By Jahaura Michelle
Defender
https://defendernetwork.com/
The new administration at the White House means several changes to educational policies across the country. Consequently, this beat will always remain interesting in Texas.
There may not be a Presidential election this year, but the impact of the one that just passed will course through the coming months. And isn’t that the most exciting thing to know as a journalist?
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The 89th Texas Legislative Session is about to begin on Jan. 14, with Democrats and Republicans prioritizing education differently. With a Republican House and Senate, party leaders will have sway in the upcoming 140-day session. Lawmakers have already filed thousands of bills, and school vouchers remain a top contention in education. The law that removed diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices from campuses continues to create a buzz.
In governance, discussions on property taxes, abortion, immigration, criminal justice, health, and guns are imminent. There will be overlaps too. For example, Republican House members have filed versions of a bill that aims to stop providing in-state tuition to particular undocumented students in Texas.
This is no time to be apolitical. As they say…the state of being apolitical today is a political act in itself.
As a reader, do stay tuned! And as a journalist, I will do the same.
The year ahead fills me with renewed enthusiasm and of course, optimism.
Thank you for supporting our work. Let’s have an amazing 2025!
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