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President Donald Trump is expected to issue an executive order today directing his newly confirmed education secretary to work to close the department she now leads, according to two people familiar with the situation. The Wall Street Journal reports that a draft of the order directs Linda McMahon to "take all necessary steps to facilitate the closure of the Education Department” based on “the maximum extent appropriate and permitted by law.” The draft acknowledges that the power to close the department resides in Congress, and not the Oval Office. Sixty "yes" votes in the Senate, where the Republicans hold 53 seats, would be needed for the department to be shuttered. The Education Department is among the smallest of all federal agencies, with around 4,200 employees. According to the website for the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the wages of Education Department employees account for 0.31% of all federal wages.

 

ABC News

NPR

Washington Post

Wall Street Journal

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New York Attorney General Letitia James, alongside 14 other attorneys general, has issued guidance to K-12 schools and higher education institutions, reaffirming the legality of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices. This response comes after the U.S. Department of Education threatened to withhold federal funding from schools engaging in DEI initiatives. James said: “Schools and educational institutions can rest assured that they are well within their legal rights to continue building inclusive learning environments for their students.” The guidance emphasizes that fears of losing federal funding should not justify discriminatory practices and encourages schools to support diverse educational experiences. It also clarifies that existing laws remain unchanged despite federal guidance, urging institutions to continue holistic admissions practices and protect vulnerable students from discrimination.

 

Chalkbeat

The Comal ISD board of trustees approved a change in attendance boundaries for Johnson Ranch and Indian Springs Elementary Schools on February 27. The decision was driven by current and projected enrollment trends, as Johnson Ranch has exceeded its classroom capacity of 854 students, serving around 1,221 students. Krista Moffatt, assistant superintendent of teaching, learning & leadership, said: "With 16 portable classrooms already in place and no room for additional portables, adjustments are necessary." Approximately 220 students will be transferred from Johnson Ranch to Indian Springs, which has available capacity and no projected growth. The district's careful review included factors such as traffic patterns, program placement, and anticipated future growth.

 

Community Impact Newspaper

Judson ISD is grappling with a $36m budget shortfall, prompting the board to close a school and redraw attendance boundaries. The financial crisis hampers efforts to tackle issues like student violence and teacher recruitment. As the May 3 election approaches, eight candidates are vying for four board seats, with many agreeing that "school finances are the largest roadblock to success." Candidates have expressed concerns over the district's financial health and the need for improved teacher satisfaction. While some support a voucher program proposed by Gov. Greg Abbott, others remain undecided. The district serves around 24,000 students, with 70% identified as economically disadvantaged. Incumbents and challengers alike emphasize the importance of addressing the budget crisis without compromising student welfare.

 

Star-Telegram

Midland ISD has received a $1m grant from the FMH Foundation to enhance fine arts education by providing upgraded instruments for over 2,000 students.

 

Star-Telegram

In an interview with Education Week Steven Wilson, author of The Lost Decade, discusses what he describes as an alarming decline in student achievement, particularly among low-income students, as revealed by the National Assessment of Educational Progress. He commented: "When students returned to school after the pandemic, every analysis told us they had fallen catastrophically behind." Wilson criticized the focus on social-justice education over academic rigor, arguing that this shift has led to a collapse in student discipline and outcomes. He emphasized the need to return to a focus on student achievement, advocating for a rigorous liberal arts education that fosters curiosity and compassion. Wilson's insights call for a reevaluation of educational priorities to ensure that all students receive the quality education they deserve.

 

Education Week News

Nine art pieces created by Dripping Springs High School students have progressed to the State Visual Arts Scholastic Event (VASE) after achieving top honors at the Region 13 South competition. The students advancing include Raine Anderson with “Capture the Sea,” Audrey Avery with “Inner Vision,” and others. Notably, Avery, Lauren Jennings, and Lucy Timmins will also compete at the state level in 2024. The State VASE is scheduled for April 26 at San Marcos High School.

