Mike Miles
Coverage of Mike Miles in the Nexus archive.
- What’s in store for the Memphis school takeover? Houston’s timeline offers clues.
Texas took over the Houston school district, leading to significant changes under Superintendent Mike Miles, including teacher reapplication, curriculum overhaul, and extended school hours. Tennessee Republicans cite Houston as a model for potential reforms in Memphis-Shelby County Schools, though critics question the effectiveness of these measures.
- Texas’ largest school district sees test scores soar after state takeover despite racism claims
Texas' largest school district, Houston Independent School District (HISD), saw significant improvements in test scores after a state takeover in 2023. Data shows increased reading and math performance in elementary and middle schools, along with narrowed achievement gaps in high schools. Critics argue the intervention was racially discriminatory, while officials attribute the gains to reforms like a centralized curriculum and specialized classes.
- Texas State Takeover of Local School Districts Expands, Raising Concerns
Texas has expanded state takeovers of local school districts, with the Texas Education Agency appointing leaders linked to Mike Miles, who implemented controversial reforms in Houston ISD. These reforms, which included scripted lessons, school closures, and staff reductions, improved test scores but sparked public protests. New districts like Austin, Beaumont, and Fort Worth now face similar policies under state-appointed officials with ties to Miles and education commissioner Mike Morath.