Teachers Cheating Scandal, Firefighter Loophole & Houston’s Spotify Wrapped

It’s Friday so we’re breaking down the biggest stories of the week and how they impact YOU. Host Raheel Ramzanali is joined by Pulitzer Prize finalist Evan Mintz to talk about a teacher cheating scandal, and how local school districts are responding, why there’s a fight at Houston City Hall about what some call a loophole in the firefighter’s contract, what Houstonians listened to most this year, and more! 

Stories we talked about today: 

• Trump tariffs would cost Houston dearly, economist warns
• 13 Investigates: 100 Texas teachers under review in 'ridiculous' cheating scandal
• Five Houston-area educators charged for alleged involvement in teacher certification cheating ring
• More than 800 uncertified teachers started the school year in Houston ISD
• $850K sexual misconduct settlement prompts calls for changes in Houston's firefighter contract
• Houston Mayor spars with council members over handling of misconduct
• Free school starting at age 3? Why Spring ISD wants to get more toddlers in the classroom
• Houston’s Thriving West African Food Scene
• Spotify Wrapped 2024 for Houston topped by Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, Peso Pluma and Drake

Learn more about the sponsors of this December 6th episode here:

Downtown Houston+

A.D Players Theater

BetterHelp - get 10% off at betterhelp.com/CITYCAST

The Women's Home

Buffalo Bayou

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Photo: Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle