2015 – 2016
HISD CONNECT
What parents need to know
10 WAYS TO STAY in touch
Sign up for text messaging to
receive news on your phone 5
Tear-out Calendar
Find important dates, holidays,
and phone numbers 11
www.HoustonISD.org/HISDconnect
What’s New for 2015–2016
Mobile App Coming Soon
Parents can keep up with the latest district and school
news and events by downloading this free tool. The new
app will provide easy access to many of the resources
parents use most, and deliver alerts for weather bulletins,
school closings, and other significant events in real time.
E
M
More College Credit for AP Tests
House Bill 1992 now requires all state colleges and
universities to grant credit for Advanced Placement
exam scores of “3” or higher. Previously, standards for
granting college credit varied by institution. H
Expanded Access to Dual-Credit Courses
H
House Bill 1993 now allows parents to sign their
children’s report cards electronically. E M H
Senate Bill 1004 removed the three-course limit for HISD
students taking dual-credit courses outside of Houston
Community College and expanded access to college-level
coursework in high school. H
Less Student Testing
Free SAT Prep Course Available
E-Signatures Allowed on Report Cards
Elementary and some secondary students will be taking
fewer tests this year, after the Board of Education
approved a plan to reduce the number of normreferenced assessments HISD administers. The district
eliminated the Iowa/Logramos tests for students in
kindergarten through the eighth grade. E M
The College Board and Khan Academy teamed up this
year to provide free Scholarship Aptitude Test (SAT)
preparation for all students. HISD also offers a free online
SAT coaching course for grades 9 through 11 called
“PREP ME.” H
HISD Programs
Dual-Language Programs Expanding
PowerUp Enters Final Phase
This year, HISD is offering its successful dual-language
program at an additional 25 campuses — including two
early childhood centers and one middle school. E M
All high school students will be assigned a laptop for
use in class and at home, and the HUB — HISD’s online
teaching and learning platform — will be available
districtwide. E M H
EMERGE Going Districtwide
The EMERGE program, which helps low-income/highpotential students attend Tier 1/Ivy League schools,
will be expanding to all high schools this year, thanks to
$8.5 million in grants HISD received from the Houston
Endowment. H
Your Voice Survey Indicates Increased
Customer Satisfaction
Local Homestead Exemption Holds Steady
Voters will decide if the state homestead exemption
should increase from $15,000 to $25,000 through
Senate Bill 1, but HISD will continue to offer Houston
homeowners an additional 20 percent off the appraised
value of their property, the highest homestead exemption
allowed by the state. E M H
Construction Starts on Second Group of
Bond Projects
HISD continues to move forward with the largest voterapproved bond program in Texas. Construction is already
under way at 17 Group 1 schools, and construction on
most schools in Group 2 will start in the coming months.
Design of the schools in Groups 3 and 4 is ongoing.
E
M
HISD just completed its third administration of the Your
Voice survey, and preliminary results reveal that the
district has made improvements in several key areas.
To learn more, please visit the Your Voice website at
www.HoustonISD.org/YourVoice. E M H
Linked Learning Expanding
Using a $30 million Race to the Top grant, HISD is
continuing to implement a new approach to teaching
that combines rigorous academics with exposure to realworld professions — truly connecting what students do
in the classroom with careers. Starting in August of 2015,
18 high schools will have students enrolled in Linked
Learning career pathways. HISD will also be working with
25 middle schools and 43 elementary schools to expose
students to high-growth jobs and career fields. E M H
H
Key
E
Elementary School
M
Middle School
H
High School
HISD reflects Houston’s rich diversity and contributes to its economic stability
and growth. Our work is guided by the belief that all of our students must leave
as Global Graduates — possessing skills that will prepare them to be successful
in college and to compete in today’s global workforce. Below is our vision for
what every HISD graduate should be.
A GLOBAL GRADUATE IS …
A Leader
Works collaboratively and leads by
example. Embraces new ideas and
technologies, and motivates others
to be open to change.
Adaptable & Productive
Industrious member of a global
society. Demonstrates flexibility
and cross-cultural skills when
fulfilling personal, professional,
and community experiences.
A College-Ready Learner
Proficient in the core disciplines
as evidenced by successful
performance on state and national
assessments. Works hard and
persists to achieve academic
and career goals.
A Critical Thinker
Identifies and dissects issues, seeks
multiple opinions, and critically
evaluates various solutions.
Understands when additional
information is needed and
effectively uses technology
to research.
A Skilled Communicator
Reads, writes, speaks, and listens
effectively — adapts to diverse
audiences and settings.
