
- News Category
- Accountability/Accreditation
- Charter Schools
- Child Nutrition
- Construction/Bond Issues
- Governance
- Grants
- Health/Safety
- Joe's Commentaries
- Legal
- Legislative
- National News
- Newspapers
- Personnel
- Property Tax
- Risk Management
- School Finance
- Special Articles
- State Board of Education
- SuperSearch Page
- Technology in Education
- TexasISD General News
- Transportation
- Preventive Law
TexasISD.com
Endorsed Products
TexasISD.com
Advertising
.png)
TexasISD.com
Quick Links
Congratulations to the following New Supers
84 Superintendent Vacancies
Vacant | Rusk ISD; Search by: Arrow Educational ServicesINFO | Vacant | Martin's Mill ISD; Search by: Arrow Educational ServicesINFO | Vacant | Dickinson ISD; Search by: Dickinson ISD Board of TrusteesINFO | Vacant | Whitney ISD; Search by: Whitney ISD Board of TrusteesINFO | Vacant | Dilley ISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO | Vacant | Burton ISD; Search by: Powell Law Group, Dr. Danny LovettINFO | Vacant | Union Hill ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO | Vacant | Grape Creek ISD; Search by: Grape Creek ISD Board of TrusteesINFO | Vacant | Santa Maria ISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO | Vacant | Vysehrad ISD; Search by: Region 3 ESC, Exec. Dir. Morris LyonINFO | 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 | Huntington ISD; Search by: Kelli Karczewski, Fisher FirmINFO | Vacant | Granger ISD; Search by: Leasor Crass, P.CINFO | Vacant | Bremond ISD; Search by: Bremond ISD Board of TrusteesINFO | Vacant | Santa Rosa ISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO | Vacant | San Isidro ISD (Short Timeline); Search by: Region One ESC, Exec. Dir. Dr. Daniel P. KingINFO | Vacant | Queen City ISD; Search by: Danny Lovett, Powell Law GroupINFO | Vacant | Commerce ISD - Search by: Commerce ISD Board of Trustees; INFO | Vacant | Gonzales ISD; Search by: Walsh, Gallegos, Kyle, Robinson & Roalson P.C.& Education Consultant Charlotte Baker,INFO | Vacant | Decatur ISD; Search by: Decatur ISD Board of Trustees INFO | Vacant | Bells ISD; Search by: Bells ISD Board of TrusteesINFO | Vacant | Gustine ISD - Coy Barker, Principal,McCamey ISD; Search by: Ronnie KincaidINFO | Vacant | Comstock ISD; Comstock ISD Board of Trustees and O.K. Wolfenbarger IIIINFO | Vacant |
Frank Liu Jr. Academy of Music and Art (Houston) ; Thompson & Horton LLP - David Thompson & Dr. Mike MosesINFO |
Vacant | East Chambers ISD; Search by: SPALDING NICHOLS LAMP LANGLOISINFO | Vacant | Webb CISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO | Vacant | Moulton ISD; <p>Search by: Region 3 ESC, <a href="mailto:mlyon@esc3.net">Exec. Dir. Morris Lyon</a></p>INFO | Vacant | Hidalgo ISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO | Vacant | Dawson ISD; Search by: Powell Law Group, Danny LovettINFO | Vacant | Banquete ISD; Search by: Powell Law Group, Rick AlvaradoINFO | Vacant | Levelland ISD; Search by: Region 17 ESC, Kyle Wargo Exec. DirectorINFO | Vacant | Priddy ISD; Search by: Region 15 ESCINFO | 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 | Frost ISD; Search by: Leasor Crass, P.CINFO | Vacant | Cedar HIll ISD; Search by: Leasor Crass, P.CINFO | Vacant | Bowie ISD; Search by: Region 9 ESC, Darren Francis and Kenny MillerINFO | Vacant | Abernathy ISD; Search by: Region 17 ESC, Kyle Wargo Exec. DirectorINFO | Vacant | Kingsville ISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO | Vacant | La Pryor ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO | Vacant | Groom ISD; Region 16 ESC, Dr. Tanya Larkin, Exec. Dir.INFO | Vacant | Clarendon ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO | Vacant | Spring ISD; Search by: Spring ISD Board of TrusteesINFO | Vacant | Marlin ISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO | Vacant | Deweyville ISD; Search by: Dr. Byron Terrier, Exec. Dir. Region 5 ESCINFO | Vacant | Centerpoint ISD; Search by: Danny Lovett, Powell Law GroupINFO | Vacant | Conroe ISD; Search by: Texans for Excellence in Education, President, John Petree, 432-557-6581INFO | Vacant | Kermit ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO | Vacant | Huffman ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO | Vacant | Jim Hogg County ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO | Vacant | Hart ISD; Search by: Juan Dominguez and Hart ISD Board of TrusteesINFO | Vacant | Snook ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO | Vacant | Hitchcock ISD (Interim Search); Search by: Hitchcock ISD Board of Trustees & Region V ESC - Dr. Rolando “Rudy” TrevinoINFO | Vacant | Laredo ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO | Vacant | Premont ISD; Search by: Doug Arnold & Arte AlmendarezINFO |
Lone Finalist | Valley View ISD - James Womack, Superintendent,Richland Springs ISD; Education Solutions and Services Mike Smith & Letha HopkinsINFO |
Lone Finalist | Waco ISD - Dr. Tiffany Spicer, Superintendent,Buna ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO |
Lone Finalist | Onalaska ISD - Dr. Kenneth Fraga, Assistant Superintendent,Onalaska ISD; Search by: Onalaska ISD Board of TrusteesINFO |
Lone Finalist | Graham ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper and Stan SurrattINFO |
Lone Finalist | Lueders-Avoca ISD - Dr. Joe Alcorta, Superintendent,Dalhart ISD; Search by: Ronnie KincaidINFO |
Lone Finalist | Calvert ISD - Latisha Crockett-Tennell, Interim Superintendent,Calvert ISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO |
Lone Finalist | Albany ISD - Daryl Stuard, Superintendent,Bremond ISD; Search by: Ronnie KincaidINFO |
Lone Finalist | Victoria ISD - Shelia Collazo, Deputy Superintendent,Somerset ISD; Search by: JCA Law, PLLC and Saul HinojosaINFO |
Lone Finalist | Hawkins ISD - Jeff Hutchins, Director of Operations,Van ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper and Stan SurrattINFO |
Lone Finalist | Monte Alto ISD - Rashad Javed Rana, Assistant Superintendent,Donna ISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO |
Lone Finalist | Utopia ISD - Joshua Ham, Principal,San Saba ISD; Search by: Utopia ISD Board of TrusteesINFO |
Lone Finalist | Buna ISD - Dr. Julie Motomura, Superintendent,Schulenburg ISD; Search By: Buna ISD Board of Trustees INFO |
Lone Finalist | Splendora ISD - Dustin Bromley, Deputy Superintendent,La Porte ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper and Stan SurrattINFO |
Lone Finalist | Mount Calm ISD - Jay Underwood, Deputy Superintendent,Anna ISD; Search by: Powell Law Group, Shaun BarnettINFO |
Lone Finalist | Waskom ISD - Chris Guastella, Principal,Ferris ISD; Search by: Leasor Crass, P.CINFO |
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 SurrattINFO |
Lone Finalist | Needville ISD - Dr. Paul Drake, Superintendent,Chester ISD; Search by: Arrow Educational ServicesINFO |
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 SurrattINFO |
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 SurrattINFO |
Lone Finalist | Muleshoe ISD - Scott Bicknell, Superintendent,Jayton-Girard ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper and Stan SurrattINFO |
Lone Finalist | Forsan ISD - Michael Valencia, Superintendent,McCamey ISD; Search by: Region 18 ESC, Dr. Dewitt SmithINFO |
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 SurrattINFO |
Lone Finalist | Jim Ned CISD - Will Brewer, Superintendent,Paradise ISD; Search by: Ronnie KincaidINFO |
Lone Finalist | New Home ISD - Julia Stephen, Director,Amarillo ISD; Search by: Region 17 ESC, Kyle Wargo Exec. DirectorINFO |
Lone Finalist | Palmer ISD ; Search by: Arrow Educational ServicesINFO |
Lone Finalist | Hallsburg ISD - Dr. Staci Coleman-Kirk, Principal,Hubbard ISD; Search by: Powell Law Group, Shaun BarnettINFO |
