School’s back: Officials remind drivers to prioritize safety

As students head back to school this week, officials want drivers to be more aware on the roads. With school in session, there are more buses, pedestrians, bicyclists and walkers on roadways. There were more than 3,200 traffic crashes in school zones or involving school buses last year, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. To help keep kids safe, TxDOT is urging drivers to slow down, avoid distractions and follow the rules of the road during its “Be Safe. Drive Smart” Back to School campaign. Parents and guardians can also help teach their kids about ways to stay safe when walking or biking to school. “As students head back to school, we’re asking every driver to make safety their top priority,” Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee said. “Slow down, eliminate distractions and remain alert — especially in school zones, at bus stops and in high-volume traffic areas. Every child deserves to arrive at school and return home safely, and that starts with each of us making responsible decisions behind the wheel.” TxDOT and the Texas Department of Public Safety offer tips for both drivers and students. Tips for driving in school zones
SAISD officially hires Adrian Bustillos as superintendent in split vote

The San Antonio Independent School District board voted 5-2 on Monday to hire Adrian Bustillos as superintendent. First named as the sole finalist for the job in June, Bustillos will replace Jaime Aquino, who joined the district in 2022. Aquino is taking on an emeritus role and plans to fully part ways with SAISD in January. Bustillos joins SAISD with 20 years of experience in public education. His most recent role was chief transformation officer in Aldine ISD, located in north Houston. There, he oversaw innovative school models and the district’s school choice program.
Texas Congressman Files Legislation To Disincentivize Birth Tourism

U.S. Rep. Brandon Gill and U.S. Sen. Jim Banks have filed legislation in their respective chambers to end the awarding of citizenship to the children of illegal aliens and foreign nationals temporarily in the country. Entitled the Citizenship Act of 2026, the bill seeks to define “any person who enters the United States illegally or for birth tourism” as an “invader,” and amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to exclude the children of individuals designated as invaders from birthright citizenship. Birth tourism is the practice of pregnant foreign nationals entering the country in order to have their children in the United States, thereby making them American citizens. This practice is especially popular in nations like China, with conservative lawmakers warning it creates a large national security risk as American-born Chinese nationals would have the ability to influence U.S. elections in the future. “I have officially introduced the ‘Citizenship Act’ with Senator Banks, under which individuals who enter the United States illegally or for birth tourism would be classified as ‘invaders’ and therefore would be excluded from birthright citizenship,” wrote Gill in an X post. Sen. Jim Banks (R–IN) has filed companion legislation in the Senate.
SAISD officially hires Adrian Bustillos as superintendent in split vote

Board President Alicia Sebastian previously said Bustillos is a leader “for this moment” and understands the issues facing urban school districts. SAISD is the third-largest school district in San Antonio, serving around 44,000 students in the city’s urban core. After cutting its budget for the fifth consecutive year, resulting in fewer positions and slashed programs, board members recently passed a budget with a $23.2 million deficit for the upcoming school year. Like most urban school districts, the budget issues are driven by enrollment decline. SAISD steadily loses students every year, resulting in less funding from the state, and expects 2,000 fewer students for the upcoming 2026-27 cycle. Meanwhile, the district has several near-century old buildings, which officials say are costly and inefficient to maintain, and several vacant campuses.
Governor candidate Hinojosa vows to end state takeovers of school districts

In her bid for the governor's seat, Rep. Gina Hinojosa is advocating against school closures and school district takeovers.
TEA Announces Houston ISD School Board Changes

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) today announced the resignation of Houston ISD School Board Member Michelle Cruz Arnold following three years of dedicated service to the district and community.

