FRIDAY TOP NEWS LINKS:
Video: HISD could change funding
for magnet schools (KTRK 13 News)
Ericka Mellon, Houston Chronicle
Some of HISD’s under-performing magnet schools may lose funding in coming years while other campuses could see new programs after the school board agreed Thursday to kickstart a long-delayed review process.
The board voted unanimously on a revised policy governing its beloved magnet school program, saying the schools would be held more accountable for academic performance and their ability to attract students.
While some of the 113 magnet programs are nationally recognized and draw waiting lists, others have languished over the years.
“Woo! We finally passed a magnet policy,” board preside
nt Anna Eastman said immediately after the vote.
Houston Independent School District Superintendent Terry Grier took his excitement to Twitter.
“HISD approves Magnet Policy after four years of discussion!” he wrote.
The policy does not address individual schools – a politically tougher topic. Grier and the board have said no changes will take place for the coming school year.
(Read the full story at Chron.com)
LOCAL AREA HEADLINES:
- Doctor investigates deaths of 2 teenagers (KPRC 2 News)
- Houston-area private school opens doors for low-income students (KHOU 11 News)
- CPS takes woman’s children because of estranged husband’s behavior (KHOU 11 News)
- Grenade scare on Alvin school bus worries parents (KPRC 2 News)
- Nearly half a million gallons of untreated sewage leaks into Sims Bayou in SE Houston (KTRK 13 News)
- Law Enforcement Across Texas Is Saying ‘Click It Or Ticket’ (KUHF Public Radio)
- Houston Zoo now letting endangered animals go free (Chron.com)
- Former president of area chemical company guilty of federal crimes related to employee deaths (Your Houston News)
STATE HEADLINES:
- In Central Texas, Obama touts schools, technology and barbecue (Austin Statesman)
- Perry says he’ll bring lawmakers back if tax cuts, water funding aren’t adequate (Austin Statesman)
- Texas officials advise against eating certain fish (KRIV 26 News)
- School Breakfast Bill Passes House (Texas Tribune)