A coalition of education organizations led by Good Reason Houston sent a joint letter to the Texas House of Representatives on Tuesday, voicing strong support for House Bill 2—a sweeping $7.7 billion investment in public education across the state.

The letter, co-signed by 10 other education-focused organizations, highlights the urgent need for increased and strategic funding to support student achievement in Houston, which educates one in five Texas students across more than 1,000 public schools.

“Despite our size and economic significance, Houston students continue to fall behind statewide averages in key academic areas,” the letter states. Currently, only 44% of Houston students meet grade-level standards, compared to 48% statewide. Even more concerning, just 27% earn a postsecondary credential, and only 20% secure a living wage within six years of graduating high school.

House Bill 2 aims to close these gaps through targeted increases in the state’s Basic Allotment and expanded funding for teacher compensation, early education, bilingual and special education, and economically disadvantaged students.

Among the bill’s major components is a $395 per-student increase to the Basic Allotment, with 40% directed toward teacher pay—particularly for those with 5 to 10 years of experience. The bill also expands the Teacher Incentive Allotment, which has already helped boost salaries by an average of $11,000 for designated teachers.

“With 77% of Houston students classified as economically disadvantaged and 35% emerging bilingual, these investments are essential,” said Trista Bishop-Watt, Director of Government Relations for Good Reason Houston. “Our future depends on ensuring every student can succeed.”

The coalition is urging lawmakers to pass HB 2 during the current legislative session, emphasizing its critical role in strengthening Houston’s workforce and long-term economic outlook.