Education & Economic Mobility - Education is the strongest engine of economic mobility [4][18] - A classroom isn't just about academics, it's about opportunity; change one child's path and you can change an entire family [4] - The true finish line is public education preparing every child for a life of dignity, opportunity, and choice [9] - Schools are where futures get built, where the doors to opportunity swing open [16] Challenges in Education - In the US, almost 90% of students graduate high school, but only 25% of Houston students earn a college degree or credential [5] - By their mid-20s, just 20% of Houston students are earning a living wage [5] - Most young people are being left behind, not because of a lack of talent, but because preparation isn't matching opportunity [5] - Two years ago, nearly half of Houston ISD's 270 schools were rated D or F by the state [10] Solutions & Goals - Good Reason Houston believes every system should be held accountable for ensuring students are on track to a job that will afford them a living wage [6] - A new northstar goal for public education is needed [6] - Every child should be on track to a living wage job, and communities have to hold schools to it [16] - Houston ISD shifted focus to ensuring more kids are ready for a good job with good wages, leading to nearly 75% of its 270 schools being rated A or B [11]