A Responsible
Decision Maker
Sets goals, develops action plans,
and works hard. When faced with
challenges and obstacles, is able
to persist to achieve goals.
www.HoustonISD.org/GlobalGrad
CONNECTING WITH HISD
A
t its core, public education is fundamentally about
connections: the relationships forged between students
and teachers, teachers and parents, and families and the many
district employees and administrators who serve them.
The keys to any successful relationship are trust and
communication, and that’s why HISD has developed a number
of ways to help parents stay connected — many of which are
mobile-friendly and accessible through smart phones or
other devices.
HISD Board of education
The nine trustees of the Board of Education are elected to
staggered four-year terms by geographic district to represent
their own constituents and to serve the community as a whole
in making policy and overseeing management of HISD.
Regular meetings are scheduled for 5 p.m. on the second
Thursday of each month in the Board Auditorium at
4400 W. 18th St. (subject to change), and hearings,
workshops, and special sessions are conducted as needed.
All agendas are posted in advance online, as well as rules
and sign-up information for public appearances before the
board. Live streaming and recorded coverage is available at
www.HoustonISD.org.
This guide is designed to provide families with the tools they
need to navigate the district successfully. It contains some basic
information, such as how to sign up for bus transportation and
free or reduced-price meals, as well as details on where to obtain
help should questions arise, and how to become more active at
the campus level.
We hope that you will keep this document handy for future
reference, so that it may serve as a convenient and useful resource
throughout the year.
BOARD SERVICES
713-556-6121
BoardServices@HoustonISD.org
Rhonda Skillern-Jones
District II, President
Manuel Rodriguez Jr.
Anna Eastman
Wanda Adams
Michael L. Lunceford
Paula M. Harris
Greg Meyers
Juliet K. Stipeche
Harvin C. Moore
District III, First Vice President
District IX, Second Vice President
District IV, Secretary
District VIII, Assistant Secretary
District I
District V
District VI
District VII
Terry B. Grier, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Visit www.HoustonISD.org/Board for trustees’ biographies, lists of schools, general information, board policy, the board
monitoring system, and videos.
4 | HISD Connect | 2015 - 2016
www.HoustonISD.org
10 WAYS TO STAY in Touch
Below is a list of 10 easy ways to stay abreast of district developments, whether it’s through a text-messaging service that
keeps parents informed with up-to-the-minute alerts or a food-related app that lets parents see nutritional information
on every item offered in their child’s school cafeteria.
Internet users can watch videos on YouTube or visit the main HISD website for regular updates on district and school
activities, and social media-savvy parents can “like” HISD on Facebook, “follow” HISD on Twitter, or sign up to receive
the district’s e-newsletter at www.HoustonISD.org/Subscribe.
Text Messaging
HISD Website
www.HoustonISD.org
Safety
alert
Updated daily with news, features, photos,
and videos that keep you current on what’s
happening at the district, with the Board
of Education, and on campuses. Watch
board meetings through our live streaming
video at 5 p.m. on the second Thursday of
every month (schedule may vary).
Text “YES” to 68453
Parents and employees who
Inclement
would like to get emergency
weather
notices via text can opt-in
School Bus Tracker
to have weather bulletins,
www.HoustonISD.org/BusTracker
campus alerts, and other important
Pinpoint your child’s school bus location
notifications delivered directly
using GPS technology and check to see
to their cell phones.
if it’s running on schedule. Register using
your child’s student ID number and the
district’s account number: 76647.
www.YouTube.com/TheHISD
Facebook
www.Facebook.com/HoustonISD
“Like” us to receive news briefs, photo
galleries, and campus reports — plus the
chance to share information, comment, ask
questions, and interact with HISD.
See all the latest videos from
HISD’s award-winning team of producers
and videographers who cover special
events, find creative ways of explaining
complex programs, and chronicle
what’s happening on campuses.
School Websites
Bookmark your child’s campus website for
quick access to school-specific staff and
athletic directories, calendars, news blogs,
photo galleries, podcasts, and more.
These websites are also used by the district
to communicate information about
critical deadlines, inclement weather,
or emergency situations.
Cafeteria Menus
Twitter
www.Twitter.com/HoustonISD
Fast news and information plus photos
and links to media coverage of HISD
and other timely local information.
Include our handle @HoustonISD
for us to see your tweet.
www.HoustonISD.org/Menus
Use the free Nutrislice app to access
the most current school menus and
nutritional information on every food
item offered in HISD cafeterias.
Pre-Paid Lunch Money
www.HoustonISD.org/Subscribe
Sign up to have the latest HISD news
delivered straight to your inbox. Each
edition is filled with updates on student
achievements, campus activities, district
initiatives, and other useful information.
www.HoustonISD.org
www.ParentOnline.net
Pay in advance for school meals
using a credit card, view account balances
and purchase histories, or manage
your child’s nutrition online.