Lone Finalist | Slidell ISD - Dr. Christopher M. Heskett, Superintendent,Covington ISD; Search by: Powell Law Group, Shaun BarnettINFO |
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 SurrattINFO |
Lone Finalist | Lubbock-Cooper ISD - Aaron Waldrip, Superintendent,Abernathy ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper and Stan SurrattINFO |
Lone Finalist | Socorro ISD - James Vasquez, Interim Superintendent,Socorro ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO |
Lone Finalist | Industrial ISD - Michael B. Colvin, Director,Comfort ISD; Search by: Walsh, Gallegos, Kyle, Robinson & Roalson P.C.& Education Consultant Charlotte BakeINFO |
Lone Finalist | Gunter ISD - Dr. Brandon Enos, Superintendent,Cushing ISD; Search by: Impact Education Specialists - Doug Williams, Kevin Worthy, Blake Cooper and Stan SurrattINFO |
Lone Finalist | Rotan ISD - Trevor Edgemon, Superintendent,Happy ISD; Search by: Ronnie KincaidINFO |
Lone Finalist | Millsap ISD - Harper Stewart, Superintendent,Hamilton ISD; Search by: CCR Educational Consultants, Dr. Skip Casey, Staci Robertson, & Rod TownsendINFO |
New Super | Plains ISD - Scott Mills, Principal,Quannah ISD; Search by: Leasor Crass, P.CINFO |
New Super |
Olney ISD (Young Co.) - Dr. Matt Caffey, Principal,Olney ISD; Search by: Region 9 ESC, Darren Francis and Kenny MillerINFO |
New Super | Ben Bolt-Palito Blanco ISD; Search by: O’Hanlon, Demerath & CastilloINFO |
New Super | San Benito CISD - Alfredo Perez, Interim Superintendent,San Benito ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO |
New Super | Cameron ISD - Mistie Dakroub, Assistant Superintendent,Cameron ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO |
New Super | Lipan ISD - Jimmie Dobbs, Interim Superintendent,Lipan ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO |
New Super | Copperas Cove ISD - Brent Hawkins, Superintendent,Livingston ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO |
New Super | Grandfalls-Royalty ISD - Carlos Contreras, Superintendent,Dell City ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO |
New Super | Livingston ISD - Jeff Peck, Deputy Superintendent,Dickinson ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO |
New Super | Groesbeck ISD - Scott Cummiungs, Superintendent,Westphalia ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO |
New Super | Holland ISD - Jennisty Thomason, Principal,Holland ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO |
New Super | Central Heights ISD - Justin Keeling, Superintendent,Douglass ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO |
New Super | Borger ISD - Daniel Fuller, Superintendent,Sweeny ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO |
New Super | Smithville ISD - Molley Perry, Deputy Superintendent,Elgin ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO |
New Super | Monahans-Wickett-Pyote ISD - Stacy Parker, CFO,Marlin ISD; Search by: TASB Executive Search ServicesINFO |
New Super | Ector County ISD - Search by: TASB Executive Search Services, Dr. Keeley Boyer,Ector County ISD; INFO |
Gov. Abbott: Texas must ban intoxicating THC products in special session
Texas Senate committee doubles down on THC ban, saying state and local governments don’t have the resources for regulations Texas Senate committee doubles down on THC ban, saying state and local governments don’t have the resources for regulationsSenate Bill 5 would ban products containing any detectable amount of any cannabinoid, creating criminal offenses for possession of hemp-derived THC.
view article
Preventive Law: Innovation Interrupted? Why It’s Time to Rethink Your DOI Plan
If you’re one of the many Texas school districts operating under a District of Innovation (DOI) Plan, you’ve already embraced flexibility and local control. But with each legislative session, it becomes increasingly important to reevaluate whether your plan still fits within the legal boundaries.
