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President Donald Trump has enacted a series of executive orders aimed at reshaping K-12 education and university funding, which may provoke significant political backlash. The orders threaten to withhold federal funds from schools that fail to disclose foreign financial support. The K-12 order calls for a report on school discipline practices such as suspensions and expulsions, as well as for model policies that are “rooted in American values and traditional virtues.” It criticizes warnings from Biden administration civil rights authorities that schools needed to address the “continuing urgency” of racial disparities in discipline. Another directive instructs the U.S. Education and Labor Departments to create opportunities for high school students to take artificial intelligence (AI) courses and certification programs, and to work with states to promote AI education. "We have literally trillions of dollars being invested in AI," Trump said. "Somebody today, a very smart person, said that AI is the way to the future. I don't know if that's right or not, but certainly very smart people are investing in it." In addition, Trump's order creates a White House Task Force on AI Education, which includes Education Secretary Linda McMahon and Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, and will be chaired by Michael Kratsios, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

 

New Jersey Herald

Los Angeles Times

Politico

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Texas school leaders are expressing concerns over Senate Bill 1962, which would restrict their ability to legally contest changes to the state's school performance ratings. Gabriel Zamora, superintendent of Fort Stockton ISD, stated: “What we believe was a check and balance now doesn't exist.” Many superintendents fear that the bill will grant the Texas Education Agency (TEA) excessive power, undermining local governance. Despite their criticisms, school leaders opted not to testify against the bill due to fears of retaliation from lawmakers. The bill aims to end lawsuits that have delayed the release of performance ratings, which are crucial for parents and businesses. As one superintendent noted, “We have districts to run... We need to be here for our districts and our students.” The bill is currently under consideration in the Texas House.

 

The Texas Tribune

Amid concerns of a potential state takeover, Austin ISD is considering a plan to merge 300 to 500 students from Dobie Middle School into the already overcrowded Lamar Middle School. Superintendent Matias Segura said: “We want you to be aware that one of the possibilities under serious consideration is for Dobie students to attend Lamar.” Parents and staff expressed worries about overcrowding and safety, with some suggesting alternatives like distributing students between Murchison and Lamar. Arminda Martinez, Dobie’s PTA president, emphasized the community's resistance to a charter school takeover, stating, “Our community doesn’t want a charter school because we’re going to lose everybody.”

 

The Austin Chronicle

Two trustees from Lorena ISD, Denny Kramer and Kevin Taylor, are running for reelection on May 3, facing challenger Rachel Eason. Kramer emphasizes the need to boost teacher compensation, stating, "I think we're hyperfocused on hiring high quality teachers and staff, then retaining them." Both Kramer and Taylor acknowledge the financial challenges in increasing salaries due to the district's limited tax base. Eason, who is seeking her first term, advocates for change and is involved with the advocacy group Justice for Jane, supporting parents of students affected by a past abuse case. Early voting is currently underway, with a total of 702 ballots cast as of Tuesday.

 

Wacotrib

The Argyle ISD Board of Trustees has approved a $3.2m staffing plan for the 2025–2026 school year to address rapid student enrollment growth. The plan allocates 92.5% of its funding to campus support, focusing on reducing class sizes and enhancing fine arts and special population programs. Superintendent Dr. Courtney Carpenter expressed gratitude for the board's leadership, stating, “Their continued support reflects a deep commitment to preserving the traditions and values of Argyle ISD.” The district is also advocating for legislative updates to the state’s public school funding system, particularly concerning House Bill 2, which aims to increase the basic allotment for schools. The board will discuss compensation packages in June after the Texas Legislative Session concludes.

 

The Cross Timbers Gazette

Dr. Jessica Berry, former principal of Herod Elementary, is suing HISD for $3m, alleging wrongful termination and misconduct under Superintendent Mike Miles' leadership.

 

Allen American

The Mexia ISD school board recently discussed a potential collaboration with Limestone County Crime Stoppers to enhance safety measures in schools. This partnership aims to implement strategies that could significantly improve the security of students and staff. As stated in the presentation, the initiative seeks to "stop crime before it starts," highlighting the proactive approach to ensuring a safer educational environment.

 

Mexia Daily News

During a recent Carthage ISD Board of Trustees meeting, the district recognized its outstanding Elementary and Secondary Students and Teachers of the Month for April. Emily Dominguez, a fifth-grade student at Baker-Koonce Intermediate, was honored as the Elementary Student of the Month. The event highlighted the achievements of dedicated students and educators, showcasing the commitment to excellence within the district.

 

Moore County News Press

Students in Sherman elementary schools may experience a shift in their class sizes next fall due to a newly approved attendance zone by district board members. Meghan Cone, Sherman ISD's Chief Communication Officer, stated, "These changes were made to prevent disruption down the road." This adjustment aims to enhance the educational environment for students.

 

Allen American

During an April 17 meeting, officials at Judson ISD discussed strategies to enhance the district's approach to student bullying. Lacey Gosch, assistant superintendent of technology, and Monica Garcia, executive director of student and family support services, reviewed current policies, including compliance with David's Law, which mandates anonymous reporting and investigation of bullying incidents. Despite compliance, concerns were raised by parent Lesley Lee, who shared her children's experiences with bullying, stating: “This is any parent's nightmare.” Board member Monica Ryan highlighted a survey revealing that 44% of students in grades 6-12 struggle to find help for bullying. Ryan emphasized the emotional impact on students, saying, “The kid's emotions don't care what the law says.”

 

Community Impact Newspaper

The Sweeny ISD Board of Trustees is convening a special meeting to address the anticipated departure of Superintendent Daniel Fuller. The meeting will include a closed session to consult with the district regarding the appointment of an interim superintendent. Following this discussion, any decisions made will be announced in the open session.

 

The Facts

The Uvalde City Council has approved a $2m settlement with the families of the victims from the 2022 Robb Elementary School shooting. This agreement, reached through a year-long restorative justice process, aims to enhance police training and provide mental health services for survivors. Uvalde Mayor Hector Luevano stated, “Nothing can ever make up the losses and harms these families endured on May 24 … but today’s agreement marks an important step forward in advancing community healing.” The settlement will also establish May 24 as an annual “Day of Remembrance” and create a memorial at Uvalde’s Central Plaza.

 

San Antonio Current

A new study published by Johannesburg-based SmartStart, a South African nonprofit organization, suggests that early learning programmes conducted in homes and community venues can significantly enhance children's developmental outcomes on a large scale. independent research team, led by Professor Sarah Chapman from the University of Cape Town, examined the progress of 551 children enrolled in SmartStart early learning programmes (ELPs) over an intensive eight-month period. It identified an increase in the proportion of children deemed “on track,” rising from 45% to 65%, while the number of children "falling far behind" nearly halved. There was also a reduction in the achievement gap between children from low- and high-income households, which narrowed from 25 points to six points. Kulula Manona, Chief Director for Foundations for Learning in South Africa's Department of Basic Education, said the study "shines a light on the incredible potential of our children when provided with the right developmental and learning opportunities. It underscores the critical role of community-based early learning programmes and the dedicated practitioners who deliver them in bridging the early learning access gap.”

 

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