Austin, TX

Texas schools hoping lawmakers increase funding during legislative session

Published

11 months ago

January 8, 2025

Texas schools hoping lawmakers increase funding during legislative session

AISD budget deficit and the Texas legislature

The new legislative session starts soon. All this month, 7 On Your Side will be taking a look at some of the big issues at the state capitol. Among them is education after the legislature failed to pass a school funding measures during the last session. As a result, districts across Central Texas are finding themselves “in the red,” including Austin ISD

AUSTIN, Texas – The new legislative session starts in one week. Among the major issues facing lawmakers will be education, after the legislature failed to pass a school funding measure during the last session. Against that backdrop, districts across Central Texas are finding themselves in the red, including Austin ISD.

“In my time on the board, we have not had this much of a deficit,” said Austin ISD board president Arati Singh.

Singh is concerned about the current $92 million budget deficit, about 10% of the overall budget.

“It is tough. It’s not easy,” said SIngh.

“I am definitely concerned as a school leader,” said Melissa Rodriguez, principal of Lively Middle School.

In fact, about two-thirds of districts in Central Texas are operating in a deficit right now, and many ISD leaders point to stagnant public school funding from the state.

“There is something historic happening here that our state is choosing not to fund public education,” said Singh.

Texas: The Issue Is: School choice fight

Texas Governor Greg Abbott is confident that school choice legislation will pass during the next legislative session, but Democrats say they won’t roll over without a fight. FOX 7’s Rudy Koski talks to vocal voucher opponent State Rep. James Talarico, D-Austin, about the fight ahead and if there is room for common ground.

In 2023, Gov. Greg Abbott’s school choice voucher plan fell short, and public school funding measures that were tied to it stalled as well, like teacher pay raises, enhanced career training for students, and raising what’s known as the “basic allotment”, the per-student amount that districts get from the state. The basic allotment has been stuck at $6,160 since 2019, despite big-time inflation since then.

“We rank near the bottom nationally in this per student funding,” said Singh. “It’s not actually based on the cost of actually educating a child.”

Singh also points to increased costs related to House Bill 3, the school safety law passed in 2023.

On top of that, Austin ISD pays out hundreds of millions of dollars in school property tax money to the state every year in what’s known as “recapture,” a way to even out the wealth among Texas districts. Last year, AISD’s payment was $699 million, the highest in the state. That amount is based on local property values.

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“Yeah, it is [unfair], because property values really don’t have a whole heck of a lot to do with the needs of students in a city,” said Singh. “Over half of our students are economically disadvantaged.”

So, with the $92 million shortfall in mind, a committee was formed, which spent the fall figuring out how to make it up over three years. That plan was presented to the board in December.

“It is difficult,” said Superintendent Matias Segura at the December 12 meeting. “Everything has an impact.”

In this current school year, the proposed cuts include things like eliminating some vacant positions, changes to technology, reorganizing departments, and reducing the number of special education vendors.

In the 2025-26 school year, the district plans to have some central office employees work from home, so it can lease space in that building, as well as changing bus routes, optimizing master schedules, and reducing portable classrooms, among other things.

AISD gives update on special education

Austin ISD leaders provided an update on its progress in meeting the requirement for special education services.

The catch?

“We don’t know yet how much of a cost reduction each of these will yield,” said Segura.

If the budget is not reduced by enough next year, that’s when district officials say the cuts will really start being felt at the school level.

“I am concerned that we would maybe have to consider increasing class sizes,” said Singh. “Cutting planning periods for our staff.”

“We have to do more with less,” said Lively Middle School Principal Melissa Rodriguez.

Rodriguez says any cuts to the arts would be very tough.

“Our students absolutely love participating in music, art, theater, guitar, orchestra. They are motivated by that,” said Rodriguez. “So if we take that from them, we’re really taking a big part of what they love.

Some parents and teachers are urging caution.

“I’m confused about why you would rush to vote on a budget when we don’t yet know what will come out of the legislative session,” said Tracy Dunlap, a teacher at Maplewood Elementary School, at the November 21 AISD board meeting.

Abbott moves even closer to passing school vouchers

Election night brought Texas Gov. Greg Abbott another step closer to getting his school choice plans passed, allowing taxpayer dollars to help parents pay for private school tuition.

But, as all this happens, some are opening up their pocketbooks to help.

“People who reach out to us and say ‘I’m seeing what’s happening to public schools and I care and I want to do something to support it,’” said Michelle Wallis, executive director of the Austin Education Fund.

“The work that we’re doing through the Austin Ed Fund feels even more critical now,” said Wallis. “We funded 66 projects across Austin to the tune of about $450,000 this year.”

Still, the district will need much more to get out of the current hole. Recent comments from Gov. Greg Abbott about the upcoming session has some people feeling optimistic.

