HOUSTON – Houston ISD Superintendent Mike Miles celebrated the first day of school while highlighting major gains in student achievement across the district.
Miles said that for the first time, no HISD student is attending a failing school, and nearly 74% of students are now enrolled in A- or B-rated campuses.
“Geography no longer dictates destiny in HISD,” Miles said.
The superintendent also recognized Valley West Elementary, which jumped from an F to an A rating in just one year. Miles praised the students, teachers, and staff for their hard work and credited the school’s success to consistent instruction and strong community support.
“Valley West is proof that when students have the right support and high quality instruction every day, they can achieve at the highest levels, no matter where they start,” Miles stated in a release. “This campus’s transformation is remarkable, and we are so proud of the students and teachers.”
City of Houston Parks and Recreation representative Jesse Gutierrez joined the Miles, noting the department’s partnership with HISD, including the opening of the 8th Sunrise Center at Marion Park, which provides additional support to students and families.
On the first day, Miles said the district successfully managed transportation and facilities challenges. More than 20,000 students are now riding buses, an increase from 9,000 last year, and schools operated with functional air conditioning despite ongoing maintenance issues.
Miles also emphasized that while the district has made significant progress, the work continues.
“Until every single school is an A, and every student reaches their potential, including special needs and economically disadvantaged students. All means all,” he said.
HISD officials said parents and families can address transportation questions through the district website or directly with school principals.