Welcome to 2022-2023 School year! We are so excited to start off the year with all of our students! Please make sure to join us in person for orientation on August 10th from 8am-12pm.
Due to high demand, many uniform sizes quickly were sold out shortly after we launched our new online uniform store Thursday.
Fortunately, our uniform supplier has informed that they have added new inventory and are continuing to work to provide additional color and size choices as quickly as possible.
Shop now to get your uniforms purchases in time for the first day of school and take advantage of these offers:
EARLY SHOPPER SAVINGS
Shop July 21-Aug. 4 to get short sleeve polos for only $13.50 (reg. $15) or long sleeve for only $16.50 (reg. $18).
FREE HOME SHIPPING
Buy two or more items to qualify for free shipping directly to your home using promo code HPSPOLO at checkout.
Two Ways to Shop Your School’s Uniform Store
On Our Site
Click ‘Uniforms’ under the PARENTS tab of your child’s campus website.
The size and color I want are still out of stock – what can I do?
Our partners at French Toast are working hard to get more colors and sizes in stock as soon as possible. To get an automatic update when your uniform preference is ready to purchase, just enter your email in the ‘Notify Me’ box under the product ‘Out of Stock’ message.
Can my child still wear uniforms that were purchased previously?
Of course! If your child’s uniform is still in good condition, they are welcome to continue wearing uniforms from previous years, even if the campus has updated to a new uniform color scheme.
The free shipping code isn’t working – what’s up?
The free shipping code – HPSPOLO – is for orders of two items are more, so just make sure you have enough items to qualify for free shipping in your cart. If you’re still experiencing issues, please contact Customer Service at https://www.frenchtoast.com/contact-us.
Which uniform color do I need for my child?
When ordering new uniforms and polos, the following are the approved color schemes for each grade level:
The uniform color options don’t look like the ones I see above – is something wrong?
There might be a minor color variation between the preview image on the French Toast website and the images above, but not by much. If the uniform you’re selecting doesn’t look right, just make sure you have the correct dress code selected from the drop down near the top of your screen.
Why can’t I just order uniforms directly at my campus anymore?
Unfortunately, year-round direct sales of school uniforms can be a complicated and time-consuming process for an individual campus. We’d rather put our team’s talents to use by serving our students. By partnering with an industry-leading school uniform supply company like French Toast, Harmony is able to keep uniform costs down for families while freeing up school staff (and storage space!) to focus on the other needs of our schools.
No returns or exchanges. Uniforms will no longer be available for purchase at campuses.
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2022/07/SAVE-NOW-3.png300300John Boydhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngJohn Boyd2022-07-22 13:46:052022-07-22 09:40:21Harmony Public Schools uniform store restocked with new inventory
Children need nutritious meals to learn, grow and thrive.
The Summer Meal Programs ensures kids have no-cost, health meals this summer and return to school read to learn.
Help us spread the word about this valuable program!
Text FOOD to 304-304 or visit SummerFood.org to find a site.
Los niños necesitan comidas nutritivas para aprender, crecer y prosperar.
Los programas de comidas de verano aseguran que los niños tengan comidas saludables sin costo este verano y regresen a la escuela leyendo para aprender.
¡Ayúdenos a correr la voz acerca de este valioso programa!
Envíe FOOD al 304-304 o visite SummerFood.org para encontrar un sitio.
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2022/05/Girl-Eating-Sandwich-at-Table.jpg9001200John Boydhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngJohn Boyd2022-05-11 14:16:592022-05-11 14:16:59Summer Meal Programs provide no-cost, health meals to students
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2022/05/Job-Fair-Hou-South-June-2022-e1651671127897.jpg671800Candice Keutzerhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngCandice Keutzer2022-05-04 08:34:442022-05-04 08:37:16Harmony Public Schools Houston South & West Districts Job Fair
PEBT benefits will soon be available for families whose children have experienced COVID related absences and who qualify for free or reduced price benefits through the National School Lunch Program.
Does my child qualify?
Both criteria must be met to qualify for PEBT benefits.
#1 A COVID related absence from August – December due to a positive test or exposure that has been verified by the campus. COVID absences from January – May will receive benefits in July.
