The educational landscape in Central Texas includes various programs designed to provide essential resources and support to K-12 students at no cost. These initiatives range from nutritional assistance and online schooling options to community-based support services. Information regarding these programs is disseminated through local news outlets, educational organizations, and official school district communications.
Nutritional Support Programs
Several school districts in Central Texas provide free lunches and breakfasts to students. According to local reporting, districts including Temple ISD, Connally ISD, Waco ISD, Rapoport Academy, Bryan ISD, La Vega ISD, and Killeen ISD offer these meals. Some districts utilize the USDA’s Community Eligibility Provision, a program available to qualifying districts in low-income areas.
Community organizations also contribute to student nutrition. One More Child, in partnership with college students at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (UMHB), packed 21,000 meals for students in Belton ISD. The food for this initiative was provided by H-E-B. Dr. Jerry Haag, President and CEO of One More Child, described the effort as a partnership between public, corporate, and non-profit entities to ensure children have access to food.
Tuition-Free Online Public Schools
Texas residents have access to tuition-free online public schools serving students in grades 3 through 12. These programs are funded directly by the state, eliminating tuition costs for families. However, families may be responsible for school supplies, optional in-person field trips, and in some cases, a computer and reliable internet connection.
Texas Connections Academy
Texas Connections Academy is a tuition-free online public school for students throughout Texas in grades 3-12. The program focuses on developing connections between teachers specializing in online learning, engaged caregivers, and students. The school reports that 97% of parents agree their child is receiving a quality education with them.
The school is part of the Houston Independent School District and has been providing online learning for over 12 years. Accredited teachers are available during the instructional day. While the school is free, students must use their own computers and purchase their own books. Enrollment requirements include prior public enrollment in Texas. Deadlines for the enrollment process are October 15 for grades 3 through 8 and October 8 for high school.
Texas Connections Academy was recently ranked 28th in the nation in Niche's 2021 Best Online High Schools in America.
Texas Virtual Academy at Hallsville
The Texas Virtual Academy at Hallsville (TVAH) is a tuition-free online program of the Hallsville Independent School District, serving grades 3 through 12. Established in 2014, the school had 6,500 students as of October 2019. The school's website states it is dedicated to inspiring and empowering students through an education experience tailored to each child's needs.
Regarding enrollment status, grades 6, 9, 10, and 11 are fully open for enrollment, while grades 5, 7, 8, and 12 are at capacity with a waitlist. The school received a state accountability rating of "A" and earned distinction designations in English Language Arts/Reading, Science, Social Studies, Comparative Academic Growth, and Postsecondary Readiness.
K12-Powered Online Elementary Schools
K12-powered online schools in Texas emphasize hands-on learning for young children, combining online and offline lessons for a comprehensive experience. Learning Coaches are expected to spend 3 to 6 hours with students each school day.
Community Support and Campus-Based Resources
Community in Schools (CIS) of Central Texas operates a unique model that places a dedicated, full-time social service professional on every campus served. This approach builds relationships with businesses, volunteers, and partners to bring community resources directly to the school campus. The organization serves multiple Central Texas school districts, including Austin ISD, Del Valle ISD, Elgin ISD, Harmony Public Schools, Hays CISD, Lockhart ISD, Manor ISD, San Marcos CISD, and Taylor ISD.
The organization reports that students receiving support have stayed in school, graduated or were promoted to the next grade level, and improved in one or more individual academic, attendance, and behavior need areas. Services include group and school-wide supports and individual case management.
Back-to-School Initiatives and Policies
As Central Texas school districts approach the start of the school year, various initiatives and policy changes are being implemented. One organization invited parents to sign up for a free shopping spree for school supplies.
Mental health experts recommend preparing children for the return to school to help manage anxiety. Additionally, Killeen ISD announced a plan to remove cell phones from the school environment for the 2024-2025 school year on all secondary campuses. This "phone-free" plan aims to improve student engagement and mental health.
Academy ISD high school students are returning to a brand new high school campus. The new facility was built following voter approval of a district bond approximately three years ago to accommodate the community's growing population.