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Texas
1st October 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Enrollment drop hits Texas schools hard

Texas public schools experienced a significant decline in immigrant student enrollment, losing over 14,200 students last year, reflecting a 7% drop. Experts suggest the actual loss is likely higher due to the federal definition of immigrant students being too narrow. Matias Segura, Superintendent of Austin ISD, said: “When you look at where we're seeing students leave... you're seeing them a lot in these areas where there is that (enforcement) activity.” The increase in deportations and fears surrounding immigration enforcement have led families to withdraw their children from school. Paige Duggins-Clay, chief legal analyst for the Intercultural Development Research Association, warned that this trend could harm civic engagement and cultural diversity in schools. Despite the overall decline, some districts, like Northside ISD, reported an increase in immigrant students due to resettlement efforts.

INSTRUCTIONAL COHERENCE

No More Patchwork Literacy: TX Teachers Need Cohesive Resources

How can you spend more time teaching instead of countless hours scouring the internet looking for engaging, authentic texts, supplemental worksheets, foundational skills support, TEKS-aligned activities, or assessments that pinpoint student progress? Piecing together fragmented resources isn’t just exhausting; it creates inconsistent learning experiences for students who need steady, structured growth. When instructional tools lack alignment across grade levels, critical skills fall through the cracks during key transitions. You shouldn't have to act as a curriculum designer on top of everything else you do.

Texas educators deserve a unified, evidence-based instructional approach that meets every learner, from PK through high school, at their precise point of need. Consistent, high-quality materials free teachers to focus on what matters most: delivering impactful, engaging instruction.

Discover how a unified PK-12 literacy strategy empowers teachers and elevates student reading outcomes.

 

STATE NEWS

Bluebonnet curriculum boosts student success

Texas school districts implementing the Bluebonnet Learning curriculum have reported improved academic performance, according to the Texas Education Agency (TEA). The percentage of students meeting grade-level standards in the 2026 STAAR test increased in both reading and math, with Bluebonnet districts seeing a rise of 0.6 percentage points in K-5 math and 0.2 percentage points in K-5 reading language arts. TEA Commissioner Mike Morath said: “Bluebonnet Learning is an important resource to help our students focus on the fundamentals of literacy and numeracy.” Additionally, 72 districts using Bluebonnet programs received an A in the state's accountability ratings, including 26 that improved from a previous lower rating. However, the curriculum has faced criticism for its inclusion of biblical content, which some argue lacks representation of other religions. Despite this, TEA officials maintain that the curriculum is designed to enhance literacy and numeracy skills.

Texas families get $400 for tutoring

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) is providing $400 to eligible families for literacy tutoring if their child did not pass the third-grade reading exam last school year. The Parent Access to Supplemental Supports (PASS) program, launched this fall, allows families to choose from TEA-approved tutoring providers, including both in-person and virtual options. With approximately 105,000 students eligible, the total funding could reach $42m. TEA officials said: “PASS is designed to give families flexibility in selecting tutoring services that best meet their individual scheduling and logistical needs.” Trenace Dorsey-Hollins, executive director of Parent Shield Fort Worth, expressed enthusiasm for the program, aiming to ensure that as many parents as possible benefit from this opportunity. Currently, there are 19 providers listed in Fort Worth on the PASS program portal.

ABSENTEEISM

Beaumont ISD takes action on attendance crisis

The Beaumont ISD is implementing new strategies to combat student absenteeism, which has reached concerning levels. Richard Yoes, chief of schools and academics, reported that the district recorded 23,921 absences since the school year began, with about 15% of students having four or more absences in the first 26 days. “When kids aren't in school, they're not learning,” Yoes said, emphasizing the importance of attendance for academic progress. The district plans to introduce attendance incentives, including recognition for students with 95% attendance or higher, and will enforce stricter policies on excused absences. Starting in October, monthly assemblies will reward good attendance, and truancy cases will be filed against students with excessive unexcused absences. The district aims to identify barriers to attendance and ensure that every absence is addressed promptly.

GOVERNANCE

Texas schools face tough decisions

Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath is considering whether to close two middle schools with consecutive failing grades or replace the elected board of trustees with a state-appointed board. Austin ISD's board is facing significant changes as four of five incumbents are not running for re-election, coinciding with a budget shortfall and declining enrollment. Superintendent Matias Segura stated that despite having 20 F-rated schools, the district has more A- and B-rated schools than before. Candidates like Candace Hunter and Cheryl Bradley are vying for trustee positions, emphasizing the need for accountability and improvement in educational outcomes, particularly for Black students. Hunter noted: “This is where our best teachers have to be.” The election is set for November 3, with early voting from October 19-30.

DISTRICTS

Carroll ISD unveils bold improvement plan

The Carroll ISD board of trustees discussed the 2026-27 district improvement plan during their latest meeting. This plan serves as a guide for staff to enhance student performance and meet state standards. It outlines five key goals, including providing strong educational experiences, recruiting qualified staff, and expanding community engagement. A significant focus is on increasing small group instruction to close achievement gaps and enhancing CTE programs through partnerships with local businesses. Additionally, the district is reducing its digital resource list to cut costs and improve technology use in schools.