#2 Eligible for free or reduced price meals through the National School Lunch Program. To determine your child’s eligibility, submit an application through www.schoolcafe.com. Paper applications may also be requested from the school office. Students attending a CEP campus or who are directly certified automatically meet the eligibility requirement.
The deadline to complete a meal eligibility application is April 6th.
If you have any questions, please contact your school’s Child Nutrition Assistant.
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.png00Emre Konakhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngEmre Konak2022-04-01 12:41:052022-04-01 12:41:05School Cafe applications now open to establish meal eligibility for PEBT eligible students!
Harmony Public Schools is recruiting talented, compassionate bilingual teachers dedicated to helping every student succeed. Harmony offers a competitive salary, excellent benefits and a commitment to excellence in the classroom.
In accordance with United States Code (U.S.C.) Annotated, Title 20, Chapter 70, Subchapter VIII, Part C, Section 7846, and Public Law (P.L.) 114-95, Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), Section 8306, an entity planning to submit a federal grant application must afford a reasonable opportunity for public comment on the application before it is submitted.
Harmony Public Schools hereby gives notice to the public that it intends to file the following applications and request awarded amounts for federal grant funds with the Texas Education Agency for the school year 2022-23. HPS welcomes comments or questions concerning any of these grants, and requests that any comments or questions be submitted by June 30, 2022 using the form below.
En concordancia con United States Code (U.S.C.) Annotated, Title 20, Chapter 70, Subchapter VIII, Part C, Section 7846, and Public Law (P.L.) 114-95, Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), Section 8306, una entidad que planea presentar una solicitud de subvención federal (subsidio) debe brindar una oportunidad razonable para comentarios públicos. Las siguientes son las subvenciones federales que
Harmony Public Schools por la presente notifica al público que tiene la intención de presentar las siguientes solicitudes y solicitar los montos otorgados para fondos de subvenciones federales con la Agencia de Educación de Texas para el año escolar 2022-23. HPS agradece los comentarios o preguntas sobre cualquiera de estas subvenciones y solicita que los comentarios o preguntas se envíen antes del 30 de junio de 2022 mediante este Google form.
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.png00Emre Konakhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngEmre Konak2022-03-10 09:18:532022-03-10 09:20:43Public Comment on Federal Grant Applications
You are invited to attend Harmony Public Schools Houston South/West Districts’ 2022-2023 District Improvement Plan Meeting on Friday, April 8, 2022 from 1:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Please RSVP by filling out this form to receive a Zoom link.
You are invited to attend Harmony Public Schools Houston South/West Districts’ Comprehensive Needs Assessment meetings for the 2022-2023 District Improvement Plan on Friday, March 11 & March 25 from 1:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Please RSVP by filling out this form to receive a Zoom link.
Harmony Public Schools Houston South & West Districts are hosting an in-person event to assist parents in helping their children who are dyslexic or struggling with reading. Parents will receive information and engage in hands-on activities during this workshop.
Job Duties:
Prepare appropriate curriculum and annual plan to submit to the administration for approval.
Teach secondary school students in the subject of Mathematics; apply the curriculum as
prepared and approved; keep attendance records; assign lessons; administer tests to evaluate
students’ progress; and maintain discipline in the classroom. Create lesson plans, correct
homework, and evaluate teacher-made tests. Prepare tests to evaluate students’ progress,
record the results, and issue reports to inform parents of progress. Contact parents to offer
positive reinforcement regarding social and academic achievements the students make.
Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in Math or Math Education and 1 year of experience as Math Teacher at
middle or high school level. Teaching experience must be full-time as a teacher of record (not
substitute) at general education setting (not special population).
How to Apply:
Mail resumes to:
Attn: HR Dept, Harmony Public Schools
9321 W Sam Houston Pkwy S Houston, TX 77099
Refer to Ad#NS
Each school year, thousands of families submit their application to become a part of Harmony Public Schools.
Here’s how we select applicants for enrollment each year to make sure each applicant has an equal opportunity to become our next high-achieving Harmony scholar.
STEP 1
Each January, we ask current families to let us know if they’ll be coming back to Harmony next year. This is called “Re-Enrollment.”
