Austin Community College's Center for Public Policy and Political Studies (CPPPS) explores the future of public school finance at its annual Building Tomorrow's Leaders fundraiser luncheon 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 15, at the Sheraton Austin Hotel at the Capitol (701 East 11 St., Austin, Texas 78701).

Texas Tribune Co-founder and CEO Evan Smith will moderate the panel discussion with State Board of Education Member Keven Ellis, Pflugerville Independent School District Superintendent Dr. Douglas Killian, and Austin ISD Chief Business and Operations Officer Nicole Conley Johnson.

"Our lawmakers are in the Capitol right now, planning budgets for the next couple of years. We want them to hear from experts who will weigh in on the value of our public school systems and the importance of a strong budget," says William "Peck" Young, CPPPS executive director. "Our panelists will explore what our children can expect in the years ahead at our state schools."

The luncheon supports the ACC CPPPS, a non-partisan, nonprofit center created to enable ACC students to gain practical experience in learning how government policies are created and executed, and to improve communications between public entities and the people they serve.

Space is limited, and registration is required. To reserve a seat, visit bit.ly/BuildLeaders2019. ACC faculty and staff may purchase a discounted ticket for $100.

For more information, contact Young at 512-223-7069 or Pyoung@austincc.edu.