On Monday, Nov. 18, 2024, the State Board of Education in Texas is considering a proposed curriculum that would incorporate teachings from the Bible into new state reading and language arts lessons. This initiative is part of a broader effort by Texas Republicans to introduce more Christianity into public schools. If approved, the curriculum could be implemented in public schools starting in August 2025. While districts will have the option to use these materials, they may receive up to $60 per student in additional funding as an incentive. Jaden Edison from The Texas Tribune provides more insights on this proposed curriculum.
Reflecting on the tragic Aggie bonfire incident that occurred 25 years ago on Nov. 18, 1999, at Texas A&M University, where a student-made bonfire collapsed unexpectedly. The 59-foot-tall structure, built with around 5,000 logs, collapsed onto students, resulting in the death of 12 individuals and injuries to 27 others. Kevin Robbins, an associate director at the UT-Austin School of Journalism, interviewed John Comstock, a survivor of the tragedy, in 2016. Robbins shares his experiences in documenting the event and discusses its lasting impact on A&M.
A new children’s book has been released, narrating the story of Houston’s Emancipation Park, established to commemorate Juneteenth in 1965. The book, authored by Tonya Duncan Ellis, brings to life the 150-year-old history of the park for young readers. The significance of this park in celebrating freedom and the end of slavery is highlighted through this children’s picture book.
Unfortunately, BlackLIT, the first Black-owned bookstore in Farmers Branch, North Texas, has closed down after just two years of operation due to harassment and threats faced by its founder. Despite these challenges, the founder remains determined not to give up on the dream of promoting Black literature and culture.
The iconic DKR stadium at the University of Texas at Austin is marking its 100th anniversary. The stadium, built in 1924, has been a historic venue for UT Austin’s football games. Danny Davis, a sports journalist from the Austin American-Statesman, shares insights on the significance of this milestone for the university’s sports history.
“Refamulating,” a podcast hosted by Austinite Julia Winston, delves into the evolving definition of family in modern society. As cultural norms shift, career priorities change, and housing costs rise, the traditional idea of the nuclear family is being redefined. Winston explores these themes in the podcast’s second season, shedding light on how different identities and family structures are becoming more accepted and normalized.
Faith Family Academy, a charter high school in Oak Cliff, Dallas, recently faced scrutiny from the University Interscholastic League for alleged recruiting violations within its girls’ basketball program. Despite assembling a highly competitive team, the school was deemed ineligible for playoffs, and its coaches were suspended for two years. Greg Riddle, a high school sports editor for the Dallas Morning News, provides an in-depth look at the situation.
In addition to these stories, the Texas Newsroom’s state roundup and Raul Alonzo with the Talk of Texas are also featured in the latest Texas Standard broadcast. If you appreciate the reporting provided, you can contribute to supporting it by making a donation on texasstandard.org and KUT.org. Your support helps sustain the quality journalism delivered by these platforms. Thank you for considering a donation today.
