HISD | Employee News: HISD’s news for district employees

HAABE Teacher of the Year Competition: The Houston Area Association for Bilingual Education (HAABE) has invited the district to participate in the annual HAABE Teacher of the Year (TOY) Banquet, which means elementary, middle and high school campuses may select one Bilingual and/or one ESL Teacher of the Year to represent their campus. The HISD TOY Bilingual and ESL representatives will then compete at the Houston-area level for HAABE Bilingual and ESL Teacher of the Year. Each year, HAABE recognizes outstanding bilingual and ESL educators from Houston. For detailed information, please view application packet. Nominations and recommendation letters must be submitted by January 31.

ALL TEACHERS

President Awards for Excellence in Teaching: The National Science Foundation, under the direction of the White House, approves the Texas candidates as finalists for the national Presidential Awards for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching (PAEMST) award. This year’s awards will honor science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and/or computer science teachers working in grades K-6. To nominate a teacher, by March 1, visit Texas State PAEMST Coordinators at TX_Paemst@Tea.Texas.gov. For Texas nominees who submit an application, they will receive 25 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) hours. If chosen as a national winner, the state finalists will receive $10,000 and an all-expense-paid trip for two to Washington D.C. for ceremonies that include recognition from the President of the United States. For more information, click here.

Inaugural Arts Integration Summit: The HISD Fine Arts Department is presenting the inaugural Arts Integration Summit at Wharton Dual Language Academy on Saturday, February 8 from 9 A.M.-1:00 P.M. The sessions will provide opportunities for elementary and secondary foundation teachers to develop art-focused lesson plans that create opportunities to check for understanding (I-2) and differentiate (I-3) their instruction within a student-centered lesson (I-1). Arts Integration practices build on good teaching strategies and can provide seasoned teachers opportunities to expand their teaching toolkit and growing teachers to work on areas of their craft in a supportive and engaging manner. Teachers that are preregistered and attend the summit will receive arts integration supplies and resources for their classroom. Please encourage your teachers to register in OneSource, course #1440087.

Multilingual Programs PD: In collaboration with Seidlitz Education and ELLevation Education, Multilingual Programs will offer Sheltered Instruction and Instructional Strategies Professional Development in January and February for teachers who serve English Learners.  The goal is to equip all teachers who serve the needs of English Learners, Newcomers, and SIFE students with the best research-based practices. Participants will leave equipped with simple and flexible strategies for daily use to engage all students across content areas in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and thinking in every classroom.For more information and OneSource course numbers, click here.

Foundational Courses EL Teachers: In an effort to increase our support for ELs, the Multilingual Department will provide important information and strategies for teachers to implement in their classrooms. Teachers will understand the foundational and essentials in English Language acquisition. Click here to view dates, locations and OneSource course numbers.

Referral Campaign for APs and Deans: The Leadership Recruitment team is launching an AP/Dean Candidate Referral Campaign for assistant principals and deans. If you know an exceptional candidate who would be a great assistant principal or dean for an HISD school, submit an assistant principal referral form to the campus leadership and selection team by January 31.  All candidates nominated will receive information about the campus leadership selection process as well as instructions on how to apply to the HISD Assistant Principal Pool. Candidates must posses a valid Texas Principal Certification and have a minimum of three years exemplary teaching experience.

ELEMENTARY

Literacy X3 REBOOT: In partnership with Scholastic, the Elementary Curriculum and Instruction Office will provide and facilitate a two, non-consecutive, full-day trainings for the district’s Literacy X3 Reboot beginning January 13 through May 7 at HISD Educational Learning Center (10725 Mesa Dr., 77078). All kindergarten through third-grade teachers will attend one dull-day of professional learning to build core knowledge around Guided Reading which includes an emphasis on early word work skills and setting up an engaged literacy focused classroom in January or February. Teachers will attend the professional learning sessions with their grade level band.  Schools may choose to stagger the teachers in attendance or send them on the same day in grade level teams for both rounds of professional learning. For more information, click here.

SECONDARY

Early Release PD Offerings: For spring 2020, the Secondary Curriculum and Development department will continue offering professional development sessions during early release Fridays.  The sessions will focus on “planning instruction with mastery in mind” with the sessions kicking off January 17 from 2-4 p.m. at Deady Middle School (2500 Broadway St., 77012), Scarborough High School (4141 Costa Rica Rd., 77092), and South Early College High School (1930 Airport Blvd., 77051). The January training will include sessions with a special emphasis on Grade 8 Social Studies, Biology, and Algebra I. The February training will include sessions addressing all five STAAR End-of-Course (EOC) examinations. Teachers and campus leaders can find detailed information on sessions and course numbers, here.

