The biggest back-to-school changes across Houston-area districts
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It's almost time for students to return to school, with many local school districts reopening next week.
Why it matters: Families will navigate new state laws, district policy changes, school changes and updated school calendars this year.
Here's what to know before the first bell.
New state laws
Texas' law requiring the Ten Commandments in every public school classroom is in effect statewide after a federal appeals court lifted an injunction that had blocked enforcement in some districts. The law remains under legal challenge.
Texas' Education Freedom Accounts program — the state's school voucher system — debuts this school year, with participating families receiving state money for private school tuition and approved education costs.
Changes within districts
Houston ISD: 12 campuses have closed, sending thousands of students to new schools.
- The district is adopting the state-developed Bluebonnet Learning curriculum for kindergarten through fifth grade. The curriculum includes optional Bible-based references and qualifies participating districts for additional state funding.
- 33 campuses will no longer offer universal free lunch because of changes to federal eligibility rules.
- Roughly 5,000 students will be affected by the district's special education program consolidation.
- Nine more elementary schools will join the district's New Education System (NES) reform model.
Fort Bend ISD: Seven elementary school campuses will not reopen this school year as part of district consolidation.
- The district is launching its Fort Bend Redesign initiative, adding new specialty programs, including a virtual high school and middle school choice academies focused on career pathways such as aviation, aerospace and artificial intelligence.
Katy ISD: The district is adding a fall break from Oct. 9–13.
- There will also be a new Legacy Virtual High School, offering full- and part-time virtual learning options beginning this fall.
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD: The district is consolidating its special education programs, affecting around 250 students.
- It is also introducing a fall break from Oct. 12-16.
Alief ISD: The district is opening its all-girls Young Women's Leadership School for grades 6-12.
Aldine ISD: Two additional campuses are closing because of declining enrollment, following six school closures last year.
Conroe ISD: Two new campuses will open.