The Whitsdom Press

Category: In the News

  • HISD cuts Wraparound Services for new integrated support model

    The Houston Independent School District (HISD) is making big changes to how it supports students’ needs outside the classroom. The district recently announced it will close its Wraparound Services department, which has helped students and families with challenges like mental health, housing, and food since 2020. Instead, HISD plans to focus on expanding “Sunrise Centers” and a new “integrated support model.” Let’s break down what this means for families and why the shift is happening.

    What Was the Wraparound Services Department?
    Created in 2020, the Wraparound Services team aimed to address barriers affecting students’ success, like unstable housing, hunger, or lack of counseling. The department worked with community groups to connect families to resources, ensuring kids could focus on learning. For example, they helped students access free meals, mental health care, or even temporary housing. The goal was to support the “whole child,” not just their academic needs.

    Wraparound Services at Westbury High School in Houston ISD

    Why the Change?
    HISD says the shift is about streamlining help and reaching more families. By closing the department, the district plans to save money and avoid “overlapping” services. Instead, resources will go toward expanding Sunrise Centers. These centers are hubs located at certain schools offering healthcare, counseling, and other supports. The district plans to place support teams directly in schools. This will be done through its new “integrated model.” In this model, staff like counselors and social workers will work together to address student needs.

    What’s Next: Sunrise Centers and Integrated Support
    Sunrise Centers aren’t new—they already exist in some HISD schools. Under the new plan, these centers will grow to offer more services, including medical care, tutoring, and job training for parents. Meanwhile, the integrated support model means each school will have a team dedicated to connecting students with help, whether it’s a counselor for mental health or a social worker for housing assistance. HISD believes this approach will make support faster and easier to access.

    Mixed Reactions from the Community
    Not everyone is convinced the changes will work. Critics worry closing Wraparound Services could leave gaps, especially for vulnerable families who relied on the department’s specialized help. Community groups fear staff layoffs (some jobs will be cut, while others move to new roles) might disrupt trust built with families. On the other hand, supporters argue the new model could help more students by embedding support directly into schools. HISD leaders say no services will be lost—just delivered differently.

    Looking Ahead
    HISD’s changes reflect a bigger debate in education: how best to support kids facing tough challenges outside school. While the district promises better efficiency and wider reach, the true test will be whether families feel the new system meets their needs. For now, the focus is on transitioning smoothly—and ensuring no student falls through the cracks.

  • Child Care Crisis in Texas: Centers Close as Costs Rise, Leaving Families Struggling

    Many Texas child care centers are closing because they can’t afford to stay open, officials say. Federal COVID-19 relief money that helped these programs pay bills ended in September 2023. Since then, rising costs for rent, food, and staff pay have pushed centers to shut down. Over 2,000 child care programs in Texas have closed since 2020, and more are expected.

    Even when centers try to stay open, many families still can’t afford care. A recent report by a nonprofit (via TPR) found that “affordable” options are still too expensive or hard to find for most Texas families. Long waitlists, high fees, and strict rules block parents from getting help. For example, some parents earn too much to qualify for aid but not enough to pay full prices.

    This crisis hits working parents—especially mothers—hard. Without child care, many must cut work hours or quit jobs entirely, hurting families and the economy. Lawmakers and advocates warn that Texas needs more funding to save child care programs and help families. While state programs like the Texas Workforce Commission’s “Child Care Services” assist some parents, experts say support is nowhere near enough.

    Officials and nonprofits urge leaders to act fast. Fixing the child care system, they say, is key to keeping parents employed and businesses running. Without solutions, Texas risks deeper economic harm and more strain on families.

  • Shooting at Wilmer-Hutchins High School: Suspect Arrested

    On April 15, 2025, a shooting at Wilmer-Hutchins High School in Dallas left four students injured. The suspect was 17-year-old Tracy Haynes. He turned himself in to police later that night. He was charged with aggravated assault in a mass shooting. His bail was set at $600,000, though it’s unclear if he has a lawyer.

    The alleged suspect
    Booked at the county jail

    What Happened

    The shooting occurred around 1 p.m. during school hours. Students reported hearing multiple gunshots and fleeing the building. Four students were hurt: three by gunfire (ages 15–18) and one with a leg injury. Their conditions ranged from non-life-threatening to serious. Police and emergency crews quickly secured the campus. Students were evacuated to a nearby stadium to reunite with parents.