Upcoming CTE Trainings: The CTE department is hosting several professional development opportunities for January 2020.  Automotive teachers are encouraged to register for “WIGU Competition” to discuss a great opportunity for students to compete in April. Teachers are encouraged to register in OneSource, course #1440020.  Workforce Solutions will deliver a training on resume writing for the workforce, where participants will learn strategies for developing resumes for students as they prepare for employment.  Those interested, can register in OneSource, course #1441011.  STEM teachers are encouraged to register for a two-day event to enhance their skills in AutoCAD in OneSource, course #1440103.  All teachers are encouraged to attend a one-day training on sheltered instruction and literacy routines for English learners in OneSource, course #1441024.  For more information, click here.

HAABE Teacher of the Year Competition: The Houston Area Association for Bilingual Education (HAABE) has invited the district to participate in the annual HAABE Teacher of the Year (TOY) Banquet, which means elementary, middle and high school campuses may select one Bilingual and/or one ESL Teacher of the Year to represent their campus. The HISD TOY Bilingual and ESL representatives will then compete at the Houston-area level for HAABE Bilingual and ESL Teacher of the Year. Each year, HAABE recognizes outstanding bilingual and ESL educators from Houston. For detailed information, please view application packet. Nominations and recommendation letters must be submitted by January 31.

ALL TEACHERS

Multilingual Programs PD: In collaboration with Seidlitz Education and ELLevation Education, Multilingual Programs will offer Sheltered Instruction and Instructional Strategies Professional Development in January and February for teachers who serve English Learners.  The goal is to equip all teachers who serve the needs of English Learners, Newcomers, and SIFE students with the best research-based practices. Participants will leave equipped with simple and flexible strategies for daily use to engage all students across content areas in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and thinking in every classroom.For more information and OneSource course numbers, click here.

Foundational Courses EL Teachers: In an effort to increase our support for ELs, the Multilingual Department will provide important information and strategies for teachers to implement in their classrooms. Teachers will understand the foundational and essentials in English Language acquisition. Click here to view dates, locations and OneSource course numbers.

Referral Campaign for APs and Deans: The Leadership Recruitment team is launching an AP/Dean Candidate Referral Campaign for assistant principals and deans. If you know an exceptional candidate who would be a great assistant principal or dean for an HISD school, submit an assistant principal referral form to the campus leadership and selection team by January 31.  All candidates nominated will receive information about the campus leadership selection process as well as instructions on how to apply to the HISD Assistant Principal Pool. Candidates must posses a valid Texas Principal Certification and have a minimum of three years exemplary teaching experience.

SECONDARY

Early Release PD Offerings: For spring 2020, the Secondary Curriculum and Development department will continue offering professional development sessions during early release Fridays.  The sessions will focus on “planning instruction with mastery in mind” with the sessions kicking off January 17 from 2-4 p.m. at Deady Middle School (2500 Broadway St., 77012), Scarborough High School (4141 Costa Rica Rd., 77092), and South Early College High School (1930 Airport Blvd., 77051). The January training will include sessions with a special emphasis on Grade 8 Social Studies, Biology, and Algebra I. The February training will include sessions addressing all five STAAR End-of-Course (EOC) examinations. Teachers and campus leaders can find detailed information on sessions and course numbers, here.

Student Election Clerk Opportunity: Are you interested in giving your students a firsthand look at the democratic process? In Texas, high school students aged 16 years and older can get paid ($17 an hour) to work at the polling locations on Election Day. Please encourage students to apply as an election clerk in the upcoming March 3, 2020 Democratic and Republican Party Primary Elections. Students should apply by January 31 to be placed at a location close to their house as well as have first pick of training classes. For more information on qualifications, click here. If a student expresses interest, please have them complete this permission slip.

NASA Wear STEM Challenge: NASA is offering middle and high school students the opportunity to design wearable radiation countermeasures for deep space exploration. Through the NASA WEAR STEM Challenge, students can join the challenge by January 24 and participate in NASA’s exploration of deep space by designing equipment that will protect Artemis astronauts from high-energy charged particles and solar particle events (SPE), which are important to exploration. During the challenge, teams will participate in webinars to learn more about deep space radiation and the development of countermeasures. The challenge ends with the submission of video proposals from registered teams.  For more information, click here.

JASON Student Argonaut Applications: JASON Learning’s Argonaut Program is currently accepting applications for students interested in representing HISD on a scientific expedition at various sites around the world. Previous expeditions include the Amazon, Costa Rica, and more. During the expedition, students will be able to work side-by-side with scientists and engineers on STEM-related projects and share their experience with their community and school upon their return. For further eligibility requirements and where to apply, click here. If you have questions, contact Rene Flores at instech@houstonisd.org.

