Greater Houston Partnership Statement on Houston ISD “The improvements in student achievement in the first two years of reforms in Houston ISD are nothing short of extraordinary, and we celebrate the students for their hard work to achieve these outcomes. Both the board and administration should be commended for vision and leadership, but the real gratitude should go to the principals, teachers, and staff who have put the changes into practice; elevating expectations and improving the academic trajectories of the students in schools the district had failed for many years. Commissioner Morath is right to extend the period of reform to ensure these improvements take hold long-term, significantly impacting generations of students. We also extend sincere gratitude to the four outgoing board members who have admirably led the district under sometimes trying circumstances. And we commend the four newly appointed board members who have answered the call to serve students and keep the district on a positive trajectory. The next two years will be a pivotal time for the district, and we are eager to work with the refreshed board and administration to make the most of a generational opportunity to improve student success.”   CONTACT: Brina Morales                                                 Sr. Director, Communications     bmorales@houston.org

Texas lawmakers have passed legislation that could position the state as a global leader in dementia prevention and research.   The passage of Senate Bill 5 establishes the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (DPRIT), a $3 billion initiative that aims to accelerate groundbreaking research into dementia and related brain disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, fuel medical innovation and improve health outcomes for Texas residents.  However, the release of DPRIT funding depends on voter approval of Senate Joint Resolution 3 on the Nov. 4 ballot. The constitutional proposition would authorize the state to spend $3 billion over the next decade, with up to $300 million awarded each year through grant funding.   This investment comes at a critical time, as Texas faces the growing health and economic impact of brain disorders. According to the Texas Dementia Initiative, more than 400,000 Texans currently suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, and that number is projected to exceed 500,000 by 2030 as the state’s population continues to age. The state also ranks second nationally in Alzheimer’s deaths.  At the same time, there is a significant opportunity to turn this challenge into economic growth. According to a McKinsey Health Institute analysis, strategic investment in brain health initiatives could generate up to $260 billion in local GDP impact.  A Strategic Opportunity for Houston  Modeled after the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT), which transformed the state into a hub for cancer research, DPRIT holds the same potential to elevate Texas—particularly Houston—as a hub for brain health research. Since its launch in 2009, CPRIT has awarded more than $3.8 billion in grants, with nearly 40 percent directed to Houston-based institutions. With the Texas Medical Center, world-class research institutions and a growing life sciences ecosystem, Houston is already an established leader in health care research and treatment. DPRIT funding could accelerate that momentum, attracting researchers, startups and companies to the region.  The Greater Houston Partnership has actively advocated for DPRIT, recognizing its potential to boost public health and regional economic growth. Brain health was also a key priority for former Partnership Chair and Lime Rock CEO Eric Mullins during his tenure.   “Brain capital will be an essential currency as we prepare workers to thrive and evolve with the technologies, societal shifts and economic uncertainties of the coming decades,” Mullins said in a statement. “The steps that Houston is taking to invest in brain health will unlock capital for R&D, model best practices in employee well-being and prepare our workforce to compete on the global stage.”  Other Houston-based organizations are also focused on exploring and advancing the so-called “brain economy,” including the Center for Houston’s Future.   Looking Ahead  Lawmakers are close to finalizing a new tax incentive program that would bolster research and development statewide. If signed into law, Senate Bill 2206 would further strengthen innovation in Houston’s medical community and beyond.  Learn more about the Partnership’s public policy initiatives.