Laura Isensee Appointed as Houston Chronicle's Education Editor

Laura Isensee has been appointed as the new education editor at the Houston Chronicle, bringing over 15 years of diverse journalism experience to the role.

In her new position, Isensee will oversee reporting on Houston ISD, suburban school districts, higher education, and the evolving landscape of school vouchers in Texas.

Her appointment comes at a critical time, as education remains a highly charged and pivotal issue within the state.

Expressing her enthusiasm, Isensee stated, "I am delighted and honored to join the Houston Chronicle and to have the opportunity to lead a talented team of education reporters."

She emphasized the significance of the timing, noting, "I'm especially grateful to have the chance to do this at a time when education is arguably the most important issue in our community, and the stakes could not be higher for our students and teachers, and our city's future."

Isensee's extensive background spans print, public radio, podcasts, and digital media.

Most recently, she served as executive producer at City Cast Houston, where she played a pivotal role in shaping the city's daily local podcast and newsletter.

Prior to that, she dedicated eight years as an education reporter for Houston Public Media.

Her exemplary work earned her the title of Beat Reporter of the Year by the Texas Associated Press Broadcasters in 2019.

Her reporting has been featured in national outlets, including NPR, Reveal, Marketplace, and the Miami Herald, showcasing a blend of policy insight, human storytelling, and rigorous accountability.

Jennifer Radcliffe, local news editor at the Houston Chronicle, praised Isensee's leadership qualities, stating, "Laura is a deeply collaborative leader who combines sharp reporting instincts with a calm, thoughtful presence."

Radcliffe further highlighted Isensee's understanding of the complexities of education reporting in Houston, adding, "She understands both the urgency and nuance of education reporting in Houston — and she's exactly the kind of editor we want guiding our reporters through this next chapter."

Isensee is an alumna of The University of Texas at Austin, where she earned a bachelor's degree in Spanish and Plan II.

She furthered her education at Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, obtaining her master's degree.

Beyond her professional achievements, Isensee is committed to nurturing the next generation of journalists.

She serves as a mentor with Next Generation Radio, assisting in training emerging public media journalists.

Residing in the Greater Heights area, Isensee shares her home with her husband and their two children.

Her deep connection to the Houston community and her extensive experience in education reporting position her uniquely to lead the Chronicle's education coverage during this transformative period.