Upcoming CTE Trainings: The CTE department is hosting a two-day Auto CAD training on January 21 and January 28 at Barbara Jordan Career Center (5800 Eastex Fwy., 77026). Those interested can register for both dates in OneSource using course number, #1440103. Automotive teachers are invited to attend two informational sessions on January 17 and February 14 to discuss the Automotive Competition.  If interested, register in OneSource course, #1440020.  Workforce Solutions is offering a half-day training on January 17 for Workforce—Resume Writing. Register in OneSource course, #1441011. Region 4 ESC is hosting two CTE trainings—Employ Ability Skills on January 14 and CTE & Special Education on January 22. If interested, please contact your CTE Specialist to register.

Elementary Science Teacher Award: In an effort to support the district’s goal to increase student achievement, the Elementary Curriculum & Development department has partnered with Alliantgroup to recognize the district’s most outstanding elementary science teachers. Exemplary elementary science teachers may be nominated by a campus leader, a colleague, or self-nominate by completing the nomination form by January 3. 

ALL TEACHERS

Referral Campaign for APs and Deans: The Leadership Recruitment team is launching an AP/Dean Candidate Referral Campaign for assistant principals and deans. If you know an exceptional candidate who would be a great assistant principal or dean for an HISD school, submit an assistant principal referral form to the campus leadership and selection team by January 31.  All candidates nominated will receive information about the campus leadership selection process as well as instructions on how to apply to the HISD Assistant Principal Pool. Candidates must posses a valid Texas Principal Certification and have a minimum of three years exemplary teaching experience.

Vaping Prevention Week: The district will recognize Vaping Prevention Week from December 16-20, and in an effort to highlight the dangers and risks associated with vaping and e-cigarette use among youths, HISD campuses will be focusing on a different activity each day. Teachers are encouraged to create daily classroom activities that bring awareness to vaping and e-cigarette use. During Vaping Prevention Week, share your photos, videos, and messages of support on social media using #SayNoToVaping and #HISDEmpowers. Let’s spread the word to raise awareness and send the message that vaping and e-cigarettes are dangerous and pose risks to the health of children. Click here for more detailed information.

12 Days of Code: HISD is celebrating 12 Days of Code  from December 2-17 with interactive calendars that allow them to engage in a new coding experience every day.  HISD’s 12 Days of Code coincides with Computer Science Education Week, which is December 9-15. During this time, students and the greater HISD community are encouraged to join the worldwide movement and try one hour of coding as an introduction to computer science.  Through this “Hour of Code,” students are challenged to think critically and solve problems as they learn the basics of computer programming. For more information, click here.

Let’s Connect: In HISD, we believe you cannot educate a child without taking care of the WHOLE child, and that includes promoting and offering supports for positive mental and physical health. The Office of Student Support Services offers resources and helpful information on issues students are facing – including vaping, human trafficking, suicide prevention, and bullying prevention – through a program called Let’s Connect. The Let’s Connect initiative encourages students in HISD to reach out to a trusted adult on their campus, such as a teacher, social worker, nurse, counselor, principal, or librarian. To learn more about Let’s Connect, click here.

Toys for Tots: All HISD employees and schools are invited to participate in Toys for Tots, the Marine Corps’ premier community action program with donations of new and unwrapped toys. We encourage schools and departments to select a coordinator, who can track collection efforts and complete the collection report form, to coordinate the drop-off at the Hattie Mae White (4400 West 18^th St., 77092) by Tuesday, December 18. Coordinators should bring the complete form and all collected toys to the Strategic Partnerships Department, located at Level 1 SE at Hattie Mae White. Before drop-off, please email your collection forms and notify Tarah Davis when you will be dropping of your toy collection at tarah.davis@houstonisd.org.

SECONDARY

JASON Student Argonaut Applications: JASON Learning’s Argonaut Program is currently accepting applications for students interested in representing HISD on a scientific expedition at various sites around the world. Previous expeditions include the Amazon, Costa Rica, and more. During the expedition, students will be able to work side-by-side with scientists and engineers on STEM-related projects and share their experience with their community and school upon their return. For further eligibility requirements and where to apply, click here. If you have questions, contact Rene Flores at instech@houstonisd.org.

Upcoming CTE Trainings: The CTE department is hosting a two-day Auto CAD training on January 14 and January 21 at Barbara Jordan Career Center (5800 Eastex Fwy., 77026). For those interested, registration will open soon. Automotive teachers are invited to attend two informational sessions on January 17 and February 14 to discuss the Automotive Competition. Those interested, should register in OneSource, course #1440020.

District Advisory Committee Voting Extension: Cast your vote in the District Advisory Committee elections for district and campus-based employees by Friday, December 13. Campus-based professional employees have two votes: One vote is for a “Classroom Teacher” and one vote is for an “Other Campus-Level Professional”. Central Office Employees will be able to vote for one Central Office nominee and may elect one person from the Central Office group. For more detailed information, click here.