The system also e-mails parents
when account balances are low.
HISD Connect | 2015 - 2016 | 5
Ready to learn
The importance of attendance
HISD’s goal is to see every student succeed. A critical component
of academic success is regular attendance at school. It is state law
— as well as each parent’s duty — to require his or her school-age
children at every level to attend school, to monitor each child’s
attendance, and to request a conference with school officials to
discuss any attendance concerns. Principals may excuse absences
for personal illness, death in the family, or other legitimate
reasons. A student must attend at least 90 percent of the days
the course meets during the school year in order to receive credit.
If too many classes are missed, an “NG” is entered instead of a
grade, and parents must contact the school to see what corrective
steps must be taken. If a student is absent from school without
parental consent for any portion of the school day for three days
in a four-week period or for 10 or more days in a six-month
period, the student and/or the student’s parent or legal guardian
are subject to civil prosecution by the truancy court. In the event
the student fails to obey the order issued by the civil courts,
the student may also be referred to a juvenile court, which will
determine whether the student should be adjudicated delinquent
and referred for supervision by the juvenile probation authorities.
How attendance zones are set up
Most schools have specifically defined attendance zones
that include residential areas that each school serves.
HISD assigns each student to a “feeder pattern” composed
of a specific elementary, middle, and high school on the basis
of his or her home address. To determine which schools
serve your residence, use the online “Find a School” tool
(www. HoustonISD.org/SearchTool), or call Student
Transfers at 713-556-6734 or the HISD Information Center
at 713-556-6005. Students are not zoned to specific schools
for pre-kindergarten and may attend any school or pre-K
center with available space.
Special Education services
If your child is experiencing difficulties with learning in school,
please contact your teacher first to determine what type of
assistance is available. If you suspect your child has a disability,
ask that your child be referred to the campus intervention
assistance team (IAT), and the teacher will then work with the
IAT to find the appropriate supports to match your child’s needs.
If you request a Section 504 or Special Education evaluation
because of a suspected disability, the school should respond
within five to 10 days. The IAT will either formally refer your
child for an evaluation or formally inform you of a decision not to
evaluate and why. You are a part of this process, and any decision
about a Section 504 or Special Education evaluation will be
made with your participation. An evaluation cannot take place
without your written consent. If your child is identified as a child
with a disability, an Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD)
or Section 504 committee will convene to review the evaluation
results and discuss possible services.
School hours and early dismissal
All HISD schools are in session Monday through Friday,
and every school is required to have a seven-hour, 15-minute
instructional day. However, specific schedules vary at different
campuses, so contact your child’s school to find out its starting
and ending times. Throughout the year, there are several
days when schools dismiss students early to allow time for
instructional planning, professional development, and parental
involvement activities. HISD has assigned five early dismissal
days: Sept. 22, Oct. 28, Nov. 18, 2015; and Jan. 27 and
Feb. 24, 2016.
Releasing students during school hours
A student may be released during school hours only to the person
who signed the student’s enrollment form or who has legal
custody of the student, or to a person who has the parent’s
written permission to have the student released. That person
must first present identification at the school office.
School choices are plentiful — and expanding
HISD’s open enrollment policies, combined with a robust portfolio of school choices, are
among its biggest lures — more than 70,000 magnet school applications were received
last year alone. The district offers pre-K through 12th-grade programs, including strong
neighborhood, magnet, and specialty school choices that are constantly expanding to
keep up with academic and Houston workforce demands. Families may choose from
such options as Montessori, fine arts, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and
math), Vanguard gifted and talented, career and technical education, career academies,
International Baccalaureate, single-sex college preparatory academies, early childhood
programs, early college high schools, virtual instruction, and more.
MAGNET AWARENESS ACTIVITIES
Each fall, magnet schools open their doors for parents of prospective students to visit
and learn about programs. This year, tours will be offered on selected “Magnet Thursdays”
and four, separate open houses will be held at locations across the district.
More HISD Information
High school Standards
www.HoustonISD.org/PlanYourPath
Linked Learning
www.HoustonISD.org/LinkedLearning
magnet schools
www.HoustonISD.org/Magnet
dual-language programs
www.HoustonISD.org/DualLanguage
School Choices
www.HoustonISD.org/ChooseHISD
Visit www.HoustonISD.org/SchoolChoice for details on these and other important magnet dates.
