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Texas
22nd April 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Texas court rules on Ten Commandments

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit ruled 9-7 that Texas can mandate the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms, reversing a previous injunction. Circuit Judge Stuart Kyle Duncan stated: "The law does not tell churches or synagogues or mosques what to believe or how to worship." The ruling has drawn criticism from challengers, including attorney Jon Youngwood, who expressed disappointment, stating: "The court's ruling goes against fundamental First Amendment principles." Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton hailed the decision as a victory for moral values, emphasizing the importance of the Ten Commandments in education. The challengers plan to appeal to the Supreme Court to protect their rights regarding religious education.

INTERVENTION VS. REMEDIATION

What is the difference between intervention and remediation?

Understanding the difference between remediation and intervention—and designing systems that deliver each appropriately—is one of the most important responsibilities schools face when implementing RTI or MTSS. This article defines the difference between intervention and remediation, explains how both fit within RTI/MTSS systems, and highlights why both are important components of an effective RTI/MTSS process.

Read about the difference and why it matters.

 

STATE NEWS

Texas parents embrace education freedom

The Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program has seen significant interest, with 274,183 students enrolling by the March 31 deadline. Established by the Texas Legislature in 2025, the $1bn program aims to empower parents with educational choices, offering funding for private school tuition, homeschooling, and educational services. Dr. Guadalupe Perez, superintendent of Diocese of Laredo Catholic Schools, said: "With 274,000-plus applications during this initial year, it is clear that parents are seeking an alternative to their present child's educational setting." Concerns have been raised about potential funding losses for public schools, but advocates argue that the program prioritizes low-income and disabled students. The TEFA program allows parents to control their child's education funding, ensuring they can choose the best options for their families.

Rogers joins nonprofit to oversee voucher program

Former state Rep. Glenn Rogers has joined the board of Our Schools Our Democracy to oversee the Texas Center for Voucher Transparency, the nation's first voucher watchdog reporting portal. The Texas Education Freedom Accounts (TEFA) program, which launched in February, received a record 274,183 applications, primarily from existing private school students. Rogers, a critic of taxpayer-funded private school vouchers, stated: “As Republicans, we are called to uphold conservative values, and part of that tradition is the value of personal responsibility.” He aims to advocate for public schools, especially in rural areas, where they serve as major employers. The TEFA program is currently facing litigation over claims of discrimination in its application process.

Texas leader demands action on gaming

In response to the discovery of simulations of the 2022 Robb Elementary shooting on Roblox, Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows is urging lawmakers to enhance child protection laws for online gaming. Burrows stated: "Turning an unspeakable act of violence, whose scars remain across the Uvalde community, into entertainment is a profound moral failure." He has directed a Texas House Committee to investigate the exposure of minors to violent and predatory content in online games. The committee will assess the effectiveness of safety features, review Texas laws on age verification, and evaluate the liability of content developers for harm to minors. Recommendations for legislative action will also be made to ensure the safety of young users on these platforms.

NATIONAL NEWS

Education Department to maintain funding pipeline for schools amid transition concerns

The U.S. Department of Education will continue distributing key K-12 funding through its existing grants system this summer, easing concerns among state and local officials that a planned transition to other agencies could delay critical payments. Programs such as Title I and special education funding under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act will be delivered via the traditional July 1 channel, giving states more time to prepare for a future shift to the Department of Labor, where many education programs are expected to move. Officials said the decision aims to prevent disruptions that could have impacted summer programs or school openings. However, uncertainty remains over whether future funding rounds, including those scheduled for October, will follow the same process. The transition reflects broader efforts by the Trump administration to shift responsibilities away from the Education Department, though logistical challenges, past funding delays, and concerns about the Labor Department’s capacity have made states cautious about relying on the new system.

Book bans hit record highs

According to the American Library Association (ALA), book bans and attempts to remove titles are at unprecedented levels. The ALA's State of America's Libraries Report revealed that Patricia McCormick's “Sold” topped the list of most challenged books for 2025. Other notable titles include “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky and “Gender Queer” by Maia Kobabe. The ALA recorded challenges to 4,235 different works, with a significant shift in objections coming from government officials and conservative activists rather than local parents. “In 2025, book bans were not sparked by concerned parents,” said Sarah Lamdan, executive director of ALA's Office for Intellectual Freedom. The report highlights a politically-driven campaign against certain books, with actual removals exceeding 5,600. The ALA emphasizes the importance of libraries as spaces for diverse stories and experiences.

WORKFORCE

Carroll ISD boosts teacher salaries for 2026-27

The Carroll ISD board of trustees has unanimously approved pay increases for teachers and staff for the fiscal year 2026-27, with an investment of $2m-$2.25m. Teachers will receive a $2,000 salary increase based on their years of service, which represents over a 3% increase from the midpoint. Starting salaries for certified teachers will rise from $60,200 to $62,200, while noncertified teachers will start at $60,000. Superintendent Jeremy Glenn said: "What we're trying to strike here is a good balance of what we can afford to remain competitive in this area." The district aims to continue providing raises in future years, funded by the sale of surplus properties, with a goal of a 3% raise for the 2027-28 school year, resulting in a total increase of over $9,000 for teachers over three years.

Ector County ISD makes teacher strides

Ector County ISD has made significant progress in educator recruitment and retention, with Superintendent Keeley Boyer reporting a teacher vacancy rate of 3% or less, down from 350 vacancies in 2019. The district has been hiring around 300 teachers annually and awarded $4.6m in Teacher Incentive Allotment to 418 teachers last year. Boyer emphasized the importance of quality educators, claiming: "What they can expect from us in terms of interactive learning, personalized learning." New facilities funded by Bond 2023, including the upcoming Vasquez Middle School and the ATLAS Career and Technology Education Center, are set to enhance educational opportunities. The Education Foundation's $1m commitment to elementary libraries and community partnerships further supports the district's goals.

Salary increase for McKinney ISD staff

Teachers and staff at McKinney ISD will see a 3.5% salary increase for the 2026-27 school year, as approved by the board of trustees on April 20. The raise applies to certified teachers, non-exempt eligible employees, and eligible exempt employees, with starting salaries for certified teachers rising to $64,700 and $66,200 for those with a master's degree. Additionally, stipends for special education, bilingual teachers, and those with advanced degrees will also increase.

New Caney ISD offers $750 bonus

New Caney ISD has announced a $750 retention stipend for all full-time employees who return for the 2026-27 school year, as approved by the board of trustees on April 20.

GOVERNANCE

Vote early, shape the future

Early voting for the May 2 local elections has commenced in Central Texas, where five school districts are set to elect trustees amid financial challenges. Many districts are grappling with budget deficits, with Eanes ISD anticipating a $5.5m shortfall next year. Candidates like Afshan Khan, a physician, emphasize the need for sustainable revenue streams, stating: “We must focus on teachers, the backbone of our schools.” In Hutto ISD, candidates are addressing rapid growth and a $3.5m deficit, while Lake Travis ISD faces a $4.2m deficit and is considering staff reductions.  

Lindale ISD election heats up

The upcoming May 2 election for Lindale ISD features a contested Place 3 school board race between candidates James Edwards Sr. and Andy Ford. Both candidates prioritize teacher support and school safety, aiming to enhance educational outcomes for students. Early voting is ongoing until April 28, with Election Day on May 2.

Celina ISD board member resigns

Chuck Hansen, a long-serving board member of Celina ISD, is resigning from his Place 1 seat, which was set to expire in 2028. The resignation will be discussed at the district's April 20 meeting, where trustees will explore options for filling the vacancy. The district is expected to call a special election in the coming months to replace Hansen, who has been a significant figure in the district.

FINANCE

McAllen bond push advances

McAllen ISD Superintendent Dr. Rene Gutierrez presented a $335m bond proposal focused on modernizing aging school facilities and addressing long-delayed campus needs. He said many buildings are more than 25 years old and argued that: “Everything comes back to public education.” The proposal includes upgrades for career programs, cafeterias, and campus security, and was shaped with input from a facilities advisory committee. Gutierrez also stressed that, if approved: “We are not raising the taxes.” A bond oversight committee would monitor transparency.

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD faces budget crisis

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD is confronting a significant budget deficit of $74m for the upcoming school year. Superintendent Doug Killian stated: “To be transparent, we need to look at everything we can possibly do,” highlighting the district's need to explore various options, including a potential tax rate election. The district has experienced a decline in enrollment, losing over 3,200 students, which has compounded financial challenges. Chief financial officer Karen Smith noted that recent cost increases, including a 24% rise in expenses since 2019, further strain the budget.

DISTRICTS

Fort Worth school faces closure debate

The Fort Worth ISD's Board of Managers is set to vote on the potential closure of International Newcomers Academy (INA), a school dedicated to supporting refugees and immigrants, on April 28. During a recent community listening session, parents and former students expressed strong opposition to the closure, emphasizing the school's vital role in helping newcomers adapt. The district has already planned to close 18 campuses due to declining enrollment, raising concerns about the future of INA. Deputy Superintendent Daniel Soliz assured attendees that the decision would involve feedback from all board members. The community remains hopeful that INA will continue to provide essential support for its students.

Boyd ISD invests in teacher tech

Boyd ISD is set to enhance its educational environment by investing over $96,000 in new technology for teachers. The board of trustees approved the purchase of 100 Dell Pro 16 laptops, each costing $966.01, which will come with a three-year warranty. Superintendent Tom Woody mentioned that the district is exploring options for future improvements, especially after Bridgeport ISD's recent decision to leave the Wise County Shared Services. Additionally, Boyd ISD is adding three new positions at Boyd Primary School and has several job openings for the upcoming school year.

