Conservative lawmakers say DEI efforts are discriminatory and push liberal ideologies on children. Critics point to research showing a diverse teacher body helps students succeed academically.
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
Texas Democrats cancel planned vote to condemn Rep. Henry Cuellar
Concerns about measures to enforce a ban against a lawmaker’s access to voter files led the party to drop the vote, a party leader said.
Posted in
Environment
Texas attorney general wins $60 million judgment in pollution lawsuit
A Texas business illegally dumped industrial waste into Skull Creek in Colorado County six years ago, then residents complained to the attorney general’s office.
Posted in
Politics
John Cornyn says tax and spending bill must reimburse Texas $11 billion for border security
Texas Republicans are pushing the federal government to pay the state’s costs of Operation Lone Star, Gov. Greg’s Abbott’s border security initiative.
Posted in
Politics
Texas Democratic Party considers sanctioning Henry Cuellar over federal indictment, votes breaking with party
The Laredo congressman could be blocked from party campaign resources and social events if the party sanction is passed.
Texas education experts say stronger prep, higher pay key to solving teacher shortage
At a Texas Tribune event, education experts discussed challenges facing Texas public schools and potential ways to solve them.
Posted in
Texas Legislature 2025
Texas strips protections for teachers, parents who share “obscene” material with children
A fiery debate on the House floor Friday gave way to the Senate Bill 412’s final vote. Supporters say it’s needed to protect children.
Posted in
Politics
Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick to lead Trump’s commission on religious liberty
The commission includes Ben Carson, “Dr. Phil” McGraw and religious figures.
Posted in
Economy
Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta confirmed as Trump’s ambassador to Italy
The Texas billionaire has said he will drop his position at Landry’s, but will continue his ownership of the Houston Rockets.
Posted in
Texas Legislature 2025
A now-discarded plan to split Keller ISD caused a stir. Lawmakers now want clear rules on how to divide districts.
A House bill would require school districts to hold an election before breaking into smaller entities.