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Texas
15th January 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Texas parents face school voucher 'sticker shock'

The Texas private school voucher program, launched last year with a budget of $1bn, is set to begin accepting applications on February 4. Families can receive approximately $10,500 in taxpayer funds for private education, but many parents may face unexpected costs. "I think families are going to see sticker shock," said David DeMatthews, a professor at the University of Texas. He noted that most competitive private schools may already be filled by families who can afford the fees. The comptroller's office has indicated that approved families will not receive funds until July, raising concerns about upfront costs. Governor Greg Abbott's Senate Bill 2 aims to assist 100,000 students, but advocates warn that the program's rollout may not meet all families' needs. Nathan Cunneen, Texas State Director for the American Federation for Children, emphasized the importance of providing educational choices for families.

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

Trump administration launches 18 new investigations into transgender athlete policies

The U.S. Education Department's Office for Civil Rights has initiated an investigation into 18 educational institutions, including New York City's public school system, as well as districts in California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Washington state, regarding its policy that permits transgender students to participate in sports teams aligned with their gender identity. The inquiries are based on concerns that their regulations may violate Title IX, which prohibits sex discrimination in federally funded educational institutions. Kimberly Richey, assistant secretary for civil rights, said: "Time and again, the Trump Administration has made its position clear: violations of women's rights, dignity, and fairness are unacceptable." The investigation also encompasses transgender students' access to facilities. In response Mariah Moore, director of policy and programs at Transgender Law Center, said: “Every student, transgender or not, deserves the same respect, safety, and access to opportunities as their peers. These investigations represent another attempt by the Department of Education to exploit Title IX against the students it is supposed to protect.”

Whole milk returns to school lunches after Trump reverses previous restrictions

On Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump signed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, allowing whole milk to be served in schools for the first time in nearly 15 years. This legislation aims to expand milk options for approximately 30m children participating in school meal programs. Trump said: "These changes will be major victories for the American dairy farmers, who we love and who voted for me in great numbers." The law aligns with the administration's Make America Healthy Again agenda, which promotes various health initiatives. Previously, schools were restricted to serving only low-fat and fat-free milk due to the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010. The new law permits schools to offer whole or reduced-fat milk alongside lower-fat options, reflecting a shift in dietary guidelines that now encourage full-fat dairy consumption. Implementation of the law is expected to take a few weeks, according to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.

LEADERSHIP

Ector County principals earn big rewards

For the second consecutive year, Ector County ISD honored five principals through the Principal Incentive Allotment (PIA) program, with awards totaling over $100,000. Three principals received $20,000 each, while two were awarded $25,000. The PIA recognizes school leaders based on academic growth and the percentage of economically disadvantaged students. "The Principal Incentive Allotment is one of the ways we are rewarding our most effective leaders," said Dr. Keeley Boyer, ECISD Superintendent of Schools. This initiative, funded by the Permian Strategic Partnership (PSP), aims to retain strong leaders and improve student outcomes. The recipients include Sam Martinez, Christan Pugh, Jennie Chavez, Crystal Marquez, and Raquel Rodriguez, all of whom credited their teams for their success. "It's really just humbling," said Marquez, highlighting the collaborative effort behind their achievements.

El Campo ISD extends superintendent's contract

The El Campo ISD board of trustees unanimously voted to extend Superintendent Bob Callaghan's contract through June 2029. "I'm very excited," said Callaghan, who has been with the district since June 2020. He praised his staff, including assistant superintendents Demetric Wells and Alicia Stary, for their dedication to student success, evidenced by the district's five national showcase school awards and consecutive "A" TEA ratings for El Campo High School. While the contract extension does not guarantee a pay increase, Callaghan's current salary is $200,808. The upcoming year will be busy for ECISD, with contractors for the 2025 bond construction project at Hutchins Elementary being selected and a groundbreaking planned before spring break.

DISTRICTS

Georgetown ISD may delay school openings

Georgetown ISD is contemplating postponing the opening of its 12th elementary school and fifth middle school until 2027 due to a projected budget shortfall of $1.75m for the 2026-27 fiscal year. Superintendent Devin Padavil said: "It is absolutely certain that the growth is going to happen, but the pace at which it's happening slowed down." The district's enrollment growth has slowed, leading to a $3.8m decline in revenue. If both schools are delayed, GISD could achieve a $1.25m budget surplus, allowing for potential staff pay raises. The district is also considering a voter-approval tax rate election to increase funding. Budget workshops will be held to gather community input and explore options for managing the financial situation.

North East ISD faces TEA ultimatum

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has mandated that North East ISD revise its cellphone policy to a bell-to-bell ban by January 31. During a board meeting, attorney Ricardo Lopez explained the potential consequences of noncompliance, including negative TEA reports and possible litigation. Lopez stated: “If the board does not comply with what is directed by TEA... the agency would look to force [the policy change] one way or another.” The board is concerned about the implications of changing the policy mid-year, with President David Beyer noting:“We don't have a good option in either of these situations.” The policy must prohibit personal communication devices during the school day, with exceptions for specific educational needs. The board plans to seek more time for implementation and clarification on compliance issues.

