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Texas
16th March 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Texas targets processed food risks

Texas is advancing a new nutrition initiative through the Texas Nutrition Advisory Committee, a key part of the “Make Texas Healthy Again” effort. The committee will produce an annual report with updated dietary guidance, research summaries, and recommendations focused on nutrition and ultra-processed foods. Its work is expected to shape rules and education requirements across multiple state agencies and higher education programs. At its recent meeting, members reviewed the report framework, assigned workgroup responsibilities, and planned for expert input ahead of the September 1 deadline.

BLENDED LEARNING

An Administrator's Guide to Blended Learning  

Online learning doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing approach. Explore blended learning with this comprehensive guide from FlexPoint®, which includes:    
  • Worksheets to define your school’s needs
  • Outline of blended learning classroom models
  • List of questions to ask curriculum providers
  • Best practices for educator training
  • Instructional strategies and tips
  • Key benefits for you, students, and staff    
Download the FlexPoint guide to find the right mix of face-to-face and online instruction for your school or district.  

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NATIONAL NEWS

Admissions data order paused

A federal judge has temporarily blocked the Trump administration from requiring U.S. colleges to submit seven years of detailed admissions data, including information on race, gender, test scores, and grade point averages. The order from Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV in Boston pauses the policy after 17 Democratic state attorneys general filed a lawsuit arguing the request was rushed, unlawful, and could expose sensitive personal information about individual students. The administration introduced the data demand following the Supreme Court’s 2023 decision that ended most race-conscious admissions policies, saying the information was needed to ensure universities were complying with the ruling. State officials opposing the policy argue it is part of a broader effort to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The temporary block relieves colleges from a looming March 18 deadline and will remain in place while the court considers the case.

STATE NEWS

Texas schools face prayer dilemma

Texas public school districts are grappling with a new law, Senate Bill 11, which mandates a vote on establishing designated prayer periods. Rajasi Agarwal, a 10th grader at Westlake High School, expressed concern over the potential for state-sanctioned religion in public education, stating: "Public schools are meant to educate and bring together students of every background — not to elevate one set of religious practices over others." Conversely, Holly M. Randall from First Liberty Institute argues that the law supports religious liberty and reflects the nation's rich religious history. She emphasizes that the law allows voluntary participation and requires parental consent, asserting that it does not violate the Establishment Clause.

STUDENT SUPPORT

Meeting student needs before misbehavior

At Jeeter Primary School in Opelika, Alabama, Teresa Williams, a student-behavior tutor, plays a crucial role in addressing students' unmet needs. By observing students during morning drop-off, she identifies those who may be struggling due to issues such as hunger or lack of sleep. Williams said: "For some children, a clean set of clothes, a 30-minute nap, and some breakfast can change the course of the day." Her proactive approach has contributed to a significant reduction in disciplinary referrals, with the number of days students spent at the Opelika Learning Center dropping from 206 in 2018 to just 14 in the 2023-24 school year. Principal David Carpenter emphasizes the importance of early intervention, noting that "most [poor] behavior stems from an unmet need."

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Drones to the rescue: a new era

In Central Texas, Campus Guardian Angel is pioneering the use of drones for school safety. During a recent training exercise at Champion High School, law enforcement officials practiced responding to an active shooter scenario using drones capable of flying at 50 mph. These drones can deliver medical supplies, distract potential shooters with lights and sounds, and even incapacitate threats. The company has conducted 25 demonstrations nationwide, with plans for installations in Boerne ISD and Spring Branch ISD, pending funding. The program costs about $8 per student monthly, and efforts are underway to raise funds for pilot programs in Texas schools.

CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION

Lewisville approves campus upgrades

The Lewisville ISD board has approved about $15.4m in campus and facility renovation projects across several schools. The Texas district's projects include new shade structures and a marquee at Timber Creek Elementary, playground and paving improvements at Highland Village Elementary, and upgrades to athletic facilities at Lewisville High School and The Colony High School. District officials said the total cost is about $1.1m over budget, but the additional expenses will be covered through available funds such as land sale proceeds, bond project savings, and bond interest earnings. Some costs increased due to upgrades and code requirements, including air conditioning, accessibility improvements, and additional infrastructure at Lewisville High School.

GOVERNANCE

Frisco ISD welcomes new leadership

Todd Fouche has been named the new superintendent of Frisco ISD after a unanimous vote by trustees. Fouche, who has served as the deputy superintendent, will succeed Mike Waldrip, who is retiring after nine years. With over 20 years of experience in the district, Fouche will oversee 77 schools and more than 62,000 students. He earned a Doctor of Education degree from the University of North Texas and has held various roles, including teacher and campus administrator.

Lutkenhaus named permanent principal

Tricia Lutkenhaus has been appointed as the permanent principal of Northwest High School after serving as interim since February. Lutkenhaus has a strong background in education, having previously served as principal at Pike Middle School and Barksdale Middle School.

New superintendent takes the helm at Elkhart

The Elkhart ISD Board of Trustees has appointed Reese Briggs as the new superintendent, effective March 23, following a unanimous 7-0 vote.

DISTRICTS

Explore teaching jobs at NCISD fair

New Caney ISD is hosting its annual Teacher Professional Career Fair on March 21, inviting the public to explore job opportunities for the 2026-27 school year. NCISD principals and administrators will be hiring for various positions, including teachers, school counselors, and special education specialists.

INTERNATIONAL

Alberta court keeps teachers law active

An Alberta judge has declined the Alberta Teachers’ Association’s bid to pause back-to-work legislation that ended a three-week teachers’ strike in October. Justice Douglas Mah of the Court of King’s Bench said the union raised a credible legal question about the government’s use of the notwithstanding clause, but did not prove teachers would face irreparable harm before the full case is heard. As a result, the Back to School Act remains in place, including a strike ban through 2028, while the broader constitutional challenge is set to proceed in September.

AND FINALLY...

Saddle up for record art sale

Pasadena ISD senior Joshua Washington’s grand champion artwork sold for a record $525,000 at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Student Art Auction, helping drive nearly $825,000 in combined sales for the top two pieces. Judges reviewed more than 4,300 entries from 97 school districts and 54 private schools. Washington said: “I’m speechless … it just felt like the most surreal experience of my life.” Reserve champion Mingyi Li also set a record, with her piece raising $300,000 for the rodeo’s educational fund, scholarships, and art programs.
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