ALL TEACHERS

12 Days of Code: HISD is celebrating 12 Days of Code  from December 2-17 with interactive calendars that allow them to engage in a new coding experience every day.  HISD’s 12 Days of Code coincides with Computer Science Education Week, which is December 9-15. During this time, students and the greater HISD community are encouraged to join the worldwide movement and try one hour of coding as an introduction to computer science.  Through this “Hour of Code,” students are challenged to think critically and solve problems as they learn the basics of computer programming. For more information, click here.

Vaping Prevention Week: The district will recognize Vaping Prevention Week from December 16-20, and in an effort to highlight the dangers and risks associated with vaping and e-cigarette use among youths with HISD campuses focusing on a different activity each day. Teachers are encouraged to create daily classroom activities that bring awareness to vaping and e-cigarette use. During Vaping Prevention Week, share your photos, videos, and messages of support on social media using #SayNoToVaping and #HISDEmpowers. Let’s spread the word to raise awareness and send the message that vaping and e-cigarettes are dangerous and pose risks to the health of children. Click here for more detailed information.

Nominate a math teacher: Do you know a math teacher on your campus that’s hitting it out of the park in the classroom? The Houston Astros and ConocoPhillips have teamed up once again for the Math Teacher of the Month program for the 2020 baseball season.  Teachers and school administrators, along with students and parents can nominate the teacher of their choice now through December 15, here.

Teaching Social Studies and Science to ELL: Multilingual Programs will bring two Seidlitz authors—Tina Beene and Dr. Stephen Fleenor. On January 27, Dr. Stephen Fleenor, author of “Teaching Science to English Language Learners (ELs)”,will show educators how to implement and foster academic language development and comprehension of science scaffolding each language proficiency level creating an environment where English Language Learners thrive. Tina Beene, author of “Teaching Social Studies to English Language Learners (ELs)”, will offer an overview of an in-depth approach to differentiating in the secondary social studies classroom on February 11. If interested in the workshop on Science, register in OneSource, course #1438195. If interested in workshop on Social Studies, register in OneSource, course #1438190. Participants will receive a copy of the book.

Training for Bilingual and Dual Language Teachers: In order to improve English language acquisition of the district’s Spanish speaking students, the Multilingual Department will host two sessions with Seidlitz Education Expert, Dr. Monica Lara on December 10 at Hattie Mae White, Room 2E02 (4400 West 18^th St., 77092). Dr. Lara will offer two sessions completely in Spanish to ensure Bilingual and Spanish teachers have a better understanding on how to teach academic Spanish implementing second language acquisition methods, this methodology includes oral and written language development which in turn will allow transfer to the students’ second language. Pre-K through second grade teachers can register for the 8:30-11:30 a.m. session in OneSource, course #1438130. Third- through fifth-grade teachers can register for the 12:30-3:30 p.m. session in OneSource, course #1438132. For more information, click here.

Toys for Tots: All HISD employees and schools are invited to participate in Toys for Tots, the Marine Corps’ premier community action program with donations of new and unwrapped toys. We encourage schools and departments to select a coordinator, who can track collection efforts and complete the collection report form, to coordinate the drop-off at the Hattie Mae White (4400 West 18^th St., 77092) by Tuesday, December 18. Coordinators should bring the complete form and all collected toys to the Strategic Partnerships Department, located at Level 1 SE at Hattie Mae White. Before drop-off, please email your collection forms and notify Tarah Davis when you will be dropping of your toy collection at tarah.davis@houstonisd.org.

SPED Cohort Application Extension: The Office of Special Education Services (OSES) is still seeking qualified Special Education (SPED) teachers and other instructional professionals with Special Education certification to apply for Aspiring Program Specialist and Aspiring Department Chair Cohorts, also known as A.S.C.E.L. Those interested, should apply by the December 15.  The purpose of the aspiring cohorts is to develop a pool of potential SPED leaders to provide timely and relevant instructional support and services to campus leaders, special education teachers, staff and other stakeholders who serve students with disabilities. To apply, click here.

HISD Master Training Catalog: Haven’t found a training suited for you? The HISD Master Training Catalog for teachers and leaders is currently available through December 2019. To view a complete list, click here.

ELEMENTARY

Pre-K MOY CIRCLE Assessment: The MOY assessment window has been extended to allow additional time to complete before January 31. This year, the window will open on December 16 with completion rates by campuses being monitored so a proactive plan of action is recommended. If needed, there will be hosting a CIRCLE Assessment 101 training on December 9 and December 12 from 4-5 p.m. to provide support for new PK teachers and/or Tier II administrators as they administer and monitor completion. If interested in the training, register in OneSource, course #1440093.

Rodeo Decorating Contest: The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR) has partnered with HISD once again to distribute activity coloring booklets to third graders. The booklets will be delivered to schools between December 9-18, which are now TEKS aligned and reinforce the pillars of the HLSR. Students are encouraged to decorate the last page of the booklet and enter it into a contest for a chance to win ground passes to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Submitted entries will also be placed on display in the AGventure area during the Rodeo. Instructions for the contest appear on the last page of the activity booklet. All entries must be received no later than February 7, 2020. For questions or additional information, please contact Elizabeth Rozier at hlsractivitybooks@gmail.com.

