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Texas
6th November 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Hinojosa vows to overhaul Texas education

Gina Hinojosa, the newly elected governor of Texas, has pledged to fire Education Commissioner Mike Morath on her first day in office and appoint an educator to lead the Texas Education Agency (TEA). Hinojosa emphasized the urgency of addressing the "crisis" in public education, citing over 170 school closures and a significant teacher exodus. She plans to pause the A-F accountability system and eliminate the high-stakes STAAR exam, which she described as "rigged" and detrimental to student success. Hinojosa aims to replace STAAR with a more adaptive assessment system that fosters curiosity in classrooms. While facing challenges from a Republican-controlled legislature regarding voucher programs, she seeks to ensure that private schools receiving public funds are held to the same standards as public schools. Hinojosa's commitment to auditing TEA contracts and prioritizing public education marks a significant shift in Texas education policy. Meanwhile, demonstrators gathered outside Miles’ Houston home, leaving chalk messages celebrating Democratic victories and expressing hopes for a new direction in Texas education.

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STATE NEWS

Public education wins despite setbacks

In the recent elections, while proposed property tax increases were largely rejected across Texas, public education advocates found optimism in Democratic victories for statewide offices. "Tonight, we can finally say that public education won," said Melina Espiritu-Azocar, president of the Northside American Federation of Teachers. Despite the failure of a 3-cent tax increase aimed at employee salaries and three bond proposals totaling $886m, advocates remain hopeful for future funding reforms. The Northside district faces a projected $27m deficit without the tax increase, which would have generated $21.5m in local revenue. Texas AFT President Zeph Capo praised the election of public education supporters, stating: "Gina and James always had our back at the Texas Capitol." Hinojosa, a newly elected official, emphasized a shift in education policy, declaring, "The days of treating our public schools like they're for sale are over."

NATIONAL NEWS

Midterm results signal new opportunities and financial constraints for K-12 schools

US school districts face a mixed funding outlook following the 2026 midterm elections, with voters approving new statewide education investments while rejecting numerous local tax increases and imposing additional property tax restrictions. Minnesota approved a permanent funding source for K-12 education, Colorado backed measures to increase public revenue, and Washington retained its millionaire tax. However, only five of 39 proposed school income tax levies passed in Ohio, while Virginia voters approved school construction sales taxes in just 15 of 47 localities. North Carolina and Florida also backed property tax restrictions, potentially limiting education-related funding. Meanwhile, Democrats secured majorities in both chambers of Congress, creating opportunities to increase federal support for low-income students and special education programs. The results highlight growing tensions between school funding needs, taxpayer affordability, and competing education priorities.

DISTRICTS

Austin schools dodge state takeover

Gina Hinojosa's victory in the governor's race offers a potential reprieve for Austin ISD from a state takeover. Hinojosa, who takes office on January 19, has pledged to collaborate with school districts to prevent shutdowns and takeovers. The district has faced challenges, particularly at Burnet and Webb Middle Schools, which received consecutive F ratings, indicating a need for immediate support. "Students are in middle school for just three years... They don't have the luxury of waiting years for the investment and assistance they need now," the article emphasizes. The Austin-American Statesman says that Hinojosa's leadership could lead to a more constructive approach to education, focusing on resources and support rather than drastic measures and concludes that the upcoming legislative session presents an opportunity for meaningful investment in public schools, particularly for those serving students with significant academic needs.

Dallas school closure sparks community outrage

The potential closure of Joseph J. Rhoads Learning Center in South Dallas has ignited significant community concern. Six schools are at risk as Dallas ISD trustees evaluate budget constraints due to declining enrollment. Supporters emphasize the importance of Rhoads' early education and dual language programs, with parent Taylor Estelle stating: “We need J. J. Rhoads to remain open, so our children can continue to thrive and excel.” The district faces a $128m budget shortfall, with closures projected to save $2.6m. Trustee Byron Sanders highlighted the school's role as a vital resource in South Dallas, urging the board to reconsider. As the community rallies, some trustees advocate for delaying decisions until after the upcoming legislative session, hoping for financial relief for public schools. The board is expected to vote on the proposal in two weeks.

