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Texas
2nd March 2026
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THE HOT STORY

Enforcement fears fuel student anxiety

Recent reports indicate a significant rise in mental health issues among students due to intensified immigration enforcement activities across the U.S. School counselors, such as Sue Arvidson from St. Paul School District in Minnesota, have observed students expressing anxiety and fear about their safety and the potential absence of their families. Arvidson said: "We cannot always promise that our schools are safe places." The impact is felt not only by immigrant students but also by their peers, as the pervasive fear disrupts daily routines and emotional well-being. Janet Rodriguez, a school-based therapist in Bowling Green, Kentucky, noted that many students are already traumatized upon entering school. Experts emphasize the need for counselors to understand the unique challenges faced by immigrant families and to provide appropriate support, while also taking care of their own well-being.

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NATIONAL NEWS

Report urges IES research overhaul

A new report has called for a sweeping overhaul of the U.S. Department of Education’s Institute of Education Sciences (IES), arguing its research should be more coherent, timely and useful to states and schools. The review, by special adviser Amber Northern, recommends aligning the agency’s four centres around shared national priorities, speeding up grant awards, improving data releases, and producing clearer, practitioner-focused guidance. It also questions the value and cost of some longitudinal studies and highlights overlap between regional research and technical assistance programmes. While the report frames IES as critical national infrastructure, it is unclear whether the department will act on the recommendations, particularly given sharp staff reductions despite a largely intact $793m budget.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

School leaders reject armed teachers

A University of Toledo-led study by Dr. Brandon Wood reports that most school superintendents and principals oppose arming teachers to prevent school shootings. Surveying 500+ administrators across 30 states, the research found over two-thirds of superintendents and more than half of principals strongly oppose allowing teachers to carry firearms. Still, many said that if such policies proceed, strict safeguards are essential, including psychological evaluations, background checks, drug testing, and secure storage in locked boxes. Support was higher among gun owners, rural administrators, and Republicans, underscoring the need to include leader views in policy debates.

FINANCE

Dallas ISD seeks $6.2bn for schools

Dallas ISD is making strides in improving its facilities, thanks to the 2020 bond, and has recently achieved a "B" in state accountability. However, significant gaps remain in educational suitability and safety. Voters will have the chance to address these issues with a proposed $6.2bn bond program, shaped by over a year of community input, as stated by Drexell Owusu, Chair of the 2026 Citizens Bond Steering Committee. The program includes four propositions aimed at building new campuses, upgrading technology, and addressing critical maintenance needs. Owusu emphasized the importance of investing in education, noting: "A school bond is precisely that kind of investment: one that says to every student in every ZIP code across this district that you matter."

POLICY

School districts reject prayer period

A majority of school districts in Cherokee and Southern Smith County have opted not to implement a prayer period as outlined in Senate Bill 11, which allows districts to adopt policies for student prayer and Bible reading. Only Bullard ISD approved the resolution, passing it with a 6-1 vote. Amy Pawlak, public relations coordinator for Bullard, stated that they are awaiting further guidance from the Texas Education Agency on implementation. Rusk ISD Superintendent Mid Johnson emphasized that their current policy supports voluntary religious expression, saying: "We believe in the rights of students to engage in prayer and to read their Bibles or religious texts at school." Troup ISD Superintendent Tammy Jones added that adopting a formal policy could be more restrictive, as students already have the freedom to pray and read their Bibles.

DISTRICTS

Boerne ISD launches digital magazine

Boerne ISD recently introduced "Constellations," a new digital magazine aimed at connecting with parents and the community. Superintendent Kristin Craft highlighted the publication during the "State of the District" event, saying: "The digital publication provides a glimpse into what we're about, where we're headed and why so many families have chosen Boerne." Craft also celebrated BISD's achievements, including a sixth consecutive "A" rating from the Texas Education Agency and a graduation rate of 99%. She noted that 20% of current eighth graders are selecting pathways in health sciences and cybersecurity through the Pathways to Technical Early College High School program, which allows students to earn an associate degree before high school graduation.

Ethridge seeks Boerne ISD board position

Michael Ethridge, an entrepreneur and Boerne ISD graduate, has declared his candidacy for Place 7 on the Boerne ISD board of trustees. Facing incumbent Rich Sena, Ethridge emphasizes his commitment to the district, claiming: "Boerne ISD helped shape the direction of my life."

Waco District appoints new leader

Waco ISD has appointed Kimberly Winters, a Belton school administrator, as the new executive director of student support services. This decision aims to enhance the support provided to students within the district. Winters brings valuable experience to the role, which is crucial for fostering a positive educational environment. "We are excited to have Kimberly on board," said a district representative, highlighting her potential impact on student services.

Midlothian ISD schools earn AP honor

Midlothian ISD's high schools have been acknowledged on the College Board's 2025 AP School Honor Roll, showcasing their dedication to enhancing Advanced Placement (AP) opportunities for students. This recognition reflects the district's commitment to academic excellence and expanding access to rigorous coursework.

CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Welding program sparks student success

Many Dallas ISD schools provide Career and Technical Education programs, allowing students to earn college credit and industry certifications that help lower higher education costs. At Seagoville High School, students like Brandon G. and Emily G. are gaining valuable skills in welding. Brandon, who joined the program in 10th grade, has already earned two certifications and stated: “Welding taught me discipline and patience.” Emily, one of the few women in the program, also earned two certifications and plans to pursue a career in dentistry. The welding program is part of a broader initiative to prepare students for high-paying careers while reducing college expenses.

INTERNATIONAL

Ontario pressed on early numeracy

Carleton University researchers are urging Ontario to require early numeracy screening, saying kindergarten and early-grade identification is key because math is “relentlessly hierarchical” and early gaps compound into later barriers in algebra and career pathways. They cite evidence that low number skills at age 4½ predict lower participation in advanced high school math and postsecondary education, and link early weakness to math anxiety and weaker results by Grade 7. The call comes despite Ontario investing over C$70m ($51.28m) in supports, with 2024-25 results showing 50% of Grade 6 and 42% of Grade 9 students below standard. Advocates point to Alberta’s twice-yearly screening and improved pass rates when paired with interventions.

AND FINALLY...

Education Department displays banner honoring Charlie Kirk

The US Department of Education has hung a banner of late conservative activist Charlie Kirk outside its headquarters as part of commemorations marking the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary. Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was murdered last year on the campus of Utah Valley University, with the suspect facing multiple charges including aggravated murder. The banner appears alongside those honoring education advocates Catharine Beecher and Booker T. Washington, under a slogan highlighting the role of states in telling the stories of American education heroes. The department said the display recognizes leaders whose contributions have shaped education, as part of broader anniversary celebrations.
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