News Summary
The Houston Independent School District has reported a significant boost in school accountability ratings, with no schools earning an ‘F’ for the upcoming academic year. This improvement reflects a massive reduction in underperforming schools, with only 18 schools rated ‘D.’ Despite a decline in overall enrollment, academic performance has notably increased among high school students in core subjects. HISD aims to enhance educational quality, particularly for underserved communities, while also addressing staffing changes and teacher salaries as it prepares for the upcoming school year.
Houston ISD Reports Significant Improvement in School Accountability Ratings Ahead of 2025-26 Academic Year
The Houston Independent School District (HISD) has reported a notable improvement in its school accountability ratings, with zero schools receiving an “F” in the preliminary Texas Education Agency (TEA) ratings for the upcoming 2025-26 academic year. This marks a remarkable decrease in underperforming schools, with only 18 schools rated “D,” down from 121 schools that earned D or F ratings just a year prior.
As HISD prepares to begin its third academic year under state takeover on August 12, 2025, the district, which serves 176,731 students as of October 2024, has seen a 4% decline in enrollment from the previous year’s total of 184,109. This decline mirrors trends observed in public school systems facing similar challenges across the state.
Currently, HISD’s student demographics reveal a makeup of approximately 62% Hispanic, 21% Black, 10% White, 5% Asian, over 2% two or more races, and less than 1% American Indian or Native Hawaiian, illustrating the diverse community the district serves.
Accountability Ratings Improve
Despite a decline in overall enrollment, significant gains in academic performance have been recorded. High school students showed improvement in State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) exam scores, particularly in Algebra 1 and Biology. However, there was a notable decrease in Biology exam participation as over 5,000 fewer students took the test compared to previous years. Meanwhile, elementary and middle school students reported various percentage point increases in English language assessments.
The substantial improvement in ratings is a positive sign for HISD, which has focused on enhancing the quality of education, particularly for underserved communities. The belief that effective public schools are foundational to a prosperous city remains a core principle for district leaders.
Staffing Changes and Teacher Salaries
HISD’s teaching staff has undergone transformations as it started the 2024-25 academic year with approximately 10,640 educators, a reduction from 11,388 due to declining enrollment. The district experienced high turnover rates, with over 2,300 teachers leaving HISD as of June. Superintendent Mike Miles, who has been leading the district since June 1, 2023, has emphasized retaining experienced educators while attracting newer talent, especially in light of the addition of teacher apprentices in classrooms through the district’s “New Education System” reform.
The starting salary for certified teachers in HISD is set at $64,000, while uncertified teachers earn between $61,500 and $63,000, depending on their school designation. This competitive pay scale aims to incentivize talented individuals to join and remain in the district.
Upcoming School Year Plans
As the school year approaches its end on June 4, 2026, HISD’s Board of Managers, appointed by the TEA after the removal of the district’s former board members in June 2023, continues to oversee development within the district. The district typically hosts monthly Board of Managers meetings at the Hattie Mae White Educational Support Center to address key issues and strategies moving forward.
In preparation for the new school year, HISD is set to launch Phase 1 of its school choice applications in December, allowing families to apply to multiple programs, including various magnet schools. This initiative aims to provide students with diverse opportunities for academic growth.
Looking Ahead
With the upcoming school year on the horizon, HISD intends to build upon the improvements in accountability ratings while addressing the ongoing needs brought on by declining enrollment. As the district continues its reform efforts under the guidance of Superintendent Miles and the Board of Managers, stakeholders remain hopeful for a further enhancement in educational quality across Houston’s schools.
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Additional Resources
- Houston Chronicle: Teacher Count and Vacancy
- Google Search: Houston Independent School District 2025-2026
- KHOU: HISD Preliminary Accountability Ratings
- Wikipedia: Houston Independent School District
- Houston Chronicle: Student Safety in School Year
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education
- Houston Chronicle: Potential School Closures
- Google News: HISD News
- Houston Chronicle: Principal Ratings and Exits
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
