Good Reason Houston gathered educators, policymakers, philanthropists, and advocates from across the region for its annual ConnectED Luncheon on Thursday, October 17. Held at the Royal Sonesta Houston, the event brought together hundreds of community leaders to explore the current state of public education and chart a path forward for Houston’s students.
Chaired by Bobby and Phoebe Tudor, the luncheon provided a platform to discuss the challenges facing public schools and offer actionable solutions. One of the highlights of the event was the release of the 2024 Houston Public Education Snapshot—a comprehensive report that sheds light on key education metrics such as pre-K enrollment, academic performance, and college, career, and military readiness (CCMR). The report’s findings serve as a vital tool for the community to understand not only where progress has been made but also where improvement is still needed.
Good Reason Houston’s CEO, Cary Wright, emphasized the importance of collective action, stating, “The ConnectED Luncheon is designed to do more than simply highlight where we stand. It’s about bringing our community together—policymakers, philanthropists, educators, and advocates—to spark action, ignite bold solutions, and align our efforts toward a shared vision: a Houston where every child thrives.”
Cary Wright, Chief Executive Officer, Good Reason Houston
Attendees were also treated to a panel discussion featuring some of the region’s most dynamic education leaders: Mike Miles (Houston ISD), Dr. LaTonya Goffney (Aldine ISD), Dr. DeeAnn Powell (Pasadena ISD), and Mark DiBella (YES Prep Public Schools). The superintendents shared their insights on the challenges their districts face and the strategies they are employing to drive improvement.
IMAGE: Mark DiBella (YES Prep Public Schools), Dr. LaTonya Goffney (Aldine ISD), Cary Wright (Good Reason Houston), Dr. DeeAnn Powell (Pasadena ISD), and Mike Miles (Houston ISD)
Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles highlighted the immense effort being put into improving education, stressing the importance of focusing on students first. “All of us are working hard every day. This is the most important work of our time and it’s getting harder. Not just for leadership, but for the people interested in helping public education,” he said. “The one thing I’m going to ask is to put students first. If we really want achievement, if we want to meet the goals Good Reason Houston put out today, then we have to fight for it.”
In addition to insightful discussions and data-driven analysis, the luncheon celebrated a key leader in Houston’s education community. Scott McClelland, retired president of H-E-B and co-founder of Good Reason Houston, was honored as the 2024 Champion for Change. McClelland has been instrumental in advancing educational equity throughout the region, and his dedication has created lasting opportunities for students across Houston. “Scott’s dedication to Houston’s students has created lasting opportunities and helped shape a brighter future for public education,” said Cary Wright.
Bobby Tudor, Scott McClelland, an Phoebe Tudor
The ConnectED Luncheon served as a powerful reminder that progress in public education requires collaboration, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to student success. With the release of the 2024 Public Education Snapshot, Good Reason Houston continues to be a driving force for change, providing the community with the data and insights needed to create a future where every child in Houston can thrive.
