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Texas
14th October 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Schools seek better English learner support

School districts are facing significant challenges in supporting approximately 5 million English learners across the U.S. A recent Education Week special report highlights key issues and offers practical solutions. One major concern is the early assessment of English learners' needs, particularly in California, where legislation now exempts transitional kindergarten students from standardized testing to avoid misidentification. Almudena Abeyta, superintendent of the Chelsea district, emphasized the urgency of helping older English learners acquire essential language skills quickly, stating, “It's a lot, and the teachers have to work extremely hard at making it work.” Additionally, districts are increasingly utilizing artificial intelligence tools to communicate with non-English-speaking families, although concerns about accuracy and privacy remain. The report underscores the need for tailored support and innovative strategies to effectively assist English learners.

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

 

STATE NEWS

Texas invests $20m in education grants

Governor Greg Abbott announced that Texas has awarded 84 Jobs and Education for Texans (JET) grants totaling over $20m to public junior, state, and technical colleges, as well as school districts and charter schools. These grants aim to enhance CTE programs, enabling schools to purchase equipment that will train over 7,400 students in high-demand careers. “Students deserve a clear and affordable path to high-paying careers,” Abbott said. The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) Chairman Joe Esparza emphasized the importance of a skilled workforce for the state's economy, stating: “With more than $20m in funding for career and technical education programs, TWC is investing the skills young Texans need.” The 2027 JET grant Request For Applications will be released later this fall.

FINANCE

Is your school funding effective?

State reviewers will assess whether Austin ISD's funds are effectively reaching students and teachers or being consumed by administrative costs. Comptroller Don Huffines announced that AISD is the largest of four Texas districts selected for this review, which was requested by Governor Greg Abbott. The review aims to ensure compliance with state law regarding spending directed toward classrooms rather than administrative growth. “This review is an important step to ensure transparency, accountability and the responsible use of public funds,” Huffines said. The final report is due by December 31, coinciding with the Texas Legislature's session in January, allowing for potential reforms. AISD is currently facing budget shortfalls, with a reported $105m deficit for the 2025-26 school year.

Irving ISD seeks $952m bond boost

Irving ISD is proposing a $952m bond package to fund various construction and technology improvement projects, including the reconstruction of five aging schools. If approved, this would lead to a property tax increase of $20.83 monthly for a median-valued home of $340,000. This bond issuance would mark the second in nearly two decades for the district. In 2023, voters approved three out of five bond proposals totaling $573.75m, which financed the reconstruction of several schools and a new technical education center set to open in 2027. "The projects included in this year's proposal are necessary due to several school buildings being outdated," district officials stated. The bond package includes four proposals, with significant allocations for school renovations and technology upgrades.

VIRTUAL SCHOOLS

Houston ISD faces virtual learning challenges

Houston ISD is experiencing a decline in online learning enrollment despite previous growth. The district's new Virtual Launchpad program has attracted only 98 students as of September 10, while its Texas Connections Academy saw a drop from over 11,000 students to just over 9,000. Virginia Snodgrass-Rangel, an associate professor at the University of Houston, noted: “Previously it was just HISD that had the cookie jar all to itself.” The competition has intensified as more districts launch their own virtual programs, impacting HISD's funding, which is largely based on attendance. HISD's executive director of career and technical education, Gillian Quinn, emphasized the importance of maintaining academic performance in their programs. The overall interest in virtual schooling has surged by 1,200% over the past decade, but concerns about educational outcomes persist.

SUPPORT

Unlocking potential: twice-exceptional students

Twice-exceptional students are those who are both intellectually gifted and face learning challenges, such as dyslexia, autism, and ADHD. They often go unnoticed in traditional educational settings, as their high intellect can mask their difficulties. Kristen Dauphinais and Jessica Rall, North Texas moms, founded the Sage School of Dallas to provide a supportive environment for these learners. The school aims to combine academic rigor with socioemotional support, offering an inquiry-based curriculum and social skills training. Jacob Michaelson, a professor at the University of Iowa, noted that "their struggles aren't reflected in test scores," making it crucial for educators to recognize their unique needs. Currently, the Sage School serves 11 students with a focus on personalized learning experiences.

DISTRICTS

Tomball ISD unveils virtual cybersecurity program

Tomball ISD trustees have discussed the proposed virtual cybersecurity program in partnership with Sam Houston State University. This initiative allows students to earn an associate degree or 60 transferable college credits in cybersecurity or computer science while completing their high school diploma. TISD Chief Academic Officer Michael Webb noted that a community survey revealed over 80% of local 7th and 8th grade parents expressed interest in the program. Key areas of interest include comprehensive pathways, degree credits, and virtual flexibility. However, concerns were raised about student workload and socialization. To support students, the program will provide nine professionals, including experienced teachers and a success coach. The board is set to vote on the program's approval this October, with plans to submit the Early College Amendment application to the Texas Education Agency by Dec. 4.

Marshall High seniors score big scholarships

Marshall High School seniors recently celebrated scholarship offers through a partnership with VU Scholarships, which assists students in finding scholarships before applying to colleges. “MISD partnered with VU to make the process seamless, less stressful, and exciting,” the district said. A total of 173 seniors opted in, receiving 8,640 scholarship offers, with students collectively offered over $413m in scholarships.  