Dan Patrick slams Kerr County judge over absence during July 4 floods: ‘You should have been here’
Kerr County officials grilled over absences, delays in tense Kerrville hearing KERRVILLE — Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick slammed Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly at a hearing Thursday for being absent on July 4 as rising flood waters tore through the county, washing away homes and killing more than 100 people. “I don’t know where you were on Day One, on July 4, but you should have been here. You should have been here directing that response. That is your responsibility,” Patrick, a Republican who presides over the state Senate, told Kelly at the flood-focused hearing. “I just want to set the record straight. Everyone was here that day working their ass off, and you were nowhere to be found.”
view article
Kerr County officials grilled over absences, delays in tense Kerrville hearing
Kerr County officials grilled over absences, delays in tense Kerrville hearing KERRVILLE — Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick slammed Kerr County Judge Rob Kelly at a hearing Thursday for being absent on July 4 as rising flood waters tore through the county, washing away homes and killing more than 100 people. “I don’t know where you were on Day One, on July 4, but you should have been here. You should have been here directing that response. That is your responsibility,” Patrick, a Republican who presides over the state Senate, told Kelly at the flood-focused hearing. “I just want to set the record straight. Everyone was here that day working their ass off, and you were nowhere to be found.”
view article
Arkansas Double Murder Suspect Taught in Texas Elementary School
Andrew McGann resigned from Lewisville ISD in 2023 amid allegations of inappropriate behavior with students. A teacher charged with murdering a mom and dad at a state park in Arkansas in front of their two young children formerly taught at a North Texas elementary school. Andrew James McGann, 28, was arrested Wednesday by Arkansas State Police at a barbershop in Springdale following a five-day manhunt and was charged with two counts of capital murder. McGann is accused of killing Cristen and Clinton Brink at Devil’s Den State Park while they were hiking with their daughters, ages 7 and 9 years old.
view article
Houston ISD Can Proceed With Pay-For-Performance Model After Judge Denies Union Request
The Houston Federation of Teachers filed suit against the district for awarding raises based on performance metrics, alleging it violated state law. A Harris County judge has denied a teachers’ union request for a temporary restraining order against the Houston Independent School District, allowing the district to move forward with its performance-based teacher compensation plan for the 2025–26 school year .The legal dispute between the Houston Federation of Teachers and Houston ISD centers on House Bill 2, a new Texas law that establishes a Teacher Retention Allotment of approximately $3.7 billion.
view article
University of North Texas Settles Free Speech Case
UNT will pay more than $700,000 to resolve accusations of racism. A public university in Texas just learned an expensive lesson. According to media reports, the University of North Texas will pay $725,000 to Professor Robert Jackson. Jackson sued the university in 2021, claiming to have suffered professional and emotional damage following accusations of racism leveled at him in te immediate aftermath of George Floyd’s death. The dispute arose following a discussion in an obscure academic journal edited by Jackson.
view article
Eminent Domain Battle: State Refuses To Return Land It No Longer Needs
After refusing to sell “surplus property” back to its former owner, the Texas Department of Transportation is now before the Supreme Court in a case that could reshape the state’s eminent domain policy. “Eminent domain” is the government’s power to take private property for public use, provided “just compensation” is given to the owner. Texas law outlines specific procedures for such acquisitions and—relevant to this case—grants limited rights to repurchase the property if it becomes unnecessary for public use. Facts of the Case According to court records, in 2013, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) sent an offer to Joyce Hutcherson, Rudolph Pusok, and Jimmie Pusok—the owners of 19502 Mueschke Road in Tomball—to purchase their property. TxDOT planned to construct a new road along the Grand Parkway (State Highway 99).
view article
Texas buys land for new state parks that will be developed using $1 billion voter-approved fund
LAMPASAS — On a blistering June morning, Andy Sipocz brushes his fingers through the thick, sawgrass fronds rising higher than his head beside a creek in the Texas Hill Country. Around him, rocky limestone lines Yancey Creek, streaked in subtle reds and browns — evidence of millennia of mineral deposits and weathering. Sipocz, a natural resources coordinator and biologist with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, is one of more than three dozen staffers gathered here to begin laying the groundwork for what will one day be Texas’ newest state park — about a two hour drive northwest of Austin. Wearing cargo shorts and pants, hiking boots, and sun-brimmed hats, the TPWD team winds its way down a steep hill — no trail in sight. That’s the point. They're here to determine where the trails should be. Today’s mission: conduct early-stage natural resource surveys and habitat assessments to support the park’s future design.
view article
Senate Moves To Restore Attorney General’s Power To Prosecute Election Crimes
Legislation would allow the Attorney General to bring charges even if a local prosecutor declines to act.
