Areas of Focus

Learning is essential in every phase of life—from early childhood through adult education. Our strategy includes five focus areas, for which we have organized action networks. We believe setting clear goals and measuring progress is the best path to achieve success, so we have also identified strategic priorities and aligned indicators for each focus area.

Postsecondary Degrees & Credentials in High School 

Immediate Enrollment in College

  • Increasing FAFSA/TAFSA completion rates
  • Introducing and expanding innovative programs to decrease summer melt and increase college application rates
  • Collaborating with Educate Texas’ Texas College Access Network team 

Higher Education Persistance & Completion

  • Facilitating reverse transfer pathways for students to earn an associate degree after transferring and completing degree requirements at a four-year institution 
  • Increasing micro-credential completion rates 
  • Increasing wraparound supports for students and families 
  • Collaborating with Educate Texas’ Higher Education team 

Elevating & Promoting Teacher Effectiveness

  • Expanding the Teacher Incentive Allotment program 
  • Growing P-TECH campuses offering pathways to teaching careers 
  • Expanding teacher preparation programs at community colleges 
  • Piloting industry-based certifications in teaching 
  • Collaborating with Educate Texas’ Effective Teaching team 

Business & Workforce Engagement

  • Increasing high demand apprenticeship certificates in the areas of healthcare, information technology, advanced manufacturing, skilled trades (HVAC, plumbing, welding, etc.) 
  • Collaborating with Educate Texas’ WE CAN TX team