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Texas
9th October 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Texas's rural schools face enrollment crisis

As rural schools in Texas grapple with declining enrollment and resource challenges, the impact extends beyond classrooms. Eddie Conger, superintendent of the International Leadership of Texas, noted: “We are just offering a different model, a different opportunity for families.” While traditional districts like Cleveland ISD face financial hurdles and staff cuts, charter schools are expanding rapidly, with charters adding 3,379 students since 2021-22. The Texas 2036 report highlights a significant shift, with rural districts adding 156,204 students, a 13% increase, while urban areas saw a decline. However, funding structures favor charters, leaving traditional schools struggling to adapt to sudden growth. Education experts emphasize the need for a revised funding model to support both systems effectively.

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NATIONAL NEWS

Education groups warn FCC against E-Rate cuts

A new economic study commissioned by the Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband (SHLB) Coalition has estimated that eliminating the federal E-Rate program, which provides affordable broadband connectivity to schools and libraries, would reduce U.S. GDP by approximately $4.2bn annually. Conducted by The Brattle Group, the research found that removing $2.6bn in annual funding could also reduce wages by $2.8bn and tax revenues by $1.5bn, with every $1 cut generating approximately $1.60 in lost economic activity. Researchers warned that schools and libraries would likely maintain internet connectivity by diverting funding from staffing, educational programs, and other priorities. The findings come as the Federal Communications Commission considers eliminating or restricting the program, with public comments due October 13. “E-Rate is essential for sustaining school connectivity and helping districts meet growing instructional, technology, and operational demands to provide all students with a high-quality education," commented James Rowan, CAE, SFO, CEO/Executive Director, ASBO International. The study was supported by AASA, ALA, AESA, ASBO International, CoSN, InnovateEDU, NCTET, NREA, and SIIA.

New federal tax deduction extends financial support to early childhood educators

The bipartisan Early-Childhood Educators’ Deductions (SEED) Act, signed into law on September 19, has expanded the federal educator expense deduction to include preschool and early childhood educators for the first time. The legislation allows eligible educators to deduct up to $350 annually for classroom supplies purchased with their own money, extending a benefit previously reserved for K-12 teachers. The change comes amid persistent pay disparities and workforce retention challenges, with early childhood educators earning an average of $13.07 per hour, according to a 2024 analysis. A separate study found that 44% of early childhood employees surveyed across eight states left the profession between 2023 and 2025. Education advocates have welcomed the legislation as recognition of early educators’ professional contributions but emphasized that broader improvements in salaries, benefits, and working conditions remain necessary.

GOVERNANCE

Houston ISD takeover sparks community outcry

After gathering insights from around 80 Houstonians, the Commission on the Houston ISD (HISD) takeover has proposed significant changes to the state's intervention policies in local school districts. The 14-member commission, co-chaired by state Sen. Molly Cook, state Rep. Lauren Ashley Simmons, and Colin Bossen, released an 81-page report highlighting concerns about the impact of the state takeover on the HISD. The report noted that since Mike Miles became superintendent, HISD has "diminished the curriculum," "demeaned educators," and "dismantled relationships" within the community. The commission recommends raising the threshold for state takeovers and implementing guardrails for state-appointed leadership. Daniel Dawer, a doctoral candidate, emphasized that the current law allows for an entire district's takeover based on a single campus's performance, which is "unique in the country." The report advocates for a collaborative approach to state intervention rather than a punitive one.

El Paso schools under scrutiny

The Texas Comptroller's Office has selected El Paso ISD for a detailed review to ensure compliance with state funding laws. This review, requested by Gov. Greg Abbott in August, aims to confirm that districts allocate state funds appropriately towards students, classrooms, and teachers, rather than on administrative costs or "non-instructional bureaucracy." Gov. Abbott emphasized the importance of directing funds where they are most needed, stating: "We want to ensure that every dollar is spent in the best interest of our students." The review is part of a broader effort to enhance accountability in educational spending across Texas.

New leadership at Stockdale ISD

Stockdale ISD has appointed Curtis Rhodes as interim superintendent following the unexpected death of Todd Deaver on September 23. The decision was made unanimously by trustees during a special meeting on October 5. Rhodes, who has 38 years of experience in Texas public education, previously served as a teacher, coach, and principal, and has spent 25 years as a superintendent, including 19 years at Needville ISD. 

