Here are the stories on Texas Standard for Monday, April 20, 2026.
Latest Middle East tensions raise new questions about oil and diplomacy
The picture in the Persian Gulf is shifting by the hour, with new talks aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and questions over whether Iran will participate. Oil prices moved sharply higher as markets reacted to the latest developments.
Michael Mosser, director of the Center for European Studies at the University of Texas at Austin, joins the Texas Standard with the latest.
US seen lagging on low-cost attack drones used in war
During the wars in Iran and Ukraine, militaries are increasingly relying on so-called one-way attack drones that fly to a target and explode. The United States is widely seen as trailing other countries in developing and using the inexpensive systems.
Jay Price reports for the American Homefront Project.
This week in Texas music history
Jason Mellard with the Center for Texas Music History traces the timeline.
Dallas ISD teacher incentives tied to student gains, study finds
Back in 2012, Dallas ISD launched a push to raise student performance that later included paying teachers up to $10,000 more based on student achievement. New research finds the incentive program helped improve outcomes in one of Texas’ largest school districts.
Steven Rivkin, professor of economics at the University of Illinois Chicago and study co-author, joins the Texas Standard with more.
War with Iran hits Texas energy from two directions
The conflict with Iran is boosting exports through the Port of Corpus Christi while also feeding higher prices for drivers, trucking companies and businesses across Texas. Plus, renewed blockades in the Strait of Hormuz are rattling global markets again.
Matt Smith, lead oil analyst with Kpler, joins the Texas Standard to explain.
New book celebrates costume designer Winn Morton’s Texas roots
A new book looks back at the life and work of costume designer Winn Morton, whose creations appeared on Broadway, in circuses, parades and theme parks; it’s a retrospective that features sketches and photographs from a career built on bold visual style.
Myra Walker, author of “Dreams and Ideas: The Artistry of Costume Designer Winn Morton,” joins the Texas Standard to discuss.
North Texas students get firsthand look at local government
A group of students in North Texas recently completed a program focused on how local government works. Participants met city officials, attended meetings and classes, and reflected on the civic process.
KERA News’ Andy Lusk reports from the graduation ceremony.