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Vacant	Thrall ISD; Search by: Arrow Educational Services INFO
Vacant	Grapeland ISD; Search by: Arrow Educational Services INFO
Vacant	Medina Valley ISD; Search by: Arrow Educational Services INFO
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Vacant	Vysehrad ISD; Search by: Region 3 ESC, Exec. Dir. Morris Lyon INFO
Vacant	Pettus ISD - Jesus Hernandez III, Chief of Staff,Southwest ISD; Search by: JCA Law, PLLC and DBU Educational Leadership Consulting Corporation.INFO
Vacant	University of Texas High School Special Purpose District; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO
Vacant	Scurry-Rosser ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO
Vacant	Bremond ISD; Search by: Bremond ISD Board of TrusteesINFO
Vacant	San Isidro ISD (Short Timeline); Search by: Region One ESC, Exec. Dir. Dr. Daniel P. KingINFO
Vacant	Commerce ISD - Search by: Commerce ISD Board of Trustees; INFO
Vacant	Decatur ISD; Search by: Decatur ISD Board of Trustees INFO
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Vacant	Gustine ISD - Coy Barker, Principal,McCamey ISD; Search by: Ronnie Kincaid INFO
Vacant	Comstock ISD; Comstock ISD Board of Trustees and O.K. Wolfenbarger III INFO
Vacant	Frank Liu Jr. Academy of Music and Art (Houston) ; Thompson & Horton LLP - David Thompson & Dr. Mike Moses INFO
Vacant	Webb CISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO
Vacant	Moulton ISD; Search by: Region 3 ESC, Exec. Dir. Morris Lyon INFO
Vacant	Hidalgo ISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO
Vacant	Banquete ISD; Search by: Powell Law Group, Rick Alvarado INFO
Vacant	Priddy ISD; Search by: Region 15 ESC INFO
Vacant	Sweeny ISD; Search by: Walsh, Gallegos, Kyle, Robinson & Roalson P.C.& Education Consultant Dr. Ann DixonINFO
Vacant	Ramirez CSD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO
Vacant	Mart ISD; Search by: Mart ISD Board of TrusteesINFO
Vacant	Kingsville ISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO
Vacant	Groom ISD; Region 16 ESC, Dr. Tanya Larkin, Exec. Dir.INFO
Vacant	Spring ISD; Search by: Spring ISD Board of TrusteesINFO
Vacant	Huffman ISD - Angeles Perez, Interim,Huffman ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO
Vacant	Hart ISD; Search by: Juan Dominguez and Hart ISD Board of TrusteesINFO
Vacant	Hitchcock ISD (Interim Search); Search by: Hitchcock ISD Board of Trustees & Region V ESC - Dr. Rolando “Rudy” Trevino INFO
Vacant	Laredo ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO
Vacant	Premont ISD; Search by: Doug Arnold & Arte AlmendarezINFO
Vacant	Executive Director Region 11 ESC; Thompson & Horton LLP - David Thompson & Dr. Mike Moses INFO
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Vacant	Goose Creek CISD; Search by: Thompson & Horton LLP - Dr. Mike Moses, David Thompson & Dr. Curtis Culwell INFO
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Vacant	Canutillo ISD - Dr. Josue Borrego, Associate Super,Houston ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO
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Vacant	Maypearl ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper, Keith Bryant and Stan Surratt INFO
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Vacant	Huntsville ISD; Search by: Thompson & Horton LLP - Dr. Mike Moses & David Thompson INFO
Vacant	Dumas ISD; Search by: Region 16 ESC, Dr. Nathan Maxwell, Deputy Executive DirectorINFO
Vacant	Allen ISD; Search by: Thompson & Horton LLP - Dr. Mike Moses & David Thompson INFO
Vacant	Fredericksburg ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper, Keith Bryant and Stan Surratt INFO
Vacant	Meadow ISD; Search by: Meadow ISD Board of TrusteesINFO
Vacant	Alvord ISD; Search by: CCR Educational Consultants, Dr. Skip Casey & Rod TownsendINFO
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Vacant	Chico ISD; Search by: CCR Educational Consultants, Dr. Skip Casey & Rod TownsendINFO
Vacant	La Villa ISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO
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Vacant	Groom ISD; Search by: Region 16 ESC, Dr. Nathan Maxwell, Deputy Executive DirectorINFO
Vacant	Waskom ISD; Search by: Leasor Crass, P.CINFO
Vacant	Edinburg CISD Extended Timeline!; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO
Vacant	Cuero ISD; Search by: Powell Law Group, LLP, Dr. Danny Lovett INFO
Vacant	Panther Creek CISD (Deadline Extended); Search by: Panther Creek CISD Board of Trustees email INFO
Vacant	Ralls ISD; Search by: Region 17 ESC, Kyle Wargo Exec. DirectorINFO
Vacant	Calallen ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper, Keith Bryant and Stan Surratt INFO
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Vacant	Jourdanton ISD; Search by: Walsh, Gallegos, Kyle, Robinson & De Los Santos P.C.& Education Consultant Dr. Sherri BaysINFO
Vacant	Montague ISD - Debra Sicking, Principal,Muenster ISD; Search by: Region 9 ESC, Darren Francis and Kenny Miller INFO
Vacant	Damon ISD; Search by: Hitchcock ISD Board of Trustees & Region V ESC - Dr. Rolando “Rudy” Trevino INFO