Plano and PISD strike major deal

An agreement between Plano and Plano ISD could see the school district contribute up to $250m toward the tax increment reinvestment zone (TIRZ) for the proposed Dallas Stars arena. During the latest meeting, Plano council members approved the interlocal agreement, which caps PISD's contribution at $250m, covering 50% of maintenance and operations collections annually. The TIRZ, established in June, will fund improvement projects through tax revenue growth and is set to remain effective until Dec. 31, 2052. Under the agreement, PISD can use the arena for district events at no extra cost, aside from utility and maintenance expenses.  

Walsh family donates land for school

Aledo ISD has received a land donation from the Walsh family for a future elementary school site, marking the second such contribution from them. The donation includes nearly 13 acres, which will have minimal impact on the district's budget. In recent years, Aledo ISD has also acquired additional land for future schools, including 40 acres from Beggs Ranch and a 12-acre site in Kelly Ranch Estates.

WORKFORCE

Celina ISD aims for teacher rewards

Celina ISD is preparing to participate in the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA), a state-funded initiative aimed at rewarding exceptional teachers, as stated by Superintendent Tom Maglisceau during a Board of Trustees meeting. The TIA program, established in 2019 under House Bill 3, allows districts to receive additional funding for teachers who meet specific criteria.  

Carrabine named Texas superintendent of the year

Ginger Carrabine, the Superintendent of Bryan ISD, was honored as the 2026 Superintendent of the Year by the Texas Association of School Boards on Oct. 10. Selected from five finalists, Carrabine was recognized for her "authenticity, humility and strong sense of purpose in public education." She has led Bryan ISD since 2022, serving over 15,000 students, and previously held various roles in Fort Bend ISD. 

CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION

Greenville ISD's big renovation plans

Greenville ISD plans to allocate up to $6.45m from its 2025 bond for renovations at Bowie Elementary, Crockett Elementary, and Travis Intermediate School. While the $399m bond includes larger projects like a new high school, the improvements at these campuses will be relatively minor.  

SOCIAL & COMMUNITY

No child should go hungry

Thread Church in Cleburne has launched an initiative to cover unpaid school lunch balances for students, ensuring that no child goes hungry. Alex Burkins from Thread Church stated: “No child should be hungry in Cleburne, Texas, and that's our commitment.” With about 63% of families in Cleburne ISD qualifying for government assistance, many still struggle financially. Burkins highlighted the issue of students receiving alternative meals due to unpaid balances, saying: “The punishment goes to the kid and not to the parent.” The church has partnered with the district's Child Nutrition Department to provide funding and alleviate the stigma of lunch debt. 

TECHNOLOGY

ChatGPT for Teens: a double-edged sword

OpenAI's ChatGPT for Teens aims to address concerns about AI's impact on education and youth well-being. Amid declining academic performance, studies suggest that reliance on AI chatbots may hinder students' learning abilities. OpenAI introduced this version with safeguards against high-risk topics, allowing parental controls and age predictions. However, a study by Common Sense Media revealed significant flaws, including a 25% failure rate in crisis support and a lack of notifications to parents about sensitive discussions. Jim Steyer, CEO of Common Sense Media, stated, "ChatGPT for Teens is an unacceptable risk for kids," urging OpenAI to pause its release. Mitch Prinstein, a psychology professor, echoed concerns, saying, "AI is not ready for youth, period." The future of AI in education remains uncertain as safety issues persist.

SPORTS

North Texas football's bold fan strategy

In an effort to boost attendance, the University of North Texas is considering canceling classes for a football game against the South Florida Bulls. President Harrison Keller stated: "In the spirit of rallying the full Mean Green community, classes will conclude at 12 noon Friday, October 10." Last year, the Mean Green achieved their first sellout at DATCU Stadium, with 31,386 fans attending. North Texas receiver Mason Tipton mentioned that if enough students claim tickets, the president will cancel class again. The university aims to create a vibrant atmosphere, especially as they contend for a conference title. Athletic director Jared Mosley emphasized the importance of community support, saying: "Stay home and watch someone else can't be an option." The challenge remains for metro-based schools to fill stadiums amid competition for attention and smaller student enrollments.

INTERNATIONAL

Thunberg joins French student protests

French high school students, joined by activist Greta Thunberg, are protesting against poor school conditions, including teacher shortages and overcrowded classrooms. The movement, now in its fourth week, has seen demonstrations and blockades across the country. Thunberg stated: "They should know that all over the world we are following these developments. We are inspired by the young people who are demanding their basic rights." The protests have led to clashes with police, resulting in injuries and arrests. Education Minister Edouard Geffray reported that around 200 schools were closed due to safety concerns related to the protests. The government is under pressure to address these issues amid rising national debt and a looming presidential election.

OTHER

The Balancing Act returns with a bang

The Balancing Act, a podcast hosted by New Jersey teachers Joe Vitale and Jamie Wanko, has launched its fourth season, featuring new partnerships and high-profile guests, including U.S. Senators Andy Kim and Cory Booker. Since its inception in 2023, the podcast has released over 100 episodes, focusing on the challenges educators face while balancing teaching and parenting. “For us, The Balancing Act is more than just a podcast. It's a community,” said Vitale. The new season includes segments developed with Teachers' Insurance Plan of NJ and NJ School Jobs, addressing issues like teacher burnout and technology management. New episodes are available every Tuesday on major podcast platforms.
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