In these divided times, one fact has brought together Texas Republicans, Democrats, teachers, administrators, and even state Supreme Court Justices: The way in which we fund public schools in the state is broken. Ever wonder how it got that way?

How We Got Here

Texas' political leadership has signaled that "school finance reform" will be the top priority of this year's legislative session.  But what does that really mean?  The Texas Commission on Public School Finance has provided a roadmap for effective legislation in their recently published final report.  So we sat down with five of the thirteen members to discuss the recommendations, and what comes next for Texas.

What We Do Now

Only four out of ten Texas students can read by third grade.  Education policymaker Kara Belew wants to change that.

Averting a Reading Crisis - A Conversation with Kara Belew

A veteran educator talks about how to consider "the whole child" in crafting education policy.

Social-Emotional School Finance - A Conversation with Dominique McCain

A teacher, principal, and education leader discusses the value and impact of locally-crafted multi-measure evaluation systems.

Supporting (And Rewarding) Our Educators - A Conversation with Dottie Smith

A nationally-recognized teacher talks about what keeps him in the classroom.

Classroom Royalty - A Conversation with Eric Hale

Four experienced Texas educators provide invaluable insight on what our state's education policymakers should prioritize this legislative session.

"Don't Make Me Use My Teacher Voice"

A look at the history and the present as it relates to school finance in the State of Texas.

The Twisted Saga of Texas School Finance

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