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Texas
30th July 2026
 

THE HOT STORY

New Texas classroom commission to advise on public education

Gov. Greg Abbott has appointed 21 current and former educators from school districts across Texas to serve on the newly created Texas Classroom Commission, a teacher-led advisory group that will develop recommendations to strengthen classroom instruction, support teachers, and improve student achievement ahead of the state's 90th Legislative Session. The commission will provide guidance to the Governor, the Texas Education Agency, and the Texas Legislature, and is chaired by former teacher and State Board for Educator Certification Chair Courtney Boswell MacDonald. The commission builds on previous education initiatives, including the Teacher Vacancy Taskforce and the Texas Commission on Special Education Funding, which contributed to increased special education funding, higher teacher pay, expansion of the Teacher Incentive Allotment, and classroom discipline reforms. Abbott said the new panel will ensure educators play a central role in shaping the future of public education in Texas.

NATIONAL NEWS

Lawmakers renew push for federal school cybersecurity support

A bipartisan Senate bill introduced by Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Mark Warner (D-VA) would provide $20m over two years to strengthen cybersecurity in K-12 schools through new federal resources, including a Cybersecurity Information Exchange, a Cybersecurity Incident Registry, and a School Cybersecurity Improvement Program. The proposal, a renewed version of legislation that failed to pass in 2023, would be directed by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to help schools access best practices, funding opportunities, cybersecurity tools, and training. The legislation would also establish a national registry to track the dates, details, and outcomes of cyberattacks against K-12 schools, helping identify trends and improve prevention and response strategies. Education organizations, including the Consortium for School Networking and the National Association of Elementary School Principals, have endorsed the proposal, citing the growing threat ransomware and other cyberattacks pose to schools, student data, and classroom operations. 

HHS shifts teen pregnancy funding toward abstinence-focused programs

The Trump administration has terminated more than 50 federally funded Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program grants across 25 states, canceling the remaining $143m in funding two years early for initiatives that worked with schools and community organizations to reduce teen pregnancy and support student well-being. The Department of Health and Human Services said the affected programs conflicted with administration priorities, while simultaneously seeking applications for new grants that place greater emphasis on abstinence. Organizations affected by the cuts warn the loss of funding will end services that connected students with trusted adults, health resources, and relationship education, potentially reversing progress as U.S. teen pregnancy rates have reached historic lows. Several grantees have filed a federal lawsuit challenging the funding cancellations, arguing the move is unlawful and could negatively affect student health, attendance, and educational outcomes.

More states move to restrict four-day school weeks

A growing number of states are tightening restrictions on four-day school weeks as more districts adopt the abbreviated schedule to address budget pressures and teacher shortages. Indiana recently enacted a law requiring schools to meet new academic and operational standards, including maintaining an A state accountability rating, offering enrichment and intervention programs on non-school days, and meeting the state's $45,000 minimum teacher salary, before receiving annual approval to continue using a four-day schedule. More than 2,100 schools in 26 states operated on four-day weeks during the 2024-25 school year, up from about 1,600 schools in 24 states six years earlier, although they still represent a small fraction of U.S. public schools. Research has generally found little difference in student achievement when instructional hours are maintained. Supporters of four-day weeks argue the model helps rural districts recruit teachers and better meet local needs, while critics say policymakers should ensure shortened schedules do not negatively affect student learning.

STATE NEWS

Texas schools embrace virtual learning

Texas has revamped its virtual school framework, allowing districts like Frisco, Arlington, and Grand Prairie to offer online courses and programs. With public school enrollments declining, these virtual options provide flexibility and help retain students. State Senator Paul Bettencourt, the author of Senate Bill 569, said the law aims to replace "a patchwork of outdated virtual learning laws with a clear structure." The new programs, such as Grand Prairie Collegiate Institute: NEXT and Frisco Flex, cater to various student needs, including hybrid models and full online options. Joshua Childs, a professor at the University of Texas at Austin, noted that these initiatives help districts remain competitive and attract students who might seek alternatives elsewhere.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Vaccination urgency as school year starts

As students prepare to return to school, families are urged to review their children's immunization records due to a recent measles outbreak in Montgomery County. The outbreak highlights the importance of vaccinations, especially as rates decline across Texas and the nation. Measles, a highly contagious virus, can lead to severe complications, making the MMR vaccine crucial, with two doses providing about 97% effectiveness. Texas mandates specific immunization requirements for students, including the MMR vaccine for grades K-12. Public health officials recommend maintaining vaccination coverage above 95% to prevent outbreaks. Misinformation surrounding vaccines has led to hesitancy among some parents, complicating health decisions. Digital literacy expert Mike Caulfield suggests using the SIFT method to evaluate health claims online. Parents are encouraged to check their child's immunization status early and seek affordable vaccination options through programs like Texas Vaccines for Children. 

