Texas schools

"We're coming for the books," the lieutenant governor said in announcing plans to lower the performance rating of Texas schools that violate a recent law targeting obscene titles in school libraries.

Some districts use the temporary work permits to fill critical teacher shortages in roles such as bilingual education.

Civil rights advocates have asked the U.S. Supreme Court to review a Texas law requiring the state's public schools to display the Ten Commandments. Monday's petition tees up a case that could set a new national standard for the limits of religious expression in classrooms.

Gov. Greg Abbott wants teachers convicted of such misconduct with a student to face 10-year minimums in prison sentences with no parole.

Public health officials said some parents are confused about what vaccines are required to attend Texas schools amid efforts to change recommendations.

The Waco school district is one of the latest to partner with the Third Future charter network as a last-ditch effort to stave off state intervention.

Property-wealthy districts say recapture gives the state too much control over local finances. But advocates warn that without it, underserved students could end up worse off.

The State Board of Education on Friday approved a new reading list that includes numerous Bible passages, and a social studies curriculum that emphasizes U.S. and Texas history over world cultures. Approved changes start taking effect in 2030.

The Republican-majority State Board of Education is scheduled to vote this week on adopting curriculum changes statewide. Critics say the new social studies lessons and reading lists over-emphasize Christianity.

Texas' charters continued growing this school year, but the pace slowed. Experts warn that the enrollment drop facing traditional school districts could also affect charters.