Texas Representative LJ Francis Champions New Education Initiatives

In March 2026, education policy in Texas took a significant turn as Governor Greg Abbott signed a bill establishing a voucher program that empowers parents to allocate tax dollars for their children’s education. This initiative is part of a broader movement to enhance educational choice, but it is the work of dedicated individuals like LJ Francis, District 2 Representative on the Texas State Board of Education, that drives these reforms forward.

Francis, who has deep roots in both education and public service, has been a key player in advocating for meaningful changes across the state’s educational landscape. Born in Jamaica, he immigrated to the United States and has since built a diverse educational background. With over 35 years of experience as a public school teacher, Francis understands the challenges and opportunities within various school systems.

A Focus on Quality Education

As a representative for the Corpus Christi region, which includes counties such as Aransas, Calhoun, Cameron, Hidalgo, Nueces, and Willacy, Francis has a clear vision for education in Texas. He aims to make the state a leader in educational metrics by collaborating closely with Governor Abbott. His priorities include ensuring high-quality instructional materials and enhancing teacher support.

Francis emphasizes the importance of transparency between educators and parents. Since his election to the board in 2022, he has promoted local empowerment in educational decision-making. His commitment to fostering communication and collaboration has been evident in his various initiatives.

Notably, before joining the board, Francis worked with the Texas State Aquarium on a project funded by a $100,000 grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. This initiative aimed to inspire a curiosity about the natural world among students through hands-on learning experiences focused on local watersheds. Francis and a team of 40 secondary teachers developed environmental activities that engaged students in real-world applications of their studies.

Significant Achievements

During his tenure on the board, Francis has made impactful contributions to the educational system. He successfully facilitated the allocation of $100 million in insurance relief to address rising property insurance premiums for schools in his district. This financial support has been instrumental in allowing schools to direct resources to areas of critical need.

In addition to financial initiatives, Francis has been a strong advocate for legislative improvements. He played a key role in passing HB 1605, a bill designed to enhance early childhood literacy. Furthermore, he has worked on overhauling the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) review process to ensure transparency and rigor in education.

Francis has also focused on expanding Career and Technical Education programs, providing students with more opportunities for instruction in personal finance and career readiness. His advocacy includes the promotion of Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines in educational settings, which underscores his commitment to student safety and preparedness.

As he looks to the future, Francis is not resting on his laurels. He is currently collaborating with the board to establish a standardized vocabulary list and literary works for all grades K-12, as part of the mandatory Texas Essential Skills and Knowledge requirements. Francis invites constituents to engage with him in these efforts, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of education.

Through his dedication and extensive experience, LJ Francis continues to be a pivotal figure in Texas education. His journey—from his early education in Jamaica to his influential role on the Texas State Board—reflects a commitment to excellence and a vision for a brighter future for all students in the state.