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Texas
22nd October 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Conservatives unite for classical education

Conservatives are collaborating to expand classical Christian schools through new taxpayer-funded scholarships, making half of U.S. school-age children eligible for state funding for private education. The Association of Classical Christian Schools (ACCS), led by President David Goodwin, aims to establish 5,000 new schools over the next decade, potentially serving 1.5m students. Goodwin said: “It sounds like a very ambitious goal, but this money has never been there before.” Critics express concerns about the impact on public schools and church-state separation. The recent Texas program, which allocates $1bn for private education, has already transformed access to Christian education, with many families utilizing state funding. However, the initiative raises questions about the blurred lines between public and private education. Rachel Laser, head of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, remarked: “It's an abject violation of religious freedom to force a taxpayer to fund a school that discriminates against their faith.”

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:
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  • Outline of blended learning classroom models
  • List of questions to ask curriculum providers
  • Best practices for educator training
  • Instructional strategies and tips
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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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NATIONAL NEWS

Congressional Democrats introduce legislation to limit early elementary class sizes

U.S. Rep. Shontel Brown (D-OH) has introduced legislation proposing a $2bn federal grant program to reduce class sizes in kindergarten through third grade at low-income public elementary schools. The Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act, backed by Rep. Lucy McBath (D-GA) and Sen. Jeff Merkley (D-OR), would provide competitive grants to help school districts limit classes to no more than 18 students. Funding could support teacher recruitment, hiring, professional development, classroom expansion, and school building renovations. Brown has emphasized that smaller classes would allow educators to provide more individualized instruction, potentially improving student engagement and academic achievement. The proposal comes amid nationwide teacher shortages, staffing pressures, and constrained education budgets that have contributed to larger classrooms. Additional Democratic senators, including Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), have joined as cosponsors of the legislation.

Trump's voucher program surprises public schools

The Trump administration's new voucher program may unexpectedly benefit public schools, despite initial intentions to dismantle the Department of Education. Under the new rules from the U.S. Treasury Department, families can receive vouchers even if their children remain in public schools. Josh Cowen, a Michigan State University education professor, said: "I just can't in good faith say this is going to defund public schools the way state plans do." While 31 states have opted into the program, concerns remain about potential inequities and the lack of academic standards. Critics argue that the program could primarily benefit families already enrolled in private schools, reinforcing existing disparities. The program is projected to cost taxpayers $25.9bn over ten years, raising questions about its long-term viability and effectiveness in supporting all students.

STATE NEWS

GOP audit sparks controversy in Texas

Don Huffines, Texas Comptroller, is conducting a review of public schools that will examine spending, diversity policies, and library books, raising concerns among Democrats. The review, requested by Gov. Greg Abbott, aims to identify "wasteful spending" but has been criticized for its scope. State Rep. Diego Bernal questioned the relevance of the audit, asking: “How do the answers to any of those questions result in improved education for our children?” The findings are due by December 31, just before the legislative session begins. Critics, including Democratic state Sen. Sarah Eckhardt, argue that the review is politically motivated and exceeds the comptroller's authority, labeling it a "political hatchet job." Huffines has made reducing government size a campaign priority, recently launching a whistleblower portal to report fraud.

DISTRICTS

San Antonio schools shake up learning

San Antonio ISD is implementing a new initiative called "High 5," aimed at improving academic performance and avoiding state intervention. Developed under Superintendent Adrian Bustillos, the program mandates teachers to follow district-created lesson plans across most campuses. "We are here to make these bold changes to keep local control," Bustillos said. The initiative focuses on five key areas, including aligning instruction with the curriculum and providing consistent feedback to teachers. However, it has faced criticism from the San Antonio Alliance, with union leaders arguing that it restricts teachers' autonomy and may not effectively enhance student achievement. Concerns have been raised about the rigidity of the program, with some educators fearing it could stifle creativity in teaching. Despite the pushback, Bustillos maintains that the changes are necessary for the district's success.

