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Texas
12th October 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Federal school choice raises fee questions

Public school districts in at least 30 states could introduce new fees for tutoring, technology, transportation, and other educational services under President Donald Trump’s federal school choice program. Beginning January 1, the initiative will provide dollar-for-dollar federal tax credits to individuals who donate to approved K-12 scholarship organizations, with funds available to students attending both public and private schools. However, public schools face significant legal, financial, and administrative challenges in participating, particularly as the IRS has yet to clarify which expenses qualify for scholarship funding. While many districts already charge for supplemental services, state laws restricting fees could complicate implementation. Scott Bowling, executive director of the Indiana Association of School Business Officials, highlighted the legal uncertainty surrounding permissible charges, explaining that schools were instructed to “Check with your local counsel,” requiring districts to seek legal guidance on which expenses could be charged to families. He also questioned the practicality of charging families for supplemental education, warning: “You’re not going to get anybody to come to your tutoring program if you’re asking them to pay.” 

MATHEMATICAL THINKING

Watch Mathematical Thinking Come to Life in Texas Classrooms

Great math classrooms are filled with curiosity, conversation, and discovery. Built specifically for Texas students and educators, Texas Math for Grades 6–12 promotes deep conceptual understanding, meaningful collaboration, and personalized learning that help every student succeed. Fully IMRA-approved and built for the rigor of Texas, the program pairs TEKS-aligned lessons and structured discourse with real-time data and adaptive practice through ALEKS — meeting each student exactly where they are. See it in action: take a look inside Texas Math to watch mathematical thinking come to life — students reasoning, collaborating, and growing into capable mathematicians. Watch how Texas Math inspires confident learners and supports lasting achievement.

Watch the video

 

NATIONAL NEWS

Study reveals gaps in algebra access

A national study by NWEA involving 55,000 students across 29 states has found that approximately 25% of students academically prepared for eighth-grade algebra were not enrolled in the course, potentially limiting their future opportunities in advanced mathematics and STEM careers. Separate research in New York identified similar gaps, with an estimated 20,000 additional students eligible for Algebra I. Researchers highlighted disparities in access based on income, race, school availability, and placement decisions influenced by teachers and families. Evidence suggests academically prepared students benefit from taking algebra earlier, prompting advocates to recommend automatic enrollment with an opt-out option and additional academic support. However, experts caution that expanding access must be accompanied by effective instruction and stronger mathematical foundations in earlier grades.

STATE NEWS

Texas education funding faces critical decision

As Texas prepares for its 2027 legislative session, the state comptroller's office is advocating for a doubling of funding for the $1 billion Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program. Officials estimate that at least $2 billion is necessary to sustain current participation levels. However, concerns are rising among Texas families regarding the financial impact on local school districts as students opt for private education. Stacy Harrell, a parent from Pflugerville ISD, highlighted that 149 students leaving for TEFA resulted in a $1.2 million funding loss, which could lead to budget cuts affecting essential services. "That lost funding will add to budget cuts that are already affecting Pflugerville ISD families," Harrell said. Critics argue that the program primarily benefits families already in private education, with 70% of participants having attended private schools previously.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Texas AG limits school police powers

In September, a Texas Attorney General opinion stated that school district police departments are not the appropriate agencies to handle reports of suspected child abuse or neglect. This follows the enactment of Senate Bill 571, effective in 2025, which designates other law enforcement agencies for such cases. Spring Branch ISD Police Chief Larry Baimbridge expressed concerns, stating: "We have the capacity, we have the investigators, and we certainly have the training to conduct these investigations very quickly." He believes the new law complicates matters, potentially leading to prolonged investigations and delays in returning educators to classrooms. Senator Paul Bettencourt, who authored the bill, acknowledged that investigations might take longer but emphasized the need for impartiality to avoid conflicts of interest. Baimbridge advocates for the repeal of the law, asserting that school police should be trusted and held accountable for their investigations.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

AI data centers threaten school environments

The rapid expansion of AI data centers near schools is raising concerns about student health, learning conditions, and rising operating costs. According to research cited by Education Week, approximately 1,878 schools are located within one mile of an existing or planned data center. Health experts warn that air pollution, constant noise, and nighttime lighting could affect children's respiratory health, sleep, concentration, and academic performance. Schools also face potential financial pressures from increased electricity demand and higher utility bills. In Virginia, educators have been asked to conserve electricity amid rising costs, while communities in Maryland have challenged data center developments near elementary schools. In Frederick County, Maryland, officials rejected a proposed agreement that included $30m for school renovations and extended restrictions on new data center applications until July 2027. Experts recommend air-quality monitoring, noise assessments, improved building insulation, and air filtration to help protect students.

