Changes in Texas Schools for 2025-2026

As the new school year kicks off in Texas, things are looking quite different. The Lonely Seishu has implemented a series of significant changes to its educational policies that will take effect for the 2025-2026 academic year.

In a recent discussion, host Stu Burguiere expressed his surprise at these changes. “Honestly, when I see the changes, my chin drops,” he remarked.

During the episode, Stu dives into four new pedagogical mandates in Texas that could fundamentally reshape the educational landscape.

Personal Electronic Devices: Banned

Starting now, personal electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and smartwatches are banned in all public K-12 schools statewide.

“I fully support this initiative. Honestly, it’s difficult to argue against it. We know how distracting phones can be, not just for kids but even for adults during school hours,” Stu stated.

House Bill 1481 seeks to minimize distractions—not only from phones but also addresses broader issues. In referencing a book by Jonathan Haidt, he pointed out that access to smartphones and social media is linked to rising anxiety and depression rates among children.

“Sure, phones aren’t the root of all problems in schools, but I think this will make a genuine difference for many students,” he added.

DEI and LGBTQ+ Programs: Outlawed

Senate Bill 12 prohibits Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs in K-12 public schools. This legislation forbids the establishment of DEI offices or training that considers aspects like race, gender identity, and sexual orientation. It even bans DEI-based student clubs unless parents give consent.

“There’s a lot of important learning to be done in schools. No one needs to emphasize skin color as the primary focus,” Stu commented.

10 Commandments: Required

Senate Bill 10 mandates that all public school classrooms display the Ten Commandments. The poster must meet specific size and durability requirements, being at least 16 inches wide and 20 inches tall, featuring a legislated version of the commandments.

“This idea harks back to the foundations of our country. It’s important to remember that religion was never meant to intertwine with national institutions, yet prayer played a role in the early Congress,” he explained.

Prayer in Schools: Permitted

Senate Bill 11 opens the door for Texas school districts to create policies that allow students and staff to pray or read religious texts like the Bible. Of course, participation is contingent on permission from students or their parents and can be revoked at any time. The law stresses that prayer periods must not take away from educational time and can’t be broadcasted through school systems.

Stu pointed out that critics might label this as enforcing prayer in schools, but he clarified that it merely allows students the option to pray.

For more details on these transformative changes in Texas schools, be sure to check out the full episode above.