 

Hays Free Press

Midland ISD has introduced a summer welding program for rising seniors, running from June 2 to July 8. This initiative allows students to gain practical welding skills and earn dual credit outside the regular school year. CTE Executive Director Jeff Horner said: "This program is an excellent opportunity for students who may not have been part of a CTE dual credit program but are now considering a hands-on career with strong job prospects." The program is free for MISD students, carries GPA credit, and has no prerequisites, making it accessible for those pursuing welding certification. With 24 seats available, eligible students must not be enrolled in other CTE dual credit courses. School counselors will assist in identifying candidates and tracking enrollment.

 

Star-Telegram

Brownsville ISD's Migrant Education Program serves approximately 500 migrant farmworker families, providing essential support and educational services. Despite concerns over funding after President Donald Trump's election, the program continues to thrive. Migrant Education Director Alejandra Aldrete noted: "They're afraid... The news has labeled immigrants as migrants, and now they're afraid." The program ensures that students are not penalized for their migratory status and helps them secure credits for graduation. It also offers guidance for college applications through the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP). Aldrete emphasizes the importance of these families, stating, "Thanks to them we have fresh produce." The program aims to break the cycle of poverty by providing opportunities for higher education.

 

Star-Telegram

Lake Travis ISD is actively seeking community feedback in its search for a new superintendent following the resignation of Paul Norton, who served since 2020. A town hall meeting is scheduled for March 10 at the Lake Travis Performing Arts Center, allowing residents to express their views and expectations. Additionally, an online survey will gather input on desired traits for the new leader, as well as strengths and challenges facing the district. Interim superintendent Steve Flores was appointed on February 26, and the district has engaged JG Consulting to assist in the search. James Guerra, president and CEO of JG Consulting, aims to present a finalist by the end of the school year in May. School board President Erin Archer noted that the complaint against Norton “did not relate to students or district finances.”

 

Community Impact Newspaper

Amarillo ISD has appointed Deidre Parrish as its new superintendent, effective March 18. Parrish, currently the superintendent of Sweetwater ISD, signed a three-year contract worth $300,000 annually, which includes performance incentives and professional development opportunities. AISD Board President Doyle Corder praised Parrish's leadership experience and curriculum expertise, stating, “She has a history of success as a superintendent and brings the qualities we need to lead our district forward.” Parrish aims to engage with the community, saying, “I want to be part of Amarillo and invest in this district the same way this community invests in its students.” She will begin her role as AISD tackles significant initiatives, including school consolidations and curriculum updates.

 

Amarillo Globe News

South Korea's Education Ministry has reported that the transition to digital textbooks using artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom has gotten off to a slow start, with an adoption rate of just 33%. To fully integrate AI textbooks, schools must complete several steps prior to implementation within the National Education Information System, including registration of selected AI textbooks, inputting class schedules and updating students' academic records. The administrative processes mean that students and teachers may have to wait one or two weeks additionally before they can actively use the digital materials. To address potential technical issues, the government has set up a comprehensive response center, which includes a smart inquiry system to monitor and resolve problems in real time.

 

The Korea Herald

Actor Steve Carell is helping Southern California high school students affected by devastating wildfires by covering their prom expenses. In an Instagram video, Carell announced his collaboration with Alice's Kids charity to fund prom tickets for seniors at six high schools in Pasadena. “If you have already paid for your prom tickets, they will reimburse you for your prom tickets. It's a pretty good deal,” he commented. The wildfires destroyed over 16,000 structures and impacted thousands of students. Alice's Kids will contribute approximately $175,000 to support over 800 students, with tickets typically costing between $100 and $150. Ron Fitzsimmons, executive director of Alice's Kids, emphasized the importance of making prom a celebration for those affected, saying: “Hopefully this allows the students to unwind and have some fun after a devastating year.” Carell also participated in a charity hockey tournament for fire relief.

 

U.S. News