LEGAL

Disability Rights Texas wins access battle

The recent ruling by Judge Alfred Bennett in the U.S. Southern District Court concluded a three-year dispute, allowing Disability Rights Texas to access Klein ISD schools without staff oversight. The judge determined that the district violated federal laws protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities. “We're very pleased with the ruling,” said Beth Mitchell, an attorney with Disability Rights Texas, emphasizing the importance of independent access to monitor conditions for students with disabilities. Klein ISD expressed concerns about the ruling, particularly regarding student privacy and safety protocols. The judge's decision mandates that Klein ISD principals and police be informed of the ruling to ensure compliance. Mitchell noted that the case was not merely about visitor protocols, stating: “We were issued criminal trespass warnings barring us from entering the campuses.” The ruling affirms the rights of advocacy organizations to monitor educational environments effectively.

FINANCE

San Antonio schools seek $600m bond

Nearly 70 of San Antonio ISD's 80 campuses could receive $175m in upgrades if voters approve a proposed $600m bond on Nov. 3. The district has identified 29 elementary schools, 16 K-8 academies, nine middle schools, and 12 high schools for potential improvements. "Before any approved funds are designated, SAISD will engage and collaborate with students, families, staff, and community members," said district spokesperson Laura Short. The bond aims to enhance campus safety, modernize facilities, and address maintenance issues. However, the district is also facing challenges due to declining enrollment and budget shortfalls. If approved, the bond will also fund technology upgrades and a tax rate increase to support operating costs.  

Round Rock ISD tax hike on ballot

Round Rock ISD voters will decide on November 3 whether to approve a property tax rate increase aimed at funding staff raises. The proposed increase of six cents would generate approximately $32m, allowing for a 2% pay raise for all employees and raising starting teacher pay to $58,000. Superintendent Hafedh Azaiez said: “Our current situation is no different than many other—actually most—public schools in the state of Texas due to the lack of really appropriate or adequate funding from the state.” If the measure fails, teachers and other employees may not receive pay raises, and the district may need to increase employee contributions to healthcare plans. The tax increase would result in an average annual tax bill increase of about $219 for homeowners.

DISTRICTS

Montgomery ISD principals unveil plans

At the Montgomery ISD special meeting on Tuesday, principals presented updates on their campuses' academic initiatives for the 2026-27 school year. They reviewed the STAAR scores, highlighting both improvements and setbacks. Principal Shelby Smith of Creekside Elementary noted that initiatives like behavioral support have led to better STAAR scores for economically disadvantaged students. Conversely, Montgomery Elementary School Principal Robert Ingalls expressed concern over a drop in STAAR scores, stating, “It's not acceptable, and it's not what we represent at Montgomery Elementary School.” The meeting also showcased growth at the DEN Career and Technical Education Center, where enrollment increased from 409 to 520 students, thanks to new programs and a dual-credit partnership with Lamar State College. Each principal outlined strategies to enhance performance for both teachers and students moving forward.

Alvin ISD sets ambitious goals

Alvin ISD is focused on enhancing STAAR reading and math scores by approximately 5% by 2030, as discussed in a board meeting on October 6. Under House Bill 3, passed in 2019, districts must create a five-year plan to improve early childhood literacy, math, and college, career, and military readiness (CCMR). The district aims to raise the percentage of students meeting grade level in STAAR reading from 63% in 2026 to 68% by 2030, and in math from 58% to 63%. Additionally, the goal is to increase high school graduates meeting CCMR requirements from 81% in 2025 to 98% by 2030. To achieve these goals, administrators will participate in the HB 3 Texas Reading Academy, and counselors will assist students in developing individual plans. "The board will receive a mid-year review in February," district officials said.