Fort Worth ISD explores new school models

Fort Worth ISD (FWISD) is considering new school models as six organizations express interest in launching initiatives at existing campuses. The district's Call for Great Schools initiative aims to partner with nonprofits, universities, and charter operators to enhance educational offerings for the upcoming school year. Superintendent Peter Licata previously stated that FWISD would not pursue partnerships that take over struggling schools, focusing instead on innovative programs. “The district has not set a target number of schools and has not selected any campus, neighborhood or community for redesign,” said spokesperson Evan Anderson. The initiative emphasizes middle-school innovation, early learning expansion, and college and career readiness. Proposals must align with district priorities and demonstrate benefits for students and families before receiving approval from the board.

North East ISD proposes closure of three schools

North East ISD (NEISD) has proposed closing Montgomery, Oak Grove, and Dellview elementaries by next fall to address a $20m deficit. Chief financial officer Susie Lackorn presented the plan at a board meeting, stating that the closures could save the district approximately $4m. Superintendent Anthony Jarrett emphasized the emotional impact of such decisions, saying: "We know that those buildings are the memories that are created for families." If approved, no educators will lose their jobs, as staff will be reassigned to other campuses. Community meetings will be held to gather feedback, with parents expressing concerns about the impact on students. NEISD's efficiency plan aims to balance the budget amid declining enrollment and financial challenges.

ENROLLMENT

Hays CISD faces enrollment challenges

During his annual State of the District address, Hays CISD Superintendent Dr. Eric Wright discussed significant challenges facing the district, including declining student enrollment. Currently, the district has 25,439 students, but projections suggest this could rise to 45,435 by the 2035-36 school year. Wright attributed part of the decline to new vouchers approved by Gov. Greg Abbott, which allow students to attend private charter schools. He noted: “We have a substantial amount of kids that received vouchers, but weren’t accepted into private schools.” Additionally, around 300 students are unaccounted for, often due to fears of deportation among their families. Wright emphasized the need for better funding and support for public education, stating: “Education is the backbone of democracy.” He urged state leaders to focus on unifying efforts rather than division, highlighting the importance of investing in schools.

GOVERNANCE

Belton ISD board takes bold steps

The Belton ISD board has approved significant school improvement plans and extended Superintendent Malinda Golden's contract. During the meeting on October 19, the board recognized the contributions of Belton ISD principals, highlighting their dedication to enhancing educational outcomes.

CURRICULUM

Clear Creek parents confused by new curriculum

Clear Creek ISD is enhancing its family portal to assist parents amid the rollout of a new state-approved curriculum, including Bluebonnet Math. During a workshop, the board of trustees addressed ongoing concerns regarding parent confusion over new grading metrics. Bevin Hartnett, a parent from Brookwood Elementary, shared insights from a survey of 200 families, stating: "The overwhelming conclusion [is] our children are confused and sad, our teachers are just trying to keep their heads above water, and our parents are frustrated and angry." To alleviate these concerns, the district's communications department will provide grade-level guides, direct families to Zearn.org for additional support, and clarify grading expectations on the expanded portal.

FINANCE

Hays CISD scores a ‘C’ rating

Hays CISD has received a ‘C’ rating from the Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST), scoring 78 out of 100 points, a decline from last year's score of 80. The FIRST system evaluates the financial accountability of public school districts based on 21 indicators, including fund balance and debt management. Chief Financial Officer Deborah Ottmers said, “It's all about cash flow, fund balance and debt,” highlighting ongoing challenges due to the need for new school construction. The district anticipates further score improvements in the coming years, as budget cuts are expected to enhance the fund balance. Ottmers noted, “We have a five-year plan to bring [the fund balance] back to where we need to be.” The district previously achieved “Superior” distinctions for several years before this decline.

CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Galveston County schools shine in CTE

The Career and Technical Association of Texas has honored six school districts in Galveston County for their outstanding achievements in CTE for the 2026-27 academic year. The districts recognized include Galveston, Texas City, Clear Creek, Friendswood, Dickinson, and Santa Fe ISDs. Texas City ISD Superintendent Melissa Duarte said: “This recognition is a direct reflection of the hard work and dedication of our career and technical education teachers and leadership team.” The association, founded in 1999, supports schools in providing CTE programs that prepare students for future careers and advocates for necessary funding and policies.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

Outdoor play boosts student success

Research led by Professor Deborah J. Rhea from Texas Christian University reveals that students can significantly benefit from an hour of outdoor play each day. Rhea's LiiNK Project, which aims to inspire innovation in kids, advocates for four 15-minute outdoor breaks during the school week. The study, involving around 60,000 students across Texas, Oklahoma, and Michigan, found that students' test scores improved by 10% by fourth grade. Rhea stated, “The neurons that we're trying to build in the brain... are hugely impacted when we're not out moving as kids.” Additionally, pairing outdoor play with 15 minutes of social-emotional learning fosters respect and empathy among students, counteracting bullying during recess. Despite Texas law mandating at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily, educators face challenges in implementing longer recess times. Fort Worth officials acknowledged the research's value but deemed a one-hour recess currently impractical.

HIGHER EDUCATION

Federal court rulings stand as Trump administration drops student loan forgiveness appeals

The Trump administration has dropped two appeals challenging federal court rulings that blocked proposed changes to the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, which provides student debt relief to eligible public-sector and nonprofit employees after ten years of qualifying payments. The administration had sought to give Education Secretary Linda McMahon authority to exclude employers deemed to have a "substantial illegal purpose," potentially affecting organizations supporting undocumented immigrants and transgender youth. Federal judges in Massachusetts and Washington blocked the changes, finding that the rules exceeded the Education Department's authority and raised constitutional concerns over free speech. The Justice Department has now withdrawn both appeals without explanation, leaving the rulings in place. Advocacy groups have welcomed the decision, which preserves existing protections for a program that has forgiven student loans for more than 1m Americans.

Bobby Ahdieh departs Fort Worth for Pace

Bobby Ahdieh, the chief operating officer for Texas A&M-Fort Worth, is set to leave for Pace University, where he will become the ninth president starting January 1, 2027. His departure marks a significant transition for Fort Worth's educational landscape, particularly impacting Texas A&M's law school and Fort Worth ISD. Ahdieh, who has been instrumental in the growth of the law school, noted: “Some of my work here is done.” Under his leadership, the law school rose from No. 83 to No. 22 in national rankings, with enrollment increasing from 458 to over 2,000. His vision for the downtown campus includes fostering community partnerships and enhancing educational access.  

INTERNATIONAL

Study finds South African teachers need better training to tackle classroom inequality

South Africa’s teacher training programs are failing to adequately prepare future educators to challenge the social and economic inequalities affecting schools, according to a study of 24 final-year student teachers. The research, carried out by Nhlanhla Mpofu of the University of Notre Dame Australia, found that 19 participants focused primarily on technical teaching skills, including lesson planning, classroom management, and curriculum delivery, rather than examining how poverty, language barriers, and inadequate resources affect students. Only five demonstrated deeper critical reflection, largely supported by mentors who encouraged discussions about fairness, privilege, and social justice. The study identified mentor teachers as a key influence on whether trainees questioned educational inequalities or simply adapted to existing conditions. Mpofu argues that universities must strengthen reflective teaching practices to help schools address, rather than reinforce, South Africa’s longstanding inequalities.

Students demand change in Greece

In Athens, Greece, thousands of students and teachers protested on Wednesday, demanding affordable student housing and increased state investment in education. Similar demonstrations occurred in cities like Thessaloniki and Patras, fueled by rising living costs and dissatisfaction with the education system. Engineering student Panagiotis Moschonas, 20, criticized the government's inadequate support, stating, “It says that it is allegedly helping students, with a rent subsidy of €120 ($135) per month. That isn't even enough for half a rent.” Teacher Ioannis Rompas emphasized the dire situation, saying: “Today we are striking because this situation can't continue for our families.” Riot police monitored the protests, which have seen violence in other European countries.
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