Pearland ISD has approved new partnerships with Walden University and Houston Christian University, giving students the opportunity to complete field experience at district schools beginning in 2026. 

The details: Approved by the board of trustees during the Dec. 9 meeting, the agreements formalize a five-year partnership with each university, according to district documents. 

Diving in deeper: University students will gain classroom experience through:

• Observing certified district teachers
• Observing lessons
• Assisting with instruction
• Completing demonstration teaching hours

An effort to build a funeral home in Pearland will not move forward after city officials struck down a permit request, citing concerns the development didn’t have enough parking capacity.

The details: Pearland City Council voted 3-4 at its Dec. 8 meeting to deny a conditional use permit to Houston-based Harry Gendel Architects, which sought to build a funeral home near the intersection of Hughes Road and Cullen Parkway.

The background: A CUP is required for private, for-profit businesses in mixed-use zoning districts. The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommended approving the zoning change at its Nov. 17 meeting, according to city documents.

Council member Rushi Patel asked about the development’s parking capacity, given that the space can hold roughly 160 people but only has 36 parking spaces.

Daniela Braganholo with Harry Gendel Architects said the current parking complies with what is permitted for the development.

Council member Clint Byron said he hoped the upcoming unified development code rewrite would simplify and clarify the process for businesses seeking permits in the city’s various zoning designations.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick unveiled a plan Dec. 9 to further raise property tax exemptions for Texas homeowners and lower the age at which Texans qualify for additional tax relief during the 2027 state legislative session.

The details: Deemed “Operation Double Nickel,” Patrick’s three-part plan asks state lawmakers to:

• Raise the property tax exemption on a Texas homeowner’s main residence, known as a homestead exemption, by $40,000
• Allow homeowners who are at least 55 years old to qualify for a larger exemption reserved for seniors and people with disabilities
• Pass legislation to drive down property taxes charged by local governments