• Title I
    Title I is designed to help students served by the program to achieve proficiency on challenging State academic achievement standards. Title I schools with percentages of students from low-income families of at least 40 percent may use Title I funds, along with other Federal, State, and local funds, to operate a "schoolwide program" to upgrade the instructional program for the whole school. Title I schools with less than the 40 percent schoolwide threshold or that choose not to operate a schoolwide program offer a "targeted assistance program" in which the school identifies students who are failing, or most at risk of failing, to meet the State's challenging academic achievement standards. Targeted assistance schools design, in consultation with parents, staff, and district staff, an instructional program to meet the needs of those students. Both schoolwide and targeted assistance programs must use instructional strategies based on scientifically based research and implement parental involvement activities.
     
    Pre-AP Courses
    Pre-AP classes are advanced curriculum middle school classes designed to prepare the students for the AP classes in high school.
     
    Gifted and Talented
    The Houston Independent School District provides two program options for Gifted and Talented students. The Vanguard Magnet program is designed to meet the needs of G/T students in grades K-12 by providing an environment for students to work with their cognitive peers.  The Vanguard Neighborhood programs are designed to meet the needs of G/T students in grades K-12 at their neighborhood (zoned) schools. Both Vanguard Magnet and Vanguard Neighborhood programs provide a differentiated curriculum by modifying the depth, complexity, and pacing of the general school program.  

    Music  
    Beginning Band
    Grade 6- Students learn the techniques of playing instruments, working to develop ensemble and solo performances. Tonal quality and technical facility are developed. Students discuss and constructively comment on their own performances and on the performances of the band.
     
    Intermediate Band Grade 7
    Prerequisite: Previous music instruction and director's approval
    This continuation of Beginning Band emphasizes proper breathing, tone control, reading skills, and development of the embouchure. Students develop individual skills to the higher level required by Concert Band. Successful completion of this course should prepare the student for placement in the 8th grade Concert Band or Symphonic Band.
     
    Grades 6-8
    Prerequisites: Previous music instruction and director's approval
    Students with some playing experience are eligible for this course. Students develop individual and group performance skills, using various styles of band literature. Emphasis is placed on proper breathing, tone quality, intonation, articulation, development of range, and music reading skills.