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Texas
19th October 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Federal scholarship program raises equity concerns

A new federal tax-credit scholarship program could generate an estimated $112 per public school student across all 50 states and Washington, D.C., by 2030, according to research by Michigan State University education policy professor Josh Cowen. Unlike traditional school choice initiatives, the program will allow public school students to receive scholarships and use the funds for educational services, potentially creating additional revenue opportunities for public schools. However, Cowen has warned that wealthier communities may benefit disproportionately because of stronger fundraising networks and greater capacity to establish Scholarship Granting Organizations (SGOs), while rural and lower-income areas could struggle to access funding. The research highlights the importance of targeted support from statewide and national scholarship organizations, alongside clearer federal guidance to ensure public schools can participate effectively. With states considering whether to join the program by January 1, its ultimate impact will depend on donor participation, school readiness, and efforts to distribute funding equitably.

BLENDED LEARNING

An Administrator's Guide to Blended Learning

Online learning doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing approach. Explore blended learning with this comprehensive guide from FlexPoint®, which includes:
  • Worksheets to define your school’s needs
  • Outline of blended learning classroom models
  • List of questions to ask curriculum providers
  • Best practices for educator training
  • Instructional strategies and tips
  • Key benefits for you, students, and staff
Download the FlexPoint guide to find the right mix of face-to-face and online instruction for your school or district.

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STATE NEWS

Abbott vs. Hinojosa: Texas showdown

Gov. Greg Abbott is in a tight race against Democrat Gina Hinojosa for reelection on November 3. Early voting is set to begin today until 30th October. Both candidates have shared their views on critical issues such as property taxes, healthcare, and education. Abbott, who has served as Governor since 2015, emphasized his "Affordability Agenda," aiming to cut property taxes by 50% and reduce healthcare costs. He stated: "My plan will reward good drivers with discounted auto insurance premiums." In contrast, Hinojosa criticized Abbott's policies, claiming they favor corporate interests over working Texans. She aims to address affordability and public education, stating: "Texans deserve a leader who puts people first." The election outcome will significantly impact Texas's future policies and direction.

FINANCE

Texas schools seek tax hike for staff

Five public school districts in Central Texas are asking voters to approve property tax increases in November to address rising costs and staff salaries. Bastrop, Del Valle, Georgetown, Leander, and Round Rock ISDs are facing significant budget challenges, with Texas schools losing over 76,000 students this year, marking the second-largest decline in four decades. Bastrop ISD aims to raise its tax rate from $1.0679 to $1.0809 per $100 of property value, generating an additional $6m annually for staff raises and security. Del Valle ISD seeks a 9-cent increase to fund a $13.9m revenue boost for staff salaries. Georgetown ISD plans to raise its rate to support a 3.5% salary increase for teachers. Leander ISD and Round Rock ISD are also proposing tax hikes to avoid budget cuts and enhance staff compensation. 

San Antonio schools seek tax boosts

As voters prepare for the November elections, five school districts in the San Antonio area are proposing property tax increases and bond issues totaling hundreds of millions of dollars. These initiatives aim to address budget shortfalls, enhance teacher salaries, and improve facilities ahead of the 2027 Texas Legislature. Early voting runs from October 19 to 30, with Election Day on November 3. East Central ISD seeks a tax increase of less than a penny to generate $8.5m annually, while Northside ISD proposes a three-cent increase to raise $45.5m for staff salaries and facility upgrades. Jessica Palomares, interim superintendent of Northside, said: "We knew that no matter what, this still needed to move forward." Other districts, including San Antonio ISD and Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City ISD, are also asking for tax increases to fund essential programs and infrastructure improvements.

Tough choices ahead for schools

Facing a projected $7m deficit for the next school year, New Braunfels ISD leaders are contemplating the closure of two elementary schools to cut costs. Superintendent Laurelyn Arterbury said: "We will be making some tough decisions over the coming months." Currently, the district's elementary schools are operating at only 61% capacity, serving 4,074 students out of a possible 6,640. While no specific schools have been chosen for closure, five potential candidates have been identified based on their operational costs. Community forums will be held from October 20 to November 5 to discuss the closures, and a Long Range Sustainability Committee will be formed to assist in the decision-making process.  

Comal ISD proposes $567m bond

In November, voters in Comal ISD will decide on a proposed $567m bond aimed at enhancing safety, security, and infrastructure within the district. CISD Board President Courtney Biasatti noted that the district has seen an enrollment increase of about 10,000 students over the past decade, with projections of an additional 7,000 by 2032. Superintendent John Chapman III emphasized that the bond addresses immediate needs without raising the tax rate, stating: “It's a community-driven plan that improves the safety and security of our schools.” The bond consists of two propositions: Proposition A, allocating $539.95m for facilities and safety, and Proposition B, providing $27.04m for technology.  

GOVERNANCE

State intervention looms for Austin ISD

As Austin ISD grapples with a potential state takeover due to two middle schools receiving consecutive F ratings, Trustee Candace Hunter is committed to advocating for District 1 families. Facing a $181m deficit and the possibility of losing local governance, Hunter emphasized: “Our vote is taken away, but not our voice.” She aims to minimize the impact of state intervention by monitoring similar situations in Houston and Fort Worth. Hunter's focus includes increasing instructional support in struggling schools and addressing violence and dropout rates. Her opponent, Cheryl Bradley, has a history of impactful service but lacks Hunter's educational expertise. The upcoming elections on November 3 are crucial for the district's future, and the Editorial Board recommends reelecting Hunter for her dedication and knowledge in education.

