State Rep. Penny Morales Shaw said increasing school funding and protecting immigrant families should remain top priorities as Texas lawmakers work to address challenges facing children and young adults across the state.

Morales Shaw, who represents House District 148 in northwest Houston, discussed education, immigration and youth issues during a recent conversation with Houston Community Media.

The Democratic lawmaker argued that adequate school funding plays a critical role in addressing issues ranging from academic success to student mental health and school violence.