Vacant	Crystal City ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO
Vacant	Prosper ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper, Keith Bryant and Stan Surratt INFO
Vacant	Sinton ISD; Region 2 ESCINFO
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Vacant	Southwest ISD (Charter) - Search by: TASB Executive Search Services; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO
Vacant	Quanah ISD; Search by: CCR Educational Consultants, Dr. Skip Casey & Rod TownsendINFO
Vacant	Region 2 ESC Executive Director; Search by: JCA Law, PLLCINFO
Lone Finalist	Deer Park ISD - Dr. Tiffany Reagan, Assistant Superintendent,Deer Park ISD; Search by: Deer Park ISD Board of TrusteesINFO
Lone Finalist	Seminole ISD - Glen Teal, Superintendent,Jim Ned ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper and Stan Surratt INFO
Lone Finalist	Needville ISD - Dr. Paul Drake, Superintendent,Chester ISD; Search by: Arrow Educational Services INFO
Lone Finalist	Compass Academy Charter School (Odessa) - Mark Dominguez, Principal,Pecos-Barstow-Toyah ISD; Search by: Kathy Killingsworth, Interim Superintent assisted by Larry Lee, Leadership Consultant with Region 18INFO
Lone Finalist	Bonham ISD - Lance Hamlin, Assistant Superintendent,Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper and Stan Surratt INFO
Lone Finalist	Waxahachie ISD - Rebecca “Becky” McCutchen, Superintendent,Levelland ISD; Search by: Walsh, Gallegos, Kyle, Robinson & Roalson P.C.& Education Consultant Dr. Ann DixonINFO
Lone Finalist	Ennis ISD - Greg Bradley, Deputy Superintendent,Prosper ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper and Stan Surratt INFO
Lone Finalist	Forsan ISD - Michael Valencia, Superintendent,McCamey ISD; Search by: Region 18 ESC, Dr. Dewitt Smith INFO
Lone Finalist	Edgewood ISD (Region 7) - Scott Tyner, Superintendent,Martins Mill iSD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper and Stan Surratt INFO
Lone Finalist	Jim Ned CISD - Will Brewer, Superintendent,Paradise ISD; Search by: Ronnie Kincaid INFO
Lone Finalist	Palmer ISD ; Search by: Arrow Educational Services INFO
Lone Finalist	Hallsburg ISD - Dr. Staci Coleman-Kirk, Principal,Hubbard ISD; Search by: Powell Law Group, Shaun Barnett INFO
Lone Finalist	Slidell ISD - Dr. Christopher M. Heskett, Superintendent,Covington ISD; Search by: Powell Law Group, Shaun Barnett INFO
Lone Finalist	Seguin ISD - Dr. Jack Lee, Superintendent,Bullard ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO
Lone Finalist	Royal ISD - Dr. Megan Pape, Superintendent,Snook ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper and Stan Surratt INFO
Lone Finalist	Socorro ISD - James Vasquez, Interim Superintendent,Socorro ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO
Lone Finalist	Gunter ISD - Dr. Brandon Enos, Superintendent,Cushing ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper and Stan Surratt INFO
Lone Finalist	Rotan ISD - Trevor Edgemon, Superintendent,Happy ISD; Search by: Ronnie Kincaid INFO
Lone Finalist	Millsap ISD - Harper Stewart, Superintendent,Hamilton ISD; Search by: CCR Educational Consultants, Dr. Skip Casey & Rod TownsendINFO
Lone Finalist	Conroe ISD - Dr. David Vinson, Superintendent,Wylie ISD; Search by: Texans for Excellence in Education, President, John Petree, 432-557-6581INFO
Lone Finalist	La Pryor ISD - Cody Miller, Director,Northside ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO
Lone Finalist	Rusk ISD - Mid Johnson, Superintendent,Timpson ISD; Search by: Arrow Educational Services INFO
Lone Finalist	Snook ISD - Kimberly Giesenschlag, Assistant Superintendent,Snook ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO
Lone Finalist	Cushing ISD - Stefani Jackson, AssAsst. Supt.,Cushing ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper and Stan Surratt INFO
Lone Finalist	Lamesa ISD - Bonnie Avey, Superintendent,Seagraves ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper, Keith Bryant and Stan Surratt INFO
Lone Finalist	Elkhart ISD - Reese Briggs, Chief Operations Officer,Splendora ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper, Keith Bryant and Stan Surratt INFO
Lone Finalist	Howe ISD - Ritchie Bowling, Assistant Superintendent,Howe ISD; Search by: Howe ISD Board of TrusteesINFO
Lone Finalist	Era ISD - Jeff Webb, Associate Superintendent,Royse City ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper, Keith Bryant and Stan Surratt INFO
Lone Finalist	Prairie Lea ISD - Martha Melissa Gilmore, Interim,Prairie Lea ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO
Lone Finalist	Ingram ISD - Dr. Justin Turner, Superintendent,Hubbard ISD; Search by: Shaun Barnett Powell Law GroupINFO
Lone Finalist	Dawson ISD - Andrea Farish, Principal,Dawson ISD; Search by: Powell Law Group, Danny Lovett INFO
Lone Finalist	Hubbard ISD - Colt Carmichael, Assistant Superintendent,Blum ISD; Search by: Shaun Barnett Powell Law GroupINFO
Lone Finalist	Ector ISD - Morganne Mandrell, Principal,Hamlin ISD; Search by: Rod Townsend INFO
Lone Finalist	Bullard ISD - Dr. Micah Dyer, Superintendent,Cuero; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper, Keith Bryant and Stan Surratt INFO
Lone Finalist	Merkel ISD - Dr. Nikki Moore, Superintendent,Irion County ISD; Search by: Ronnie Kincaid INFO
Lone Finalist	Weatherford ISD - Dr. Sean Scott, Deputy Superintendent,Mansfield ISD; Search by: CCR Educational Consultants, Dr. Skip Casey & Rod TownsendINFO
Lone Finalist	Haskell CISD - Wade Calloway, Superintendent,Grover ISD; Search by: CCR Educational Consultants, Dr. Skip Casey & Rod TownsendINFO
Lone Finalist	Westbrook ISD - Donald Tosh, Assistant Superintendent,Bandera ISD; Search by: Region 14 ESC, Chris Wigington Exec. DirectorINFO
Lone Finalist	Frisco ISD - Todd Fouche , Deputy Superintendent,Frisco ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper, Keith Bryant and Stan Surratt INFO
Lone Finalist	Hale Center ISD - Hector Dominguez, Superintendent,Runge ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper, Keith Bryant and Stan Surratt INFO
Lone Finalist	Texline ISD - Serapio Arguijo, Campus Admin,Andrews ISD; Region 16 ESC, Dr. Tanya Larkin, Exec. Dir.INFO
Lone Finalist	Lazbuddie ISD - Artemio Ontiveros, Principal,Brownfield ISD; Search by: Region 16 ESC, Dr. Nathan Maxwell, Deputy Executive DirectorINFO
Lone Finalist	Silverton ISD - John York, Superintendent,San Jon Municipal Schools, New Mexico; Search by: Region 16 ESC, Dr. Nathan Maxwell, Deputy Executive DirectorINFO
Lone Finalist	Blanket ISD; INFO
Lone Finalist	Clarendon ISD - Byron May, Principal,Pampa ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO
Lone Finalist	Irion County ISD - Dr. Michael Heath, Principal,Coleman ISD; Search by: Region 15 ESC INFO
Lone Finalist	Harper ISD - Mr. Paul Goetzke, Director,La Vernia ISD; Search by: Region 15 ESC INFO
Lone Finalist	Gruver ISD - Jermaine Cantu, Administrator,Wellington ISD; Search by: Region 16 ESC, Dr. Nathan Maxwell, Deputy Executive DirectorINFO
Lone Finalist	Mount Vernon ISD - Craig Watson, Assistant Superintentdent,Mount Vernon ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper, Keith Bryant and Stan Surratt INFO
Lone Finalist	Blue Ridge ISD - Matthew Brown, Director,Mansfield ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper, Keith Bryant and Stan Surratt INFO
Lone Finalist	Jim Hogg County ISD (Updated Timeline) - Susan Douglas, Principal,Ramirez ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO
Lone Finalist	Wheeler ISD - Brandon Holland, Principal,Claude ISD; Search by: Region 16 ESC, Dr. Nathan Maxwell, Deputy Executive DirectorINFO
Lone Finalist	Klondike ISD - Kenny Lowery, Director,Big Spring ISD; Search by: Region 17 ESC, Kyle Wargo Exec. DirectorINFO
Lone Finalist	Sunray ISD - Dr. Benjamin Clinton, Superintendent,Mercedes ISD; Search by: Region 16 ESC, Dr. Nathan Maxwell, Deputy Executive DirectorINFO
Lone Finalist	Follett ISD - Jeff Quisenberry, Dean of Students,Follett ISD; Search by: Region 16 ESC, Dr. Nathan Maxwell, Deputy Executive DirectorINFO
Lone Finalist	High Island ISD - Misti Smith, Director,West Sabine ISD; Search by: Dr. Byron Terrier, Exec. Dir. Region 5 ESCINFO
Lone Finalist	Crowell ISD - Brad Clanton,, Principal,Bland ISD; Search by: Region 9 ESC, Darren Francis and Kenny Miller INFO
Lone Finalist	Los Fresnos CISD - Dr. Joseph R. Villarreal, Superintendent,Santa Maria ISD; Search by: Walsh, Gallegos, Kyle, Robinson & De Los Santos P.C.& Education Consultant Dr. Sherri BaysINFO
Lone Finalist	San Diego ISD - Bruce Wilson, Assistant Superintendent,Corpus Christi ISD; INFO
New Super	Onalaska ISD - Dr. Kenneth Fraga, Assistant Superintendent,Onalaska ISD; Search by: Onalaska ISD Board of TrusteesINFO
New Super	El Paso ISD - Dr. Brian Lusk, Deputy Superintendent,Dallas ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO
New Super	Center Point ISD - Joshua Limmer, Principal,Center Point ISD; Search by: Danny Lovett, Powell Law GroupINFO
New Super	Marlin ISD - Alphonso Bates, Assistant Superintendent ,Lamar CISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO
New Super	Loraine ISD - Lacy Brauchle, Principal,Mathis ISD; Search by: Region 14 ESC, Chris Wigington Exec. DirectorINFO
New Super	Edcouch-Elsa ISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO
New Super	Spearman ISD - LeeAnn McGraw, Superintendent,Sierra Blanca ISD; Walsh, Gallegos, Kyle, Robinson & De Los Santos P.C.& Education Consultant Dr. Sherri BaysINFO
New Super	West Hardin Co. CISD - Sean McCabe, Principal,Tarkington ISD; Search by: Dr. Byron Terrier, Exec. Dir. Region 5 ESCINFO
New Super	Brownsville ISD - Dr. Timothy E. Cuff, Principal,Brownsville ISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO
New Super	Shepherd ISD - Dr. Todd Davis, Associate Commissioner,Texas Education Agency; Walsh, Gallegos, Kyle, Robinson & De Los Santos P.C.& Education Consultant Dr. Charlotte BakerINFO
New Super	Marfa ISD - Mr. Stephen W. McCanless, Superintendent,Cleveland ISD; Search by: Walsh, Gallegos, Kyle, Robinson & De Los Santos P.C.& Education Consultant Dr. Sherri BaysINFO