“We will fully fund public schools in the state of Texas. We will provide teacher pay raises,” Abbott said in November.

Austin ISD listed recapture reform among its legislative priorities. But for Singh, boosting the basic allotment will be the real game-changer.

“We really need the state to step up,” said Singh.

Austin’s budget deficit would be even higher if not for $30 million in cuts that were made at the central office over the summer, including 12 layoffs, as well as $20 million from the passage of Proposition A by voters in November.

The upcoming round of cuts is expected to be finalized by the school board in the coming weeks.

The Source: Information from interviews conducted by FOX 7 Austin’s John Krinjak

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Austin, TX

Pho Austin: Best Pho Restaurants In Austin (2025)

Published

8 hours ago

November 30, 2025

Press Room

Pho Austin: Best Pho Restaurants In Austin (2025)

Last Updated On – 30th November, 2025

Jump To: Affordable | Traditional | Modern & Trendy

Pho Austin lovers know that the city’s Vietnamese food scene continues to grow fast — and pho is one of the biggest standouts. Whether you’re craving a deep, traditional broth or a modern, creative take on the classic soup, Austin has something for every pho fan.

Below are the 10 best pho restaurants in Austin for 2025, organized into helpful categories so you can instantly find the perfect bowl.

Warm up with a bowl of pho, then keep the day going with something fun. Check out the latest Things To Do in Austin This Weekend to find concerts, pop-ups, and seasonal happenings around the city.

Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.

Also, check out our articles on Chinese Food Austin, Vietnamese Food in Austin, and Best Sushi Restaurants Austin.

Affordable Pho Austin

The One Pho

Image credit: The One Pho

The One Pho is a favorite Vietnamese spot in Austin, known for its extensive menu that includes classic noodle soups and innovative Asian fusion dishes. Locals often praise their signature Wagyu Beef Hot Stone Pho, where the broth is poured tableside over fresh ingredients in a piping hot stone bowl.

Where: 10721 Research Blvd b110, Austin, TX 78759
Operating Hours: Thursday CLOSED | Friday – Wednesday 11:00 am – 8:00 pm

Pho Van

Pho Van is a highly-rated, no-frills Vietnamese restaurant in Austin, known for serving authentic dishes like flavorful pho, fresh spring rolls, and banh mi. Many regulars consider their broken rice plates, such as the grilled chicken or pork, to be an excellent alternative to the namesake soup.

Where: 8557 Research Blvd #120, Austin, TX 78758
Operating Hours: Daily 10:30 am – 9:00 pm

Tan My Restaurant

Tan My Restaurant is widely celebrated as one of Austin’s best for authentic Vietnamese cuisine, famous for its rich, aromatic broth that elevates their signature noodle soups. For an especially satisfying meal, be sure to try the Pho Dac Biet, a combination pho that features a generous variety of meats.

Where: 1601 Ohlen Rd # E, Austin, TX 78758
Operating Hours: Sunday CLOSED | Monday – Saturday 10:00 am – 8:30 pm

888 Pan Asian Restaurant

Image credit: 888 Pan Asian Restaurant

888 Pan Asian Restaurant is a popular pho Austin spot known for its vast menu of well-priced, generously portioned Vietnamese, Thai, and Chinese dishes. Patrons especially praise the flavorful pho broth, and the crispy spring rolls are a highly recommended appetizer to start your meal.

Where: 2400 E Oltorf St #1A, Austin, TX 78741
Operating Hours: Sunday 12:00 pm – 9:45 pm | Monday – Saturday 12:00 pm – 10:45 pm

Once you’ve finished your pho adventure, explore what else Austin has brewing. Browse our guide to Things To Do in Austin This Weekend for festivals, outdoor fun, and can’t-miss local events.

Best Traditional Pho in Austin

Pho Saigon Noodle House

A long-loved staple of South Austin, Pho Saigon delivers a deep, rich broth and the classic herb-forward flavor that makes traditional pho irresistible. Its consistency and generous portions make it one of the city’s most reliable pho spots.

Where: 10901 N Lamar Blvd A108, Austin, TX 78753
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 10:00 am – 8:00 pm | Friday – Saturday 10:00 am – 8:30 pm

Pho Dan

North Austin residents swear by Pho Dan. The broth here is clean and comforting, and the bowls come packed with noodles and meats. It’s a great everyday pho spot, especially for those who love straightforward, authentic flavors.

Where: 11220 N Lamar Blvd B-200, Austin, TX 78753
Operating Hours: Daily 9:00 am – 9:00 pm

Pho Phong Luu

Image credit: Phở Phong Lưu

Known for bold, aromatic broth and generous toppings, Pho Phong Luu offers classic Vietnamese flavors done right. It’s a go-to for long-time Austin residents seeking a consistently satisfying bowl.

