Barton’s appointment comes ahead of what is expected to be a politically charged debate over how and what children should learn about history.
Public Education
Explore The Texas Tribune’s coverage of public education, from K-12 schools and funding to teachers, students, and policies shaping classrooms across Texas.
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Politics
Texas teachers, parents fear STAAR overhaul won’t take testing pressure off kids
Skeptics of the replacement, which requires three exams throughout the year, want to see less restrictions on testing day and more teacher input.
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Guides
Here’s what the law says about protesting on Texas college campuses
Students can generally peacefully protest, regardless of their viewpoint, but colleges and authorities may enforce some restrictions and criminal laws to maintain peace and order.
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Higher Education
Texas A&M regents name Christian Hardigree president of newly acquired Victoria campus
System Chancellor Glenn Hegar and the Board of Regents chair have stood by the new president amid criticism from some conservatives about her previous work around diversity and equity.
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Politics
ACLU, other groups sue to block Texas’ DEI ban on K-12 public schools
The suit alleges the new state law unconstitutionally silences the viewpoints of students and teachers. The law’s supporters say DEI programs use public funds to promote political agendas.
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Texas Legislature 2025
Texas is officially replacing STAAR. Here is what schools’ new standardized tests will look like.
House Bill 8 scraps the unpopular exam for three shorter tests at the beginning, middle and end of the year starting in the 2027-28 school year.
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Higher Education
Student who mocked Charlie Kirk’s death “no longer” at Texas State University as clampdowns continue
The university’s announcement came hours after Gov. Greg Abbott called for the student’s expulsion.
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T-Squared
Welcoming Melissa Barragán Taboada as the first editor-in-chief of our new Austin newsroom
A veteran Austin journalist, Melissa will lead a newsroom dedicated to closing the information gaps in Austin; fostering strategic collaborations with local organizations; and delivering relevant, timely journalism that keeps pace with Austin’s explosive growth.
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Public Education
State Board of Education OKs Texas-heavy social studies plan, setting stage for clash over history lessons
Educators worry the plan will deemphasize topics like world geography, history and cultures. The board aims to vote on what specific content social studies lessons will include by next summer.
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Higher Education
Texas legislative committees will study freedom of speech on college campuses in wake of Charlie Kirk killing
The committees were made to honor slain conservative activist Charlie Kirk and come as university faculty have come under online scrutiny.