On the Cover

• What charter partnerships could mean for teachers

Features

• Texas officials grapple with school violence, seek ways to ensure safety
• Returning to her roots: Cherie Bales comes home to Denver City and rekindles her love of teaching science

Executive Editor's Message

• Change is in the air — or is it?

Washington Watch

• President's proposed restructuring would impact U.S. Department of Education

Legal Notes

• Protect your privacy: Keep personal photos and documents off devices used at school

Planning Ahead

• Understanding your TRS benefits

News & Notes

• TEA gears up to implement A-F accountability system, outlines waiver process for Hurricane Harvey-impacted school districts
• State Board of Education works to streamline social studies TEKS
• TRS Board votes 5-4 to lower return rate assumption for pension fund
• TEA’s final strategic plan for special education narrows scope of required school district actions
• TCTA successful in persuading TEA to strengthen and clarify teacher qualifications for bilingual/ESL assignments
• TEA awards new educator certification testing contract to Pearson 
• TEA releases teacher shortage area list for 2018-19
• Supreme Court ruling against unions has no direct effect on Texas teachers
• TEA takes action following STAAR glitches, fines ETS $100,000
• TCTA asks TEA to request more funding for health insurance
• TCTA leads fight against weakening teacher preparation
• Six receive TCTA statewide awards in 2017-18

Member Accolades

• TCTA member wins national teaching award
• TCTA member becomes president-elect of statewide science group
• Coach inducted into Prairie View Hall of Fame
• Four TCTA members among state finalists for H-E-B Excellence in Education awards
• Math, science teachers receive regional recognition
• TCTA members earn Teacher of the Year honors