Harris County Department of Education’s Civic Engagement team hosted more than 30 community partners at the Irvington Conference Center on Jan. 31 to learn about the Department’s resources and services.

Entitled “A Seat at the Table: Understanding HCDE’s Impact,” the breakfast event allowed 11 division leaders and their teams to chat with representatives from local legislative offices, educational institutions and nonprofit organizations. Adult Education provided insights into the division’s workplace certification and language courses, Therapy Services shared how its occupational, physical and music therapists aid student success in the classroom, and the Center for Educator Success highlighted its partnership with local districts to help people gain their alternative teaching certification. The Education Foundation of Harris County, CASE for Kids, Records Management and the Center for Safe and Secure Schools were also among the divisions represented at the event.  

Attendees were engaged during the Q&A session hosted by Chief of Staff Danielle Bartz. The forum detailed the number of students and families served annually, and the resources extended to independent school districts. These opportunities to inform the community are vital in forging partnerships with HCDE to create unique experiences and better serve Harris County students.