Urban Edge

Insights, perspectives and stories about building better cities and better lives

In Houston, New Superintendent Faces an "Amazing Challenge" in State's Largest School District

Hopes -- and stakes -- are high for the new superintendent heading the Houston Independent School District.

Houston Courts Cuba, But Challenges Remain

Houston is eager to position itself as a gateway for Cuban trade and travel following the resumption of diplomatic relations with the U.S. But experts warn that won't be easy.

For Some, Applying for Social Services Means Compromising Privacy, Family

Navigating privacy concerns has real consequences for mothers applying for assistance

Do Atlanta Residents Value Transit More than Houstonians?

Houstonians and Atlantans alike are frustrated by traffic. How they want to address it is a different matter.

Houston’s Pension Reform Package: Our Latest Analysis

Houston’s pension reform plan -- and in particular, its risk-sharing provisions -- should be viewed by other cities as a national model.

50 Years of Education Research Hasn’t Fixed Inequality in Schools: Here’s One Reason Why

Education policymakers and researchers historically haven’t worked together. That’s starting to change.

Houston Mayor Says All Three Pension Boards Support Reform Deal

After a 7-2 vote from the firefighters' pension board, the pension deal goes next to city council.

Why We're Seeing the Re-Segregation of Schools -- and Understanding Its Impact on Students

Building on past research, a new study tries to determine what form of segregation contributes most to gaps in test scores between black, Hispanic and white students.

Undocumented Immigrants Face Another Arduous Journey Once They Get to US: Its Health Care System

Without access to a health care safety net, undocumented immigrants are further disadvantaged.

Understanding the Education Gamble on Houston Ballots This November

As the biggest school district in Texas, could Houston get the state to update its funding finally?