    How the Suspect Was Caught

    Haynes surrendered with help from a community group called Urban Specialists. A family member reached out to the group, and its leader, Antong Lucky, convinced Haynes to turn himself in. Haynes’ aunt said the family was shocked, claiming he “came from a good family” and wasn’t raised to commit violence.

    Antong Lucky, executive director of Urban Specialists, a nonprofit organization aimed at keeping kids out of urban violence.

    School Security Questions

    The school uses metal detectors and requires clear backpacks. Officials said the gun wasn’t brought in during regular check-in times, so they claimed security protocols weren’t to blame. This is the second shooting at the school in a year. In April 2024, a student was shot in a classroom, leading to protests over safety failures. Students interviewed stated that allegedly one of the metal detectors in the school was not working.

    The Alleged Shooter Speaks Out

    The alleged shooter speaks on a video from social media

    Community Reactions

    Parents expressed fear and frustration. One mother said she might switch to homeschooling: “I can’t keep going through this”. Students described chaos during the shooting, hiding in classrooms or running for safety. Some criticized the school’s security measures.

    So..Now What?

    Will this become another “School Shooting” cycle, where the shooting happens and there’s the big media coverage. While we are giving out thoughts and prayers, social media debates soon begin about gun control and gun safety. But in the end as always, no one actually does anything and things are “back to normal”.

    You, as parents in the Dallas community, can make a difference. Attend the next Dallas Independent School District board meeting. Make your voice heard. More information here on rules as a community speaker to the board, board meeting dates and more. You can even watch it live.

  • Letitia James and the Mortgage Fraud Allegations: What You Need to Know

    New York Attorney General Letitia James, a prominent figure in U.S. politics, is now facing serious accusations from the Trump administration. Here’s a simple breakdown of who she is. The breakdown includes the allegations against her. It also explains why former President Donald Trump is pushing for her prosecution.

    Who Is Letitia James?

    Letitia James, often called “Tish” James, is the New York Attorney General. She made history as the first Black woman elected to this role in 2019. Known for taking on high-profile cases, she’s sued pharmaceutical companies over the opioid crisis. She also led investigations into former Governor Andrew Cuomo’s sexual harassment claims. But she’s most famous for her legal battles against Donald Trump. In 2022, she sued Trump for financial fraud, accusing him of lying about his property values to get better loans. A judge later ordered Trump to pay over $500 million in fines (including interest) .

    The Mortgage Fraud Allegations
    In April 2025, the Trump administration accused James of mortgage fraud. The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) took legal action by sending a criminal referral to the Department of Justice. They claimed James falsified documents to get better loan deals. Here’s what she’s accused of:

    1. False Residency Claims: In 2023, James bought a home in Norfolk, Virginia. She listed it as her “primary residence” on mortgage paperwork. However, New York law requires her to live in the state as attorney general. Critics say she lied to secure a lower interest rate.
    2. Misleading Property Details: James owns a Brooklyn building purchased in 2001. The FHFA claims she labeled it as having four units instead of five. This was to qualify for a government-backed loan meant for smaller properties.
    3. Family Document Issues: In 1983 and 2000, James and her father signed mortgage papers. These papers incorrectly stated they were “husband and wife” instead of father and daughter. While this is decades old, critics argue it shows a pattern of dishonesty.

    If proven, these acts could lead to charges like bank fraud, wire fraud, or making false statements to financial institutions.

    Why Is Trump Involved?

    Donald Trump has repeatedly called James “corrupt” and accused her of targeting him for political reasons.

    After she won her fraud case against him, Trump vowed to “go after his enemies” if re-elected. Now, his administration is pushing for her prosecution, calling it a response to her “weaponizing” the legal system against him.

    Legal experts note the irony: James prosecuted Trump for falsifying financial records, and now she’s accused of similar acts. Fox News legal analyst Jonathan Turley said, “If we apply the Letitia James standard, there would be little question here”.

    James’ Response

    James denies all wrongdoing. Her office stated that the accusations were a political attack. “She will not be intimidated by bullies — no matter who they are” was their response. Supporters argue the Trump administration is retaliating for her lawsuits against him, including efforts to block federal funding cuts.

    What Happens Next?

    No formal charges have been filed yet. The Department of Justice will decide whether to investigate. Legal experts say some allegations (like the 1983 documents) may be too old to prosecute due to statutes of limitations. However, the 2023 Virginia property claims could still pose a risk.

