Welcome to the Texas Messenger
In Texas, the politics surrounding public education has become a breeding ground for distrust, anger, and resentment. Battle lines are drawn, and our schools and children are caught in the middle. Political affiliations and party platforms have overshadowed individuality in voting. I started the Texas Messenger to be a place that brings all sides and all views together to discuss, debate, and find common ground to advance public education in Texas.
We acknowledge that we are not perfect people. We have flaws, we experience emotions, and sometimes we say things that we shouldn’t—statements that can be misguided, miscalculated, unwarranted, and occasionally uneducated. Despite these imperfections, we have views, we have value, and we have a voice. We cannot allow the status quo to persist. While we stand firm in our views, it is essential that we respect others and their perspectives. Open debate, rooted in mutual respect and understanding, is what makes our country great. Healthy discourse allows us to learn from one another, find common ground, and strengthen our community.
We believe in and advocate for transparency and accountability. We desire to become a tool that helps Texans become more involved, aware, and action-driven to affect positive changes to public education in the Lone Star State. Many individuals, both past and present, have fought for our freedoms, including the right to choose our paths, the right to vote, and the right to have our voices heard. If ever there was a time to renew our commitment, that time is now.
The Texas Messenger was created to become a mechanism for bringing the voices and advocacy efforts from the plethora of advocacy groups, news, and information from around the state on issues of public education in Texas. Additionally, it seeks to provide opportunities to engage with all Texans in the hope that we can increase awareness and support for Texas public schools.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. Together, we can make a difference.
Guiding Principles
Mission Statement
Our mission is to unite voices and advocacy efforts in Texas supporting our public schools. By providing a one-stop location to foster informed decision-making and strengthening our public education system for the benefit of our communities.
Our Vision
Texas public schools will be the best public education system in the United States and is a place where all students will become knowledgeable, productive, responsible, respectful citizens.
Our Motto
Know better. Do better. Be better.
Message from the Founder
Welcome to The Texas Messenger! My name is Jason Carter, and I am a proud third-generation public educator with a deep passion for advocating for public education in Texas. My journey in education has been diverse and rewarding, encompassing roles as a coach, teacher, principal, school superintendent, and CEO of a non-profit organization.
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Education with an emphasis in special education and physical education. I furthered my education with a master’s degree from Texas Tech University in Education Design and Instructional Technology. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of leading and contributing to various educational initiatives aimed at enhancing student outcomes and community engagement.
One of my proudest achievements was leading the first high school to receive all accountability distinctions for four consecutive years as a principal. Additionally, I developed district programs that provide college and career readiness opportunities at no charge to families, ensuring that every student has the resources and support they need to succeed.
As a school superintendent, I led the school district through the COVID-19 pandemic while successfully passing a school bond and managing school construction post-pandemic. My strong fiscal management during this challenging time ensured the district’s stability and growth.
After my tenure as superintendent, I made the choice to return to the classroom for two main reasons. First, I wanted to return to my roots and get back to teaching students. Second, it allows me to pursue my advocacy efforts without the fear of political pressure standing in my way.
The Texas Messenger was born out of my dedication to public education and my belief in the power of informed, engaged communities. Our mission is to bring together all sides and all views to discuss, debate, and find common ground to advance public education in Texas. Through our website, Facebook group, and podcast, we aim to provide valuable resources, news, and commentary to help constituents know better, do better, and be better.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. Together, we can make a difference in the future of public education in Texas.
Jason Carter
Founder, The Texas Messenger
