Texas Representative Calls for Increased School Funding and Support for Immigrant Families
State Representative Penny Morales-Shaw emphasized the necessity of prioritizing increased school funding and the protection of immigrant families as the Texas Legislature confronts pressing issues affecting children and youth across the state.
Morales-Shaw, who represents House District 148 in northwest Houston, addressed topics such as education, immigration, and youth advocacy during a recent interview with Houston Community Media.
Democratic lawmakers contend that sufficient school funding is essential in tackling challenges that range from academic achievement to student mental health and instances of school violence.
Morales-Shaw noted the disparity in resource availability, stating that “some schools have more affluent students and families.” She highlighted that state and federal funding plays a critical role in leveling the educational playing field for students coming from less privileged backgrounds.
Despite the Texas Legislature’s approval of billions in public education funding last Congress, Morales-Shaw believes that these efforts still fall short of adequately addressing the needs of schools across Texas. Lawmakers are advocating for at least an additional $1,000 per student, a measure aimed at enhancing school resources for classroom supplies, teacher salaries, building maintenance, and other essential services. Without adequate funding, schools struggle to provide the necessary support to their students.
Morales-Shaw also raised concerns regarding the implications of federal immigration policies and recent actions by Texas state leaders on immigrant communities. She stated that funding cuts are adversely affecting nonprofit organizations that offer critical services such as food and housing assistance to families in need. Additionally, she criticized state directives requiring proof of legal presence for the renewal of certain professional licenses and federally funded housing programs, arguing these changes could disproportionately burden immigrant populations.
Expressing her worries about the future of educational access for undocumented students, Morales-Shaw referenced the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Plyler v. Doe, which guarantees public education for all children irrespective of their immigration status. She indicated that there have been discussions around challenging this significant precedent.
When asked how reporters can assist lawmakers in better serving families, Morales-Shaw underscored the need for open communication among communities, journalists, and elected officials. She urged, “Tell me what your family is going through,” acknowledging the critical firsthand insights that journalists can provide about the challenges faced by affected communities. Furthermore, she emphasized that lawmakers have a responsibility to keep the media informed about policy changes impacting families.
Since 2021, Morales-Shaw, an attorney from Houston, has represented the 148th District in the Texas House of Representatives, which includes areas such as Spring Branch, Garden Oaks/Oak Forest, Carverdale, and Cypress Fairbanks.