SECONDARY

Study Abroad Opportunity: The Puranik Foundation, an official HISD partner, will offer full and partial scholarship opportunities for students and incentives for HISD faculty and staff to join students on the trip. Puranik will also provide need and merit-based partial scholarships to students. Those interested, can apply for the Spring Break trip, here by December 10. Puranik is a non-profit organization established in 2000 that runs a residential school – Vision International – for underprivileged students in India. Their flagship program in the U.S., Impact India, was initiated in 2015 as a way to give students across Houston international experiences and to create a cultural bridge between the United States and India. To learn more about the program, click here.

ELLevation Training: Multilingual Programs has partnered with ELLevation Education to provide instructional strategies for ELs training for secondary teachers on January 7 and January 28. There will be multiple session held each day that will introduce the Sheltered Instruction Dashboard coupled with instructional activities tailored for ELsto make differentiated instruction simple for classroom teachers. Participants will leave equipped with simple and flexible strategies for daily use to engage all students across content areas in listening, speaking, reading, writing, and thinking in every classroom.  Those interested can receive additional information and register in OneSource, course #1440052.

Upcoming CTE Trainings: The CTE department is hosting a two-day Auto CAD training on January 14 and January 21 at Barbara Jordan Career Center (5800 Eastex Fwy., 77026). For those interested, registration will open soon. Automotive teachers are invited to attend two informational sessions on January 17 and February 14 to discuss the Automotive Competition. Those interested, should register in OneSource, course #1440020.

District Advisory Committee Voting: Cast your vote in the District Advisory Committee elections for district and campus-based employees beginning Monday, Nov. 18 to Friday, Dec. 6. Campus-based professional employees have two votes: One vote is for a “Classroom Teacher” and one vote is for an “Other Campus-Level Professional”. Central Office Employees will be able to vote for one Central Office nominee and may elect one person from the Central Office group. For more detailed information, click here.

ALL TEACHERS

Toys for Tots: All HISD employees and schools are invited to participate in Toys for Tots, the Marine Corps’ premier community action program with donations of new and unwrapped toys. We encourage schools and departments to select a coordinator, who can track collection efforts and complete the collection report form, to coordinate the drop-off at the Hattie Mae White (4400 West 18^th St., 77092) by Tuesday, December 18. Coordinators should bring the complete form and all collected toys to the Strategic Partnerships Department, located at Level 1 SE at Hattie Mae White. Before drop-off, please email your collection forms and notify Tarah Davis when you will be dropping of your toy collection at tarah.davis@houstonisd.org.

SPED Cohort Application Extension: The Office of Special Education Services (OSES) is still seeking qualified Special Education (SPED) teachers and other instructional professionals with Special Education certification to apply for Aspiring Program Specialist and Aspiring Department Chair Cohorts, also known as A.S.C.E.L. Those interested, should apply by the December 15.  The purpose of the aspiring cohorts is to develop a pool of potential SPED leaders to provide timely and relevant instructional support and services to campus leaders, special education teachers, staff and other stakeholders who serve students with disabilities. To apply, click here.

DREAM Summit: All HISD DREAMers, DACA recipients, visa holders, permanent residents, refugees, and asylum grantees along with their parents are cordially invited to attend the DREAM Summit on Saturday, December 7 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Hattie Mae White (4400 West 18^th St., 77092). Attendees can learn how to successfully complete your college applications, apply for financial aid, and how to make the most of your college experience. The event will also include a college and resource fair with information about Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals information, university programs, financial assistance, and community resources. During this event, five twelfth-grade students will win $500 scholarships for college. For more information, click here. To share the flyer in Spanish, click here.

HISD Master Training Catalog: Haven’t found a training suited for you? The HISD Master Training Catalog for teachers and leaders is currently available through December 2019. To view a complete list, click here.

ELEMENTARY

Fueling Education Student Challenge: ​In partnership with Discovery Education, CITGO is excited to announce the launch of their new Fueling Education Student Challenge for students in fifth to eighth grades. For the challenge, students may work individually or in groups up to four, to solve a problem in their community that aligns to one of four United Nations Sustainability Development Goals. Students must submit a one to two-minute video detailing the identified problem and their STEM solution by February 13, 2020. Teachers can review classroom resources material that will help students brainstorm for the challenge. Students participation required parental consent. For additional details, click here.

