Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2025:
Uncertainty for college students as groups seek to reinstate Dream Act
Lawyers are seeking to restore enforcement of the Texas Dream Act – which allowed eligible residents who do not have U.S. citizenship to get in-state college tuition – as deadlines quickly approach to pay tuition for the fall.
Lily Kepner, who covers higher education at the Austin American-Statesman, joins the show with the latest.
Texas Democrats extend quorum break over redistricting fight
Texas Democrats remain out of state, blocking a vote on new congressional maps in the Republican-controlled Legislature. The standoff is winning praise from party leaders nationwide, though some – like Republicans in Oregon, who have participated in similar quorum busts – call it hypocrisy.
Oregon Public Broadcasting political reporter Lauren Dake joins the Standard.
It’s a Gonzales/Herrera rematch in this border district
District 23 Congressman Tony Gonzales will be facing a familiar opponent as he seeks re-election.
Texas Public Radio’s David Martin Davies reports that pro-gun activist Brandon Herrera is challenging Gonzales for the Republican nomination for the seat:
How universities are adapting to the AI era
As Texas college students return to classrooms, AI tools like ChatGPT are top of mind. UT Austin has released guidelines for responsible use, aiming to boost learning while limiting academic abuses.
Julie Schell, UT Austin assistant vice provost of academic technology, joins Texas Standard with more.
Pecan growers in El Paso adapt to climate pressures
Pecan farmers in West Texas face higher costs, hotter temperatures and dwindling irrigation supplies from the Rio Grande. Some are turning to cover crops and other sustainable practices to adapt.
Diego Mendoza-Moyers, energy and environment reporter at El Paso Matters, joins the Standard with an in-depth look.
The adorable scribbles of Longhand Pencils
A Texas company is stamping their colorful pencils with cute phrases and pop culture references galore. Meet Longhand Pencils proprietor Kasee Baldwin,
The Fort Worth gallery that nurtured a generation
McAnthony’s Multicultural Studio and Gallery is believed to be the first Black-owned gallery in Fort Worth. More than a venue, it was a creative launching pad for artists, including one who later taught President George W. Bush to paint.
KERA arts reporter Marcheta Fornoff reports.
No phones, devices in classrooms as Texas students return to school
A new state law bans cell phones, wearables and other electronic devices in Texas classrooms. Passed with bipartisan support, it’s raising questions from educators, parents and students about its implementation and impact.
Kevin Brown, executive director of the Texas Association of School Administrators, joins the show with an overview.