Frisco ISD extends dual credit deal

Frisco ISD has renewed its dual credit partnership with Collin College for another three years, extending the contract through July 31, 2029. This collaboration, which began in 1987, allows high school students to earn college credits in various subjects, including Texas government and calculus. Raul Martinez, Collin College's associate vice president of P-12 Partnerships, said, “We believe this is a tremendous service to [FISD] students and their parents.” The program not only enhances educational opportunities but also facilitates credit transfer to numerous colleges and universities. Starting in the 2026-27 school year, students can take up to four semesters of college courses through the EDGE Dual Credit program, which offers project-based learning. Tuition is set at $67 per credit hour, with free options available for qualifying students.

New boundaries for Davis High School

The Northwest ISD board has discussed new high school attendance boundaries in preparation for the opening of Davis High School in August 2027. Sarah Stewart, NISD's chief of facilities, emphasized the importance of community feedback, stating: "In this boundary change, we've decided that if you have attended [your current] high school, you can stay at that high school unless you're going to Davis." The changes aim to accommodate the district's growth, as all high schools have a capacity of 3,200 students.  

FINANCE

Irving ISD faces $952m bond dilemma

Irving ISD is asking voters to decide on four bond propositions totaling $952m in the upcoming election. Following the approval of three bond measures in May 2023, which provided $574m for various district improvements, the district now faces significant financial decisions. If all propositions pass, the debt service tax rate could increase by nearly 13 cents per $100, impacting families financially. The district, which has seen a decline in enrollment and has maintained a “C” academic rating for four years, must prioritize improving student performance. The editorial suggests that while replacing outdated facilities is important, academic gains should be the primary focus. "Consistent academic gains throughout the district will help earn voters' trust," the editorial states, emphasizing the need for a careful approach to the bond proposals.

McKinney ISD seeks $500m bond approval

McKinney ISD is proposing a $500m bond package and a voter-approval tax rate election (VATRE) this November to enhance school facilities and support educational programs. Chief Financial Officer Marlene Harbeson emphasized that “together, the bond and VATRE help ensure the district can accommodate growth.” The bond includes funding for two new elementary schools, technology upgrades, and safety improvements. Proposition B specifically addresses the need for new campuses due to rising enrollment, as noted by Assistant Superintendent Dennis Womack. The VATRE could generate an additional $4.1m for teacher compensation and student programs.

El Paso seeks $4m grant from Meta

The city of El Paso is applying for a $4m grant from Meta to support its Climate Action Plan and the Safe Routes to School Plan. The grant, which requires no matching funds, is expected to be awarded in early 2027. If successful, El Paso plans to allocate $2m for installing 235 solar lights across various locations to enhance public safety. Additionally, $1m will be used to upgrade irrigation systems at high-water-use parks, aiming for a 15% reduction in water costs. The remaining funds will improve infrastructure near schools, including sidewalks and crosswalks. City Rep. Cynthia Trejo expressed concerns about equitable representation across districts, while City Rep. Lily Limon emphasized the need to include Ysleta ISD campuses in the plans.

Fort Bend ISD slashes tax rate

The Fort Bend ISD board of trustees has approved a new tax rate of $0.9969 per $100 valuation for fiscal year 2026-27, marking a 5.68% decrease from the previous year's rate of $1.0569. This change will save residents approximately $179 annually, or $15 monthly, based on an average home value of $293,827, according to Chief Financial Officer Kris Lynn. The new rate allocates $0.7169 for maintenance and operations and $0.28 for interest and sinking funds. Lynn noted, “You'd think if you have a deficit, you need more money and so you would want to increase the tax rate.” Despite a $32.8m budget shortfall, the district's tax rate remains the highest allowable without an election.  

TECHNOLOGY

Huntington ISD embraces AI

Huntington ISD is integrating AI into at least 30 programs, prompting district officials to establish guidelines for its use among employees and students. During a recent school board meeting, Jeff Baird, director of technology, emphasized the need to evaluate AI tools based on their decision-making capabilities and the level of human oversight involved. "A tool that makes an independent decision requires a different level of review," Baird said. The district plans to collaborate with regional education centers to assess AI products and develop responsible-use guidelines. Superintendent Carolyn Fiaschetti mentioned the introduction of an AI risk officer to oversee program evaluations. Additionally, the board discussed improvement plans for middle and intermediate schools, focusing on enhancing student performance in reading and math. The district also approved a class-ranking policy change affecting future students.

WORKFORCE

Bastrop ISD's Kristi Lee joins elite cohort

Kristi Lee, the Superintendent of Bastrop ISD, has been selected for the Holdsworth Center's Superintendent Leadership Program, a retention-focused initiative aimed at enhancing leadership skills among superintendents. "The diverse skills needed to be an effective superintendent are comparable to a Fortune 500 CEO," said Lindsay Whorton, president of the Holdsworth Center. The 18-month program offers coaching and learning sessions for superintendents who are new to their district or within their first five years. This initiative aims to provide the necessary support for superintendents to thrive in their roles.

INTERNATIONAL

French students rise up against school neglect

In France, student demonstrations against teacher shortages and poor school conditions have led to numerous injuries and arrests, primarily among minors. The protests, which began last week, coincided with a public-sector strike and have become a significant political issue as the government prepares to unveil its 2027 budget, expected to include spending cuts. "We can't work in those conditions," said Fadila, a 17-year-old student, highlighting the dire state of classrooms. Education Minister Edouard Geffray reported 76 injuries since the protests began, while Interior Minister Laurent Nunez noted that around 440 individuals were detained during the protests on Tuesday alone. Students argue that overcrowded classrooms and a lack of teachers are critical issues that need urgent attention.
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