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Preventive Law: Lowering Costs in Construction Manager-at-Risk Agreements: Protecting Audit Rights and Other Cost-Saving Strategies

August 1008:35 AM

Subchapter F of Chapter 2269 of the Texas Government Code allows school districts to utilize the Construction Manager-at-Risk (CMAR) method of delivery for their construction projects. CMAR projects are usually built on a “cost plus fee” basis, subject to a Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP). In a cost-plus-fee agreement under the CMAR method, a school district generally agrees to pay the actual documented costs as agreed in the contract (e.g. labor, materials, equipment, insurance, bonds) associated with construction of the project, plus the Construction Manager’s fee, up to the GMP. The Construction Manager is “at risk” for the amount that exceeds the GMP.

THRALL ISD HIRES JIM DUNLAP OF ARROW EDUCATIONAL SERVICES TO CONDUCT SUPERINTENDENT SEARCH

August 0708:29 AM

The board of trustees of the Thrall Independent School District has contracted with Mr. Jim Dunlap of Arrow Educational Services, Inc. to assist them in their search for a new superintendent. Information and the application process is available on arrowsearchinc.com and the TASA Supersearch page. view article

Preventive Law: All in the Family: Nepotism in ISD Hiring

July 2108:35 AM

Summer in Texas means triple-digit heat, a suspicious amount of construction on every major highway, and superintendents scrambling to make sure every classroom has a teacher before school begins. Hiring season is chaotic, and given the pressure to be fully staffed, it can be tempting to hire that perfectly qualified relative of a board member who just happens to be looking for a teaching job.

Greg Abbott threatens Dallas, Houston airports’ grant funds over Islamic washing facilities

August 1608:55 AM

Greg Abbott threatens Dallas, Houston airports’ grant funds over Islamic washing facilities Dallas Fort Worth International Airport canceled plans to install a facility commonly used for Islamic prayer after Gov. Greg Abbott on Friday threatened to withdraw state and federal funding. Abbott sent a letter to the North Texas airport’s CEO Christopher McLaughlin, as well as the mayors of Houston, Dallas and Fort Worth, stating his office was in the process of reviewing all grant funds over facilities in their cities’ airports. He also sent a letter to U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to refer the airports for federal investigations. view article

Limits on certain firearms, silencers lifted for some in Texas after judge’s order takes effect

August 1608:45 AM

The Trump administration declined to immediately appeal a ruling by a federal judge in Lubbock that invalidated parts of the 1934 National Firearms Act. Nearly century-old federal restrictions on certain short-barrel firearms and silencers were lifted Thursday for some gun groups and government agencies in several states, including Texas, after the Trump administration declined to file an emergency appeal challenging a federal court order. Gun rights activists and Republican lawmakers called the change a historic win for the Second Amendment, while gun control groups said the ruling will leave Americans less safe. view article

We Can’t Look Away From the Bulldozers at Santa Elena Canyon

August 1608:44 AM

Construction equipment is disturbing the silence at the spiritual heart of Big Bend National Park. We are asking what that means to Texans. For so many Texans, the mouth of Santa Elena Canyon in Big Bend National Park is an evocative, almost spiritual symbol of the region itself. With the Rio Grande cutting through the towering rock, it’s also one of the most visceral—and gorgeous—reminders that a border runs through the pristine landscape. In a 1980 ode to Big Bend, longtime Texas Monthly contributor Stephen Harrigan described the landmark as “extraordinarily, soporifically peaceful.” More recently, Sam Karas, a river guide and reporter for The Big Bend Sentinel, called it “the closest thing I have in my godless millennial life to a cathedral” in an essay for Texas Monthly. view article

Why Texas has now seen more than 170 public schools close since 2023

August 1608:42 AM

More than 170 public schools in Texas have shuttered or are on their way to closing since 2023, according to a new report from a public school advocacy group. Districts from every corner of the state are seeing declining enrollment and facing budget pressures that are triggering the closures. Among the closures, Houston ISD and the Austin ISD are both closing 12 campuses each. San Antonio ISD has 15 campuses closing. And in Fort Worth ISD, 21 schools have closed or are on the chopping block. view article