Rodeo Decorating Contest: The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR) has partnered with HISD once again to distribute activity coloring booklets to third graders. The booklets will be delivered to schools between December 9-18, which are now TEKS aligned and reinforce the pillars of the HLSR. Students are encouraged to decorate the last page of the booklet and enter it into a contest for a chance to win ground passes to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Submitted entries will also be placed on display in the AGventure area during the Rodeo. Instructions for the contest appear on the last page of the activity booklet. All entries must be received no later than February 7, 2020. For questions or additional information, please contact Elizabeth Rozier at hlsractivitybooks@gmail.com.

SECONDARY

Study Abroad Opportunity: The Puranik Foundation, an official HISD partner, will offer full and partial scholarship opportunities for students and incentives for HISD faculty and staff to join students on the trip. Puranik will also provide need and merit-based partial scholarships to students. Those interested, can apply for the Spring Break trip, here by December 10. Puranik is a non-profit organization established in 2000 that runs a residential school – Vision International – for underprivileged students in India. Their flagship program in the U.S., Impact India, was initiated in 2015 as a way to give students across Houston international experiences and to create a cultural bridge between the United States and India. To learn more about the program, click here.

ELLevation Training: Multilingual Programs has partnered with ELLevation Education to provide instructional strategies for ELs training for secondary teachers on January 7 and January 28. There will be multiple session held each day that will introduce the Sheltered Instruction Dashboard coupled with instructional activities tailored for ELsto make differentiated instruction simple for classroom teachers. Participants will leave equipped with simple and flexible strategies for daily use to engage all students across content areas in listening, speaking, reading, writing, and thinking in every classroom.  Those interested can receive additional information and register in OneSource, course #1440052.

Upcoming CTE Trainings: The CTE department is hosting a two-day Auto CAD training on January 14 and January 21 at Barbara Jordan Career Center (5800 Eastex Fwy., 77026). For those interested, registration will open soon. Automotive teachers are invited to attend two informational sessions on January 17 and February 14 to discuss the Automotive Competition. Those interested, should register in OneSource, course #1440020.

District Advisory Committee Voting: Cast your vote in the District Advisory Committee elections for district and campus-based employees beginning Monday, Nov. 18 to Friday, Dec. 6. Campus-based professional employees have two votes: One vote is for a “Classroom Teacher” and one vote is for an “Other Campus-Level Professional”. Central Office Employees will be able to vote for one Central Office nominee and may elect one person from the Central Office group. For more detailed information, click here.

ALL TEACHERS

Annual Enrollment: Annual Enrollment runs from November 1-22, so click here for a new video regarding the changes for 2020, which include information about the new medical plan provider. This is the time of year when all benefits-eligible employees should enroll in or change their benefits, so please take a look at what’s new for 2020 at www.HISDBenefits.org. As of January 1, 2020, Aetna will be the administrator for the district’s medical plans and Flexible Spending Accounts. You have a choice of medical plans, including two new Accountable Care Organization (ACO) plans and an Aetna broad network plan. For more information on the annual enrollment period, click here.

2019 Astros Foundation College Night: The Astros MLB Youth Academy will be hosting their 2019 Astros Foundation and Youth Academy College Night on Wednesday, Nov. 20 from 6-8 p.m. at Union Station – Minute Maid Park (501 Crawford St., 77002). A free event, students between 14- to 19-years-old will be able to hear from representatives from colleges and universities in Texas and from across the country, as well as military recruiters. Those interested in attending are required to register for the event. For more information on the event, click here.

HISD Master Training Catalog: Haven’t found a training suited for you? The HISD Master Training Catalog for teachers and leaders is currently available through December 2019. To view a complete list, click here.

ELEMENTARY

Prekindergarten Updates: In regard to the HB3 Teacher-Qualification submission, if you have not submitted your option for HB3, you will receive an email before November 22 informing you of your status. Please be sure to go to SharePoint to make your selection at your earliest convenience here. Also, PK trainings will be added to our Professional Development Calendar to accommodate the needs of 3-year-old classroom teachers.

Fueling Education Student Challenge: ​In partnership with Discovery Education, CITGO is excited to announce the launch of their new Fueling Education Student Challenge for students in fifth to eighth grades. For the challenge, students may work individually or in groups up to four, to solve a problem in their community that aligns to one of four United Nations Sustainability Development Goals. Students must submit a one to two-minute video detailing the identified problem and their STEM solution by February 13, 2020. Teachers can review classroom resources material that will help students brainstorm for the challenge. Students participation required parental consent. For additional details, click here.

Rodeo Decorating Contest: The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR) has partnered with HISD once again to distribute activity coloring booklets to third graders. The booklets will be delivered to schools between December 9-18, which are now TEKS aligned and reinforce the pillars of the HLSR. Students are encouraged to decorate the last page of the booklet and enter it into a contest for a chance to win ground passes to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Submitted entries will also be placed on display in the AGventure area during the Rodeo. Instructions for the contest appear on the last page of the activity booklet. All entries must be received no later than February 7, 2020. For questions or additional information, please contact Elizabeth Rozier at hlsractivitybooks@gmail.com.

