"Run through the finish line"

CASE is a collective of Houstonians committed to ensuring every student within Houston Independent School District (HISD) has the opportunity to receive a high-quality education.

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HISD commits to “run through the finish line”

HISD announced this week that it would be adjusting the timing of end-of-year progress testing in an effort to maximize the amount of time that students are receiving high-quality instruction.

Rather than take year-end exams in mid-May, most elementary and middle school students will now take the exams from May 28 to 30, with the makeup exams scheduled from May 31 to June 5.

The Houston Chronicle’s full story is here.

Why it matters: As the school year winds down, quality instruction can sometimes take a back seat to other activities. By adjusting testing dates to fit in several more days of instruction, students will be even better prepared for their end-of-year exams and make the most their time spent in school.

Go deeper: The district is making sure to include other typical year-end activities such as field trips and class events, but those activities will take place around the academic schedule, rather than the reverse.

For example, NES students who are traveling to Washington, D.C. or Japan through the Dyad program will take the exams on May 21 to 23, with a makeup window from May 22 to 24.

What they’re saying: The district said in a statement Monday to the Chronicle that it had adjusted its assessment calendar as part of “HISD's commitment to ‘run through the finish line” and “ensure every child receives excellent instruction every day.”

HISD to Boost AP Class Enrollment

Next school year, HISD students that are achieving at grade level will automatically be enrolled into Advanced Placement courses.

Access to AP courses will be made fairer and more equitable by allowing students to earn their way into these college-level courses with good grades, rather than having to rely on getting permission from staff.

The Houston Chronicle’s full story is here.

Why it matters: HISD hopes to improve the college-readiness of its students by increasing enrollment in advanced courses. Taking these college-level courses in high school can also reduce the financial burden of college tuition.

By the numbers: This new policy will address the persistent achievement gaps that HISD has endured for years. The Education Trust, a national education advocacy nonprofit, published a report that showed in HISD, only about 25% of black 11th grade students were on track to graduate with college credit, compared to the district average of about 36%.

What they’re saying:"So many students are looked over for advanced coursework when it comes to strictly teacher recommendations and grades, but when you have an auto-admission policy... a lot more students of color and working backgrounds will be able to access advanced coursework.” - Judith Cruz, Education Trust.

HISD, Rice to Partner on Space Workforce Project

Rice University and Houston ISD have partnered to launch a planetary science education program for K-12 students and teachers. Check out Rice’s press release here.

Why it matters: The commercial space industry is growing, and Houston is its epicenter. In order to ensure that Houston has the skilled workforce that it will need to maintain its position as the global leader in space, it is important that we cultivate our own talent pipelines. This partnership will give thousands of students and teachers the opportunity to take part in the emerging commercial space industry.

By the numbers: Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher secured $963,000 for the project via the Consolidated Appropriations Act, H.R. 4366.

What they’re saying: “The program will offer HISD students a variety of enrichment programs, including campus visits and research internships,” said co-principal investigator Carolyn Nichol, director of the Rice Office of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Engagement.

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