Texas’ school A-F grades relatively flat as Austin ISD inches closer to takeover

August 1608:40 AM

Texas’ school performance ratings remained relatively flat this year, while the Austin school district prepared for expected state sanctions over chronic F ratings. Campuses and districts received their state report cards Friday, providing families a glimpse of how well schools educate students. About one in four schools saw their ratings improve, while a nearly similar number of campuses saw a drop. Of the more than 9,000 campuses in the 2025-26 school year, 24% scored an A, 34% scored a B, 23% scored a C, 10% scored a D and 4% scored an F. Some schools did not receive grades. Schools with high poverty performed worse than more affluent campuses, while campuses with predominantly Black or Hispanic students scored lower than those where white or Asian students make up the majority. view article

What’s legal in Texas? A guide to hemp, THC, CBD and marijuana laws

August 1608:36 AM

There is often confusion about what Texas law allows when it comes to marijuana, hemp and THC products. As of July 31, Texas no longer allows the retail sale of products containing cannabinoids such as delta-8 THC, delta-10 THC and THCP after a yearslong legal battle over state hemp regulations. view article

Data center audit lacks specifics even as Gov. Abbott, industry leaders tout it

August 1608:33 AM

Tech companies are lining up to voice support for Gov. Greg Abbott’s audit of data centers seeking to connect to the power grid, although little is known about what the audit will entail or what it means for the data center construction boom. Since the Aug. 3 announcement, at least 43 companies — including juggernauts like Meta, OpenAI, Microsoft and Amazon Web Services — have issued public statements expressing support for Abbott’s audit, despite the governor ordering regulators to not approve any new grid connections until the audit is completed. The governor has similarly touted their endorsement of his plan. view article

‘Everything has to go back’: How THC shops are dealing with Texas’ new ban

August 1608:30 AM

While retailers won't go out of business overnight, many are sitting on products they can't sell. At a recently opened Vape Time smoke shop on Shepherd Drive in Houston, a neon sign advertised "DELTA 8" on Wednesday. But inside, the advertised delta-8 had been pulled off the shelves. That's because Texas recently banned delta-8 and delta-9 products, though the cashier said he still wasn't clear what the store was allowed to sell. As a precaution, Vape Time now sells hardly any THC products. After a campaign from conservative Texas lawmakers who argued that the state's THC retailers were exploiting a loophole and peddling products to kids, a crackdown ensued. At the end of July, Texas moved to reschedule and ban the sale of several hemp-derived THC products, such as those containing delta-8 and delta-10 THC derivatives. Possessing these products is now an offense that can carry jail time. view article

Severe storms, frequent lightning threaten parts of Texas this weekend

August 1608:30 AM

Parts of West Texas could see rounds of thunderstorms through the weekend, bringing strong winds, frequent lightning and enough heavy rain to potentially cause localized flash flooding."Some storms may produce strong winds, frequent lightning, and heavy rainfall leading to localized flash flooding," NWS forecasters wrote in their Friday afternoon forecast discussion. For Friday, the best opportunity for thunderstorms will be mainly along and west of the Pecos River, where forecasters said moisture, instability and upslope winds could help storms develop during the afternoon. Most of that activity should fade Friday evening as daytime heating winds down before another round becomes possible Saturday afternoon. The storm chances aren't necessarily bringing much relief from the August heat, either. view article

Indigenous Group Sues to Stop Big Bend Border Wall on Religious Grounds

August 1605:00 AM

The People of La Junta for Preservation, a nonprofit founded in 2024 that works to preserve Indigenous sites, and two Indigenous worshippers of Lipan Apache lineage are suing the federal government to stop the highly contentious border barrier construction and surveying activities in Big Bend, the Texas Observer has learned. The plaintiffs argue that ongoing U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) construction and surveying activities in Big Bend National Park and across far West Texas have cut them off both from specific sacred sites and ecosystems fundamental to their spiritual practices in violation of Religious Freedom Restoration Act and American Indian Religious Freedom Act protections. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court in San Antonio, not only seeks an immediate halt to construction activity in Big Bend National Park but across CBP’s Big Bend Sector. view article

Texas’ schools A-F grades relatively flat while more districts hope to avoid takeovers

August 1409:00 AM

Texas public school performance as a whole flatlined on state accountability grades, as chronically underperforming districts learned whether they edged closer to state sanctions. Campuses and districts got their state report cards Friday, providing families a glimpse of how well schools educate students. Those who consistently get low grades inch toward state takeovers. Of the more than 9,000 campuses rated in the 2025-26 school year, 25% got an A, 60% got a B or C, and about 15% got a D or F. About one in four schools saw their ratings improve, while a nearly similar rate of campuses saw a drop. view article

