Straight Talk ’26: Raising the AI Generation
February 23, 2026! 

From Homework Help to Unforeseen Risks: What Every Family Should Know

Straight Talk ’26 is a one-hour panel discussion bringing together experts from public education, technology, mental health, and workforce development to explore how artificial intelligence is shaping the lives of children and families. As AI tools become more common in classrooms, homework, and everyday life, families are asking important questions:

Panelists include:

• Charley Ayres, Director of University Relations, Texas A&M University Central Texas
• Kyle Berger, Chief Technology Officer, Arlington ISD
• Roy Rios, LMSW, Trauma-Informed Psychotherapist, Austin Trauma Therapy Center, and Director of Programs, Texas Council on Family Violence
• Clay Smith, Solutions Engineer, Google

📍Planning a watch party?

Use the Straight Talk Toolkit, where we regularly update with new tools to facilitate community discussions. Note: Local PTAs that are part of a council should coordinate with their council before planning a watch party.

📍Submit questions for panelists.

We invite you to submit questions for our panelists as we work together to better understand what it means to raise the AI generation at school, at home, and beyond.

What Is Straight Talk?

Straight Talk is Texas PTA’s Biannual Forum on Matters that Matter to Texas Families. 

When the Texas Legislature is not in session, Straight Talk gives PTA leaders, members, families, and supporters across Texas an opportunity to lean into the pressing issues affecting students, without waiting for the next legislative cycle. Held every other February, this livestreamed event features expert panelists and special guests, including students, educators, and health professionals, who explore timely topics shaping the lives of Texas children.

To make the most of this shared experience, PTAs across the state host watch parties in schools, libraries, and living rooms, offering their communities a welcoming space to reflect, connect, and take action together.

Each Straight Talk dives into a key issue impacting student health, learning, or development—from mental wellness and school climate to digital safety and more. The result is a statewide conversation that brings clarity, compassion, and momentum to our work supporting Texas families.

Why It Matters

Even when the Capitol is quiet, the work of supporting students never stops. Straight Talk bridges legislative sessions by helping PTA leaders and school communities stay informed, inspired, and engaged. Because real change begins with strong local conversations, and when families and schools work together, we can move mountains for our children.

Watch Parties

Whether hosted by a Council PTA or a local PTA, watch parties are a powerful way to turn information into action. These gatherings help bring the conversation to life, deepen local connections, and empower school communities to work together on solutions right in their own backyard!

Panelists

Straight Talk panelists represent a cross-section of experience and expertise — from classrooms to clinics, from advocacy to academia.

Featured guests in recent years have included:

• Superintendents and teachers from Texas public schools

• Mental health practitioners and pediatric specialists

• Digital safety thought leaders and student representatives

• Texas PTA presidents and elected officials

Straight Talk ’24: Navigating the Smartphone Era (Download the Discussion!)

Straight Talk ’22: Dare to Self-Care (Identify the Signs, Heal the Mind)

Straight Talk ’20: A Matter of Life and Breath (Vaping and Our Children)