STEP 2
Based on the number of students returning next year and the number of classes in each grade level, we determine how many open spots we will have for new students.
STEP 3
Meanwhile, new families are submitting their applications during our annual Open Enrollment season, which runs from November 1 through February 10 each year.
STEP 4
After February 10, if the number of new applicants is greater than the number of available spots we have, Harmony holds a “blind lottery” to make sure all applicants have a fair opportunity to be seated.
STEP 5
Families of students selected for enrollment are notified. Those not selected are put on a “waitlist” and contacted as soon as a spot opens up.
… and that’s it!
Here are some answers to our applicants’ most frequently asked questions.
#1 – IS THERE ALWAYS A LOTTERY?
Not always, but often.
Whether a lottery is needed is determined by the number of spots available at each grade level and the number of eligible applicants interested in them.
#2 – I WAS SELECTED FOR ENROLLMENT –
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO NEXT?
Most importantly, we need you to officially accept the spot (a link will be provided on the acceptance letter). Then, between now and next fall, you’ll need to officially register your child and provide a few documents verifying their identity and home address.
After that, we’ll see you on the first day of school!
(Note: If you were accepted by more than one campus, please register at your preferred campus and decline the invitation of any others. This will allow us to offer those spots to another prospective Harmony family.)
#3 – I WAS PLACED ON A WAITLIST –
IS THERE ANY CHANCE I WILL GET TO ATTEND?
Absolutely – so don’t give up hope! Students initially placed on a waitlist are given the opportunity to enroll all the time at Harmony, often for one of the following reasons:
A student who was initially selected in the lottery didn’t completion registration by the deadline.
A student who was initially selected in the lottery moved away.
A student was selected by two schools in the lottery, but of course could only register at one.
We added an an extra class at the grade level for which you applied.
One of our nearby campuses had an opening,
and reached out to see if you were interested in attending there.
More Questions?
Reach out to us on Let’s Talk to let us know how we can help!
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2022/07/Lottery-example-1.png500500John Boydhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngJohn Boyd2022-02-11 14:23:442022-07-18 08:52:53Harmony Public Schools enrollment and lottery process
Due to the forecast inclement weather and the potential of hazardous road conditions, Harmony Public Schools will be closed on Friday, February 4. Schools and district facilities are scheduled to reopen on Monday, February 7.
Please stay safe and warm!
Debido a las inclemencias meteorológicas previstas y la probabilidad de condiciones peligrosas en las carreteras locales, las Escuelas Públicas Harmony y las instalaciones del distrito estarán cerradas el viernes 4 de febrero y reanudarán el lunes 7 de febrero.
After giving across-the-board pay raises to full-time teachers and campus staff earlier this school year, Harmony Public Schools will now be giving pay raises to all levels of substitute teachers.
The daily rate increase goes into effect February 14. The increase was approved unanimously by the Harmony Public Schools Board of Directors on January 29. Under the rate increase, substitute teachers will earn an extra $20-30 per day on top of the already-competitive Harmony rate.
For a teacher only working a few days per week, the increase will mean a few hundred dollars each month on top of the compensation they already earn. For certified teachers and long-term substitutes, the rate increase could mean up to $600 per month in increased pay (see chart above for rates for each position).
“Each day, substitute teachers are making a major impact on our schools by keeping our students on-track and learning when their regular teachers are unable to attend school,” Harmony CEO Fatih Ay said. “These professionals are important members of our school community, and we want to show our thanks.”
The increase was the third occasion in the past two school years in which Harmony announced a major improvement to employee compensation and benefits.
In January 2021, Harmony announced a sweeping upgrade of its employer-paid benefits that provided free vision and dental plans to all full-time employees, introduced matching retirement plan contributions for 403(b) and (457(b) participants, and increased life insurance payouts from $20,000 to $100,000.
In Summer 2019, Harmony also announced statewide base pay increases for employees ranging from $3,500-$5,000, as well as additional stipends for teachers working in hard-to-staff subjects.