view article
As the floods hit, Kerrville officials’ messages show lack of information about what was coming
Lawmakers plan to hear testimony Thursday in Kerr County. Questions remain about how state and local entities responded to flood warnings. The day before the Guadalupe River rose 34 feet in the small Hill Country city of Kerrville and swamped areas along the river banks, Mayor Joe Herring Jr. messaged the city manager with anticipation. “Big day tomorrow at LHP,” Herring wrote, likely referring to Louise Hays Park, where a Fourth of July festival was planned with bands and fireworks.“Yes it is!” City Manager Dalton Rice replied. “And it seems we got some rain too!” A whole lot more rain was coming.
view article
Austin leaders make moves to create Texas’ first FAA air traffic control academy
Just a few months shy of the one-year anniversary of a near-miss incident at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Austin City Council members approved a resolution July 24 urging the Federal Aviation Administration to prioritize staffing at the airport.
Austin City Council member Vanessa Fuentes, who authored the measure, said the call to action includes several components, among them an FAA-approved air traffic controller academy in partnership with Austin Community College. “We want to continue to ask and demand that the FAA take action, but also add a local solution,” Fuentes said in an interview with Community Impact. “Rather than pointing a finger, we are lending a hand, trying to address and help solve for the staffing shortages.” If the city succeeds in establishing a certified air traffic controller program locally, it would be the first and only one of its kind in Texas.
view article
Patrick-Backed THC Ban Clears Senate
The THC ban passed the Senate again despite an earlier veto by Gov. Abbott. The Texas Senate has passed legislation to ban the sale of THC products, reviving a fight over intoxicating marijuana products that sparked a rare public rift between Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Gov. Greg Abbott. Senate Bill 5, authored by State Sen. Charles Perry (R–Lubbock), passed the Senate on a 20-9 vote. It would prohibit the manufacture, sale, and possession of consumable hemp products that contain any form of THC while still allowing products that contain only CBD or CBG. Perry portrayed the bill as necessary to eliminate products that were never intended to be legal under the 2019 law that permitted hemp cultivation in Texas. He reiterated that the measure targets consumable products and does not affect non-consumable hemp goods like textiles or construction materials.
view article
Why Parents Are Suing Snapchat Over Fentanyl Deaths
WASHINGTON—Over and over, Amy Neville forces herself to tell people what happened to her 14-year-old son. “I relive it. ... I’m out there sharing the hardest thing that’s ever happened in my life,” she said. “It’s worth it, because I know we’re saving lives.” Neville, 52, wiped away tears as she spoke those words during an interview with The Epoch Times on June 23. That day marked five years since her son, Alexander Neville, unknowingly ingested fentanyl and died—a tragedy that could easily befall any family, she said. Through the nonprofit Alexander Neville Foundation, the grieving mother shares her personal pain with other parents. By her estimation, Amy Neville has given a couple hundred presentations in person and online; about 300,000 people have heard her warnings about the dangers that lurk on social media, leading to deaths such as Alex’s. Neville also serves as the lead plaintiff in a groundbreaking court case that could affect the way Big Tech operates in the United States.
view article
Eichelbaum Wardell Hansen Powell & Muñoz, P.C.
Leon Alcala, PLLC
WEBINAR: CHAPTER 37 TRAINING FOR ADMINISTRATORS
Date: August 5, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Read more and register here...

Please join us for the first webinar in our Back-to-School series. Register 5 administrators for one low price of $250.
Austin ISD announces staffing cuts amid federal grant uncertainty
Austin ISD will move forward with staffing cuts as it faces uncertainty over millions of dollars in federal education grants, district officials announced on Wednesday. In a letter to families, Superintendent Matias Segura said the decision comes after more than $9 million in federal grants were not released as expected on July 1. Segura said while the federal government eventually committed to releasing the funds on July 25, the disruption forced the district to prepare for future funding losses.
view article
After Central Texas floods, Austin urges FEMA to restore grant for stalled levee project
Austin city leaders are urging the Federal Emergency Management Agency to reinstate $50 million in funding for flood protection upgrades to critical city utility infrastructure — money that was pulled earlier this year. In 2022, FEMA appropriated $50 million for part of the Fallwell Lane Capital Renewal Project, which aims to bolster flood resilience at a water treatment plant and a power plant in Del Valle, both of which border the flood-prone Colorado River. But the Trump administration canceled the FEMA program that provided the funds. Without those funds, the back half of the project — meant to protect $1.4 billion of infrastructure and prevent sewage overflow and power outages — has been stuck in financial limbo.
