Advocates say the bills will give parents more power over their children’s schools. Critics say they don’t give parents anything they didn’t already have and will only strain their relationship with teachers.
Stories by Texas Tribune fellows
The Texas Tribune welcomes a group of student fellows into our newsroom each spring, summer and fall. Here is a sampling of their work. Learn more about the fellowship program here.
Posted in
Politics
Former Houston Mayor Annise Parker announces run for Lina Hidalgo’s seat atop Harris County government
If Hidalgo decides to seek another term, she and Parker would face off in the March 2026 Democratic primary.
Posted in
Redistricting Texas 2025
Trump aides want Texas to redraw its congressional maps to boost the GOP. What would that mean?
The plan would shift voters from safely red districts into blue ones. Members of the state’s Republican delegation aren’t sold on the idea.
Posted in
Graphics and data reporting
Texas high school students’ STAAR scores show gains in STEM fields, struggles in reading and literacy
Education policy experts say the results align with Texas’ workforce goals but note that students still need help.
Posted in
Redistricting Texas 2025
Texas’ GOP congressional delegation meets to discuss redrawing districts ahead of midterms
The proposal would require the Texas Legislature to return for a special session to carry out the rare move of reshaping the state’s political boundaries mid-decade.
Watch: Texas policy experts discuss how lawmakers addressed education, infrastructure needs this year
Policy experts discussed a new school funding bill, a $20 billion package to keep up with water demand and the state’s energy fund.
Posted in
2025 Legislative Recap
From vouchers to a cellphone ban, this year’s lawmaking session brought transformative changes to Texas schools
An agenda driven by conservative priorities, schools’ financial duress and teacher needs led to an $8.5 billion boost, new discipline rules, more Christianity in classrooms and a DEI ban.
Posted inPolitics
Texas’ DEI ban on public schools heads to Gov. Greg Abbott for final sign-off
Senate Bill 12’s supporters say DEI programs use class time and public funds to promote political agendas.
Posted inDemographics
Democrats lash out as Legislature bans school clubs that support gay teens
Tensions flared and the debate turned personal as Republicans said their bill empowered parents and denied predictions that the ban will endanger children.
Posted in
Texas Legislature 2025
Bill that would ban cellphones in Texas public schools heads to Gov. Greg Abbott’s desk
Research shows cellphones interfere with students’ ability to focus in class. Texas would join at least nine other states that ban students from using their phones during the school day.