In every school district, there comes a moment when leaders must pause and ask the most essential question: Why do school systems exist? Not as organizations bound by rules or politics, but as systems responsible for shaping the minds and futures of children. In a powerful discussion, National Governance Coach AJ Crabill, author of Great on Their Behalf and Our Tools They Deserve , brought this question to the forefront and challenged every adult who influences education to return to...

During a recent Streamyard conversation, “Closing the Opportunity Gap” with James Hopper, Executive Success Partner, Education Service Center, Region 4, we revisited a statement that struck both of us deeply: “At our current pace, it could take 125 years to close the opportunity gap in education.” When he reached out to clarify that point, it confirmed what research has long shown—progress is being made, but far too slowly. Behind that number are generations of students whose futures depend...

The upcoming election for several trustee seats on the Houston Independent School District (HISD) board is a meaningful moment for our community. While HISD is currently under state oversight, the individuals elected will eventually share in governing responsibilities, which means the decisions we make now matter. When you vote, you are choosing someone who will serve as part of a collective board — not as a lone voice. Together, trustees set the vision, adopt policy, approve budget, and...