view article
Former Sid Miller allies told police the ag commissioner feared the DEA, told a friend to get rid of marijuana
A former friend of Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller told a Texas Ranger that in 2022 Miller asked him to dispose of three bags of marijuana cigarettes and gummies because he was afraid that the Drug Enforcement Administration might find them on his property. At the time, the friend, Michael Hackney, was living in a motorhome on Miller’s Stephenville ranch, where Miller was licensed to grow hemp. “I’ve got to get rid of this. I've had it at the house, and if the DEA comes, I can't get caught with this stuff,” Miller said, according to Hackney. “He says, ‘You do with it whatever you want. Get rid of it. But don't leave it here.’” Hackney added, "He was really, really nervous about that deal."
view article
Texas House Republicans unveil new congressional map that looks to pick up five GOP seats
The first draft of the lower chamber’s new redistricting map targets Democratic members of Congress in the Austin, Dallas and Houston metro areas and in South Texas.
view article
Legislation to Ban Local Governments from Hiring Lobbyists Clears Senate Vote
Senate Bill 12 is designed to close loopholes and stop the flow of taxpayer funds to registered lobbyists. Taxpayer-Funded Lobbying Costs Millions as Texas House Failed to Act
view article
Texas House Republicans unveil new congressional map that looks to pick up five GOP seats
Texas GOP lawmakers released their first draft of the state’s new congressional map Wednesday, proposing revamped district lines that attempt to flip five Democratic seats in next year’s midterm elections. The new map targets Democratic members of Congress in the Austin, Dallas and Houston metro areas and in South Texas. The draft, unveiled by Corpus Christi Republican Rep. Todd Hunter, will likely change before the final map is approved by both chambers and signed by Gov. Greg Abbott. Democrats have said they might try to thwart the process by fleeing the state. This unusual mid-decade redistricting comes after a pressure campaign waged by President Donald Trump’s political team in the hopes of padding Republicans’ narrow majority in the U.S. House.
view article
PGISD Board approves price increase for cafeteria meals per TX Dept of Agriculture requirement
TEXARKANA, Texas -- Pleasant Grove Independent School District's Board of Trustees held a special meeting on Monday afternoon where multiple considerations were approved by the board.
view article
Board member’s wife named lone finalist for super at Edcouch-Elsa ISD
The school district’s interim superintendent Sandra “Sandy” Ochoa was named lone finalist for the position here on Monday night. She is married to school board member Ricardo Ochoa. Only having discussion in executive session, board member Norma Linda Peña asked president Juan Jose Ybarra for a roll call vote.
view article
Texas House redistricting committee’s Houston hearing draws criticism over absence of maps
Democratic members slammed the process, questioning why hearings were happening before maps were available for review. Chair Cody Vasut said follow-up public hearings will be scheduled once maps are filed.
view article
Judge issues gag order for Frisco ISD track meet stabbing, Karmelo Anthony case
A gag order regarding the fatal stabbing at a Frisco ISD track meet has been issued by a Collin County judge, CBS News Texas confirmed. This gag order issued by Judge John Roach applies to anyone associated with the defense or the prosecution on the case.
view article
Communities in Schools provides layers of support to San Antonio area students
Our mission is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life. Based directly inside schools throughout Bexar County and surrounding areas, Communities In Schools of San Antonio connects children and their families to educational and community-based resources tailored to each student’s needs.
view article
Denton ISD senior urges removal of ‘manipulative and demoralizing’ football coach at board meeting
A Denton ISD student is calling for the removal of his football coach, claiming the team’s leadership has created a toxic environment that's causing athletes to quit. Braswell High School student Dustin Sharp addressed Denton ISD trustees during public comment at Tuesday night’s board meeting. The 17-year-old, who will begin his senior year this fall, used his three-minute window to voice concerns about campus athletic director and head football coach Kent Laster.