6 | HISD Connect | 2015 - 2016
www.HoustonISD.org
BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE
The Houston Independent School District is undergoing a
historic transformation to rebuild its facilities so that students
and teachers will have modern and updated schools equipped for
contemporary learning.
are more than 50 years old. That program is also providing for
major safety and technology upgrades, renovations of middle
school restrooms throughout the district, and updated athletics
facilities.
The district is moving forward with the largest voter-approved
bond program in Texas history to renovate or rebuild 40 schools,
with construction already under way on some campuses.
Transparency and accountability are ensured through a ninemember Bond Oversight Committee. Project Advisory Teams
for each project meet regularly to help design the new schools
to meet the needs of students, staff, and their own unique
communities.
The $1.89 billion bond program approved by voters in November
2012 will rebuild or renovate 29 high schools — many of which
Go to www.BuildHISD.org to find information about HISD’s building programs, designs for new schools, videos, a news blog,
and the latest bond newsletter.
PARTNERS WITH PARENTS
The Family and Community Engagement (FACE) department is dedicated to establishing meaningful partnerships among families,
communities, and schools by helping educators empower parents to be their teaching partners and advocates for all children. Below are
the services that FACE offers parents.
Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool
Youngsters (HIPPY)
Parents are their children’s first teachers, and there are simple
and easy ways that parents can help their young children learn.
Home Instruction for Parents of Preschool Youngsters (HIPPY)
is a free HISD program that teaches parents instructional
activities to practice at home that encourage learning and
development among three-, four-, and five-year-olds. Research
shows that students whose parents participate in the program
significantly outperform all HISD kindergarten students
in reading and math. To learn more about HIPPY, visit
www.HoustonISD.org/HIPPY.
Academic Parent-Teacher Teams (APTT)
Elementary schools across HISD are participating in the
Academic Parent-Teacher Teams (APTT) program to empower
parents to prepare their children at home for academic success.
Parents in the program learn about foundational skills, examine
assessment data, set goals for their children’s achievement, and
learn simple games and activities to help develop their students’
competency. Parents leave the meeting empowered to help their
children learn, teachers gain instructional partners, and children
develop academically at school and at home. To learn more about
APTT, visit www.HoustonISD.org/APTT.
Family Learning Academy
The Family Learning Academy connects families with the
resources they need to help their children graduate from high
school and be successful in their adult lives. HISD departments
such as School Choice and Library Services and community
partners such as the University of Houston, Catholic Charities,
and the Houston Public Library offer workshops and information
on topics such as HISD magnet and certification programs, applying
to college, learning at home, and family leadership. To learn more
about upcoming events, visit www.HoustonISD.org/FLA.
www.HoustonISD.org
Parent Organization Assistance
FACE will meet with interested parents and administrators and
help explain the resources contained in the Parent Organization
Toolkit, which has guidelines for families to build a PTA or
PTO at their school. For more information about how we
can help your school develop a parent organization, visit
www.HoustonISD.org/ParentOrgs.
WHEN ASSISTANCE IS REQUIRED
If you need guidance in addressing problems, issues,
or conflicts, the Parent and Community Assistance
Office stands ready to assist you. Parent liaisons are
trained to address and resolve your concerns through
the proper district policies, procedures, and personnel.
The ultimate goal is to foster strong partnerships
between families and schools.
Parent & Community Assistance Office
4400 W. 18th St.
Houston, TX 77092
713-556-7121
ParentAssistance@HoustonISD.org
You can learn more about the office, obtain advice
on how to address concerns at your child’s campus,
or locate your campus liaison at
www.HoustonISD.org/ParentAssistance.
For more on Family and Community Engagement
programs visit www.HoustonISD.org/FACE.
HISD Connect | 2015 - 2016 | 7
Food, transportation, and safety
Meals and snacks
HISD provides nutritious, well-balanced breakfasts, lunches,
dinners, and snacks to help students perform better in all areas of
their lives. About 280,000 meals are served each day, providing
necessary nutrients, whole grains, low-fat proteins, and fresh
fruits and vegetables. The HISD Nutrition Services Support
Facility provides fresh, wholesome foods from its bakery and hot
and cold foods from its kitchens.
Breakfast is free for all students, and student lunch is $2.25.
Lunches are also free at some eligible campuses for all students.
At other schools, lunch is available to qualifying students
at no cost or at a substantially reduced rate. Applications
for free or reduced-price meals are available online at
www.HoustonISD.org/SchoolMeals and at each school.
HISD’s First Class Breakfast program serves all elementary and
middle school students a free nutritious breakfast every morning
in their classrooms. High school students are offered free
breakfast daily in the cafeteria or classroom before school.
