The Latest Breaking News from Mandy Drogin

Immigrant kids can attend school regardless of citizenship – some states are challenging this standard

All immigrants, regardless of their citizenship status, have the right to attend a public K-12 school in the United States. Schools cannot collect students’ immigration status when they enroll. This has been the case since 1982, when the Supreme Court ruled against Texas in the case of Plyler v. Doe.

The Conversation · Mar 23

Texas parents and teachers worry bills to root out liberal sway from public schools pave the way for conservative bias

Advocates say the bills will give parents more power over their children’s schools. Critics say they don’t give parents anything they didn’t already have and will only strain their relationship with teachers.

The Texas Tribune · Jun 12, 2025

School voucher supporters bask in primary wins, say goals are within reach

Gov. Greg Abbott called the results “an unmistakable message.” His allies said the state is “closer than ever” to a voucher program.

The Texas Tribune · Mar 6, 2024

Ken Paxton verdict heightens political tension ahead of education special session

The Texas House and Senate were already far apart on “school choice.” Anger over the impeachment trial might make it even harder to find common ground.

The Texas Tribune · Sep 19, 2023

Gov. Greg Abbott and House Speaker Dade Phelan join forces on property taxes. It might help the push for school vouchers.

Phelan announced the formation of a House committee that could set the tone in favor of vouchers ahead of an expected special session on education. The move comes weeks after Abbott sided with Phelan on a plan to lower property taxes.

The Texas Tribune · Jun 14, 2023

Texas Senate passes revamped school funding bill in last-minute bid to implement voucher program

Texas senators have latched education savings accounts to a school funding bill in a last-ditch effort to avoid a special session. But some House members are furious at the revamped version and have vowed not to let it become law.

The Texas Tribune · May 22, 2023