view article
Grusendorf: Texas Is a School Choice Success Story – And a Blueprint For the Future
The education system in Texas will soon change drastically for the better, thanks to Governor Greg Abbott’s leadership and determination. After years of political infighting, the 2025 legislative session finally granted Texas families academic freedom like never before. The law signed by Governor Abbott in May, aptly named the Texas Education Freedom Act, established universal education saving accounts (ESAs) for families statewide — a direct cash grant that can be put toward private school tuition, learning materials or education services. This law will reshape the future of Texas education — putting power back in the hands of students and parents as intended by our Texas Constitution and giving kids the chance to pursue the academic pathway that’s right for them. Freedom in education has finally won the day.
view article
The Latest: Trump’s EPA moves to repeal finding that underpins US climate regulation
President Donald Trump’s administration on Tuesday proposed revoking a scientific finding that has long been the central basis for U.S. action to regulate greenhouse gas emissions and fight climate change. Senate Democrats are imploring Trump ‘s administration to intervene as Palestinians suffer and starve in Israeli-controlled Gaza, with more than 40 senators signing onto a letter Tuesday urging the resumption of ceasefire talks and sharply criticizing an Israeli-backed American organization created to distribute food aid. Trump has been playing more golf Tuesday in Scotland on the White House has called a working trip including meetings with world leaders. Here’s the Latest:
view article
In Kerr County, some summer camps are reopening after the devastating July 4 flood
At least two summer camps in the Texas Hill Country have invited campers back after sustaining little to no damage from the flood. Other camps are still combing through the rubble.
view article
A fight to save an Austin middle school puts families at odds with Texas over how to rate schools
Julieta Crispín Castro arrived early for her first day of summer camp, ready to prepare for the state’s standardized test, when the 13-year-old learned that one of her favorite people at Dobie Middle School would not be around next fall.“I’m not qualified to come back,” English language arts teacher Tatiana Brown-Gomez told Crispín, borrowing language the Austin school district used to explain why she was laid off as part of a sweeping staff shakeup. Crispín’s face deflated. “What? That doesn't make any sense,” she said. The Austin Independent School District fired Brown-Gomez, a handful of other teachers and the principal after Texas gave Dobie two consecutive F ratings under its accountability system, a state tool largely based on scores from STAAR, the state’s standardized test.
view article
Seven House Democrats making day trip to New Mexico amid redistricting battle
With a quorum break on the table for the minority party as a way to thwart a GOP bid for more congressional seats, members travel out-of-state for a third time.
view article
Greg Abbott is pushing a new plan to lower property taxes: cap how much cities can spend
Gov. Greg Abbott boasted about plowing another $3.5 billion into cutting homeowners’ property taxes in the latest legislative session. Now, he wants state lawmakers to go even further during the special session by capping how much cities and counties can increase their spending. The Texas Republican has framed the issue as his next major legislative battle after signing long-sought private school vouchers into law earlier this year. “What I would like to see done is to make sure that every property taxing jurisdiction must live just within the same spending limits that the state has to live in,” Abbott said in an interview with Hearst Newspapers. “And if they're confined in that … their ability to impose greater property taxes is going to be hamstrung.”
view article
Oklahoma authorities investigate reports of explicit images on state education chief’s TV
An Oklahoma sheriff’s office Monday opened an investigation over reports that images of nude women were displayed on the state’s school superintendent office television during a meeting with education board members. Top Oklahoma lawmakers have sought answers over accounts given by two State Board of Education members, who said they saw the images during a meeting in Ryan Walters 's office Thursday. Another board member, Chris Van Denhende, said he was not in a position to see the television but that “something was on the screen that should not have been,” based on Walters’ reaction.
view article
Beloved Texas chain Shipley Do-Nuts has been acquired by a California private equity firm
Houston-based chain Shipley Do-Nuts no longer has Texas ownership after being acquired Monday by a California private equity firm, Houston TV channel KHOU reports. A spokesman for Peak Rock Capital announced Monday that the Austin-based firm had sold Shipley to Leichtman Capital Partners, based in Beverly Hills. Also included in Leichtman's portfolio are Cici's Pizza and Nothing Bundt Cakes. Shipley Do-Nuts, one of the largest donut companies in the country, got its start as a small Houston shop in 1936. Now, the nearly 90-year-old business has more than 375 stores operating in 14 states.
view article