DISTRICTS

Houston ISD unveils major changes

As Houston ISD students prepare to return on August 10, significant changes are set for the 2026-27 school year. The district will implement the Bible-infused Bluebonnet curriculum and a pay-for-performance model for teachers. HISD plans to consolidate special education services, affecting around 5,000 students, which has raised concerns among families and prompted a federal investigation. The Texas Education Agency has ordered HISD to review individualized education programs for these students, emphasizing the need for family consultations. Additionally, 12 schools will close due to declining enrollment, with nearly 3,000 students reassigned to better-conditioned campuses. HISD will also introduce Senate Bill 1882 partnerships, allowing independent nonprofits to manage top-performing schools. “We believe teachers are the single most important in-school factor in student success,” the district stated regarding the new compensation model.

Beaumont ISD suspends gifted programs

Beaumont ISD has announced the suspension of its Pegasus Program at Odom Academy and the STEM Program at Marshall Middle School due to non-compliance with Texas Education Agency (TEA) requirements. The district's review indicated that these programs did not meet the necessary standards for accelerated instruction and Credit by Examination (CBE). “Our commitment to academic rigor remains unwavering,” the district stated, emphasizing a transition to compliant academic pathways. As a result, students in the Pegasus cohorts will return to their zoned campuses, while current seventh- and eighth-graders can complete their programs. Parents have expressed concerns over the abrupt decision and its timing, fearing that high-achieving students will lose valuable opportunities. Beaumont ISD plans to review all accelerated learning options to ensure future compliance with TEA standards.

Katy ISD's attendance initiative soars

Katy ISD's Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow Attendance Incentive Initiative has achieved a third consecutive year of growth, with attendance rising from 94.2% in 2021-22 to 95.2% in 2025-26, officials said. Launched in 2023-24, the initiative aims to counter a 2% decline in student attendance post-pandemic, which affected state funding linked to attendance rates. Each campus implements tailored strategies, and funding is allocated based on attendance improvements. The district has welcomed over 800 additional students, generating over $5m annually. Notably, attendance rates have improved among economically disadvantaged students, special education, emergent bilingual, and homeless students. Looking ahead, the goal for 2026-27 is to maintain momentum during holiday periods when attendance typically dips.

Closure of Paredes Middle shocks community

Austin ISD is facing backlash after announcing the closure of Paredes Middle School due to ongoing academic struggles and staff shortages. The decision, which affects 848 students and 88 staff members, has drawn criticism from community advocates and parents who demand transparency. Trustee David Kauffman described the closure as “shocking,” while local PTA leader Laurie Solis expressed frustration over the district's lack of urgency in addressing the school's needs. If approved, students will be re-zoned to Bailey and Mendez Middle Schools, with the closure expected to save $7.4m, although transitioning costs will be $4.9m. The Texas Education Agency must approve the new turnaround plan if the closure is finalized.

The Runge Way begins now

Runge ISD is set to start the new school year with a focus on student achievement, attendance, and community involvement through an initiative called “The Runge Way.” Interim Superintendent Dino M. Coronado introduced this initiative, stating: “This year marks the beginning of ‘The Runge Way' – our shared commitment to teaching and learning that inspires curiosity.” The initiative aims to place students at the center of district decisions while fostering a culture of high expectations and continuous improvement. Coronado emphasized the importance of community involvement, urging students, employees, and families to prioritize attendance and engage with the school.

WORKFORCE

Killeen ISD welcomes over 300 new teachers

As Killeen ISD strives to fill 209 teaching vacancies for the 2026-27 school year, over 300 new educators are participating in the annual New Teacher Induction program. This initiative aims to prepare teachers for success by introducing them to KISD's instructional expectations and classroom culture. “We are here today celebrating new teachers within KISD, providing initial support,” said Dagmar Harris, KISD's director of secondary curriculum. The program emphasizes collaboration and professional growth, focusing on building strong classroom cultures and relationships with students.