TECHNOLOGY

Roblox settles with three states, commits to stronger child protections

Roblox has reached a $35.8m settlement with attorneys general in West Virginia, Alabama, and Nevada over allegations that it failed to adequately protect children on its platform, agreeing to implement stronger safety measures and fund education initiatives. The agreements require Roblox to enhance safeguards, including verifying the ages of all users and restricting adults from contacting users under 16, while part of the settlement funds will support child safety education programs. The settlements follow years of scrutiny over the platform’s exposure to harmful interactions, with officials stating the company had not done enough to prevent risks to young users. Roblox said it has already introduced multiple safety updates, including new account types for younger users, and will continue investing in protections. Despite the settlements, legal pressure remains, with several other US states—including Tennessee, Texas, and Florida—continuing to pursue separate lawsuits over child safety concerns.

Teaching AI-era media literacy

Schools are reworking media literacy lessons as AI reshapes social media, search, messaging, and online content creation. Educators say students often struggle to tell AI-generated material from human-created work, especially in elementary grades, while state policy and classroom practice race to keep up. Brian Baker of Media Literacy Now said it is “difficult for the media literacy, education world to keep up” with AI development. Teachers and researchers argue students need both practical AI skills and critical habits that help them question sources, recognize manipulation, and reflect on ethics. Classroom examples in Washington and Wyoming show schools pushing students to verify information, disclose AI use, and treat AI as a tool for stronger thinking rather than simple efficiency.

SCHOOL TRANSPORTATION

AI supports transportation leadership

Writing for School Bus Fleet, Melody Coniglio of West Geauga Local School District presents artificial intelligence as a practical support tool for school transportation leaders, helping with parent communication, board reporting, training materials and policy summaries while preserving human judgment. Drawing on a well-attended “ChatGPT for Beginners” session at NAPT ACTS 2025, the author argues AI is a “productivity multiplier” that reduces drafting time and improves consistency across messages. Coniglio emphasizes careful prompting, avoiding sensitive data and reviewing outputs, while framing AI as a way to free up more time for leadership, operations and staff support.

Bryan ISD gears up for bus safety

Bryan ISD is preparing for significant upgrades to its school bus fleet in response to the new statewide safety requirement mandated by Senate Bill 546, which requires three-point seat belts on all school buses by Sept. 1, 2029. Deputy Superintendent Brian Merrell described the requirement as an “unfunded mandate,” indicating that districts must comply without guaranteed state funding. The district currently operates 121 buses, with 49 lacking three-point seat belts. The estimated cost for purchasing 39 new buses and retrofitting 30 existing ones is $4.8m and $900,000, respectively.

HIGHER EDUCATION

Pence's civil discourse talk questioned

During a civil discourse symposium at Texas A&M, former Vice President Mike Pence's message was met with skepticism from students and faculty. Critics argued that the event's intent clashed with the university's recent restrictions on course content. Pence emphasized the importance of listening and finding common ground, noting: "I think the key for us going forward is to stop talking at each other and start listening to each other." Despite the event's goal to promote civil dialogue, protests erupted outside, with students expressing concerns over academic freedom. The university's recent actions, including limits on teaching race and gender topics, fueled the discontent. Professor Martin Peterson, who is leaving Texas A&M, lamented that the new rules hinder educators from teaching essential material, weakening the educational experience.

INTERNATIONAL

Smartphone ban in England's schools coming soon

The British government is set to legislate a ban on smartphones in schools across England, as announced by Baroness Jacqui Smith, the education minister. This move formalizes existing policies and introduces a "clear legal requirement" for schools to enforce the ban, including confiscating phones before class. The proposed amendment to the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill follows ongoing debates about social media restrictions for children under 16. Baroness Smith acknowledged the strong feelings surrounding the issue, stating, "We recognize the strength of feeling on this issue, both in this House and beyond." The law will only apply to England, as education powers are devolved in the U.K.. Laura Trott, the education secretary, emphasized the importance of this step for improving classroom behavior and academic performance.

AND FINALLY...

Pennsylvania educator named National Teacher of the Year

Leon Smith, a high school history teacher at Haverford High School in Havertown, Pennsylvania, has been named the 2026 National Teacher of the Year. With a 25-year career dedicated to teaching Advanced Placement classes in U.S. history and African American studies, Smith emphasizes the importance of recognizing students' hidden talents. He stated: "An adult can tell you that they see something in you that maybe you didn't see in yourself." Smith's teaching approach includes community-building exercises and critical discussions, aiming to foster civic engagement among his students. His efforts extend beyond the classroom, as he takes students to the state Capitol to engage with policymakers. The Council of Chief State School Officers commended his focus on inclusivity in history education. As Teacher of the Year, Smith will advocate for the vital role educators play in shaping future generations.
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