Harmony Public Schools is a Texas-born, Texas-wide public charter school system with campuses serving PreK-Grade 12 students in 23 cities across the state, including Greater Houston, DFW, San Antonio, Austin, El Paso, Waco, Lubbock, Odessa, Bryan, Beaumont, and the Rio Grande Valley. Harmony’s curriculum places a heavy focus on STEM skills, Character Education, project-based learning, and college readiness.
Harmony Public Schools is currently accepting applications for the 2022-2023 school year for both students and team members.
About Harmony Public Schools
Harmony Public Schools are 58 high performing PreK-12 college preparatory charter schools throughout Texas. Harmony blends the highest standards and expectations, with a rigorous math- and science-centered curriculum and dedicated and engaged teachers and families to cultivate excellence and prepare students to succeed in college, careers and life. At Harmony Public Schools, we believe every child can succeed, and we are committed to helping them realize their full potential. To learn more about Harmony Public Schools and our 58 campuses across Texas, please visit: www.harmonytx.org, and follow us on Twitter at @HarmonyEdu and ‘Like’ us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HarmonyTexas.
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2022/01/SUBSTITUTE-TEACHER-PAY-RAISE-FACEBOOK.png788940John Boydhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngJohn Boyd2022-01-31 20:20:252022-01-31 20:20:25Substitute teacher pay raises announced at Harmony Public Schools
Harmony Science & Engineering Fair (H-SEF) is an annual science fair that brings together middle and high school students across the Harmony network who have engaged in advanced research projects all year long. Majority of H-SEF finalists are award winners in their regional science fairs within their local communities. H-SEF aims to promote STEM through advanced research among secondary students and increase their interest and motivation to pursue STEM careers.
H-SEF 2022 will be in person at the Harmony Public Schools Central Office in Houston and it is open to all Harmony middle and high school students.
Below you will find H-SEF rules and guidelines along with the event timeline.
In accordance with the Texas State Plan for the Education of Gifted/Talented students, Harmony Public Schools will begin taking referrals for all interested students in grades K-12 for Gifted and Talented (G/T) screening.
Anyone interested in the educational welfare of these students may nominate them for assessment. Students in grades 1 & up who were tested in Fall 2021 are not eligible to test in Spring 2022. Referral forms are available at the front office and on the school’s website (see below).
The referral forms must be returned or emailed to the front office by January 31, 2022. The Spring GT testing window is set by the campus in February or March. Campuses may elect to use NWEA MAP scores as a prescreening criterion for GT Testing.
For more information about the screening and identification process, parents may contact the school’s GT Coach/teacher.
—
De acuerdo con el Plan Estatal de Texas para la Educación de Estudiantes Dotados / Talentosos, Harmony Public Schools comenzará a tomar referencias para todos los estudiantes interesados en los grados K-12 para la evaluación de estudiantes dotados y talentosos.
Cualquier persona interesada en el bienestar educativo de estos estudiantes puede nominarlos para dicha evaluación. Los estudiantes en los grados 2 y superiores que fueron evaluados en el otoño de 2020 no son elegibles para la prueba en la primavera de 2021. Los formularios de referencia están disponibles en la oficina y en el sitio web de la escuela.
Los formularios de referencia deben devolverse a la oficina de la escuela antes del lunes 31 de enero del 2022.
Para obtener más información sobre el proceso de selección e identificación, los padres pueden comunicarse con el entrenador / maestro de GT de la escuela.
During this time of year each January, we ask families to complete a simple, online Re-Enrollment process, letting us know they’ll be joining us for another great year of learning and fun next school year, which starts in August 2022.
This simple step allows us to make sure each current student’s spot at Harmony is reserved for the following school year, and assess how many new student seats we have available for other applicants.
Re-Enrollment at Harmony Public Schools runs January 4-28, 2022. Look for more details in your email inbox, via Skyward, or on our Facebook page soon.
In the meantime, check out these 6 things families need to know about Re-Enrollment at Harmony Public Schools.
#1 – When is Re-Enrollment season?
For the 2022-2023 school year, re-enrollment will be January 4-28, 2022.
#2 – How do I apply for Re-Enrollment?
The preferred method for re-enrollment is through the student’s online Skyward account. (A link to Skyward can be found at the top of your campus homepage or you can simply click here.). Parents without internet and/or Skyward access may also request a paper re-enrollment option from their child’s campus.
