In the latest episode of Upstream, data experts gathered to discuss Coffee & Quality, a nonprofit capacity-building initiative from United Way of Greater Houston that helps organizations use data, evaluation, and continuous quality improvement (CQI) to strengthen their programs and impact. The group shared real-world examples of how data can drive decision making and create positive change across organizations.

As Texas works to strengthen its teacher workforce, big questions are emerging about certification, preparation pathways, and what it takes to support teachers already in the classroom. In this episode of Upstream, we’re bringing together research, policy, and on-the-ground experts to explore how HB 2 is shaping this moment and discuss new findings from the Learning Policy Institute.

In the second episode of our webinar series, Upstream, we explored an essential question: How do artists live and work in Houston? This question is the basis of the Greater Houston Artist Survey, a tool created by and for artists and intended to capture the most detailed portrait yet of their working life, challenges, and opportunities for growth.

Art leaders and data experts weighed in on the unique approach to creating the survey, hopeful findings, and the impact the results can have citywide. 

Hear experts from Houston Endowment, Tomball ISD, and Steuck & Associates unpack the basics of Grow Your Own Programs in public education. They’ll talk about: 

• How these programs can help paraprofessionals and other staff transition to certified teaching roles, especially after the passage of House Bill 2 
• Common program threads, challenges, experiences, and benefits of Grow Your Own Programs 
• And more!