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Texas
16th July 2026
 

THE HOT STORY

Texas leaders push for budget cuts

Texas officials, including Gov. Greg Abbott, have directed state agencies, courts, and universities to reduce their budget requests by 3% for the next two years. This decision aims to maintain fiscal conservatism while allowing for funding priorities like property tax cuts. Abbott stated: “Texas leads the nation with a strong economy and responsible governance that puts families first.” Notably, public education funding and the new private school voucher program are exempt from these cuts. The current budget, which totals $338bn, reflects a 5% increase from the previous biennium, with $51bn allocated for property tax relief. The 3% cut directive will influence budget requests for the upcoming legislative session, which will establish a new spending plan for 2027-2029. Meanwhile, State Rep. Gina Hinojosa has proposed using $17bn from the rainy day fund to provide $1,500 checks to Texas households, criticizing Abbott for “hoarding” funds.

FINANCE

SpaceX tax breaks approved by schools

Anderson-Shiro CISD and Iola ISD have approved $1.66bn in tax incentives for SpaceX's planned chipmaking facility, Terafab, which is expected to create over 3,000 jobs. The facility will produce chips for broadband satellites and data centers, with an initial cost of $55bn, potentially rising to $119bn. "Our board has put in the work to research this project," said Anderson-Shiro CISD Superintendent Sarah Borowicz. The incentives could save SpaceX $1 bn from Anderson-Shiro CISD and $644m from Iola ISD through 2046. While some residents are excited about the growth, others express concerns about the impact on local resources and lifestyle. SpaceX has threatened to relocate to Arizona if the incentives were not approved.

GOVERNANCE

Transforming education: Mike Miles' insights

In his new book, "By Design: How to Transform School Systems," Mike Miles, the state-appointed Superintendent of Houston ISD, shares his strategies for education reform, drawing from his controversial leadership experience. He emphasizes the importance of enforcing high expectations, particularly regarding teacher attendance, stating: "Some readers will no doubt view the attendance regulations as overly strict... That perspective deserves less weight when measured against the needs of students." The book also discusses governance as a "constraint to be managed" and highlights HISD's significant reforms, including a crackdown on chronic teacher absences and a "no vendors on the field" policy to improve instruction. Despite receiving a low average rating of 1.5 stars on Amazon, some education leaders, like Aldine ISD Superintendent LaTonya Goffney, have expressed support for Miles' insights.

Boerne ISD board earns top honor

The Boerne ISD board of trustees has been named the Education Service Center Region 20 (ESC-20) 2026 School Board of the Year, highlighting their leadership and commitment to the community. Superintendent Kristin Craft said: “This recognition is a reflection of the incredible dedication our board of trustees has to every student, every staff member, and our entire Boerne community.” The board's efforts have included championing innovative learning opportunities and advocating for public education. Their collaborative governance model focuses on informed decision-making and strong community partnerships, ensuring that Boerne ISD maintains academic excellence while preparing students for future success. The board will represent Region 20 in the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA) School Board Awards at the state level.

Dripping Springs ISD promotes new leader

Dripping Springs ISD has announced the promotion of Dr. Karen Kidd to deputy superintendent and interim chief academic officer. With over 20 years of experience, Kidd has served as the assistant superintendent for Learning & Innovation for the past six years, playing a crucial role in developing academic systems for the district.

WORKFORCE

Dripping Springs' leader earns top honor

Dr. Holly Morris-Kuentz, the Superintendent of Dripping Springs ISD, has been named the 2026 Regional Superintendent of the Year by Education Service Center Region 13. She is now one of 20 nominees for the Texas Superintendent of the Year award, presented by the Texas Association of School Boards. Recognized for her "visionary leadership" and commitment to student success, Morris-Kuentz has significantly improved academic performance and community trust during her tenure. Dr. Rich Elsasser, executive director of ESC Region 13, praised her ability to inspire confidence and drive change. Under her leadership, the district has implemented the Future Ready 2030 strategic plan and expanded Career & Technical Education offerings, while maintaining balanced budgets and achieving high voter approval for bond elections.

DISTRICTS

Midland ISD prioritizes student safety

As the fall semester approaches, Midland ISD is reinforcing its commitment to student safety by implementing updated heat safety protocols mandated by the University Interscholastic League (UIL) for the 2026-27 school year. These protocols, effective August 1, will be mandatory for all Texas schools. Wes Torres, executive director of athletics, said: “These protocols help ensure that our coaches, directors, athletic trainers and staff have the tools and guidance needed to make informed decisions as students return to outdoor activities during the hottest weeks of the year.” Midland ISD has already been using wet bulb globe temperature monitoring for the past two years to assess heat stress and guide safe outdoor activities.

Frisco ISD shine in UIL rankings

Frisco ISD has achieved remarkable success, with two of its high schools ranking in the top 10 of the UIL Lone Star Cup, which honors the best schools in Texas for their accomplishments in academics, athletics, and fine arts. The UIL Lone Star Cup awards points based on achievements in various competitions, including cross country, marching band, volleyball, and more. Jack Hintze, a reporter for Star Local Media, highlighted this achievement, stating that the program recognizes "the most outstanding high schools in Texas." This recognition underscores the dedication and talent present in Frisco's educational institutions.

Reviving Martin Middle School

The Austin ISD is considering a new plan for Martin Middle School, which was closed due to declining enrollment. Superintendent Matias Segura mentioned that the school could serve various purposes, including specialty academic programs or community resources, but emphasized that no final decisions have been made. The district is also working on renovations funded by a $2.4bn bond, with some security upgrades already underway. The Martin Futures Committee is actively gathering community input to shape the school's future.

New dress code sparks heated debate

At a recent meeting, the Goose Creek CISD school board faced questions from students, parents, and community members regarding a proposed new dress code. Superintendent Joe Rodriguez introduced the dress code, which was developed with input from advisory committees comprising principals, parents, and students, as well as local business leaders from Career and Technical Education academies. The dress code aims to achieve four key goals: student success, community engagement, balance, and consistency.

CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION

Burton ISD facilities project update

During a recent meeting, Ryan Malinovsky presented a detailed progress report on the Burton ISD facilities project, highlighting significant advancements across the campus.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

World Cup kicks off student engagement

Researchers say the FIFA World Cup presents a unique opportunity for schools to strengthen students' sense of belonging and support mental health by creating shared experiences that bring students, families, and communities together. Experts from Surgo Health said feelings of belonging are strongly linked to student well-being and academic success, citing research showing that young people who feel connected are more likely to report happiness and purpose, while those who lack a sense of belonging are significantly more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety and depression. The researchers encourage educators to use the tournament as a low-pressure way to engage students through activities such as watch parties, trivia contests, classroom projects, and discussions that celebrate different cultures and identities. They noted that participation does not require athletic ability, allowing students to contribute through statistics, art, event organization, or storytelling, while also creating opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds to share their cultural heritage.

NUTRITION

Decatur School Board raises meal prices

The Decatur School Board has approved a 10-cent increase in meal prices, effective for the 2026/27 school year, to address a deficit in the food service fund. Breakfast prices will rise from $2.50 to $2.60, elementary lunch from $3.25 to $3.35, and secondary lunch from $3.50 to $3.60. "We have not had [a meal price increase] in years, and it’s a very minimal increase," said School Board President Stan Shults. The food service fund reported a deficit of $452,910 in the 2024/25 school year, and without this increase, the fund's balance of $644,727 could further deteriorate. The last surplus occurred in the 2022/23 school year, highlighting the ongoing financial challenges.
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