A number of HISD campuses also offer free dinners or
after-school snacks to children ages 1 – 18. To see if your
child’s school participates, please call HISD Nutrition Services
at 713-491-5944.
To apply for school meal benefits, manage your child’s
cafeteria account, or view menus, nutritional information,
healthy recipes, or the latest news, go to
www.HoustonISD.org/NutritionServices.
TRANSPORTATION OPTIONS
HISD assists parents in providing transportation to eligible
students. To determine eligibility, a request is made through
the student’s campus transportation coordinator to the
Transportation Services Department. If eligible, the student will
be assigned to a designated route and stop location (often situated
at an HISD campus). These stop locations are usually within one
mile of the student’s residence but are no farther away than two
miles. The parent or legal guardian of a student who qualifies
for bus service is responsible for transportation to the student’s
assigned bus stop.
If a special-needs student’s Individualized Education Program
requires transportation services, HISD provides bus service to
the closest available program that meets the student’s needs. The
parent or legal guardian of a student who does not qualify for bus
service is responsible for the student’s transportation, if needed, to
the assigned campus.
For information about eligibility for transportation and
bus stops, contact your child’s school or visit
www.HoustonISD.org/Transportation.
With the METRO Q Fare Card, all elementary-school (over
the age of 6) through high-school students receive a 50 percent
discount on fares — automatically deducted from the card each
time it is used — and free transfers. The card provides faster
boarding, tracks riders’ progress toward earning five free trips
for every 50 paid rides, and protects balances if it is ever lost
or stolen.
For complete details, call METRO at 713-635-4000 or visit
www.RideMetro.org.
8 | HISD Connect | 2015 - 2016
Medical care at school
Schools will contact parents or a designated relative or family
friend if a student becomes ill or suffers an injury that requires
follow up or parent notification. Be sure to list all emergency
telephone numbers on your child’s enrollment card and update
when necessary.
Prescription medication can be administered at school only when
advance written parental and physician permission is on file,
and only personnel designated by the principal may administer
prescribed medication to a student during the school day.
Medication must be in the original container, and the prescription
label must be affixed to the container.
Please contact the school nurse or principal if your child has any
medical issues that may require urgent care during the school day.
Conditions may include life-threatening food allergies (resulting
in anaphylaxis), seizures, diabetes, and asthma.
Keeping your child’s immunizations current is important. Please
provide updated documentation when enrolling your child or
after any additional vaccines are received.
For current state immunization requirements, visit
www.HoustonISD.org/immunizations.
Student insurance
By law, public schools are not liable for injuries that students
receive while on campus. HISD does, however, make available
affordable voluntary accident insurance. Parents can buy 24-hour
coverage or coverage only for those hours when their child is at
school. Enrollment information is available from Texas Kids First;
call 1-800-366-8354 or visit www.TexasKidsFirst.com.
For information about health insurance for children
sponsored by the state of Texas, call 713-556-7280 or
visit www.TexCarePartnership.com.
HISD police Department:
keeping everyone safe
The mission of the Houston Independent School District Police
Department is to ensure an environment where students feel
safe to learn, employees feel safe to work, and the community is
confident in the safety of the district.
Operating under the leadership of Chief Robert Mock, it is the
only accredited public school district police department in the
nation recognized by the Commission on Accreditation for Law
Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). HISD PD abides by the
highest standards of service and ensures a safe environment for
around 215,000 students and about 29,000 employees, as well as
those in the communities served by the district.
HISD PD responds to more than 81,000 calls per year and covers
more than 300 square miles in the Houston area.
HISD Police Department
3500 Tampa St., Houston, TX 77021
713-842-3715 (8 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
713-892-7777 Emergency Dispatch (24-hour)
Fax: 713-842-3752
www.HoustonISD.org
OUR DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
PowerUp
Glossary of Terms
One-to-one
Laptops for all high school students
During the 2015 – 2016 school year, all high school students will receive a laptop to
use for learning at school and at home. HISD’s one-to-one student laptop distribution
is part of PowerUp, a comprehensive K–12 initiative that is changing the culture of
teaching and learning across the district and closing the digital divide in education.
PowerUp is about more than just laptops. It also includes:
A laptop for every student. By January
2016, every high school student at
HISD will be issued their own laptop
each school year.
Digital content migration
Transition of the district’s curriculum
and instructional resources to a digital
platform (HUB) that can be accessed
anywhere and anytime by teachers
and students.
Project-based learning
Instructional approach in which
students actively explore real-world
problems and challenges through
collaborative projects with their
classmates.
