SUMMARY: The Texas State Board of Education approved the Texas Education Agency’s Bluebonnet Learning proposal, passing by an 8-7 vote. This initiative introduces new math and language arts curricula for K-8 students and provides resources for teachers. Governor Greg Abbott commended the decision as vital for enhancing education standards. The materials, which are provided voluntarily and at no cost, aim to improve student outcomes while offering additional funding to school districts that adopt them. However, some opponents, including the American Federation of Teachers-Texas Chapter, criticized the curriculum’s content and the ethical implications of funding preferences based on adoption.

Read the full article

The post Texas Board of Education passes Bluebonnet Learning curriculum | Texas appeared first on www.thecentersquare.com

SUMMARY: A tragic incident occurred when Deputy Katherine Hudson, working a second job on the Katy Freeway, was killed while her 7-year-old daughter was in the car. Sources revealed that Hudson could not find affordable child care, which led her to bring her daughter along. Experts from the Children at Risk advocacy group highlight the statewide need for affordable child care that accommodates irregular hours. They stress that the lack of accessible child care affects not only families but the entire community, urging action as the next legislative session approaches.

The death of a deputy constable and her daughter, struck by an impaired driver while she worked a second job, sheds light on the growing demand for affordable childcare solutions.

Source

SUMMARY: Texas has allocated over $225 million in grants to enhance law enforcement in rural areas, addressing salary and recruitment challenges. The Rural Law Enforcement Grant Program, established by SB 22 in 2023, aims to bridge funding gaps in under-resourced counties. In fiscal 2024, $125.7 million was awarded to 502 recipients, and $98.4 million in fiscal 2025 to 396 recipients. While the program has enabled significant salary increases and hiring, some sheriffs report that county officials are blocking funds for political reasons. Advocates suggest allowing direct applications from sheriffs for a more effective funding process.

Read the full article

The post More than $225 million allocated to support rural law enforcement | Texas appeared first on www.thecentersquare.com