According to a recent report from Good Reason Houston, only 17% of Houston ISD graduates from 2017 earn a living wage six years after completing high school, significantly below the estimated living wage of $42,158 in Harris County. The analysis highlights alarming disparities in educational success, particularly affecting Black and Hispanic students who make up a large portion of the district's population. Cary Wright, the CEO of Good Reason Houston, called the situation a "wake-up call" for the community, stressing the importance of providing students with a robust education that equips them for high-skill jobs. The report underscores that students who meet state reading standards and pursue advanced coursework are more likely to achieve higher wages. However, only 2% of HISD graduates earned professional certifications, which are crucial for securing well-paying jobs.

The findings have sparked discussions about the need for systemic changes within the district to improve college and career readiness. As thousands of students prepare to graduate, the Houston Chronicle aims to cover how HISD is addressing these challenges. The analysis serves as a critical reminder of the need for educational reform to ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed in an evolving job market.