#3 – What is the difference between Re-Enrollment and Open Enrollment?
Re-enrollment is intended for current Harmony students planning to stay at their current campus the following school year, or who will naturally feed upward to a new campus (e. from elementary to nearby middle school). Open Enrollment is for new students, or current students who wish to change Harmony campuses for personal reasons (ex. transferring to a campus closer to home).
#4 – If a student plans to stay at the same school next year, are they automatically guaranteed re-enrollment if they complete the re-enrollment process before the deadline?
Yes, so long as their family completes the re-enrollment process.
#5 – What happens if a parent does not submit their re-enrollment information before the deadline?
If a parent misses the deadline to complete the re-enrollment process, then the student will lose his/her reserved space for next school year and must apply during Open Enrollment, held November 1-February 10 each school year. To apply, visit www.HarmonyTX.org/Apply.
#6 – What does a Harmony parent need to do if they would like to stay with Harmony, but transfer to a different campus for the next school year?
If a parent would like to change Harmony campuses for the following school year, they must submit an application for the desired school at www.HarmonyTX.org/Apply.
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2021/12/Copy-of-ReEnrollment-Square.png788940John Boydhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngJohn Boyd2021-12-10 14:42:002021-12-10 14:42:00Re-enrollment is January 4-28 for 2022-23 at Harmony Public Schools
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2022/02/TutorMe-English-1-1.png788940John Boydhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngJohn Boyd2021-11-15 20:54:152022-02-25 11:50:10Harmony offers free online tutoring for all students through TutorMe
One of the questions we hear most from prospective parents interested in applying to Harmony Public Schools is “I’ve been looking at schools near me, but I don’t understand – what is the difference between a charter school and an ISD public school?”
Public charter schools have grown exponentially in the past 25 years – both in Texas, and around the country – but we understand why many parents who grew up in a traditional independent school district setting themselves may still have questions.
That’s OK. We’ve got the answers to all of your biggest questions about charter schools.
So, what exactly is a charter school?
A charter school is a public school, and in many ways very similar to a traditional ISD school as you might think of one.
Charter schools do not charge tuition or application fees.
Charter schools accept every student who applies, as long as the school or grade level has not reached its enrollment capacity.
Charter school students take the same core classes and state tests (ex. STAAR) as ISD students.
Charter schools offer a full range of special services, including special education, English as a Second Language (ESL), Dyslexia, and 504.
However, what makes charter schools different is what we believe makes them special. In a word, that difference is “choice.”
Way back in 1995, the Texas State Legislature decided that even though there were a lot of great schools in Texas, a one-size-fits-all approach to education might not work for all families. Each child is unique: some with special gifts, others with special challenges, and all with special dreams for their futures.
To help better serve every Texas student, the Texas public charter school system was created to allow independent, education-based nonprofit organizations called Charter Management Organizations (CMOs) to open and operate free public schools for Texas students with the promise that they would provide a new school choice in education for local Texas families.
For some charter schools, that new choice might be a curriculum that focuses on dual-language learning. For others, it might be helping students who have dropped out of the traditional school setting reclaim their path to graduation.
Of the roughly 100 schools in Texas certified as official Texas STEM Academies be the Texas Education Agency, 23 are Harmony Public Schools high schools – more than any other school system in Texas!
As long as a student lives within its geographic boundaries of the school, any child can attend a Texas public charter school. However, unlike traditional ISD schools where students usually must attend whichever nearby campus they are “zoned” to, public charter school geographic boundaries are generally very large – often covering multiple communities or counties. These large geographic boundaries are another way Texas public charter schools offer Texas families a choice in their student’s education, and are unique from traditional ISDs. For example, rather than sending their child to an ISD campus near their home address, a parent may prefer for their child to attend a school near a grandparent’s home, or the parent’s place of work. Or they may prefer to send their child to a campus that specializes in a specific curriculum, like STEM, or with a higher TEA accountability rating than their neighborhood ISD school. All of these are options with Texas public charter schools.
They don’t. Charter school students are never “cherry picked” from an applicant pool. Any student who applies to attend a charter school will be accepted, so long as they meet three basic criteria:
They live within the schools geographic boundaries;
They are applying to a grade taught by that specific school;
Available seats are open in the grade-level to which the family is applying. At Harmony, if more students apply than there are available openings, the campus will hold a “blind” lottery to ensure fair an equal opportunity for enrollment to all new applicants.
When and how can a student apply to a charter school?
A student can apply to a charter school at any time during the school year and be accepted if space is available. However, most Texas public charter schools also offer an open enrollment period each year specifically for prospective new students. During this time, families can learn more about their charter school options and enter their name for the enrollment lottery, which is held in the event there are more applicants than available seats. For Harmony Public Schools, open enrollment runs each November 1 through February 10.
As opposed to a traditional ISD school, which receives its funding primarily from the taxes local homeowners pay each year combined with additional funding from the state, charter schools receive their primary funding from the state and federal governments. Additionally, charters often receive both public and private grants to fund many of their innovative academic programs. For example, in recent years Harmony Public Schools has received grants of varying amounts from the U.S. Department of Education, the Texas Education Agency, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, and the Elon Musk Foundation, among others.
Are Texas public charter schools for-profit?
No. By law, Texas public charter schools must be nonprofit entities. All funds received are used in the service of our students and school teams.
Do charter schools require uniforms?
That’s a decision that’s up to each charter school. At Harmony Public Schools, we do have a uniform policy. (Our students do get regular “free dress” days, though.)
Do charter schools offer the same types of programs and extracurricular activities as ISD schools?
Charter schools offer almost all of the same programs and extracurricular activities as ISD schools, though just like at an ISD school, the exact selection of extracurricular opportunities varies from campus-to-campus. Traditionally, charter schools specialize in offering a wide variety of academic-focused extracurriculars. For example, at Harmony Public Schools, some of our most popular extracurricular activities are our groundbreaking eSports clubs, LEGO robotics, rocketry, computer coding, and biomedicine. Our schools also compete in a wide variety of sports, including basketball, volleyball, soccer, and football.
What level accountability do charter schools have to maintain?
Just like traditional ISDs, Texas charter schools must remain in good academic and financial accountability with the Texas Education Agency. That includes annual inclusion in the TEA’s Financial Integrity System of Texas (FIRST) and Overall Accountability ratings. Charter schools that do not meet these standards face closure by the TEA. Finally, to help families easily understand how their charter school is performing, the TEA has created a Charter School Performance Framework (CSPF), which grades charter districts on overall academic performance and closing achievement gaps.
What other differences are there between charter schools and traditional ISD schools?
There are a few other differences between Texas public charter schools and ISDs, but most don’t impact the day-to-day campus life of our students. For example, charter school boards consist of appointed volunteers with a unique interest in education, rather than private individuals who have chosen to run for election. However, charter school board meetings are still open to the public to attend and participate.
What about …?
We couldn’t possibly share all the things that make charter schools a unique and important part of the Texas educational environment in just one article. So if you have more questions, we’d love the opportunity to tell you more. Just tell us what you want to know in our Let’s Talk family communication platform, and we’ll reach out with an answer soon!
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2022/03/WORDPRESS-Charter-School-Facts-Wordpress.png880880John Boydhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngJohn Boyd2021-10-26 16:52:312022-03-28 14:43:22What is a charter school? The difference between ISD schools and Texas public charter schools
Meta / Propósito: Revisar, evaluar y actualizar / desarrollar la Política de Participación de los Padres y la Familia (PFE) escrita
Temas de la agenda:
I. Presentación del programa Título I
II. Revisar y evaluar la política de PFE del año pasado.
III. Juntos desarrollaremos la política y el acuerdo de PFE para este año.
IV. El plan de estudios y el rendimiento académico de la escuela V. Comentarios, preguntas y respuestas
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2021/10/2021-2022-South-District-PFE-Meeting-Parent-Invitation_-1.png31002350Candice Keutzerhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngCandice Keutzer2021-10-05 09:24:582021-10-05 09:24:58Houston South District District Annual Title I Meeting
This year every child at Harmony Public Schools is eligible to receive free lunch and breakfast each day from our child nutrition team.