Plano ISD sets bold priorities

As the 2027 legislative session approaches, Plano ISD trustees have established key legislative priorities during their Oct. 6 meeting. The four main focuses include modernizing school funding, creating a fair accountability system, strengthening the educator workforce, and prioritizing student safety and mental health. Board President Lauren Tyra emphasized the need for funding that reflects the district's commitment, stating: “All of our campuses, all of our administrators, all of our teachers stand ready to serve every single child enrolled in this district every single day.” The district aims to address issues such as funding stability, educator support, and digital responsibility as they prepare to share these priorities with legislators.

Data breach hits Lubbock ISD

Lubbock ISD was informed by Frontline Education about a data security incident that occurred on Aug. 14, which exposed employee information, including Social Security numbers, email addresses, and physical addresses. Frontline discovered and addressed the issue the following day. Importantly, no student information was compromised, and district officials will keep families updated if the situation changes. Frontline plans to notify affected individuals starting Oct. 26, 2026, and is collaborating with TransUnion to provide two years of credit monitoring. "Frontline has notified the Texas Attorney General and law enforcement agencies of the incident," the district stated. For further assistance, a hotline has been established for inquiries related to the breach. Lubbock ISD encourages those affected to visit the Federal Trade Commission's Identity Theft website for protective measures.

CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION

Denton ISD secures new school site

Denton ISD and Landmark by Hillwood have announced the acquisition of a 12-acre site for a future elementary school within a 3,200-acre mixed-use development. This site was secured through Denton ISD's 2023 bond, part of a $1.2bn package approved by voters to fund three new elementary schools, a fifth high school, and an advanced technology center. Demographers estimate that Denton ISD will add over 5,000 students by the 2034-35 school year, bringing total enrollment to nearly 38,500. The development will also feature over 9,000 residences and significant commercial space, with plans for parks and trails accessible to the future school.

Aldine ISD breaks ground on arts center

Aldine ISD is set to open a new $120m Education and Performing Arts Center by 2028, aimed at providing dedicated spaces for theater, dance, music, and visual arts. Aldine ISD Superintendent LaTonya Goffney saidl: “Typically, whenever there's some type of competition or something, we're going to another district,” highlighting the need for a local venue. The 100,000-square-foot facility will include a 1,200-seat auditorium, two theaters, and art classrooms, catering to over 50% of the district's 56,000 students involved in the arts. The project, part of the $1.8bn 2023 bond package, has been in discussion for over a decade, with community support affirming the need for high-quality performance spaces. 

Hays CISD schools seek catchy names

Hays CISD is inviting community members to propose names for its new high school and elementary school, set to open in August 2029, contingent on funding and construction capacity.

HIGHER EDUCATION

Trump administration launches J-1 visa investigations into nine major U.S. universities

Vice President JD Vance has announced federal investigations into nine universities over alleged misuse of the J-1 visa program, which allows international students and researchers to study and work in the United States. The institutions include Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Brown, MIT, Caltech, Arizona State, the University of Pittsburgh, and UC Davis. Vance alleged that universities are using foreign researchers to reduce labor costs, claiming American graduate researchers earn approximately $20,000 more than J-1 visa holders. He also cited a 61% J-1 visa usage rate on federally funded grants at the targeted institutions, compared with a national average of 38%. Labor Department officials confirmed that subpoenas have been issued and investigations are underway. Several universities defended their compliance with federal visa laws and emphasized the contributions of international researchers. The investigations represent another escalation in the administration's scrutiny of higher education and international academic recruitment.

INTERNATIONAL

French government deploys 3,000 substitute teachers

The French government has announced plans to deploy 3,000 substitute teachers to struggling high schools following widespread student protests over teacher shortages and inadequate education resources. Education Minister Edouard Geffray said the additional teachers would be assigned to schools between October 9 and 13. Approximately 71,500 demonstrators participated in protests nationwide on Thursday, including 24,500 in Paris, while police detained more than 500 people. Demonstrations have been marked by clashes between protesters and security forces, with hundreds injured and allegations of excessive police force prompting 18 internal investigations. The government has also suspended the use of stun grenades following a serious injury to a 15-year-old protester. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has promised a broader response by the end of October, while the proposed 2027 education budget includes a 1.4% increase to €90.9bn ($101.9bn). The unrest comes ahead of France’s 2027 presidential election, intensifying pressure on the government to address concerns over school funding and student safety.
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