Where: 11800 Dessau Rd Suite 302, Austin, TX 78754
Operating Hours: Wednesday – Thursday CLOSED | Friday 10:00 am – 2:30 pm & 4:30 pm – 8:00 pm | Saturday – Sunday 10:00 am – 2:30 pm | Monday – Tuesday 10:00 am – 2:30 pm & 4:30 pm – 8:00 pm

Best Modern & Trendy Pho Spots in Austin

Sip Pho

Image credit: Sip Pho

Sip Pho brings a modern, fresh aesthetic to the pho Austin scene. Expect beautifully plated bowls with a focus on clean flavors, perfect for diners who appreciate high-quality ingredients in a contemporary setting.

Where: 512 W 29th St, Austin, TX 78705
Operating Hours: Daily 11:00 am – 9:00 pm

Pho Please

Pho Please is one of the most popular modern Vietnamese spots in Austin. It has a bright, trendy atmosphere, fast service, and a broth that’s light yet incredibly flavorful. A reliable pick for young professionals and students.

Where: 1920 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741
Operating Hours: Daily 11:00 am – 9:00 pm

1618 Asian Fusion

While 1618 Asian Fusion isn’t strictly a pho restaurant, its version of the dish has earned a dedicated following. The flavors are balanced and the portions generous, making it ideal for mixed groups craving different Asian dishes.

Where: 1618 E Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78741
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 10:00 am – 9:30 pm | Friday – Saturday 10:00 am – 10:30 pm

Craving more ways to enjoy the city after your pho stop? Dive into our updated roundup of Things To Do in Austin This Weekend and discover what’s happening across Austin right now.

Lacey is a freelancer and Austin local who’s always on the hunt for new restaurants to try, fun activities to do, and local events to attend. She loves sharing her discoveries with others through her writing and hopes her work encourages both visitors and locals to be active in the community. When she’s not writing, you can find her exploring one of the city’s many hiking trails with her Blue Heeler, Oreo, getting lost in a good book, or dancing the night away to some house or techno beats at one of her favorite rave spots.

Austin, TX

Austin police investigate early morning shooting outside club; victim stable

Published

1 day ago

November 29, 2025

Press Room

Austin police investigate early morning shooting outside club; victim stable

AUSTIN, Texas — Austin police are investigating a shooting that happened early Friday morning after an altercation in front of a north Austin night club.

Police say that the shooting happened just after 1 a.m. Friday morning in the parking lot at the Rodeo Night Club at 9515 N. Lamar Blvd.

APD says that a man in his 20s was taken to the hospital with gunshot wounds.

ALSO | Lawyer: 19-year-old student detained, deported before flight to Austin for Thanksgiving

The injuries were first reported as critical, but the victim was later determined to be in stable condition, according to police.

Two suspects were detained at the scene, police say, and the incident is being investigated as an aggravated assault.

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Austin, TX

Texas vs. Texas A&M rivalry reignites excitement among fans tailgating for game

Published

2 days ago

November 28, 2025

Press Room

Texas vs. Texas A&M rivalry reignites excitement among fans tailgating for game

AUSTIN, Texas — The excitement around the Texas vs. Texas A&M game returned to the 40 acres this weekend. After students camped outside the stadium to secure prime seats, the tailgate lots were full up with Longhorns and Aggies fans alike.

“Go Horns!” exclaimed Darrick Price from UT Tailgaters, celebrating the reunion with “little brother.” Laura McWha, a Texas A&M fan, added, “WHOOP!!” as Aggies traveled from College Station for the game.

Price noted, “It feels amazing. We’re so happy that little brother’s back in town.” The rivalry, restored last year, has friends and family rooting against each other in what is the biggest home game for Texas this year. “I have a senior now who’s considering which school he wants to go to, and I just think it means everything for this city,” Price said.

PREVIOUS COVERAGE| Longhorns vs. Aggies tickets soar as fans prepare for epic showdown

McWha expressed confidence, saying, “We’ve been doing great this season….We’re gonna show what we’ve got.”

This was about as fiery as the smack talk got today as fans enjoyed communing with their frenemies in the lots.

Lanece Marley, another A&M fan, shared, “I think it’s wonderful. We love coming. We love celebrating with these guys.”

Hannah Morgan, an Austin-native and Aggie grad, reflected on her divided household, saying, “Oh yes I know what it means. It means everything to us.” With a father and brother who went to UT-Austin, Morgan says she successfully converted her mother over to rooting for the Aggies. Morgan also anticipated the game, stating, “I think it’s going to be really sweet to get revenge… to beat them at home would be a big deal for us.”

Texas won last year’s matchup in College Station, which was the first meeting between the two schools since 2011.

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