Cary Wright is working to transform public education. He argues the most important seat for determining the future of our economy isn't found in a boardroom, but an elementary school classroom. Cary Wright is the CEO of Good Reason Houston, a nonprofit dedicated to improving public education through collaboration with families, educators, policymakers, and philanthropists. Before becoming CEO in 2023, he served as Chief External Affairs Officer and spent nearly a decade with Teach For America, including as Executive Director of the Dallas-Fort Worth region. His 15+ years in education and public affairs include roles as a press secretary in the U.S. House and a teacher in rural Mississippi. Cary serves on the boards of Houstonians for Great Public Schools, the Greater Houston Partnership’s UpSkill Executive Committee, and the Davidson College Alumni Association. A proud Texas public school graduate, Cary earned his degree in English and Art History from Davidson College. He lives in the Houston Heights with his boyfriend, Nick, and their dogs, Memphis and Finn. In his free time, he enjoys travel, fitness, and exploring Houston’s food scene. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx