Gov. Greg Abbott’s plan to gut public school funding, coupled with the redirection of state money towards private schools, paints a concerning picture for the future of education in Texas. It’s a move that seems designed to dismantle a system that is already struggling, potentially setting the stage for a dramatic shift in how children are educated and what opportunities are available to them.
The crux of the issue lies in the financial implications. Abbott’s proposal to slash property taxes, while seemingly beneficial on the surface, directly impacts the primary funding source for public schools. This creates a situation where schools are starved of resources, potentially leading to teacher layoffs, larger class sizes, and a decline in educational quality.… Continue reading
The Supreme Court ruled 4-4 against using public funds for Oklahoma’s proposed St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School, upholding the Oklahoma Supreme Court’s decision. Justice Amy Coney Barrett’s recusal resulted in the tie, leaving the lower court’s ruling—which cited the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment—in effect. This decision, however, does not establish a nationwide precedent. The school, which would have been the first government-funded religious charter school, was blocked from receiving taxpayer money.
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Following a legal challenge, the Trump administration reversed its decision to cut off Maine’s school meal funding, totaling over $3 million, after a federal judge ruled the USDA likely failed to adhere to legal procedures. This action stemmed from Maine’s refusal to comply with the administration’s anti-transgender sports ban, a move seen as using school meals to punish inclusive policies. The USDA agreed to restore funding and cease using this tactic, though separate legal action threatening broader education funding remains. This victory for Maine highlights a larger national battle over transgender rights and the use of federal funding to pressure states into discriminatory practices.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker