Appeals court: TEA can release A-F school ratings

A judge with the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled last week that the Texas Education Agency can release its 2023 A-F school accountability ratings, the Houston Chronicle reported.

Today, possibly more than ever, you must realize you are not alone in this crazy and unpredictable business environment. Each day, a new bump, twist or challenge comes along. But your membership in America’s Newspapers can make an incredible difference.

By Leonard Woolsey, President of America’s Newspapers

As the tariffs loomed and arrived, I heard a familiar song dancing in my head. While you might hear The Beatles, I hear Joe Cocker — but the sentiment of “With A Little Help From My Friends” is what we all need to internalize: You are not alone.

I’m happy to report that a crisis I mentioned last in the newspaper industry has been averted. 

By Austin Lewter, director, Texas Center for Community Journalism

Last month, we told you the Tri-County Reporter in Springtown and Azle was closing. 

Well, it turns out that’s not the case. They found a buyer — a local family from the community who recognized the value of a vibrant hometown newspaper. 

Senate bill would curb home insurance rates without approval

Lawmakers in the Texas Senate are considering a measure that would require home insurers to get approval from regulators before increasing rates more than 10%, the Houston Chronicle reported.

Senate backs prayer time, Ten Commandments in classrooms

The Texas Senate last week passed a bill to allow school districts to set aside time for in-school prayer and gave initial approval to requiring all schools to post a copy of the Ten Commandments in every classroom.

Texas farmers concerned over growing trade war

Texas farmers are voicing growing concerns about tariffs being enacted by President Trump adversely affecting their ability to sell agricultural goods overseas, the Houston Chronicle reported. Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening said the tariffs could be especially tough on younger farmers.

With bill filing going full-bore for the legislative session, Texas Press Association’s Mike Hodges and Donnis Baggett report that the pace is as brisk it has been in the past. They expect that 8,000-9,000 bills will be filed by the March 14 deadline.

By BILL PATTERSON, TPA President

As youths we all likely tried to hide bad behavior from our parents. The truth inevitably surfaced, and we bore the brunt of punishment. Lesson: Be up front with circumstances and repercussions typically are minimized.

By Jim Pumarlo, consultant

Newspapers should communicate the same lesson to public officials who try to keep secret what they deem sensitive or unwelcome news: Be forthright. Make it standard procedure to volunteer the news and minimize rumors.

House proposes $7.5 billion in new school funding

Critics say a House bill proposing $7.5 billion in new funding for public education doesn’t go far enough, The Dallas Morning News reported. House Bill 2 would raise the per-student allotment by $220, to $6,360 a year. It would also invest $750 million in teacher pay and $450 million in teacher training. 

Voucher bill has backing of House majority

A slim majority of Texas House members have indicated they will back House Bill 3, which creates education savings accounts that allow families to use taxpayer money for private school education. The Dallas Morning News reported that 75 Republican legislators have signed on with the bill’s author, state Rep. Brad Buckley, R-Salado, to support the measure.