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Brendan Carr, chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), has proposed ending subsidies for wireless internet on school buses, a program initiated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Carr criticized the previous administration's policies, arguing that they "failed to demonstrate that these funding decisions would advance legitimate classroom or library purposes." The U.S. Senate previously voted to repeal these subsidies, with Senate Commerce Committee chair Ted Cruz (R-TX) highlighting concerns over parental consent and filtering requirements for the distributed hotspots. Former FCC Chair Jessica Rosenworcel had supported the program, arguing it would assist students, particularly those in rural areas, in completing homework during long bus rides.

 

Reuters

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Recent A-F ratings from the Texas Education Agency reveal that most school districts in Central Texas have either improved or maintained their ratings over the past two years. While the percentage of failing schools decreased, 8% of Central Texas schools received an F, compared to 4% statewide. In 2025, 21% of campuses earned an A, while 10% received a D. HD Chambers, executive director of the Texas School Alliance, noted the importance of considering external factors affecting school performance. Pflugerville ISD for instance, improved its score by focusing on high-quality instructional materials and real-time adjustments to teaching methods.

 

Austin American-Statesman

The Texas legislature has passed HB 8, a bill that abolishes the STAAR Test and replaces it with three new assessments throughout the school year. State Rep. Brad Buckley introduced the bill, which aims to create a more supportive assessment program. The new tests will evaluate state curriculum standards in subjects like mathematics, social studies, and science, with annual assessments required for specific grades. Critics, including State Rep. Gina Hinojosa, argue that the increase in testing hours is burdensome, while State Rep. Brian Harrison expressed concerns about the potential for increased costs and bureaucratic control. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick praised the change, stating it is a victory for students and educators, as it aims to improve educational outcomes. The bill is set to take effect in the 2027–2028 school year.

 

Killeen Daily Herald

Dallas News

The Texas Tribune

Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath visited Wichita Falls and stated he has two legal options regarding the troubled Wichita Falls Independent School District (WFISD): close Hirschi Middle School or appoint a board of managers. The Texas Education Agency's recent ratings revealed WFISD achieved a D score of 68, with Hirschi failing accountability ratings for five consecutive years, prompting Morath's intervention. He noted: "What I saw today was a lot of very hardworking people that have clearly made very significant improvements," but questioned how the district allowed the situation to deteriorate. Morath plans to make a decision in a few months after finalizing the accountability ratings.

 

Wichita Falls Times Record News

Killeen ISD is hosting a series of town halls to discuss District Optimization, aimed at addressing declining enrollment and federal funding losses. KISD's head spokeswoman, Karen Rudolph, stated that the goal is to ensure students have access to high-quality programs and facilities. Olin Parker from Civic Solutions Group presented various scenarios, including potential school closures and consolidations, to better utilize district resources. One scenario suggests closing Peebles Elementary School, which could save the district $25.9m over five years. “Peebles is the oldest elementary school in the district,” Parker noted, emphasizing the need for resource optimization. The town hall will also cover long-term planning for high schools and career education access. KISD's assistant superintendent, Susan Buckley, clarified that these scenarios are options for consideration, not recommendations. Recommendations will be presented to the board in late October after community feedback.

 

Killeen Daily Herald

Gillespie County public school superintendents will provide updates on the two school districts during the September meeting of the Gillespie County Retired Teachers Association (GCRTA) on Monday, September 8. This meeting is an opportunity for community members to stay informed about the latest developments in local education.

 

Fredericksburg Standard Post

Needville ISD trustees have unanimously approved the proposed 2025-2026 operating budget and property tax rate during their August meeting, with final adoption scheduled for September 17. Chief financial officer Brenda Essenberg reported a slight decrease in Fort Bend County property values to $1.99bn, attributed to exemptions like the homestead exemption increase to $140,000. The budget anticipates revenues of $45.87m and expenditures of $47.23m, resulting in a $1.3m deficit. However, the district expects to receive nearly $1.4m, including $1m from solar field taxes and $387,000 from a Texas Emissions Reduction Plan grant. The budget includes funding for new buses, staff raises, and Chromebooks. Superintendent Dr. Paul Drake expressed gratitude for the staff's efforts at the start of the school year, stating, “Great job by everybody.”

 

Fort Bend Herald

The Mesquite City Council has approved a permit for a significant expansion of North Mesquite High School, allowing for the addition of 20 classrooms to the campus located at 18201 I-635. This 32,000-square-foot expansion was requested by Mesquite ISD and received a recommendation for approval from the planning and zoning commission on August 11. The expansion aims to enhance educational facilities and accommodate the growing student population.

 

Allen American

Center Point ISD has appointed John Limmer as the new superintendent of schools. Previously the principal at Center Point Secondary School, Limmer brings extensive administrative experience and a strong understanding of district operations, staff, and students. His familiarity with the community is expected to enhance his leadership role.

 

Daily Times

Killeen Daily Herald

Lamar CISD is responding to a significant increase in special education enrollment, with 7,192 students receiving services as of the 2024-25 school year, up from 2,500 students over the past five years. To accommodate this growth for the 2025-26 school year, the district is adding 34 new teachers and 29 paraprofessionals, along with behavior support specialists in every elementary and middle school. Despite these efforts, staffing challenges persist, with 17 teacher and 18 paraprofessional vacancies. The district is also enhancing professional development to address rising challenging student behaviors, implementing training programs from Ukeru and Nonviolent Crisis Intervention. To expedite referrals, Lamar CISD is conducting Saturday testing sessions to ensure timely support for students.

 

Community Impact Newspaper