STEM

MIT expands nationwide STEM education access

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has launched MIT for America, a nationwide initiative to expand STEM education for students from kindergarten through community college. The program focuses on mathematics, responsible artificial intelligence (AI), and hands-on engineering and design. Building on existing initiatives, MIT will expand calculus tutoring, provide teachers with AI education resources, and increase access to project-based learning through fabrication laboratories and sustainability challenges. The initiative aims to address gaps in STEM participation, with just 6% of U.S. high school students enrolled in computer science courses in 2024, despite more than 60% of schools offering them. MIT hopes to improve educational access, workforce readiness, and economic mobility.

WORKFORCE

Houston ISD cuts healthcare plans, raises costs

In 2027, Houston ISD will reduce its healthcare plans from seven to four, resulting in higher premiums for employees. The district has promised a 4% pay increase to help offset these costs, although the specific premium amounts have not yet been disclosed. Monica Zdrojewski, HISD's former Chief of Staff, noted that the district's average contribution of $670 per employee is "substantially higher than our peer districts." However, Jackie Anderson, president of the Houston Federation of Teachers, expressed concern, stating, "A 4% increase would be fine if it was actually an increase in pay for all employees." This change comes amid HISD's projected $25m deficit for the school year, as many districts struggle with rising healthcare expenses.

DISTRICTS

Austin ISD ends partnership, community reacts

The Austin ISD recently announced the termination of its partnership with the Texas Council for International Studies (TCIS), which aimed to enhance academic performance at three struggling middle schools. The decision followed the Texas Education Agency's (TEA) denial of additional funding and accountability benefits, which left the district unable to sustain the partnership financially. "It limited the district in actions they could take, and it increased the already difficult budget situation," TCIS CEO Margaret Davis said. The dissolution of the partnership, which was amicable, has raised concerns about the future of the schools, as they received their fifth consecutive F grades, putting them at risk of state intervention.  

Unlocking potential through esports education

Longview ISD has inaugurated the Lobo Gaming and Digital Science Esports Arena, designed to create a K-12 pathway in game science and digital arts. Benjamin Wood, director of Longview ISD Magnet Schools Assistance Program, emphasized the arena's role in celebrating opportunity and connecting students to technology and creativity. He stated: "One of the most powerful things about esports is its ability to reach students that may not have found their place yet." The facility aims to provide students with hands-on experience in various tech-related fields, fostering skills in teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership. Funded by a $3.25m grant from the U.S. Department of Education, the arena is part of a broader initiative to transform local schools into gaming science and digital arts magnet campuses.

Empowering students through leadership

By 2030, all Clear Creek ISD elementary schools will implement the Leader in Me program, which is based on the principles from “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” During a recent board meeting, reports highlighted that 22 schools currently participate, with 16 having community partners that provide financial and practical support. Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital was recognized as the original sponsor, initiating the program in 2017. CCISD aims to find partners for the six remaining schools without support.

Montgomery ISD unveils virtual learning pilot

Montgomery ISD board has discussed a new virtual learning pilot program set to launch in spring 2027. Amy Busby, MISD assistant superintendent of student services, stated that the initiative arose from interest among parents, teachers, and administrators. The pilot will cater to students in grades 9-12 and aims to re-engage former virtual students. If successful, the program may expand to open enrollment for the 2027-28 school year.

FINANCE

New Braunfels ISD tackles funding gap

New Braunfels ISD announced plans to address a projected $7m funding deficit for the 2027–2028 school year by consolidating two elementary campuses. The district had previously adopted a balanced budget for 2026-27 but is facing financial challenges moving forward. The Long Range Sustainability Process aims to enhance efficiency and long-term financial stability through a thorough review of facilities, staffing, and resources. As part of this initiative, the district has already started reducing staff, including plans to cut 18 of its 24 math and reading interventionist positions for the upcoming school year, according to a release from the district.

CYBERSECURITY

Data breach exposes employee info

A data security incident in August has compromised the personal information of employees in the Fort Worth and Crowley ISDs in North Texas. The Fort Worth ISD reported that it was informed by Frontline Education about the incident, which occurred on August 14 and was addressed the following day. Employee data, including names, email addresses, home addresses, and Social Security numbers, may have been exposed. "Frontline will directly notify employees whose information was exposed," the Fort Worth ISD stated.  

SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION

Celina ISD launches bus driver referral program

Celina ISD is implementing a new referral incentive program to recruit bus drivers as the district expands. Approved by the Board of Trustees for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 school years, the program allows full-time employees to earn up to $750 for referring qualified candidates. 
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