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Texas
23rd March 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Education programs shift agencies

The U.S. Department of Education is transferring more than 100 programs to other federal agencies through interagency agreements as part of the Trump administration’s broader effort to dismantle the department, though full closure would still require congressional approval. Programs spanning K–12 education, higher education, student loans, and school safety are being redistributed to agencies including Labor, Health and Human Services, State, Interior, and Treasury, with existing Education Department staff expected to continue managing them during the transition. While officials say funding will continue uninterrupted, early implementation has produced mixed results, including delays in some states accessing education funds and concerns about administrative complexity, inconsistent oversight, and fragmented program management.

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NATIONAL NEWS

GOP targets education precedent

A group of House Republicans, led by Rep. Chip Roy of Texas, is calling for the overturning of Plyler v. Doe, a 1982 Supreme Court decision that guarantees undocumented children access to free public education under the 14th Amendment. The push emerged during a House Judiciary Subcommittee hearing focused on constitutional interpretation and the role of federal courts, where Roy, who chairs the subcommittee, argued the ruling is “constitutionally indefensible” and has imposed growing financial pressures on schools and taxpayers since its introduction. Democrats strongly opposed the effort, emphasizing the long-term economic and social benefits of educating all children regardless of immigration status. 

TECHNOLOGY

AI-driven simulations reshape teacher training

School districts are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence (AI)-powered simulation platforms, such as BranchED’s AuthenTECH Practice, to help train teachers through interactive, low-stakes classroom scenarios that replicate student behavior using large language models. The tools aim to bridge the gap between theory and practice by allowing educators to rehearse lessons, manage classroom challenges, and receive immediate feedback, with early evidence suggesting improvements in teacher confidence and performance. While proponents highlight the flexibility, realism, and ability to refine skills through repetition, developers and educators note the need for careful design to ensure accuracy and prevent reinforcing bad habits, with future plans pointing toward more scalable, self-guided training and broader use in school leadership development.

Tip platform breach alarms schools

A possible cyberattack on Navigate360’s P3 Global Intel platform has raised concerns that highly sensitive student data from more than 30,000 schools may have been exposed. Reuters reported the claims based on a hacker’s account, but the breach has not been independently confirmed, and Navigate360 says its investigation is ongoing. Chief Executive JP Guilbault said there is no verified evidence that sensitive information was accessed or misused. Experts warned that anonymous tip systems hold exceptionally delicate reports and urged districts to pause use, seek updates, and review data protections.

FINANCE

Angleton ISD secures $2.19m insurance deal

Angleton ISD trustees have approved a $2.19m insurance package, which includes approximately $2.07m for property coverage and $124,500 for liability and auto policies. The property insurance renewal, which features windstorm coverage, is the largest component of the total and continues the district's collaboration with McGriff. This coverage protects campuses and district facilities from significant damage caused by storms or fires, ensuring a safety net for the community.

DISTRICTS

Transforming education at Manor Middle

Third Future Schools (TFS) is set to implement its own pay scale and instructional model at Manor Middle School if the Killeen ISD Board of Trustees approves a three-year contract. This partnership aims to improve the school's performance, which has received F ratings for three consecutive years. TFS has successfully transitioned several campuses back to their districts under the Senate Bill 1882 model, which incentivizes partnerships with charter schools. If approved, TFS will manage staffing, curriculum, and budget while KISD retains control of the facility. The partnership also includes a longer school calendar and a higher salary scale for teachers, with an average salary of $75,000.

Lufkin ISD board tackles improvement plans

The Lufkin ISD board of trustees convened to discuss various school district events, including reports on Targeted Improvement Plans from Assistant Superintendents Shelly Slaton and Cindy Tierney. Herty Primary requires additional support due to its connection with the now-closed Coston Elementary, which received three consecutive “D” ratings from the Texas Education Agency. The board approved an educational philosophy aimed at preparing students for success in various fields, with a goal to elevate all schools' accountability ratings to A's and B's by 2030.

HISD schools seek innovative partnerships

The Houston ISD will evaluate a proposal for four high schools and a prekindergarten program to engage in a state-funded partnership initiative under Senate Bill 1882. This initiative allows schools to collaborate with nonprofits and other entities to gain greater control over curriculum, hiring, and assessments. The schools involved, which have received A ratings from the Texas Education Agency, could receive an additional $1,200-$1,400 in state funding per student. However, they must maintain their performance ratings and address achievement gaps among students.

Austin ISD faces major changes

With the impending closure of 10 campuses, Austin ISD staff are navigating significant changes. Andria Hyden, a band director at Bedichek Middle School, is transitioning to Mendez Middle School, where she will help establish a new program. “That was where my heart was being pulled,” Hyden said, reflecting on her decision. Over 1,400 staff members are affected, with about 65% finding new positions within the district. Denisha Presley, the interim officer of talent strategy, emphasized the district's commitment to securing roles for affected employees, stating: “If you want to stay in Austin ISD, we want to secure a position for you.”

New school boundaries approved

The Willis ISD board of trustees approved attendance boundaries for the new Ruth Castleschouldt Elementary School, located at 8150 MP Clark Road in Conroe, during its meeting on February 11.

CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION

Disability-first school design works

A new study finds that schools built around the needs of students with disabilities are producing stronger academic, social, and wellbeing outcomes than systems that expect students to adapt. In three learner-centered schools, flexible routines, inclusive supports, and accessible environments helped normalize accommodations for all students and reduce stigma. Students with disabilities showed gains in reading and math, higher graduation rates, fewer behavioral incidents, and stronger engagement. Educators reported better job satisfaction and retention, while families faced less pressure to fight for needed services.

Texas High unveils new CTE building

Texas High School in Texarkana recently celebrated the opening of its new Career and Technical Education (CTE) Building. Principal Ben Renner emphasized the community's involvement in planning the facility, stating, "Texarkana has always been committed to academics at the highest levels, but, overall, just opportunities."

CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Empowering girls in industry

The Women in Industry Conference 2026, held in Galveston, Texas, attracted over 1,300 participants, including high school girls, educators, and industry leaders. Keynote speakers Shalini Mudliar and Akilla Hameed inspired attendees with their personal journeys, emphasizing the importance of self-ownership and confidence. Vera Lewis Jasper, dean at Galveston College, highlighted the vast opportunities for women in traditionally male-dominated fields, noting the positive feedback from participants who engaged with role models in various industries. The event was organized by Galveston College and supported by the Texas Gulf Coast Community College Consortium.

NUTRITION

New definition of ultraprocessed foods coming

The Trump administration is advancing its "Make America Healthy Again" agenda by proposing a definition for ultraprocessed foods, a move supported by health experts and lawmakers. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. commented: "Our job is to make sure everybody understands what they're getting, to have an informed public." The initiative aims to address the health impacts of ultraprocessed foods, which are linked to obesity and chronic diseases. The Food and Drug Administration is working to provide clearer nutritional information, while the Department of Agriculture may use the definition to influence federal food assistance policies.

INTERNATIONAL

Korea teachers build YouTube influence

Teacher-run YouTube channels are rapidly gaining popularity in South Korea, with around 870 channels and rising participation as parents increasingly turn to educators’ online content for trusted guidance on school life and academic preparation. The trend has been fueled by the growth of digital learning since Covid-19 and is widely viewed as credible, with 95% of surveyed parents considering such content trustworthy, but it has also raised concerns about student privacy, teachers’ focus, and the influence of commercial incentives. As more teachers engage in content creation, often alongside paid lectures or sponsorships, experts warn that outdated regulations and unclear guidelines are struggling to keep pace, calling for clearer standards to balance educational value, professional responsibilities, and student protection.
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