For the first time, an electronic calculator application has been authorized for use by students during a Texas state assessment. Eighth-graders across the state can use either a graphing calculator or a graphing calculator application available on an electronic tablet on the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) grade 8 mathematics test. Texas Education Agency (TEA) Commissioner of Education Michael Williams informed superintendents across the state recently that the new policy will go into effect on a pilot basis for the 2014-2015 school year. For the pilot year, the TEA will still prohibit the use of smart phones.
Monthly Archives: April 2014
HISD maritime students get real-world tools ($50K each) for in-demand jobs ($70K-120K a year)
More than 460 students in the four-year maritime programs at Stephen F. Austin and Jack Yates high schools are getting a sneak peek at two state-of-the-art crane and forklift simulators that students will be able to use for training starting next school year.
The two $50,000 simulators were installed last week at Austin High School, and students in grades 9-12 will experience real-life scenarios that become more challenging as they move to the next grade.
SECHS students mobilize to build awareness around wellness
After learning about the health risks associated with “food deserts” recently, service-minded students at South Early College High School (SECHS) organized a health fair for their South Park community recently to help build awareness around the issue.
A core group of eight student leaders (pictured in purple shirts) organized the service-learning project, which boasted more than 70 volunteers and almost 20 vendors.
Berry Elementary School reaches LEED Silver status
Berry Elementary School reaches LEED Silver status�
Campus is seventh in HISD to reach Silver level of certification for green schools
The U.S. Green Building Council has awarded Berry Elementary School the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Silver designation, making it Houston ISD’s seventh school to receive that level of certification.
The newly designed environmental studies magnet school, a $15.7 million project built with funds from HISD’s 2007 bond program, has multiple environmental enhancements designed to save energy. The two-story, 86,000-square-foot building features large cisterns that collect rainwater for irrigation, a three-sided courtyard that includes outdoor learning areas and wildflower garden areas for additional science projects, enhanced science laboratories, and large windows in each classroom. Continue reading
Food Services introduces new menu items for April
A new breakfast item is rolling out to HISD students this month. Students will now be able to enjoy a whole grain cinnamon kolache produced in the HISD bakery. Students from all grade levels will have the opportunity to taste it in April.