Blended learning
Technology
Phasing out textbooks
and transitioning
to districtwide
digital content
and curriculum
hub
Creation of the HUB, a
K–12 online teaching
and learning platform
accessible to students
and teachers
Personalization
Training and professional
development for teachers on
the use of digital resources
and tools to personalize
instruction for students
24-7 Access to Learning
HISD’s online teaching and learning platform, known as the HUB, will be transitioning
from its pilot phase at a handful of schools to full districtwide implementation at all
campuses during the 2015 – 2016 school year. The HUB is exactly what its name
implies: a centralized location for curriculum, communication, collaboration, and
personalization. Using their HISD login and password, all HISD students will be able
to access the HUB 24 hours a day from any device with Internet connectivity. Parent
access to the HUB will be introduced in 2016.
Classroom approach that is a “blend”
of teacher-driven, face-to-face
instruction and online or digital
media activities.
Flipped classroom
Students learn content online by
watching video lectures, usually at
home, and homework is done in class
with teachers and students discussing
and solving problems.
Digital citizen
A person who uses the Internet
regularly and effectively.
Digital footprint
The trail, traces, or “footprints”
people leave online.
Visit www.HoustonISD.org/PowerUp for more information on how the district is transforming education through technology.
Staying Safe in a Digital World
With technology and digital transformation can come high-tech versions of social
problems that have existed for generations — like youthful indiscretions and bullying.
When done in cyberspace, though, bad behavior can have broad effects and a longterm impact on young people. That’s why an important part of PowerUp is arming our
students, parents, and educators with the tools and knowledge they need to stay safe in
today’s digital world. HISD provides training for all high school students, as well as a
Digital Citizenship Pledge that they and their parents must sign before they can receive
a laptop. The district has also created a cyber-safety website with tools, resources, and
videos for families.
TEXTing TEST
If you find
A/S/L? Meet F2F?
texted to your child, will
you spot the danger?
(Translation: Age/sex/location?
Meet face-to-face?)
Visit www.HoustonISD.org/CyberSafety for resources, tools, and tips on staying safe in today’s digital world.
www.HoustonISD.org
HISD Connect | 2015 - 2016 | 9
Testing and promotion standards
HISD uses a variety of national, state, and local measures to
monitor and improve student learning. Information about testing,
including descriptions of each assessment, is available through
your child’s school. STAAR (State of Texas Assessment of
Academic Readiness) is the current Texas testing program for
students in grades 3 through 12, designed to assess progress and
to make sure youngsters are on track for graduation, leading to
college and careers. Testing dates are available online at
www.HoustonISD.org/Calendars.
STAAR Grades 3 – 5
The STAAR assessments in grades 3 – 5 focus on content taught
during the current academic year rather than knowledge and skills
learned over multiple years. Third-, fourth-, and fifth-graders
are tested in math and reading. In fourth grade, a writing test
is added, and in fifth grade, students will take a science test in
addition to math and reading. Performance on STAAR tests may
be used to determine placement in more rigorous pre-Advanced
Placement classes in middle school. Students in grade 5 must pass
both the reading and math exams to be promoted to sixth grade.
Promotion Standards
Grade
Level
1 and 2
End-of-Course Grades 9 – 12
The STAAR EOC (end-of-course) assessments test high school
students’ mastery of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills
(TEKS) for a given course and determine college and career
readiness. State legislation has reduced the number of EOCs
that must be passed for graduation from 15 to five:
• Algebra I
must pass High Frequency
Word Evaluation — recognizing and
reading words that appear very often in
written and spoken language.
•Students
•State
requirement of overall yearly
average of 70 or above and local
requirement of an average of 70 or
above in reading, other language
arts, mathematics, and science or
social studies.
•Students
must have sufficient
attendance*
3, 4, and 5
STAAR Grades 6 – 8
The STAAR assessments in grades 6 – 8 focus on content
taught during the current year rather than knowledge and skills
learned over multiple years. Sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-graders
are tested in math and reading, with a writing test added in
seventh grade, and science and social studies in eighth grade.
Students in grade 8 must pass both the reading and math exams
to be promoted to ninth grade.
No double-testing in advanced
middle school math
Previously, students who took Algebra I in middle school were
required to “double-test” and take both the Algebra I EOC and
the grade-level STAAR math assessment. Now, the Algebra
I EOC will satisfy the requirement for a math test for those
middle school students taking Algebra I. Middle school students
taking Algebra I WILL NOT be required to take the grade-level
STAAR math assessment in addition to the Algebra I EOC.
Promotion
Standards
must pass STAAR (State
of Texas Assessment of Academic
Readiness) in reading and math.
•Students
•State
requirement of overall yearly
average of 70 or above and local
requirement of an average of 70 or
above in reading, other language
arts, mathematics, and science or
social studies.
•Students
must have sufficient
attendance*
6, 7, and 8
must pass STAAR in reading
and math.
•Students
•State
requirement of overall yearly
average of 70 or above and a local
requirement of an average of 70 or
above in three of the four core courses:
language arts (average of reading and
English), mathematics, science, and
social studies.
•Students
must have sufficient
attendance*
9 – 12
•Biology
• English I (combined reading/writing)
•Students
are promoted based on their
total accumulated course credits prior to
the beginning of the next school year.
•Individual
course credit is earned
through a passing grade of 70 percent
or above and sufficient attendance*
• English II (combined reading/writing)
• U.S. History
* See attendance page 6.
For more on STAAR, including testing policies, frequently asked questions, and sample test questions and answers, go to
www.HoustonISD.org/STAAR.
10 | HISD Connect | 2015 - 2016
www.HoustonISD.org
Grading and report cards
Houston Independent
School District
Hattie Mae White
Educational Support Center
4400 West 18th Street
Houston, Texas 77092-8501
www.HoustonISD.org
www.Facebook.com/HoustonISD
www.Twitter.com/HoustonISD
www.YouTube.com/TheHISD
www.HoustonISD.org/Subscribe
It is the policy of the Houston Independent
School District not to discriminate on the basis
of age, color, handicap or disability, ancestry,
national origin, marital status, race, religion,
sex, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual
orientation, and gender identity and/or gender
expression in its educational or employment
programs and activities.
www.HoustonISD.org
Academic Subjects Conduct
90 – 100 = excellent E = excellent
80 – 89 = good; above average S = satisfactory
75 – 79 = satisfactory; average P = poor; below average
70 – 74 = passing; below average U = unsatisfactory
below 70 = unsatisfactory; failing
Grade Classification
In high school, a student’s total credits determine the student’s classification — that is,
what grade level or “year” the student is in. Policy concerning classification is described in
Board Policy EIE (LOCAL).
Credits Earned Classification (year)
0 – 5.5
grade 9 (freshman)
6 – 11.5
grade 10 (sophomore)
12 – 17.5
grade 11 (junior)
18 or more
grade 12 (senior)
Grades and Extracurricular Activities
Under the state’s “no pass/no play” law, eligibility for participation in extracurricular
activities during the first six weeks of the school year is determined by a student’s grades
from the final grading cycle of the previous school year or the number of credits earned
during the previous school year. After the first six weeks, a student who receives a grade
lower than 70 (or the equivalent) in any academic course is ineligible to participate in
extracurricular activities during the first three school weeks of the next grading period.
During that time the student may continue to practice or rehearse with other students
but may not take part in any competition or public performance.
Nine-Week Grading Periods used in elementary schools and certain secondary schools
First Grading Period
Second Grading Period
Third Grading Period
Fourth Grading Period
August 24 to October 23
October 26 to December 18
January 5 to March 11
March 21 to May 25
Elementary schools (and certain secondary schools) send report cards to parents
four times during the year, shortly after the end of each nine-week grading period:
October 30, January 8, March 24, and May 25 (elementary and middle schools)
and June 1 (high schools).
Six-Week Grading Periods used in most secondary schools
First Grading Period
Second Grading Period
Third Grading Period
Fourth Grading Period
Fifth Grading Period
Sixth Grading Period
August 24 to October 2
October 5 to November 6
November 9 to December 18
January 5 to February 12
February 15 to April 1
April 4 to May 25
Report Cards
Most middle schools and high schools (and certain elementary schools) send report
cards to parents six times during the school year, shortly after the end of each six-week
grading period: October 9, November 13, January 8, February 19, April 8, and
May 25 (elementary and middle schools) and June 1 (high schools). Certain middle
schools and high schools, however, observe nine-week grading periods; see the schedule
above. If a student is not progressing satisfactorily, parents receive a preliminary report
at the midpoint of the grading period and at other times as necessary. Parents must sign
and return the reports.