Dallas ISD sees big gains in new TEA grades, multiple A-Ratings in southern Dallas

August 1408:32 AM

There’s a big reason to celebrate in Dallas ISD. New TEA ratings show major progress across the district, and some of the biggest highlights are coming out of southern Dallas. In an exclusive interview, Dallas ISD Superintendent Dr. Stephanie Elizalde shared that several high schools are earning top marks, including South Oak Cliff, Carter, Pinkston and Skyline. view article

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Two Austin ISD schools receive fifth consecutive F rating, potentially opening district up to state takeover

August 1408:31 AM

Two Austin Independent School District middle schools received their fifth consecutive F ratings, opening the entire district up to a state takeover. Superintendent Matias Segura sat down with KXAN Thursday to go over the schools’ preliminary accountability ratings, which the district received early from the Texas Education Agency. view article

Austin ISD moves closer to state takeover after two schools receive fifth failing ratings

August 1408:31 AM

Burnet and Webb middle schools received a fifth consecutive failing accountability rating from the Texas Education Agency, the Austin school district announced Thursday, triggering a state law that directs Education Commissioner Mike Morath to either close the schools or appoint a board of managers to replace the elected school board. view article

Plano ISD votes to fire principal following teacher’s arrest, abuse allegations

August 1408:28 AM

The Plano Independent School District placed Brinker Elementary School Principal Jennifer King on leave last month. She has been the school's principal since 2024. A lawsuit accuses her of failing to report allegations against former second grade teacher Paul Campbell. view article

Midland ISD sees improvement in preliminary 2026 ratings

August 1408:26 AM

Midland ISD received an overall C rating in the state’s preliminary 2026 accountability ratings, marking an improvement in its numerical score. According to the district, Midland ISD received a score of 75 out of 100 for the 2025-26 school year. The district received a 72 in 2025 and a 70 in 2024. view article

Houston ISD teacher posts emotional video on students’ reading ability

August 1408:25 AM

A Houston ISD teacher has gone viral after sharing an emotional video about his concern for his students within the first few days of school. In the social media video posted Tuesday, Wheatley High School teacher Darius Williams shares his experience with his senior students. view article

$10 Million Texas ACE Grant Powers La Joya ISD Extended Learning Initiatives

August 1408:25 AM

For students, learning and opportunity do not have to end when the final bell rings. A new five-year investment in La Joya ISD students and families will extend both beyond the traditional school day, bringing additional academic support, enrichment, summer learning, and family engagement opportunities to 10 elementary campuses across the district. view article

Voters to decide on Ysleta ISD tax rate that would have little to no impact on most homeowners

August 1408:25 AM

The Ysleta Independent School District is asking voters to allow it to raise its tax rate beyond what is allowed by the state to save it from a dire financial status – a proposition which if approved would have little to no impact on the vast majority of homeowners’ tax bills. view article

Buena Vista ISD mourns the death of a student

August 1408:25 AM

Buena Vista ISD is mourning the death of a student, according to a statement released by the district. The district announced the student’s passing Thursday, saying its thoughts and prayers are with the student’s family, friends, classmates, teachers and others affected by the loss. view article

Iola ISD Bulldogs head back to school as SpaceX’s Terafab prepares to break ground next door

August 1408:25 AM

The Iola Independent School District (ISD) welcomed students back to campus Wednesday for the first day of school — but this year, the excitement extends well beyond the classroom. As buses rolled in and backpacks filled the hallways, smoke was rising just down the road near Gibbons Creek Reservoir this week, where SpaceX is clearing land for its massive Terafab AI semiconductor facility. For a town of just over 300 people, the contrast couldn’t be more striking: a small-town first day of school, set against the backdrop of one of the largest industrial projects in Texas history. view article

Longview ISD board approves waiver application to change pre-K funding split with daycare partner

August 1408:24 AM

The Longview ISD board of trustees voted 5-0 to approve a waiver application that would allow the district to change how it splits state pre-K funding with partner childcare provider Rising Star Daycares. Under House Bill 2, at least 85% of state pre-K funding must go directly to a partner daycare — unless the state approves a waiver allowing a different arrangement. Longview ISD previously operated under a 50/50 split with Rising Star Daycares. The district is now seeking a 65/35 split, with 65% going to the daycare and 35% to the district. view article

Answering your questions on education: State cuts popular Fort Worth ISD programs

August 1408:18 AM

Education reporter Wayne Carter joins NBC 5 Today answering viewer questions about what’s making headlines in North Texas classrooms as the new school year begins. Uncertified teachers, new curriculum, and starting school in July were among the topics. view article

Aldine ISD high school gives students real hospital experience

August 1408:15 AM

Students in Aldine ISD can get some realistic experience working at a hospital while still in high school. That’s what HEAL High School provides for high school students in the district as the school started its third school year on Wednesday. Aldine ISD staff and Memorial Hermann mentors welcomed the students for the first day of school. view article