SECONDARY

Upcoming CTE Trainings: Are you a new CTE teacher or a seasoned CTE teacher who would like to learn more about lesson planning?  Join us for a lesson planning event on November 19 from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at Barbara Jordan Career Center, Room B201. Attendees will learn about digital resources, career exploration, menu boards, and the lesson cycle.  Please bring a copy of your TEKS, scope and sequence, and lesson plan template.  Register in OneSource, course #1440002. 

ALL TEACHERS

Technology Training: Join Instructional Technology for Super Saturday on November 16 from 9 a.m.-Noon at Chavez High School (8501 Howard Dr., 77017). Come out and learn about various resources offered on the district’s HUB and learn how to take the technology within the classroom to another level. To learn more about Super Saturday, click here.  

DREAM Summit: All HISD DREAMers, DACA recipients, visa holders, permanent residents, refugees, and asylum grantees along with their parents are cordially invited to attend the DREAM Summit on Saturday, December 7 from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Hattie Mae White (4400 West 18^th St., 77092). Attendees can learn how to successfully complete your college applications, apply for financial aid, and how to make the most of your college experience. The event will also include a college and resource fair with information about Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals information, university programs, financial assistance, and community resources. During this event, five twelfth-grade students will win $500 scholarships for college. For more information, click here. To share the flyer in Spanish, click here.

Name That Book Competition: Join the HISD Department of Library Servicesfor the Name That Book contest, which will identify our district’s super readers.  This contest serves to acquaint HISD students with classic literature as well as contemporary award-winning books, representing a variety of genres. The districtwide competition awards first, second, and third place teams for grades K-2, 3-6, MS, and HS with awards and a chance to build their home library with self-selected books from Barnes and Noble. Those interested must register and complete this form by Friday, November 15.  For more information, click here.

Wraparound Survey: The Wraparound Services Department is requesting staff, teachers, parents and students to complete a survey that will ask specific questions to non-academic needs such as physical, food insecurities, housing, and many other challenges that the department can improve to leverage resources that supports students socially, emotionally, and academically.  To complete the survey, click here.

Kagan Cooperative Learning: HISD will host a five-day Kagan Cooperative Training in November, January and March during the 2019-2020 school year. Day one and two of the training will be held on November 13-14, 2019 at Clifton Middle School (6001 Golden Forest Dr., 77092) from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Participants will explore instructional strategies used to increase cooperative learning opportunities in the classroom environment. Those interested should register by November 11 in OneSource, course # 1439327. For more information, click here. Reimbursement for substitute pay will be provided.

ELEMENTARY

Prekindergarten Guided Reading: Now that the CIRCLE Assessment is complete, prekindergarten teachers should be preparing to implement the Guided Reading small group instruction in the following weeks. For support, there will be a Pre-A Guided Reading sessions offered to all pre-k teachers on November 12 at Ninfa Laurenzo ECC (205 N. Delmar St., 77011) from 4-6 p.m.

SECONDARY

EMERGE Applications: Do you know a sophomore student who wants to explore in-state and out-of-state college options and would like to work with a mentor to create a competitive college application? The applications for students to become an EMERGE fellow will open Tuesday, November 12 and are due on Sunday, December 15. If you know a student of interest, recruitment sessions will be held at HISD high schools November 12 through December 6.  Students can apply here. Competitive applicants are usually economically disadvantaged and generally the first in their family to graduate from a four-year college or university. Students must have a strong academic profile that includes getting good grades in rigorous courses. 

AP Registration Change: The College Board has completely changed the AP exam registration process from previous years. Students must register online for exams by November 15 (in previous years, the deadline was April). If students register after November 15, they will be charged a $40 late fee per test plus the exam fee. The cost for an unused/canceled exam is $40 per exam. The spirit of the fee is to encourage students to follow through on taking the test they signed up for. The district will centrally fund the cost of all exams (including those for students who’d like to take an AP exam such as AP Spanish, but are not enrolled in the course), and campuses are responsible for all incidental/late/cancelation fees.

Advanced Placement Teachers: The deadline for your students to enroll in My AP CollegeBoard online digital courses for fall semester and yearlong courses is Friday, November 15. All students planning to take an AP exam must be digitally enrolled in either (1) a teacher AP course or (2) an exam-only section in My AP CollegeBoard. The student must be digitally enrolled and the exam must be ordered for all fall semester and yearlong courses by November 15, or students will not be able to sit for the exam in May without a late fee. If you have questions or need additional information, please contact Christopher Bowser at CBOWSER@houstonisd.org.

Upcoming CTE Trainings: The CTE department is hosting professional development opportunities during the month of November. Are you a new CTE teacher or a seasoned CTE teacher who would like to learn more about lesson planning?  Join us for a lesson planning event on November 14 or November 19 where you will learn about digital resources, career exploration, differentiation, and the lesson cycle.  Bring a copy of your TEKS, scope and sequence, and lesson plan template to the event held at Barbara Jordan Career Center, Room B201.  If interested, register in OneSource, course #1440002. For specific information regarding date, time, and location, visit the CTE website.