    Politically, the case could hurt James’ reputation. Critics argue she’s being accused of the same fraud she prosecuted Trump for, which may weaken public trust.

    The Bigger Picture

    This clash highlights the deep divide in U.S. politics. Supporters of Trump see James as part of a system trying to sabotage him. Her supporters believe she’s holding powerful people accountable. Whether the allegations hold up in court or not, the drama between James and Trump is far from over.

  • Understanding Texas Laws of 2025: Education, Energy, and Security

    The laws passed by Texas lawmakers in 2025 will shape the cost of raising a family. They will determine the safety of neighborhoods. They will also affect the future of the state’s energy grid. These decisions range from debates about teacher pay to new school funding. They also include border security programs and power grid rules. They touch the daily lives of Texans, affecting paychecks, property taxes, and electricity bills. They even influence what students learn in classrooms. Billions of dollars are on the line. There are heated disagreements over issues like abortion rights and renewable energy. Understanding these changes isn’t just about politics. It’s about how Texans live, work, and plan for the years ahead. Here’s what you need to know.

    Photo: Texas Tribune
    1. Education & School Funding
      • House Bill 2: A bipartisan $8 billion public school funding package passed the Texas House. It includes teacher pay raises and limits on untrained teachers. Senator Will Metcalf expressed his views after the House approved House Bill 2. He remarked, “This $8 billion investment in public education is a step forward. However, we must continue to address the challenges our schools face, from teacher shortages to special education funding.”
      • School Vouchers: Efforts to expand voucher programs (Education Savings Accounts) advanced, with $1 billion allocated in the state budget. Democrats attempted to redirect funds to public schools but were unsuccessful.
    2. Higher Education Overhaul
      • Senate Bill 37: The Senate approved this bill. It restricts how universities teach topics like race and history. The bill allows complaints that could lead to funding cuts. Critics warn of faculty brain drain and threats to academic freedom.
    3. Border & Homeland Security
      • Senate Bill 36: Passed the Senate to create a Homeland Security Division under DPS, centralizing immigration enforcement and infrastructure protection. Part of a broader $6.5 billion border security budget.
    4. Energy & Environment
      • Renewable Energy Regulations: SB 819 (Kolhorst) sets new permitting and environmental rules on wind/solar projects. These rules contrast with lighter regulations for oil/gas. Critics argue it could hinder grid growth amid rising energy demand.
      • Power Grid Concerns: Bills like SB 388 (King) prioritize “dispatchable” energy (e.g., natural gas) over renewables, raising fears about meeting future electricity needs.
    5. State Budget & Spending
      • A $337 billion two-year budget was passed in the House, funding teacher pay, property tax cuts, and border security. Controversial amendments included redirecting $70 million from Medicaid to anti-abortion programs and failed attempts to defund universities over LGBTQ+ studies.
    6. Social Policy & Civil Rights
      • Abortion Laws: Lawmakers declined to expand exceptions for nonviable pregnancies, maintaining strict post-Roe restrictions.
      • LGBTQ+ Issues: Amendments targeting university funding for LGBTQ+ studies were withdrawn after heated debates.
    7. Election & Governance
      • A bill easing verification of hand-counted ballots passed the Senate, raising concerns about election integrity.

    Get more information on the Texas Tribune – Texas Legislature 2025.

  • The Trial of Tay-K: Verdict, Sentence & Key Moments

    Rapper Tay-K, whose real name is Taymor McIntyre, has been at the center of multiple legal battles over the years. His trial for the 2017 murder of photographer Mark Anthony Saldivar recently concluded, marking another chapter in his controversial history. Here’s a breakdown of the key moments, the verdict, and the sentence handed down by the judge.

    Background: The Crimes That Led to Trial

    Tay-K first gained notoriety in 2017 when he released his song The Race while on the run from authorities. He had been charged in connection with the 2016 murder of Ethan Walker during a home invasion in Texas. Instead of facing trial, he cut off his ankle monitor and fled, leading to his arrest months later.

    While evading authorities, Tay-K was involved in another crime—the murder of Mark Anthony Saldivar in San Antonio. Prosecutors argued that Tay-K and his associates picked up Saldivar for a photoshoot, but the situation escalated into a robbery. Saldivar was fatally shot in a Chick-fil-A parking lot after attempting to retrieve his stolen photography equipment.

    The Trial: Arguments and Key Moments

    Tay-K’s trial for Saldivar’s murder took place in Bexar County, Texas. Initially, he was charged with capital murder, which carries an automatic life sentence without parole. However, after deliberations, the jury opted for a lesser charge of murder, sparing him from a life sentence.

    During the trial, Tay-K’s defense team argued that the investigation was flawed. They believed it relied too heavily on witness statements. These statements were from individuals present in the car at the time of the shooting. His attorneys claimed that the prosecution failed to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Tay-K was responsible for the murder.

    The prosecution, on the other hand, painted a different picture. They argued that Tay-K had a history of violent behavior and should be held accountable for his actions. They emphasized that Saldivar was robbed and killed in cold blood, urging the jury to deliver a harsh sentence.

    The Verdict and Sentence

    On April 15, 2025, the jury found Tay-K guilty of murder but not capital murder. This meant he avoided a mandatory life sentence but still faced significant prison time. The following day, Judge Stephanie Boyd sentenced him to 80 years in prison with credit for time served.

    Judge Boyd addressed Tay-K directly, stating, “I do realize that while this is a lot of time, you’re still alive. You can still better yourself. But the complainant in this case is deceased, and you need to internalize that the complainant in this case is deceased. You’re going to have to make changes.”

    This sentence will run concurrently with the 55-year sentence Tay-K received in 2019 for the 2016 murder of Ethan Walker. In total, he is set to serve 135 years in prison, effectively ensuring he will spend the rest of his life behind bars.

    Judge Stephanie Boyd presents the sentence to Tay-K  after a 3+ hour deliberation from the jury.
    The TikTok community has alot to say about Tay-K’s sentence.

    What are your thoughts on the case? Do you think the sentence was fair? Let’s discuss.

  • High School Senior Secures $1M in Scholarships

    Ouachita Parish High senior Makenzie Williams was accepted into more than 75 colleges. She was awarded over $1 million in scholarships, showcasing her incredible academic prowess and dedication to her studies. Makenzie’s mom, Keyonya, proudly states that she is also “ranked #1 in her class out of 274 students.” This is a testament to her hard work. It also shows her perseverance throughout her high school journey. In addition to her impressive academic achievements, she earned a commendable score of 27 on the ACT. This score highlights her capability and readiness for the challenges of higher education.

    Recently, Makenzie was recognized as one of the top 20 scholars invited to the prestigious Ouachita 2025 Scholars Banquet. She was celebrated alongside her peers for their outstanding accomplishments. Her achievements reflect her personal commitment to excellence. They also inspire other students in her community to reach for their dreams.

    Source: Keyonya Williams
    Ouachita Parish High School in Monroe, LA

    Makenzie plans to attend Dillard University in New Orleans in the fall. A huge congratulations to this amazing young lady!

  • Autism Awareness and Diagnosis Rates: CDC Update

    Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that autism diagnoses among children in the United States are going up. The number of diagnoses is increasing. According to the latest findings, approximately 1 in 31 children are now identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This marks a notable shift from prior years.

    Experts suggest the rise reflects improved awareness. There is also better access to diagnostic tools. This improvement allows more children to be evaluated earlier and more accurately. The CDC’s analysis is based on 2023 health and education records of 8-year-olds. It highlights advancements in recognizing autism traits across diverse communities. Boys remain four times more likely to receive a diagnosis than girls. However, the gap is narrowing. This change occurs as understanding of how autism presents in girls grows.

    Key factors driving the trend include:

    • Reduced stigma: Families are more willing to seek evaluations.
    • Expanded screening: Pediatricians and schools now prioritize early developmental checks.
    • Broader diagnostic criteria: Updated guidelines capture a wider range of behaviors and needs.

    The CDC emphasizes that higher rates don’t necessarily mean more children have autism—instead, they indicate better detection. The findings emphasize the necessity for support systems. These include therapies and educational resources. Additionally, community programs tailored to neurodiverse individuals are essential.

    Early intervention remains critical, as timely services can significantly improve communication, social skills, and independence. Advocates urge policymakers and healthcare providers to address disparities in access to care. This is crucial in underserved (low-socioeconomic) and minority communities. In these areas, diagnosis delays persist. In other words, if you want the quality services, you have to travel to the nice side of town. Hopefully, you can afford it the therapies. Even though you have health insurance for your child, the clinic operates on private pay.

