impact Newspaper

Graham ISD is taking significant steps towards the future of its facilities by forming a Facilities Planning Committee. The GISD Board of Trustees approved the creation of a 52-member committee during their meeting on October 8. This initiative aims to gather data and develop a comprehensive plan for the district's facilities. "Graham ISD is committed to ensuring our facilities meet the needs of our students and community," said a board representative.

 

Graham Leader

Grapevine-Colleyville school board president Shannon Braun has announced that the district will close elementary campuses, although the exact number remains undecided. The Education Master Planning Committee is expected to provide recommendations later this fall. Braun said: "We've been discussing downsizing and right-sizing from the dais … this idea that some people are now shocked, we've had half-empty schools." The community's aging population and high housing costs are contributing factors, with median home prices reaching $600,000 in Grapevine and $1.1m in Colleyville. Schools like Dove Elementary and Bransford are under consideration for closure. Braun emphasized that decisions will be based on factual data, not emotions, despite the political tensions surrounding the issue.

 

Star-Telegram

On September 20, Texas City ISD dedicated the Vera Bell Gary Family Support Center in La Marque, honoring Vera Bell Gary for her 36 years of teaching and community service. The center, located at 1727 Bayou Road, will serve as a hub for local education nonprofits, including Communities In Schools, Higher Up Texas, and Smart Family Literacy. "It is only fitting that the center carries the name of a woman whose life has been dedicated to empowering others," said Superintendent Melissa Duarte. The dedication ceremony was attended by community leaders, city officials, and Gary's family, celebrating her significant contributions to education and local history, particularly her role in securing recognition for the historic 1867 Settlement.

 

The Galveston County Daily News

The Lampasas ISD Board of Trustees, including Randy Morris, Harvey Stinnett, and Jeff Rutland, is set to meet to discuss additional construction options for Lampasas Middle School. The meeting follows a recent presentation that highlighted the need for further development in the school’s infrastructure. "The board will consider various proposals to enhance the learning environment," said a representative.

 

Lampasas Dispatch Record

Lewisville ISD officials have announced a reassignment plan for students at Mill Street Elementary School, effective for the 2026-27 school year. This plan is part of a turnaround strategy required when a school receives an unacceptable accountability rating, such as a D or F, for multiple years. Bilingual students will be reassigned to one of three elementary campuses, while nonbilingual students will transfer to the LISD STEM Academy at Valley Ridge Elementary School, which has a current enrollment of 615 students and received a B rating. The Mill Street facility will be repurposed as a second early childhood learning center, housing pre-K programs. The district has opened an online feedback form for community input, with a public hearing scheduled for Nov. 3 before the board considers approval on Nov. 10.

 

Community Impact Newspaper