This Week in Texas looks a possible TEA takeover of HISD, school safety and vouchers

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- In a new episode of ABC13's political program This Week in Texas, we look into the possibility that the largest school district in the state, HISD, will be taken over by the Texas Education Agency.

We also talk about vouchers, using public money to help parents send their children to private schools, and exploring a bill that would put emergency alert capabilities in every classroom across the state.

RELATED: 'Total obliteration': Mayor Turner says HISD takeover by the Texas Education Agency is imminent


The bill's sponsor, Democrat State Representative Shawn Thierry of Houston, also sits down with Eyewitness News to explain the concept.
"It's software that allows students, teachers, faculty, in the event of an active shooter or any other emergency, to immediately communicate with first responders," Thierry said.

There are also new reports of a new African-American History course and a resurgence of the popularity of HBCUs.

RELATED: HBCUs nationwide see a surge in interest and enrollment

View past episodes of This Week in Texas

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HISD TAKEOVER-RELATED LINKS:

• Houston ISD's independence remains in limbo following Texas Supreme Court ruling

• Houston ISD faces $60M deficit as enrollment declines by 20,000

• Texas Supreme Court clears way for state's education agency to take over Houston ISD

• Texas Education Agency to create task force to examine teacher shortage under Gov. Abbott

• More than 20,000 students in HISD classes without a certified teacher, 13 Investigates finds

• Houston ISD sees new leadership roles in search for 'more efficiency'

• What the latest changes in TEA guidance means for Texas educators, parents and students