HISD Connect | 2015 - 2016 | 11
2015 – 2016 school calendar | www.HoustonISD.org/Calendars
2 01 5
J U L Y
S M T WTHF S
1 234
5 6 7 8 91011
12 13 1415 1617 18
19 20 21 22 2324 25
2627 28293031
A U G U S T
O C T O B E R
J A N U A R Y
S M T WTHF S
123
4 5 6 7 8 910
11 12 1314 1516 17
18 19 2021 222324
25 26 27 28 2930 31
N O V E M B E R
S M T WTHF S
1 2 345
6 7 8 9 1011 12
1314 1516 171819
2021 2223 242526
2728 2930
D E C E M B E R
Holidays
Holidays
Early Dismissal Days
(2½ hours early)
Teacher Service Days
Teacher Preparation Days
Make-up Days (if needed)
Labor Day September 7, 2015
May 26 — First make up day if needed, moves
Teacher Prep to May 27. May 27 — Second
make up day if needed, moves Teacher Prep
day to May 31
S M T WTHF S
S M T WTHF S
12 12
3 4 56 78 9 3 4 56 78 9
10 11 12 13 1415 16 10 11 12 13 1415 16
17 18 1920212223 17 18 1920212223
2425 26 27 282930 2425 26 27 282930
31
S M T WTHF S
1 2 3 45 6
7 8 9 10111213
14 15 16 17 181920
21 22 2324 2526 27
2829
M A Y
S M T WTHF S
1 2 34 56 7
8 9 10 11 121314
15 16 17 18 1920 21
2223 2425 2627 28
2930 31
M A R C H
S M T WTHF S
1 2 345
6 7 8 9 1011 12
1314 1516 171819
2021 2223 242526
2728 2930 31
Key
A P R I L
F E B R U A R Y
S M T WTHF S
S M T WTHF S
1 1 2 34 56 7
2 3 45 678 8 9 10 11 121314
9 10 11 12 131415 15 16 17 18 1920 21
16 17 18 19 2021 22 2223 2425 262728
2324 2526 272829 2930
3031
S E P T E M B E R
2 01 6
S M T WTHF S
1 2 34 5
6 7 8 9 1011 12
1314 1516 1718 19
2021 2223 2425 26
2728 2930 31
J U N E
S M T WTHF S
1 234
5 6 7 8 91011
12 13 1415 1617 18
19 20 21 22 2324 25
2627 282930
Significant dates
Fall Holiday
September 23, 2015
Thanksgiving
November 25 – 27, 2015
Winter Break
Dec. 21, 2015 – Jan. 1, 2016
Martin Luther King
Jr. Day
January 18, 2016
Teachers report to work
Aug. 10, 2015
First day of school Aug. 24, 2015
Spring Break
March 14 – 18, 2016
Last day of first semester Dec. 18, 2015
Spring Holiday
March 25, 2016
First day of second semester Jan. 5, 2016
Last day of school May 25, 2016
Last day for teachers May 26, 2016
Useful numbers
HISD Police Department 713-892-7777
Emergencies 911
Main Number
713-556-6000
Advanced
Academics
713-556-6954
Athletics
713-556-6913
Attendance
Boundaries
713-556-6734
Board of
Education
713-556-6121
Buses
(Transportation)
713-613-3040
Career and
Technical
Education
713-556-6981
Non-emergencies 713-842-3715
Closing of
Schools/
Weather Hotline
713-267-1704
Counseling
and Guidance
713-556-7387
Curriculum
713-556-6823
Dropout
Prevention
713-556-7017
Early Childhood
(Pre-K)
713-556-6882
Federal and
State
Compliance
713-556-6753
Health and
Medical Services
713-556-7280
Information
Center
713-556-6005
Library Services
713-696-0600
Magnet
Programs
713-556-6947
Multilingual
Programs
713-556-6961
Nutrition
Services
713-491-5700
Office of School
Choice
713-556-6734
12 | HISD Connect | 2015 - 2016
Parent
Assistance
Center
713-556-7121
Family and
Community
Engagement
713-556-7290
School Support
Office
713-556-7257
Special
Education
713-556-7025
Strategic
Partnerships
713-556-7200
Student
Assessment
713-349-7460
Summer School/
External Funding
Title I
713-556-6928
Superintendent’s
Office
713-556-6300
Tax Office
(Harris County)
713-368-2000
Tip Line
713-641-7446
Transcripts
713-556-6744
Transfers
713-556-6734
Volunteers (VIPS)
713-556-7206
Tip Line
When students or parents see or hear about
wrongful school-related activity — theft, vandalism,
threats, etc. — they should call the anonymous and
confidential TipLine at 713-641-7446 and report
their concerns.
Emergencies
Report emergencies that require immediate police
assistance to 911. School-related non-emergencies
can be reported to the HISD Police Department by
calling 713-842-3715.
Closing of Schools
The district may close schools due to inclement
weather or emergencies. HISD announces closings
through the following outlets:
HISD website: www.HoustonISD.org
Facebook: Facebook.com/HoustonISD and
Facebook.com/HISDEspanol
Twitter: Twitter.com/HoustonISD and
Twitter.com/HISDEspanol
HISD Weather Hotline:
713-267-1704
Local radio and television stations
www.HoustonISD.org