Here’s what’s coming up on Texas Standard for Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025.
Texas collects data on trans residents through state IDs
A year after the state blocked transgender Texans from updating their state IDs, it has collected information on more than 100 people who have tried. Officials won’t say what they’re using the list for. The move raises questions about how personal information is gathered and protected by the state.
Lauren McGaughy, investigative reporter and editor for The Texas Newsroom, joins Texas Standard with more.
Army creates new command focused on Western Hemisphere
The U.S. Army is reorganizing its command structure to align with the Trump administration’s military priorities, including increased attention on border security and regional operations. A newly formed Western Hemisphere Command reflects that shift.
Jay Price reports for the American Homefront Project on what the change signals for the military and its mission.
Rod Paige’s legacy and the rise of No Child Left Behind
Rod Paige, former Houston schools superintendent and U.S. education secretary under President George W. Bush, has died at 90. Paige was a central figure behind No Child Left Behind, a policy that reshaped how schools are measured and judged nationwide.
Houston Public Media’s Bianca Seward reports on Paige’s career and the ongoing debate over his education legacy.
Texas universities turn to AI to review course content
Texas universities are using artificial intelligence tools to audit course descriptions for content related to race and gender, following a new state law expanding regents’ authority over class curriculum. Faculty and experts are warning the approach could chill academic freedom and lead to overcorrection.
Jessica Priest, higher education reporter for the Texas Tribune, joins Texas Standard to explain what her reporting found.
Influential Texas musician Joe Ely dies at 78
Texas songwriter Joe Ely, whose career took him from the dusty and flat landscape of the Texas Panhandle around the world, has died at 78. We’ll learn more about his life and musical impact.
Bob Livingston reflects on music, myth, and the road
In his new book “Gypsy Alibi: A Gonzo Memoir,” Bob Livingston traces a life spent chasing music across Texas and far beyond – from the Cosmic Cowboy era to years traveling overseas.
Livingston sits down with Texas Standard to talk about the stories behind the songs.
San Antonio teachers report rising injuries in special education
Student-caused injuries among teachers are rising nationwide, with special education educators facing the highest risk. A Texas Public Radio investigation previously found widespread injuries in Northside ISD classrooms.
Camille Phillips reports on a San Antonio teacher who says conditions have worsened – and that the district still isn’t providing adequate support.