PSP funds Permian teacher pipeline

The Permian Strategic Partnership is investing $5.1m in University of Texas Permian Basin teacher certification programmes. The funding will provide scholarships and academic support for up to 400 educators across 18 Texas Permian Basin counties as new certification requirements approach. Support covers the Falcon Fast Track alternative certification programme and the Registered Teacher Apprenticeship Program. Jennifer Seybert, dean of UTPB’s College of Education, said: “For once, we might not have to worry about the teacher shortage.”

Teachers unite for agriculture education

Local high school agriculture teachers and advisors attended the Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas (ATAT) Professional Development Conference to gather new ideas for the upcoming school year. Participants from Gregory-Portland, Taft, and Sinton engaged in workshops and collaborated with peers statewide. Lupe Betancourt from Gregory-Portland was recognized as the Area X finalist for Early Career Teacher of the Year, while Jessy Ferguson was the finalist for Middle Career Teacher of the Year.

LEGAL

Fort Worth principal reassigned amid backlash

A federal judge ruled that Shayma Alzubi, a principal reassigned by Fort Worth ISD, was not harmed by her move to a higher-paying position. U.S. District Judge Mark Pittman stated: "Alzubi is not a scapegoat, nor has she lost her freedom of speech," addressing the backlash she faced after her hiring announcement. The controversy erupted when far-right groups criticized her social media posts, which included support for Black Lives Matter and immigrants. Following the backlash, the district reassigned her pending an investigation, later offering her a promotion that she declined. Alzubi emphasized: "I applied for the position of principal and that is the job I was hired to do.” The situation unfolds amid Fort Worth ISD's state control due to previous academic failures.

Parents sue school over alleged abuse

Parents of children with disabilities have filed a lawsuit against Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD, alleging abuse of their kids, including nonverbal students with autism and Down syndrome. The complaint, filed in federal court, claims that educators at Watts Elementary physically harmed six students and that the district failed to provide necessary supervision and intervention. "The abuse was not an isolated incident," the attorneys stated, highlighting a pattern of neglect by the school administration. Parents reported noticing unexplained bruises on their children and raised concerns that went unaddressed. The lawsuit also names specific educators and principals, alleging that abusive practices were tolerated under the guise of "behavior management."

HIGHER EDUCATION

Shaw university embraces AI education

Shaw University, founded by a Union soldier and Baptist minister after the Civil War, is set to launch a Doctor of Education (Ed.D) in Artificial Intelligence and Moral Agency next year. Mark Harden, dean of Shaw University Divinity School, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating: “We say Shaw was created to provide leadership in building literacy.” This program aims to address the ethical implications of AI, particularly for vulnerable communities. The divinity school has received approval from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and is seeking accreditation from the Association of Theological Schools. With 66 interested candidates, the program will require a master's degree and five years of professional experience. The degree is expected to take three to four years to complete, with a focus on social justice and ethics in AI.

INTERNATIONAL

Japan prioritizes air-conditioned school facilities after Kumamoto quake

Japan's Ministry of Education has urged local education boards in areas affected by the powerful Kumamoto Prefecture earthquake to use air-conditioned school classrooms as evacuation shelters, rather than relying solely on gymnasiums and martial arts halls, where air conditioning remains uncommon. The recommendation follows a government survey showing that only 22.7% of elementary and junior high school gymnasiums nationwide are equipped with air conditioning, with the figure falling to just 13.4% in Kumamoto Prefecture. As of the morning of July 29, the ministry reported 11 students had sustained minor injuries while under school supervision, along with six faculty and staff members who suffered injuries ranging from minor to serious. The earthquake also caused damage to 72 schools in Kumamoto Prefecture, including structural damage to buildings and fallen equipment. Across Kumamoto, Fukuoka, Nagasaki, Oita, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima prefectures, a total of 106 schools were reported to have sustained damage.

AND FINALLY...

Oprah transfers leadership of South African Girls School

Oprah Winfrey announced significant changes for the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls (OWLAG) in South Africa, stating that after the 2027 academic year, the residential campus will be returned to the Gauteng Department of Education. Winfrey emphasized that current students will be able to complete their education under the existing arrangement. Her organization has graduated over one thousand students and plans to continue supporting the community by funding tuition for girls attending other top-tier schools. Winfrey recalled her inspiration for OWLAG, saying: "From the very beginning, I said to Nelson Mandela, ‘I want to create a school for smart girls who will lead this country into glory." The organization expressed optimism about the future, stating: "For OWLAG, the next chapter is just beginning."
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