Fort Worth schools eye new models

Six organizations are vying to launch or redesign schools within Fort Worth ISD as charter schools. The district issued a “Call for Great Schools” in September, inviting proposals from third-party organizations. Evan Anderson, a spokesperson for Fort Worth ISD, mentioned that the district has not yet identified which schools may undergo restructuring. Initially, nine organizations expressed interest, but two withdrew their applications. The timeline for potential partnerships varies, with final applications for the 2027-28 school year due by October 30. Superintendent Peter Licata will recommend partnerships to the board by January 12, with votes on contracts expected by March 9. Organizations like Ridgeline Education Corporation and Lamar Legacy Partners are among those proposing innovative educational models to serve diverse student needs.

Midland ISD partners with Scharbauer Foundation to boost student safety and wellbeing

Midland ISD in Texas has partnered with the Scharbauer Foundation to enhance student well-being, school safety, and support services through a $200,000 grant covering the 2026–2029 school years. The funding will support the Safe and Supported Schools Community of Practice, led by the H. E. Butt Foundation in collaboration with the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute and the Texas Association of School Business Officials. The three-year initiative will provide specialized training, technical assistance, and data analysis to improve student support systems, coordinate resources, and develop sustainable funding strategies.

FINANCE

Spring ISD voters reject Proposition A

Voters in Spring ISD have rejected Proposition A, with 54.95% opposing the measure. The proposition aimed to raise $5.6m in local revenue and unlock an additional $9.9m in state funding to support the district's operational costs. Spring ISD stated that the additional revenue would have helped “address rising operational costs, support teacher and staff compensation and sustain essential student programs.” Without the tax increase, the district faces a projected deficit of about $33.1m, confirmed by communications director Fabiola San Roman. Superintendent Kregg Cuellar expressed optimism, noting that “45% of voters supported Proposition A,” indicating a positive direction for community support. The board will meet on Nov. 10 to discuss future strategies and community engagement.

Keller ISD bond fails

After voters rejected the $828m bond package in Keller ISD, officials are left grappling with urgent infrastructure needs. The bond, which included five propositions, aimed to address critical issues like broken HVAC units and leaking roofs. Bryce Nieman, a district spokesperson, said: “We don't have any specific conclusions at this point, but we plan to analyze data available to us.” Newly-elected board member Barbara Brewer emphasized the need for better transparency, suggesting that a smaller bond with more detailed information might be necessary. 

Dallas Stars arena boosts Plano ISD

Participation in Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone No. 6 could generate over $188m for Plano ISD (PISD) through the development surrounding the proposed Dallas Stars arena. Johnny Hill, PISD's deputy superintendent for business, stated: “We think over the course of 18 years [the impact will] be over $7bn.” The district's contribution is capped at $250m, with 50% of additional maintenance and operations tax revenue directed to the TIRZ. This funding will support maintenance, operations, and school bond payments, allowing for enhanced educational resources. The TIRZ is expected to last 25 years, but PISD can adjust its contributions if state laws change.  

GOVERNANCE

Hidalgo County school board shakeup

In Hidalgo County, voters made significant changes in the school district board elections, with 20 new members elected, representing 62.5% of the positions. Out of 32 races, incumbents contested in 23, with 11 losing their seats. In Edinburg, Gloria Alonzo unseated incumbent Dominga “Minga” Vela, receiving 16,007 votes. PSJA ISD saw three new members elected, including Norma Araceli Cabrera, who won Place 1 with 11,144 votes. Meanwhile, all incumbents retained their positions in Donna ISD. Mercedes ISD will welcome four new members, while Edcouch-Elsa ISD also elected three newcomers. "Hidalgo voters decided to bring new faces to all three seats," marking a notable shift in leadership across the districts.

