The list of potential hurdles includes property tax cuts, school choice, the power grid, the state budget, plus diversity and tenure in higher education.
Higher Education
Coverage of universities, colleges, student issues, and education policy shaping Texas’ campuses, from The Texas Tribune.
University of Texas regents approve creation of new college to house Civitas Institute at UT-Austin
The Civitas Institute was conceived with the help of conservative donors and state lawmakers to lead research and education based on free-market principles.
For thousands of Texas professors seeking tenure, a bill banning the benefit could be a turning point in their careers
While the proposed tenure ban will likely face steep opposition in the Texas House, faculty say lawmakers’ recent attacks on higher education have raised concerns about whether Texas is the best state to build their career.
West Texas A&M faculty condemn university President Walter Wendler after drag show cancellation
The vote of no-confidence came over Wendler’s handling of the drag show. Faculty said he’s also exhibited poor leadership with other issues.
Education savings accounts drain resources, diminish choices
School vouchers, also known as education savings accounts (ESAs), have been a focal point this session and a priority for some state leaders. ESAs must be rejected by state lawmakers.
Research leaders at Texas A&M University raise “serious concerns” with President Kathy Banks’ leadership
A poll conducted by the Council of Principal Investigators, an elected group of faculty who help oversee research activity at the school, found respondents distrust the president’s decision making since she took the helm nearly two years ago.
Finding and keeping workers in post-pandemic economy is a struggle for West Texas, local leaders tell Fed
Local leaders told members of the Federal Reserve last week that families are facing financial stresses that make working hard. Educators say they need families more involved at school.
Texas Senate approves bill that would end faculty tenure at public universities
Senate Bill 18 faces an uphill battle at the Texas House, where Speaker Dade Phelan has expressed concerns with completely eliminating the commonplace job protection.
Texas Senate approves bill that would ban diversity programs in public universities
The legislation heads to the Texas House, where members have been more muted about the proposal to disband offices, programs and training that foster diversity.
As Texas college students struggle with affordability, UT-Austin launches program to offset on-campus housing costs
Demand for on-campus housing has gone up across the country as off-campus costs have skyrocketed and students seek more affordable options.



