Return to Archives Home

Q. Some departments provide education reimbursement to their employees, such as Fire, Police and others. But many departments, such as Health and Human Resources, don’t offer that benefit. Why is that?

A. All departments value an educated workforce. However, there has to be enough money available to allow all employees who meet the department’s guidelines to get assistance. For some departments, the money simply is not there.

The decision of whether to offer a tuition assistance program is determined by each department. Many departments, such as Public Works & Engineering, Aviation, Police and Finance & Administration, do offer reimbursement or assistance. Some of these departments have enterprise funds, providing an additional source of revenue for programs like college reimbursement.

To find out if your department offers tuition assistance, contact your human resources representative.

During the city’s 170th birthday gala, the city raised $150,000 to establish a higher-education scholarship for students who are children of city employees with more than five years with the city.

Ten percent of the fund and any interest will be available for scholarships each year. Financial need will be part of the criteria for receiving a scholarship.

You will be hearing more soon about how the fund will operate. And when you do, we will let you know how you can apply for a scholarship for your child.

This scholarship fund is another way for me and other Houstonians to thank you for your service.

return to the top

Do you have a question for Mayor Bill White? Send it to City Savvy, 611 Walker, 4A or hrenewsletter
@cityofhouston.net with your name and work phone number, which will not be used in Savvy. They are necessary in case of a question.