WORKFORCE

San Benito superintendent earns praise, sets goals

In San Benito, the school board has given Superintendent Fred Perez positive marks on his job performance as he enters his third year. Board President Orlando Lopez said: “He’s grown in every area, from curriculum to finance,” highlighting Perez's leadership and accessibility. Last year, Perez received a $20,000 pay increase, raising his salary to $205,000. Currently, he is focused on improving student test scores and enrollment, which has decreased from 8,524 to 8,335 this year. The Texas Education Agency's 2026 Accountability Rating System rated the district at 79, just below a “B.” Perez aims to elevate the district's standing and improve scores at three campuses with low ratings, including Frank Roberts Elementary School, which received an “F.” An improvement plan has been approved to address these challenges, emphasizing support for teachers and community involvement. “Obviously, we have a lot of work we need to do,” Perez said.

Hays CISD tackles class size crisis

Hays CISD has approved an increase in the student-to-teacher ratio due to budget cuts that resulted in staff reductions. Chief human resources officer Christina Courson explained: “As you know, last year this board made very difficult decisions... to make the necessary budget cuts.” The ratio for elementary classes has risen from 22:1 to 24:1, with some classes exceeding this limit due to insufficient funding. To address the challenges, the district is exploring innovative solutions, including utilizing Texas State University interns and increasing the number of teacher residents through a memorandum of understanding. Courson noted that the Texas Education Agency now allows a $10,000 reimbursement for each resident, which could help expand the program.

Fort Stockton schools boost employee morale

Fort Stockton ISD trustees have approved a $1,250 employee retention stipend along with a two-year middle school turnaround plan and an ADA-accessible activity bus. These initiatives aim to enhance employee satisfaction and improve educational outcomes.

TECHNOLOGY

AI revolutionizes history lessons

Brent Ritchey, an eighth-grade U.S. history teacher at Briscoe Middle School, has integrated artificial intelligence (AI) into his classroom since 2022, following the release of OpenAI's ChatGPT. He utilizes AI tools to enhance student learning, allowing them to engage with historical figures and receive feedback on their writing. Northside ISD has approved 10 AI tools for educators, with plans to introduce ChatGPT for Teachers, a platform for lesson sharing. While some educators embrace AI, others are hesitant due to concerns about academic integrity. "Teachers cannot be replaced by AI, but we can adopt a mentality that AI is going to be used by our students," Ritchey said. As districts explore AI's potential, they face challenges in training teachers and ensuring equitable access for all students.

SPORTS

College sports pay raises transparency concerns

College athletics has undergone significant financial changes following the expansion of name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals, transfer opportunities, and direct athlete compensation under the House v. NCAA settlement. However, University of Illinois professor Sheldon H. Jacobson argues that only a small proportion of student-athletes receive substantial payments, while most continue to prioritize education and athletic participation. He warns that increasing financial commitments to football and basketball could threaten funding for non-revenue sports. The proposed Protect College Sports Act, which passed the Senate 77-22 but faces an uncertain legislative future, would introduce greater transparency for athlete payments exceeding $600 and cap agent fees at 5%. Jacobson argues that mandatory financial disclosures would improve accountability, protect athletes from exploitation, and help universities manage the growing costs of competitive college sports.

INTERNATIONAL

Global donors back crisis education with $400m in new pledges

Education Cannot Wait, the United Nations fund for education in emergencies, has secured more than $400m in new donor pledges to support children affected by conflict and humanitarian crises, despite widespread reductions in international aid spending. Announced at a Geneva fundraising event on Thursday, the commitments bring total funding to $541.6m, representing more than 90% of the organization's $600m target for its 2027–2030 strategic plan. Major contributors include Germany, the United Kingdom, Norway, and Switzerland, although the United States, a previous donor, was absent following recent cuts to foreign assistance. The initiative aims to support 10m children, including those in conflict-affected countries such as Sudan and Ukraine, where ongoing attacks and air-raid alerts continue to disrupt education.
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