Middle school can be a tough transition for many children, especially for overage students who are one or two grades behind their peers. That’s why HISD offers a special school to get these boys and girls back on track. It’s called High School Ahead and the campus is essentially an overage middle school that exposes students to an accelerated curriculum combining two years into one.

In May, the school celebrated success with nearly 90 percent of its students making up two grades. “These students will now join their peers in eighth grade at a comprehensive middle school or go on to ninth grade and be on a trajectory to graduate in four years,” said High School Ahead Principal Tynette Guinn.

The school is currently recruiting incoming seventh-grade students who are at least one year behind. Students can live anywhere in the district and will be provided with free transportation. Those who qualify to enroll will be exposed to individualized lesson plans and double blocks of reading and math. They also will be taught in a smaller classroom environment with teachers trained in accelerated instruction. The school has a licensed social worker on staff and offers a variety of counseling services for students, including anger management and conflict resolution.

Those parents and students interested in learning more about the school can attend a recruitment event on Thursday, July 12, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the campus located at 5320 Yale. The event will feature tours, a meet-and-greet with staff, and assistance with filling out applications. Those unable to attend can also call 713-696-2643 for more information.