Investments made in higher education over the last decade have helped power the Texas economy, but updated Texas Talent Trajectory (T3) data shows there is more to do. Every Texan’s analysis of T3 data shows that, as a state, we are squandering potential gains by failing to support degree or credential attainment for most students enrolled as 8th graders in 2014.
State leadership continues to recognize the importance of preparing as many Texans as possible for the needs of the current and future workforce. As lawmakers prepare for the 90th legislative session, maintaining strong investments in economic opportunity through degrees and credentials of value should remain a top priority. Policymakers must stay the course and continue supporting pathways that connect people to good jobs and long-term economic mobility.
This brief examines the key metrics that should drive policy and investment as budget writers consider leadership directives to reduce agency spending by 3% in the next biennium. Higher Education funding, unlike the Foundation School Program and the governor’s voucher program, is not immune from potential cuts that could prevent making progress toward more Black and Hispanic males, for example, from earning degrees or credentials of value.
This is not the time to turn away from continued investment; the Talent Strong Texas brief offers key areas to focus on going forward.