July 10, 2020 Governor Abbott, In March of this year, you wisely waived the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) requirements for the 2019-2020 school year. Your thoughtful decision to alleviate the burden of standardized tests at the forefront of the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrates not only your commitment to the health and well-being... Read More

Over 240 years ago, our forefathers put ink to parchment in order to draft what would become one of the most prolific living documents in the history of the world—the Declaration of Independence. Since that hot summer day in July of 1776, American patriots of every age, race, creed, and religion have joined together on... Read More

While many folks are spending more time at home, it’s easier than ever to become consumed with the events of the day. Whether we’re diligently refreshing our newsfeed on Facebook or finding ourselves glued to the television to get our fix of a seemingly never-ending news cycle, it can feel impossible at times to find... Read More

On May 25, 2020, a 46-year-old man from Texas was murdered after being taken into custody by police officers in Minneapolis, Minnesota. His name was George Floyd. Since that day, protests from coast to coast have ignited renewed conversations about racism, the appropriate use of force by law enforcement, and equity for all under the... Read More

As our nation continues the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, our first responders and the work they’re doing to keep our communities safe has never been more apparent. And while stories of lifesaving treatments and prevention make most of the headlines, it’s important to remember that these brave men and women risk their lives everyday... Read More

To all the moms reading this column, I want to wish each of you a happy Mother’s Day!  A wise man once stated, “Mother’s hold their children’s hands for a short while—but hold their hearts forever.” I hope on this day, and every day, you realize how much you are loved and appreciated. At long... Read More

I want to start this column by offering my thoughts and prayers to our fellow East Texans who were affected by the recent tornado in Polk County, namely Onalaska. Though the damage and devastation may have rattled this community, no amount of destruction can bury the resiliency and grit of the East Texas spirit. And... Read More

Though this Easter season may feel different, the message embodied by this Holy day could not be more appropriate for today. While we find ourselves in a season of uncertainty – wondering and worrying about what’s to come – it is my sincere hope that we find refuge and strength in celebrating the greatest triumph... Read More

As COVID-19 (coronavirus) continues to spread throughout our state, I want to take a break from our examination of interim charges so that I can provide you with as much information as possible about what we are doing at the state level to address this global pandemic. A complete list of the resources highlighted in... Read More

With the recent outbreak of COVID-19 (coronavirus) around the world, and a growing number of cases right here in Texas, I want to encourage everyone to heed the advice of our health care professionals. It’s important to remember that—like any other illness—there are simple, common sense measures you and your family can follow to help... Read More