IL Texas Aggieland High School unveils new campus

The International Leadership Texas Aggieland High School celebrated the opening of its new building, a 72,000 sq ft facility, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by students, staff, and local leaders. Principal Linda Lang expressed her excitement, noting: "Our students are amazing... Now they have a space that matches that." The new campus features an air rifle range for the Marine Corps Junior ROTC and is part of a two-phase project aimed at enhancing educational facilities. Eddie Conger, the school's founder and superintendent, noted the importance of the new building, saying: "For the kids, it gives them a real campus, a real building." The school has grown to 250 students since its inception in 2019, and the new facility is expected to foster a better learning environment.

Lewisville ISD extends school day

Lewisville ISD will implement a new schedule starting in the 2026-27 school year, swapping the start times for high school and middle school while extending the school day by 10 minutes. The board approved this change with a 5-2 vote during a meeting on January 12. Superintendent Lori Rapp's report indicates that elementary schools will start at 7:40 a.m. and end at 3:05 p.m., while middle school will begin at 8:15 a.m. and high school at 8:50 a.m. The extension aims to provide additional time for professional development and to accommodate potential weather-related closures. Trustee Allison Lassahn expressed concerns, saying: "I began receiving feedback from constituents on this issue. All of them were against it," referring to community feedback regarding the impact on students' part-time jobs and extracurricular activities. The new schedule will take effect on August 12, 2026.

FINANCE

Tomball ISD boosts schools with funds

Tomball ISD's board of trustees approved the use of bond funds for school facility purchases during their Jan. 13 meeting. Notable donations from local parent-teacher organizations included $159,812 from the Tomball Education Foundation and $27,398 from West Elementary PTO. The board also approved new equipment purchases, such as culinary arts lab equipment for Tomball West High School and gym bleachers for Tomball High School, funded by the district's 2021 and 2025 bonds.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

Hoax threats disrupt school operations

Recent hoax threats against schools have caused significant disruptions, even though they were deemed non-credible. Ken Trump, a school security consultant, stated, "The ambiguity, the uncertainty and the anxiety creates very serious social and emotional stressors for kids, staff and parents." Schools in North Texas, including Dallas ISD and Fort Worth ISD, implemented secure statuses in response to these threats, which can lead to heightened tension among students. Lynda Gibson, a psychology professor, noted that such threats can negatively affect student mental health, making them feel constantly under threat. Trump advised school leaders to avoid knee-jerk reactions to threats, emphasizing the importance of assessing credibility before taking action. "It's not a hoax. It's not a joke," Trump warned, highlighting the serious consequences for those who make such threats.

TECHNOLOGY

AI in education: risks outweigh rewards

According to a report by the Brookings Institution’s Center for Universal Education, the risks of integrating AI into education surpass its potential benefits. The study, which involved K-12 students, parents, educators, and tech experts from 50 countries, highlighted both advantages and disadvantages of AI in classrooms. While AI can enhance learning, particularly for students learning a second language, and ease teachers' workloads, it poses significant threats to students' cognitive and emotional development. Rebecca Winthrop, a senior fellow at Brookings, said, “We know that richer communities and schools will be able to afford more advanced AI models,” emphasizing the growing inequity in educational resources. The report ultimately suggests that AI could exacerbate existing disparities in education.

SPORTS

College sports leaders urged to act now

The head of the College Sports Commission, Bryan Seeley, emphasized the urgency for schools to sign the "University Participation Agreement," stating: "If there was a time to stick out your neck, it's now." This agreement, sent to Division I schools, outlines regulations on how they can pay players, including a $20.5m budget for name, image, and likeness payments. However, the agreement has faced pushback, particularly due to a clause preventing schools from suing the agency. Despite this, Seeley noted that "stability is not created by new rules alone, but by a willingness to live by them." He urged schools to collaborate in addressing the challenges facing college sports, as the future of the system hangs in the balance.

HIGHER EDUCATION

U.S. college enrollment on the rise

Overall college enrollment in the U.S. has increased slightly, reaching 19.4m students, according to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center. Matthew Holsapple, senior director of research, stated: "Higher education has stabilized and is growing again." However, this growth is uneven; while public four-year universities and community colleges saw increases, private four-year colleges experienced declines. Notably, community colleges reported a 28% rise in short-term workforce credentials. Courtney Brown from the Lumina Foundation noted that public perception of college value is shifting, emphasizing cost, flexibility, and career relevance. Additionally, international student enrollment in graduate programs fell significantly, influenced by federal policy changes and a decline in computer science majors, attributed to the rise of artificial intelligence. Holsapple expressed optimism, stating: "Students are making different choices, which I think is a real positive for the field." Colleges adapting to these trends are likely to see continued growth.

INTERNATIONAL

South Africa: Boys falling behind as dropout rates surge before matric

South Africa’s Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, has raised alarm over a growing gender gap in matriculation, with only 44% of 2025 matric candidates being boys, compared to 56% girls. The imbalance highlights a trend of boys increasingly dropping out between Grades 10 and 12, often due to repeated academic failure, lack of motivation, and social vulnerabilities such as gang recruitment. Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane echoed the concern, stressing that the issue isn’t academic ability, with boys often outperforming girls in maths and science, but rather retention. He noted that dropout rates spike in later grades, disproportionately affecting boys, and called for urgent, targeted intervention to re-engage male students and keep them in school.

 
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