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Texas
12th January 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Texas schools to swap exams

Parents and educators in Galveston County have expressed optimism about Texas's new testing approach, which will replace the annual State of Texas Academic Assessment of Readiness with three shorter tests starting in the 2027–28 school year. House Bill 8 aims to provide results within 48 hours, addressing concerns over the lengthy wait for STAAR results. Erica Farmer, vice president of the Ball High School PTO, said: "This change could finally give parents and educators meaningful feedback throughout the year." However, some educators, including Zeph Capo of Texas AFT, criticize the bill for merely rebranding high-stakes testing without reducing its burden. Despite concerns, many believe the new model could help track student progress more effectively and reduce classroom disruptions. Nearly half of Texas students are currently behind the grade level, highlighting the need for a more supportive assessment system.

SAVVAS - STRENGTHEN MATHEMATICS FLUENCY

More Than Speed: Why Math Fluency Matters  

Strengthening and building on fluency skills across K-12 is vital because it allows students to solve problems accurately and efficiently. When students are fluent with basic facts and procedures, they free up their cognitive resources to focus on higher-level thinking and complex problem-solving. Without fluency, students may struggle with multi-digit problems, fractions, and decimals, as their difficulties can compound over the years.

An effective approach to building fluency involves more than just rote memorization. It requires helping students understand number relationships, develop flexibility, and choose an efficient strategy. This foundation helps students develop a strong number sense and prepares them for future academic success. By cultivating fluency, educators help students build confidence and reduce the math anxiety that can hinder their learning journey.

Download free fluency resources to try now!

 

NATIONAL NEWS

Judge pauses funding freeze on child care subsidies for five Democratic-led states

A federal judge has temporarily stopped the Trump administration from withholding child care subsidies and other social safety-net funding from California, Colorado, Illinois, Minnesota and New York, granting a 14-day order to maintain the flow of money while the legal challenge proceeds. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian wrote that the states had demonstrated “good cause” for an order “to protect the status quo” while he considers the merits of the case. The states say the sudden freeze, affecting programmes that collectively provide them more than $10bn a year, has already delayed payments and created “operational chaos,” while the Department of Health and Human Services claims it paused funds over concerns benefits were being provided to people in the U.S. illegally, without offering evidence.

LEADERSHIP

Goose Creek new superintendent shares safety plans

Goose Creek CISD Superintendent Joe Rodriguez recently shared his vision for the district during a Rotary Club of Baytown luncheon. Emphasizing "school safety, academic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, and the need for community involvement," Rodriguez aims to address pressing issues following the tragic stabbing of 16-year-old Andrew Meismer. His leadership comes at a critical time, with increased calls for enhanced security measures across the district.

DISTRICTS

Arlington ISD considers closing Blanton Elementary

Arlington ISD recommended closing Blanton Elementary School due to declining enrollment and poor performance on the Texas Education Agency's report card. Board President Justin Chapa emphasized that deciding to close the school locally would prevent the state from intervening. Parents expressed concerns about maintaining bilingual education and the distance to new schools. Superintendent Matt Smith mentioned that the administration is working on redrawing school zoning borders, with a parent meeting scheduled for January 14. Deputy Superintendent Jennifer Collins assured that students would only be reassigned to schools with A, B, or C ratings. Collins also clarified: "We will look carefully at certifications to ensure that we have a good match" for staff placements if Blanton closes. The school board will continue discussions, with a decision needed by January 31.

Friendswood ISD seeks input after bond failure

Friendswood ISD's board of trustees will evaluate community feedback from a recent survey and focus groups during a workshop on January 12, following the rejection of a $165m bond package in the November 4 election. The survey, sent to residents on November 19, aimed to gather insights on future bond proposals and specific project preferences. Stacy Parsons, a local resident, expressed her opposition to the bond, remarking: "The economy is truly hurting people—single moms, limited income families—and [the bond package would have] increased their monthly payment." In contrast, Melanie Beran supported the propositions, pointing out that there was a clearer bond package. The board will meet on January 12 to discuss the feedback and potential next steps for future bond elections.

New grade openings at Highlands Elementary

Parents outside New Caney ISD's Highlands Elementary School boundaries can apply for their child to attend first grade in the 2026-27 school year until January 16. Highlands Elementary, which opened in August, is a candidate school for the International Baccalaureate Primary Year Program and will accept 50 students per grade level, totaling 250 students. "The district will not provide transportation for students attending Highlands Elementary outside of the attendance boundaries," NCISD stated. Parents should submit all names on one application if applying for multiple children. A lottery system will be used for students within the attendance zone, considering factors like attendance rates and discipline records. Transfer applications opened on December 15.

New Liberty Hill ISD school zones for 2026-27 revealed

Liberty Hill ISD has proposed new attendance boundaries for elementary, middle, and high schools starting in the 2026-27 school year. Interim Superintendent Travis Motal presented the recommendations in a video, explaining that they are based on projected enrollment growth and future campus openings. "We are in the collection of ideas and feedback stage of this process," Motal said, indicating that the proposal may change after community input. To gather feedback, the district will hold two town hall meetings on January 13 and 15, where parents and staff can discuss the proposed changes. The final recommendation will be presented to the LHISD Board of Trustees on February 16 for approval.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Boerne ISD tests drone security system

Boerne ISD is exploring advanced security measures by testing a drone system designed to respond to armed intruders. The demonstration on January 9 showcased the Campus Guardian Angel initiative, which aims to deploy drones within a minute of an incident. Justin Marston, chief executive of Campus Guardian Angel, emphasized the urgency, noting: "In a school shooting, most of the deaths happen in 120 seconds." The drones, which can provide real-time intel and serve as distractions, are not connected to the school's Wi-Fi, ensuring secure operation. While no agreement has been finalized for deployment in Boerne ISD, the district is considering the initiative, following successful implementations in Florida and other Texas districts.

ENROLLMENT

Walnut Springs faces enrollment challenges

Recent demographic data for New Braunfels ISD indicates that current attendance zones will sufficiently manage expected school overcrowding amid new housing developments over the next decade, despite some elementary campuses being underutilized. A report forecasts enrollment growth to 11,069 students by the 2035-2036 school year, with over 17,000 new housing units anticipated. Key development areas include Veramendi and smaller subdivisions. Notably, almost 76% of new occupancies will be single-family homes, while low-income housing projects like Apple Seeds are also emerging. Projections suggest that elementary schools in high-growth zones will experience increased enrollments, with Lamar Elementary expected to reach 114% utilization. However, some campuses like Walnut Springs and Memorial are projected to be significantly underutilized. Middle schools are expected to maintain a balanced utilization rate, with projections around 78–99% by 2035. Overall, the district is not expected to require new elementary schools within the next decade, though financial sustainability for smaller campuses may come into question.

SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION

First Student eyes IPO with Goldman, Morgan Stanley and RBC as lead banks

EQT-backed school bus operator First Student has appointed Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, and RBC to lead its planned IPO, though the timing remains undecided as the private equity owner weighs options. The Cincinnati-based company, acquired from FirstGroup in a $4.6bn deal in 2021, operates 47,000 vehicles and employs 63,000 people across North America.
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