Education

Faculty senates have long played a key role in developing curriculum and protecting open inquiry. State leaders have also accused them of liberal indoctrination.

Lubbock Independent School District's Board of Trustees voted unanimously to pass phase one of its school consolidations last night. The plan will consolidate Overton Elementary School into Rush Elementary School, OL Slaton Middle School into Dunbar College Preparatory Academy and Atkins Middle School, and see the closure of Hodges Elementary School.

The Lubbock Independent School District Board of Trustees will meet tonight at 6 p.m. to make a final decision on possible consolidations and closures of several elementary and middle schools, potentially including Hodges Elementary, O.L. Slaton, and Overton Elementary. KERA's Pablo Arauz Peña reports that Texas remains the top state for domestic net migration, according to the latest Census data.

Controversial voucher-like Education Savings Accounts seem a certainty after Texas Gov. Greg Abbott helped oust fellow Republicans who opposed them last year. But educators are wary about what a new plan could look like.

The Texas State Board of Education approved a controversial new Bible-infused curriculum Friday, which schools may choose to adopt. KERA's Nathan Collins reports the city of Dallas may need millions more dollars on short notice to fund the police pension system. Lubbock Area United Way launched a new website to provide local data on community issues.

LISD’s Board of Trustees heard the recommendation for possible campus consolidations and closures, which administrators say is the best way to avoid a new bond. Many upset parents, students, and teachers say it’s about more than money — but community, equity and transparency.

The Texas State Board of Education gave final approval Friday to controversial new K-5 curriculum that weaves in Christian references.

A majority of the panel voted to call on the Texas Legislature to pass a state law giving members the authority to determine age-appropriate books for students.

Texas Public Radio's Brian Kirkpatrick reports that Texans should find slightly cheaper gas prices at the pump this Thanksgiving than last. As plans for a Dallas to Houston bullet train move forward, KERA's Pablo Arauz Peña has more on hopes to kickstart another high speed rail line in the state. LISD’s Board of Trustees meeting yesterday saw the presentation of recommended campus consolidations and closures, to be voted on Dec. 4th.

Critics say the curriculum overemphasizes Christianity. The board is expected to officially vote on whether to approve the materials later this week.