District Advisory Committee Nominations: The District Advisory Committee nominations for district and campus-based employees are currently underway until November 8. All campus principals must make a transparent call for nominees and submit nominations to determine one classroom teacher and one campus-based professional (non-teacher) employee to serve on the DAC no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, November 8. For more detailed information, click here.

ALL TEACHERS

Technology Training: Join Instructional Technology for Super Saturday on November 16 from 9 a.m.-Noon at Milby High School (1601 Broadway St., 77012). Come out and learn about various resources offered on the district’s HUB and learn how to take the technology within the classroom to another level. To learn more about Super Saturday, click here.  

Wraparound Survey: The Wraparound Services Department is requesting staff, teachers, parents and students to complete a survey that will ask specific questions to non-academic needs such as physical, food insecurities, housing, and many other challenges that the department can improve to leverage resources that supports students socially, emotionally, and academically.  To complete the survey, click here.

Intro to Grant Writing: Need help writing the perfect grant that could help you receive funds for the classroom? The Grant Development Department will host The Grants 101 – Introduction to Grant Development and Grant Writing course on November 5 from 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Browning Elementary School (607 Northwood St., 77009). The course will provide participants with an opportunity to learn how to effectively write grant proposals. Participants will also receive information, resources and tools that may assist in obtaining federal, state, foundation, and corporate funding to implement a variety of programs/projects. If interested, register in OneSource, course #1439003. Upon completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate in completing four credit hours.

Literacy Trainings for PSI and BSC Teachers: The Office of Special Education Services (OSES) will host two instructional trainings for self-contained classrooms teachers in the month of November. On November 5, middle school behavior support classroom teachers can attend either session at 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:30-3:30 p.m., for a literacy supplement training. For this training, register in OneSource, course #1439224. All low incidence teachers of students with multiple impairments can register in OneSource, course #1439225 for the November 12 literacy supplement training.

Kagan Cooperative Learning: HISD will host a five-day Kagan Cooperative Training in November, January and March during the 2019-2020 school year. Day one and two of the training will be held on November 13-14, 2019 at Clifton Middle School (6001 Golden Forest Dr., 77092) from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Participants will explore instructional strategies used to increase cooperative learning opportunities in the classroom environment. Those interested should register by November 11 in OneSource, course # 1439327. For more information, click here. Reimbursement for substitute pay will be provided.

HISD Master Training Catalog: Haven’t found a training suited for you? The HISD Master Training Catalog for teachers and leaders is currently available through December 2019. To view a complete list, click here.

ELEMENTARY

Prekindergarten Guided Reading: Now that the CIRCLE Assessment is complete, prekindergarten teachers should be preparing to implement the Guided Reading small group instruction in the following weeks. For support, there will be a Pre-A Guided Reading sessions offered to all pre-k teachers on November 12 at Ninfa Laurenzo ECC (205 N. Delmar St., 77011) from 4-6 p.m.

SECONDARY

AP Registration Change: The College Board has completely changed the AP exam registration process from previous years. Students must register online for exams by November 15 (in previous years, the deadline was April). If students register after November 15, they will be charged a $40 late fee per test plus the exam fee. The cost for an unused/canceled exam is $40 per exam. The spirit of the fee is to encourage students to follow through on taking the test they signed up for. The district will centrally fund the cost of all exams (including those for students who’d like to take an AP exam such as AP Spanish, but are not enrolled in the course), and campuses are responsible for all incidental/late/cancelation fees.

Advanced Placement Teachers: The deadline for your students to enroll in My AP CollegeBoard online digital courses for fall semester and yearlong courses is Friday, November 15. All students planning to take an AP exam must be digitally enrolled in either (1) a teacher AP course or (2) an exam-only section in My AP CollegeBoard. The student must be digitally enrolled and the exam must be ordered for all fall semester and yearlong courses by November 15, or students will not be able to sit for the exam in May without a late fee. If you have questions or need additional information, please contact Christopher Bowser at CBOWSER@houstonisd.org.

Upcoming CTE Trainings: The CTE department is hosting four professional development opportunities during the month of November. For Culinary arts teachers with experienced training in traditional Chinese cooking, register in OneSource, course #1439253.  If you are seeking to learn new strategies for differentiating instruction in the CTE classroom, register in OneSource, course #1439318.  STEM and IT CTE teachers are invited to attend a course in classroom management using PowerUp. Please register in OneSource, course #1439320. Teachers who are new to the CTE classroom can attend a workshop in lesson planning, register in OneSource #1440002.  For specific information regarding date, time, and location, visit the CTE website.