I am Jorge Borrego, postsecondary analyst for Next Generation Texas at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, and I am testifying in support of HB 1391. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comments and thank you Representative Schaefer for your leadership on this bill. The Foundation recently conducted research examining the state of career and technical education in Texas public schools. What we found was that there are large gaps between workforce needs and programs of study across multiple sectors but in particular the skilled trades, such as electricians and HVAC technicians. As the booming Texas economy continues to attract businesses and residents
from across the country, these gaps will only worsen. It is estimated that by 2030, Texas will be facing a statewide shortage of over 10,000 electricians.
K-12 Education
What The Atlantic Gets Right — And Wrong — About The Mississippi ‘Miracle’
The highly publicized “Mississippi Miracle” — the implementation of teacher training, literacy coaches, and grade retention for struggling students that skyrocketed the state’s ranking from 49th in 2013 to nineth in 2024 — has created a well-earned outpouring of praise. Here at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, we have taken notice. In fact, the Lone...
April 15, 2026