Educate Texas

?Spotlight on Communities Foundation of Texas Scholarships with April 1 deadlines ? ? ?? CFT has over 50 scholarship funds that grant around $1.5M to hundreds of students every year. ? Check out some of our scholarships with upcoming deadlines on April 1! These support students in a variety of?fields and majors. You can find all these featured scholarships, plus additional opportunities, at CFTexas.org/Scholarships ? ?? Students can also browse additional funds and fill out a single, universal application at https://lnkd.in/g7iBR8cG #Scholarships, #StudentSuccess, #Education, #Texas

Teachers are the backbone of Texas education. EDTX is advocating for legislation that makes it easier to become a teacher, stay in the profession, and grow in their careers. By investing in teacher residency programs, increasing compensation, and providing better mentorship, we can build a pipeline of effective educators and improve student outcomes across the state. We also need clear, transparent data to ensure schools can hire and retain qualified teachers while giving parents the information they deserve about their child’s education. Smart policies lead to stronger schools. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gSC53mRe

Investing in educators = investing in student success. In a recent interview with Rio Grande Guardian, Samantha Boiser, M. Ed, Deputy Director for Policy & Advocacy at Educate Texas, shares why elevating the teaching profession through policy solutions is key to improving K-12 student outcomes and building a stronger Texas workforce. ?? EDTX is focused on: ? Expanding high-quality teacher preparation programs ? Strengthening pathways for diverse educators ? Improving teacher retention through better compensation & support Strong educators drive strong communities. Let’s ensure Texas students have the teachers they need to succeed. Watch Samantha Boiser’s full interview & learn more about our legislative priorities: https://lnkd.in/gSC53mRe

Every student deserves a teacher who is well-prepared, well-supported, and well-compensated. Educate Texas brought together education leaders, policymakers, and members of our Teaching and Learning Council (TLC) to advocate for policies that strengthen the teacher workforce and improve student outcomes. In meetings with 15 legislative offices, TLC members championed initiatives to expand teacher residency and apprenticeship programs, strengthen mentorship and compensation models, and increase transparency in educator pathways. The day concluded with a Capitol briefing co-hosted by Deans for Impact (DFI), where education leaders—including representatives from Texas Tech University, Snyder Independent School District, US PREP, edwell, and Texas Center For Grow Your Own—shared insights on how Texas can make high-quality teacher preparation more affordable and accessible. By investing in teachers, we invest in the long-term success of Texas students and schools. Learn more about TLC’s 89th Legislative Priorities: https://lnkd.in/gSC53mRe

Education is evolving, and innovative solutions are needed to prepare students for success in an ever-changing workforce. At SXSW EDU, Educate Texas joined Catalyze to explore new ways to bridge the gap between classrooms and careers. Through our Career Connect Texas initiative, we’re bringing education and industry together to create meaningful, work-based learning experiences that equip students with the skills they need for the future. With Catalyze’s support, we’re expanding apprenticeship programs, industry partnerships, and career pathways to ensure every student has access to high-quality career-connected learning. Learn more: edtx.org/careerconnecttx

Texas thrives when students have access to opportunity. As Educate Texas works to contribute 85,000 new degrees and certificates by 2025, we know that education prepares students for fulfilling careers, leadership roles, and lifelong learning. The Austin Chronicle spoke with EDTX’s Priscilla Aquino Garza, PhD about proposed legislation that could limit funding for certain degree programs based on short-term earnings. She reminds us: "You cannot measure passion. You cannot measure love of learning or the spark of exploring something." As we work to expand access to education for all students, we must ensure students have access to the degrees that inspire and prepare them to lead, innovate, and serve. Read the full article:

Students who earn college credits and industry credentials in high school are better positioned for lifelong success. Educate Texas and the Texas Education Agency recently brought together school leaders, higher ed institutions, and workforce partners from across Texas in El Paso and South Texas to explore strategies that expand early college high schools, career pathways, and dual enrollment programs. Van Horn P-TECH presented its model for integrating college coursework and hands-on training, helping students earn valuable credentials before graduation. Educate Texas supports hundreds of CCRSM campuses statewide, ensuring students graduate with the skills, experience, and credentials needed to thrive. Learn more: texasccrsm.org

Educate Texas advocates for strategic education policy solutions that support teacher recruitment, development, and retention—because stronger teachers mean stronger student achievement. Research shows that students with experienced, well-prepared educators achieve higher academic growth and better long-term outcomes. To build a sustainable, high-quality teacher workforce, Texas must invest in: ?? Teacher residency & apprenticeship programs that provide hands-on, high-quality preparation ?? Mentorship & leadership development to improve teacher retention and instructional effectiveness ?? Competitive teacher compensation models to attract and retain top talent Learn more about our legislative priorities for strengthening the Texas teacher workforce: https://lnkd.in/gSC53mRe

The success of our students starts with the strength of our teachers. Educate Texas gathered with policymakers and education leaders to discuss data-driven strategies that address teacher shortages and improve student outcomes. Key solutions include: ? Expanding teacher residencies and mentorship programs. ? Providing competitive compensation and targeted incentives. ? Strengthening teacher preparation pathways to ensure quality training before entering the classroom. This work is critical—not just for teachers, but for every Texas student. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/gSC53mRe

The future of Texas depends on a strong, educated workforce—and that starts with equitable access to high-quality education. ? At our recent CFT All-Staff Meeting, our Educate Texas team shared how we are supporting: ? Higher education affordability through policy & partnerships ? Stronger career pathways for students through work-based learning experiences ? Regional collaboration with businesses, higher education institutions, and K-12 schools ? By aligning on these priorities, Communities Foundation of Texas is ensuring that every student—regardless of background—has access to the tools they need for postsecondary success and workforce readiness. ? Learn more: edtx.org