Inform Local Education Policy in Texas

January 08, 2025 by EdTrust in Texas
A group of elementary school girls listens to their teacher during class.

At EdTrust in Texas, we work to inform local education policy in communities across the state, collaborating with stakeholders to advocate for equitable educational opportunities for all students. Our efforts focus on addressing systemic barriers, amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities, and driving meaningful change in local education systems.

Houston

Citywide Coalition on Education 

In response to the growing needs of Houston-area educators, students, and families following the 2020 pandemic, EdTrust in Texas launched the Citywide Coalition on Education in partnership with Latinos for Education, Good Reason Houston, Leadership for Educational Equity, One Houston, and the Parent Teacher Collaborative. This collective builds awareness of issues impacting education in Houston, elevates the voices of students, families, and teachers, and advances policies to improve student outcomes.   

Educator Advisory Council for the Houston Region 

The Educator Advisory Council brings together educators in the Houston area to inform education policy with real-world insights and invest in their policy knowledge and advocacy skills. By collaborating directly with teachers and teacher preparation leaders, EdTrust helps ensure that local policies reflect the needs and experiences of those working directly with students. 

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Completing the Cycle: Supporting and Retaining Teachers of Color in Houston 

Co-authored with Teach Plus Texas, this report reveals insights and actionable recommendations for recruiting, supporting, and retaining teachers of color. Based on focus groups with educators in the Houston region, we highlight the experiences and needs they identified to stay and thrive in the profession. 

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Are Harris County Students Prepared for Success After High School? 

This resource analyzes postsecondary preparedness among Harris County students, explaining different measures and outcomes for College, Career, and Military Readiness. The report includes high-level recommendations and is accompanied by a district policy scan to evaluate local policies that support student success beyond high school. 

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Dallas

Community Mobilization Guide 

Developed in collaboration with local parents, teachers, and students, this guide is designed to serve as a community-derived resource to inform future efforts to support the social, emotional and academic development of students in Dallas. It reflects lessons learned and includes practical strategies for organizing, mobilizing, and advocating for policies that prioritize student well-being and success.

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By supporting local education initiatives in Houston, Dallas, and other communities, EdTrust in Texas strives to create a future where all students have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.