Lake Travis football player Odin Hensley dies after cardiac arrest at practice

August 1308:41 AM

Odin Hensley, 17, was flown by Travis County Star Flight to Dell Children’s Medical Center, where he was admitted to the intensive care unit, after suffering the medical emergency Monday. Lake Travis ISD shared news of Hensley’s death with the school community in an email Thursday and remembered him as a longtime member of the school district who began attending Lake Pointe Elementary School. view article

More than 20,700 Texas students gave up their school vouchers. Most were previously in public schools

August 1308:40 AM

Education experts say the numbers confirm their early warnings: Finding a private school is challenging. view article

Paxton, Talarico tap contrary versions of God and Christianity in appeal to Texas voters

August 1308:40 AM

Campaigning for the U.S. Senate, Paxton says he was “delivered by God” to protect Texas from leftists. Talarico’s focus Republican Ken Paxton and Democrat James Talarico portray their U.S. Senate campaigns as a fight for the soul of America — one in which God plays an active yet vastly different role. Talarico, believing God is on the side of the oppressed and the marginalized, focuses his message to voters on equity and protecting personal freedom. Paxton sees God as on his side — a force safeguarding his ability to protect Texas and the nation from disaster at the hands of the “radical left.” view article

Alamo Heights High School gets makeover, nods to century-old history

August 1308:35 AM

A brand new Alamo Heights High School building boasts an extra 33,000 square feet, larger classrooms, sleek furniture and windows that let natural light in from almost every direction. But the campus also nods subtly to the past. Like the “AH” seal of blue and gold emblazoned on the terrazzo floor near the front entrance. Or the old oak trees that have decorated the campus for years. view article

Slocum Water Supply issues boil water notice

August 1308:34 AM

The Slocum Water Supply Corporation has issued a new boil water notice. Due to a main line break on ACR 160 located in the Camphill Well 3, Rt 3 area, the Texas Commission of Environmental Quality has required Slocum Water Supply Corporation, PWS ID 0010028, to notify the 323 customers in that area to boil their water prior to consumption until further notice effective as of Aug. 1 To ensure destruction of all harmful bacteria and other microbes, water for drinking, cooking, and for making ice, all water should be boiled and cooled prior to consumption. The water should be brought to a vigorous, rolling boil and then boiled for two minutes. In lieu of boiling, you may purchase bottled water or obtain water from another suitable source. When it is no longer necessary to boil the water, the water system officials will notify you that the water is safe for consumption. The rescind notice will be issued in the same manner as the Boil Water Notice. view article

Baby at center of surrogacy rights case is born in Dallas

August 1308:32 AM

The biological parents won a temporary restraining order against the surrogate, who tried to claim parental rights, and are with their baby, their attorneys say. The baby boy at the center of an out-of-state surrogacy battle that is pitting the Texas attorney general against the California biological parents was born in Dallas on Wednesday, lawyers for the birth parents and the surrogate confirmed. view article

Miami-Dade’s next schools superintendent on closures, teacher pay, AI and more

August 1308:30 AM

Rafael Villalobos has yet to start his new job, but the South Region Superintendent, who was recently picked to succeed Jose Dotres as superintendent of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, has some ideas on where the district will head once he takes the reins. In an interview with the Miami Herald this week, Villalobos weighed in on some of the most pressing issues facing the district: school closures, teacher pay, land deals, AI in schools and more. Read more at: https://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/education/article316849790.html#storylink=cpy view article

School’s back: Officials remind drivers to prioritize safety

August 1305:00 AM

As students head back to school this week, officials want drivers to be more aware on the roads. With school in session, there are more buses, pedestrians, bicyclists and walkers on roadways. There were more than 3,200 traffic crashes in school zones or involving school buses last year, according to the Texas Department of Transportation. To help keep kids safe, TxDOT is urging drivers to slow down, avoid distractions and follow the rules of the road during its “Be Safe. Drive Smart” Back to School campaign. Parents and guardians can also help teach their kids about ways to stay safe when walking or biking to school. “As students head back to school, we’re asking every driver to make safety their top priority,” Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee said. “Slow down, eliminate distractions and remain alert — especially in school zones, at bus stops and in high-volume traffic areas. Every child deserves to arrive at school and return home safely, and that starts with each of us making responsible decisions behind the wheel.” TxDOT and the Texas Department of Public Safety offer tips for both drivers and students. Tips for driving in school zones view article

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TexasISD.com was the brainchild of Joe F. Smith. Joe retired early from a successful career as Superintendent of Schools for Hudson ISD, deep in the Piney Woods of East Texas. Due to a long battle with Post-Polio Syndrome the doctor made him hang it up and rest for six months. Never being the kind of person to sit still and also not being the person to listen to his doctor, Joe logged lengthy sessions in front of his PC researching school issues, reading papers and corresponding with his friends and colleagues in the education business.

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