    While autism diagnosis rates rise, so does our understanding and ability to support neurodiverse children. With early intervention, acceptance, and inclusive communities, every child can unlock their unique potential. Together, we’re building a world where differences are celebrated and everyone thrives.

    Source: CDC data, 2023 (via ABC News).

  • Texas High School Stabbing: Case Updates on Austin Metcalf and Karmelo Anthony

    UPDATE: Karmelo Anthony’s bond has been reduced to $250,000. (10:20AM at 4.14.2025)

    The fatal stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a Texas high school track meet has sparked nationwide attention. It has led to legal debates and emotional reactions. Here’s the latest on the case involving suspect Karmelo Anthony, including updates on his bond hearing and ongoing developments.

    Case Background

    On April 2, 2025, a dispute over seating under a team tent at a Frisco ISD track meet turned deadly. Austin Metcalf, a Memorial High School athlete, asked Karmelo Anthony, a Centennial High School student, to leave the tent. Witnesses reported that Anthony gave a warning. He said, “Touch me and see what happens.” Anthony then allegedly stabbed Metcalf once in the chest with a knife from his backpack.

    Anthony claims self-defense. He immediately confessed to police, saying, “I’m not alleged, I did it.” He asked if the stabbing could be considered self-defense. Metcalf died in his twin brother Hunter’s arms minutes later.

    Bond Hearing and Legal Status

    Anthony remains in Collin County Jail on a $1 million bond. His defense team argues the amount is excessive and plans to request a reduction at a hearing on April 14. Collin County DA Greg Willis confirmed Anthony will not face the death penalty if convicted. This decision is due to Supreme Court rulings. The rulings bar executions for crimes committed by minors. Anthony’s lawyers emphasize his right to a fair trial. They claim the public should withhold judgment until all evidence is reviewed. (They already made a judgment in the court of public opinion sadly.)

    Fundraising Efforts

    A GiveSendGo fundraiser for Anthony’s legal fees has raised nearly $400,000, sparking backlash. The family denies involvement with deleted GoFundMe campaigns and calls circulated narratives “false and harmful”. on the other side, a GoFundMe for Austin’s memorial and family expenses surpassed $316,000. His father described him as a “leader with a 4.0 GPA” and football MVP.

    What’s Next?

    From the Collin County Judicial Online Case Search

    There will be a Bond Reduction Hearing on Monday, April 14th. Judge Angela Tucker will review Anthony’s $1 million bond. His attorney, Mike Howard, argues Karmelo Anthony is not a flight risk. Police are still interviewing witnesses and combating misinformation, including fake social media posts about the stabbing. No trial date is set, but the DA hopes to keep the case in Collin County.

    Community Impact

    The tragedy has divided opinions, with some calling for empathy and others demanding accountability. Conversations about race? Of course. As the legal process unfolds, both families grieve, and the nation watches closely. Updates will follow as new details emerge.

    BOTH parties were GOOD students AND athletes. Let’s not paint Karmelo Anthony out to be the bad guy until we have heard witnesses and seen evidence. I am sure there is a video around here because teenagers record EVERYTHING!

    For further details, refer to sources linked in ABC News, CBS Texas, and FOX 4 Dallas-Fort Worth.

  • Ex-Southern University Football Player Arrested for Domestic Violence

    A 22-year-old former college football player was arrested in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on Saturday, April 12, and taken to the local jail. Quaydarius Davis, who used to play for Southern University’s team, is accused of breaking into a home and attacking a woman. Police charged him with first-degree burglary, domestic abuse, and battery by strangulation.

    The case gained attention after a video was shared online showing Davis with his (now) ex-girlfriend, Ja’Yunna Monae, who claims he choked her until she fainted. Authorities are investigating these allegations.

    Raw footage of the incident between Quaydarius Davis and his girlfriend caught on a neighbor’s door cam.
    Quaydarius Davis’ booking info at the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office.

    Ja’Yunna Monae, Davis’ ex-girlfriend, posted on Instagram and Twitter regarding the incident yesterday:

    Ex-Southern Univ FB player Quaydarius Davis arrested on domestic violence, strangulation charges. 

    Davis was removed from Southern University’s football team in October 2024 for breaking team policies, though the school hasn’t shared details about what rules he violated. A spokesperson confirmed he is no longer part of the athletics program.

    Earlier in the week, Davis posted on Instagram that he planned to transfer to another school for his final year of college football eligibility.

    If you need help, call 800-799-SAFE, the National Domestic Violence Hotline.