Texas Standard for July 29, 2025: Houston archaeologists uncover tomb of ancient Maya ruler

University of Houston professors Arlen and Diane Chase have been excavating the same site in Belize for nearly 40 years.

By Texas StandardJuly 29, 2025 9:15 am,

Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Tuesday, July 29, 2025:

Federal education grants finally released after month-long delay

The Trump administration is releasing billions in school funding that had been held up for weeks. EdWeek’s Mark Lieberman explains how the delay affected districts across Texas and the nation weeks ahead of a new school year.

U.S. military races to counter threat of weaponized drones

Small, cheap drones are a growing concern for U.S. defense. Steve Walsh reports on the need for better coordination between military and civilian agencies.

Poll shows tight race in crowded TX-18 special election

Amanda Edwards and Christian Menefee are neck and neck in the race to replace the late Rep. Sylvester Turner. Houston Public Media’s Andrew Schneider reports on the latest polling:

Austin screenwriter draws from personal struggles in new Audible series

Katherine Craft’s original audio series “Shaky” follows a young drummer facing a Parkinson’s diagnosis – inspired by the writer’s own family experience. She joins us to talk about the project.

Texas teen launches mental health clubs to fight eating disorders

Inspired by her own journey, Diya Mankotia founded Project EDSA to bring eating disorder support groups to schools nationwide. She shares how the effort is helping students find community and care.

Houston archaeologists uncover tomb of ancient Maya ruler

Arlen and Diane Chase have made a major discovery in Central America: the burial site of a city’s first king. The University of Houston professor duo joins us to share the story.

ICE detention leaves Texas family, community reeling

A Cuban man detained by ICE in north central Texas can’t be deported to his home country – and won’t self-deport to a place where he has no connections. KACU’s Heather Claborn reports on the ripple effects in his community.

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