Austin schools face tough choices

Jimmy Counihan, a 2018 Bowie High School graduate, is running for a seat on the Austin ISD board amid significant challenges, including a $181m deficit and the threat of state takeover due to poor school ratings. He brings firsthand experience of the pressures students face, stating: “I know very intimately the pressures and the challenges that our students are facing.” Counihan's professional background in budget management and legislative processes positions him well to navigate potential state interventions. His opponent, Laurie Solis, also has strong ties to the community and extensive volunteer experience. However, Counihan's unique perspective as a recent student gives him an edge in the upcoming election on November 3.

Del Valle ISD superintendent departs

Matthew Gutierrez, the superintendent of Del Valle ISD, is leaving his position after two years to take a new role at Region 4 Education Service Center in Houston, effective November 6. During his tenure, Gutierrez implemented new curricula and worked on financial stabilization, although the district received a D grade from the Texas Education Agency.  

Pilot Point ISD officials on leave

Pilot Point ISD has placed Superintendent Shannon Fuller and Police Chief Eric Dortch on paid administrative leave following a complaint, as stated in a letter to families. The Board of Trustees emphasized that this action is taken "out of an abundance of caution" while an independent investigation is conducted by attorney Scott Cummings. 

DISTRICTS

United ISD tackles staffing shortages head-on

United ISD officials recently addressed staffing shortages during a special meeting, highlighting 22 vacancies, including 16 special education aide positions. David Canales, associate superintendent of human resources, said: "We're trying to get ahead of the curve," as the district plans a special education job fair on October 28 to attract qualified candidates. Concerns were raised about substitutes earning more than teacher aides, prompting discussions on potential incentive pay for aides who remain through the school year. Superintendent Dr. Gerardo Cruz proposed a $500 incentive for elementary aides and $650 for secondary aides. The district is also considering training substitutes for personal care services for special education students, emphasizing the need for consistency and support in staffing.

Brenham ISD tackles major decisions

The Brenham ISD Board of Trustees will convene today to discuss significant matters, including a multi-million dollar facility bond program. The board will consider approving the Brenham ISD Maintenance Bond 2025 Phase One program with a budget not to exceed $5.58m. Additionally, a public hearing will be held on the School Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas ("FIRST") accountability rating. Following this, trustees will vote on district-wide improvement plans, particularly for Brenham Middle School and Krause Elementary School. Financial discussions will also include a legal contract for delinquent tax collections with Perdue Brandon Fielder Collins and Mott, LLP. 

CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Hands-on learning at Pine Tree

Pine Tree Junior High School's Career Lab is designed to equip students with practical skills for life after graduation through "hands-on experience." Jacob Lusk, the career and technical education director, emphasized the lab's goal: "We wanted to provide the kids with a way to get hands-on experience and prepare them for life after high school." The lab, which opened before the 2025–26 school year, offers a variety of subjects, including computer graphics, culinary arts, and engineering. CTE teacher Stacie White noted the positive impact on students, stating: "The amount of light bulbs I see going on in the kids on a daily basis gives me chills." Principal Lisa Sawyer aims to increase course enrollment, highlighting the importance of practical education and alternative career paths. "The goal is not necessarily to prepare every kid for college but to be successful after high school," Sawyer said.

Richardson High School club opens doors for future careers

Richardson High School is set to enhance its students' college and career readiness through a new partnership with Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Dallas. The club, launching in November, will provide free after-school programming aimed at helping students explore various professional and educational opportunities. “It's really about helping them discover their interests,” said John Williams, RHS assistant principal. The program will include a speaker series, field trips, and hands-on experiences in skilled trades, with an initial enrollment goal of 60 students, expanding to 200 in the future.

HIGHER EDUCATION

Senators challenge education grant funding practices

The U.S. Department of Education has faced criticism from Sens. Patty Murray (D-WI) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) over its practice of front-loading multiyear grants, which they argue has effectively withheld approximately $630m in funding from new recipients across 35 grant programs. The approach involves distributing the full value of existing multiyear grants upfront rather than allocating funding annually, potentially limiting the number of institutions and students receiving support. In a letter to Education Secretary Linda McMahon, the senators claimed that maintaining annual funding allocations could have enabled more than 1,000 additional grants this year, supporting initiatives including student mental health, education research, and first-generation college students. They highlighted the Child Care Access Means Parents in School program, which awarded $71.4m to 40 recipients despite initially projecting 148 grants. The senators also raised concerns that the administration could subsequently terminate front-loaded grants and reclaim funding, urging the department to reverse its approach and distribute appropriations in accordance with congressional directives.

Proposed federal student aid overhaul sparks concerns about loan servicing

The Trump administration is reportedly considering separating the Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA) from the Department of Education and establishing it as an independent agency by October 2027, raising concerns about potential disruptions to federal student aid programs. FSA oversees more than $120bn in annual student grants and loans, and the proposed restructuring would come as the office implements major student loan policy changes and transfers certain responsibilities to the Treasury Department. Although the Education Department and the Office of Management and Budget have disputed the report, lawmakers, education advocates, and financial aid experts warn that restructuring could disrupt services for millions of borrowers and thousands of institutions, particularly following significant staffing reductions.

INTERNATIONAL

Rising high school dropouts in South Korea spark debate over grade resets

South Korean high school students are increasingly considering dropping out and re-enrolling to improve their academic records following the introduction of a five-tier grading system designed to reduce competition. Under the new system, the highest grade is awarded to the top 10% of students, compared with 4% previously, raising concerns that a single poor semester could significantly affect university admission prospects. The number of first-year general high school students discontinuing their studies rose from 9,346 in 2024 to 10,006 in 2025, although officials caution that the increase cannot be directly attributed to attempts to reset grades. Some students are also considering equivalency exams and the national college entrance test as alternative pathways. South Korea’s Ministry of Education is reviewing potential changes to academic record regulations, while experts are calling for clearer admissions guidance, greater opportunities for academic recovery, and reforms that reduce pressure on students to leave school.
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