Burbank MS student named national finalist in ‘Do the Write Thing Challenge’

Fatima Menendez’s thoughts on violence and how it has affected her life have garnered her an invitation to the nation’s capital, where she will be recognized along with 49 other students who were named national finalists in the Do the Write Thing Challenge essay competition. Get the full story and read a copy of her essay here.

Castro’s Kids donates 7,200 books to HISD two elementary schools

Students at Scroggins and MacGregor Elementary schools received an exciting surprise on the last day of school this year: Houston Astros catcher Jason Castro and his wife dropped by both campuses to help distribute some of the 7,200 books they had donated through the literacy foundation the couple started. Get the full story here.

Children’s book inspires River Oaks ES teacher’s trip to Japan

River Oaks Elementary School teacher Pia De Leon is one of a dozen HISD educators who will be traveling the world this summer thanks to the Fund for Teachers. Read more about her and what book motivated her to travel to Hiroshima this year in this related article.

Cutting-edge technology energizes Herrera ES students about learning

HISD’s PowerUp initiative is already transforming the way teachers are deliver instruction, but you can see how other types of cutting-edge technology are also making a big impression on district campuses in this article about Herrera Elementary School.

Board of Education to consider naming new elementary school after former governor

The HISD Board of Education is considering naming a new elementary school being built in the West Houston area after former Texas Gov. Mark W. White Jr., who served in office from 1983 to 1987.

Get the full story here.

HISD honored by Texas Comptroller’s office for financial transparency

Houston Independent School District’s financial team was recently honored by two organizations for its financial transparency. It received the Platinum Seal Award from the Texas Comptroller Leadership Circle program, and was recognized for 15 years of participation in the Association of School Business Officials International’s Meritorious Budget Awards (MBA) program. Read the full story here.