A school voucher program in Texas is more likely than ever. Can lawmakers craft a bill they agree on?
KSAT – After years of hitting a brick wall, school voucher advocates in Texas are entering next year’s legislative session with better odds than ever of passing a measure that would let parents use public money to pay for their kids’ private schooling.
Here’s what public school advocates want to see during the next legislative session
TEXAS STANDARD — The article from Texas Standard discusses the priorities of public school advocates for the upcoming 2025 legislative session. Key issues include increasing school funding, investing in teacher recruitment and retention, and opposing voucher programs that divert public funds to private schools. Advocates emphasize the need for transparency and accountability in how schools use public tax dollars.
Texas will have a $20B surplus next legislative session, comptroller projects
COMMUNITY IMPACT — Texas lawmakers will begin the next legislative session with a projected $20 billion surplus, according to state Comptroller Glenn Hegar. This surplus is expected to address key issues such as transportation, water infrastructure, and education. Lawmakers are also considering the implementation of school voucher programs, despite previous proposals failing to pass in earlier sessions.
Rewriting Texas education: why education policy will be a top priority next session
CBS Austin — The article from CBS Austin highlights the escalating debate over education policy in Texas, focusing on the push for school choice and the introduction of voucher programs. It emphasizes the tension between allocating taxpayer money for private schools and the need to increase funding for public schools, which has remained stagnant since before the pandemic.
The Impact of School Choice on Special Education in Texas
While these initiatives aim to provide families with more educational options, they also raise important concerns, particularly for students in special education.
TEA data reveals new details in certification scandal involving at least 50 North Texas educators
CBS NEWS – Texas Education Agency data reveals the types of teaching certifications allegedly bought by at least 50 educators who occupied classrooms in North Texas.
CCISD tracking potential federal, state plans for public education
KIII – Both large and small school districts across the state have an eye on the 89th Texas Legislature, which convenes in Austin on Jan. 14.
How a staffing shortage can make special education jobs more dangerous
KERA – Articles talks about how staffing shortages can lead to unsafe conditions.
Texas weighs social media bans for minors as schools and police face challenges
TEXAS TRIBUNE – A Texas lawmaker has introduced a bill prohibiting minors from using social media accounts as school districts become a “hunting ground” for online dangers.
Understanding Legislative Lingo
Knowing how to read and interpret legislative documents can empower you to stay informed and engaged. This knowledge will help you follow along and participate more effectively in the political discourse.