However, Harmony would like to remind parents of the need to still submit one of our critical Harmony forms instead of the application normally associated with qualifying for Free & Reduced Price Meal Programs.
Each year, Harmony Public Schools is required to collect and report the socioeconomic status of each student to the Texas Education Agency for purposes of the annual state accountability ratings and for federal reporting. The data collected is used by educational agencies to determine funding which may be used for a variety of programs and educational opportunities.
Today, we are asking parents to please complete the online form “Household Income Information” in Skyward. Upon login to Skyward, this form is accessible from the main screen. If you have any questions, please contact the Child Nutrition Assistant at your child’s school.
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2021/09/Important-Parent-Request.png788940John Boydhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngJohn Boyd2021-09-28 10:41:482021-09-28 10:41:48An important request for parents of Harmony Public Schools students
Last week, Gov. Greg Abbott officially signed into law a new education funding bill that will allow public schools like ours to offer full virtual learning to up to 10 percent of our student body enrolled in Grades K-12.
Under the law, to be eligible to participate and remain in virtual learning, students must meet all of the following criteria:
Students must have passed the most recent STAAR exams (if applicable to grade level). If student did not take STAAR, NWEA grade-level proficiency is required, AND;
Students must have earned a “C” grade of higher in “foundation curriculum” courses taken virtually or remotely in the previous school year (ex. Math, reading), AND;
Students must have no more than 10% unexcused absences during the previous school year, and maintain less than 10 unexcused absences in a six-month period.
Recently, we asked families to log into Skyward to let us know if they prefer for their child to attend virtual learning or continue in-person learning on campus. The deadline to make your selection is Wednesday September 15, 2021. For those who select “Virtual Learning,” we will cross-checking their student records to determine their eligibility status. Those selected will be notified by their home campus soon and given further directions on how to begin online learning.
For those not selected for virtual learning or who wish to remain in-person learning from campus, Harmony will continue to offer its “remote conferencing” option on an as-needed basis. Under this program, students can learn from home for up to 20 instructional days if they have a pre-existing medical condition, or are forced to quarantine due to positive COVID-19 diagnosis or exposure. Additional days may be granted upon TEA approval with required documentation.
Harmony thanks you for your ongoing support and patience as the situation regarding virtual learning unfolded these past few weeks. Whether your student is attending virtual or in-person, we look forward to a great school year with you and your family.
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La semana pasada, el gobernador Greg Abbott promulgó oficialmente una nueva ley de financiación de la educación que permitirá a las escuelas públicas como la nuestra ofrecer aprendizaje virtual completo para hasta el 10 por ciento de nuestros estudiantes.
En consecuencia, Harmony Public Schools se complace en anunciar que comenzará a ofrecer una opción de aprendizaje virtual a partir del lunes 4 de octubre para los estudiantes elegibles, según lo permitan los límites de inscripción.
Según la ley, para ser elegible para participar y permanecer en el aprendizaje virtual, los estudiantes deben cumplir con todos los siguientes criterios:
Los estudiantes deben haber aprobado los exámenes STAAR más recientes (si corresponde al nivel de grado). Si el estudiante no hizo STAAR, se requiere competencia de nivel de grado de NWEA, Y;
Los estudiantes deben haber obtenido una calificación “C” o superior en los cursos del “plan de estudios básico” hechos de forma virtual o remota en el año escolar anterior (por ejemplo, matemáticas, lectura), Y;
Los estudiantes no deben tener más del 10% de ausencias injustificadas durante el año escolar anterior y mantener menos de 10 ausencias injustificadas en un período de seis meses.
Recientemente, les pedimos a las familias que inicien sesión en Skyward para informarnos si prefieren que su hijo asista al aprendizaje virtual o que continúe con el aprendizaje presencial en el campus. La fecha límite para hacer su selección es el miércoles 15 de septiembre de 2021. Para aquellos que seleccionen “Aprendizaje virtual”, verificaremos sus registros de estudiantes para determinar su estado de elegibilidad. Los seleccionados serán notificados por su campus de origen pronto y se les dará más instrucciones sobre cómo comenzar el aprendizaje en línea.
Para aquellos que no hayan sido seleccionados para el aprendizaje virtual o que deseen seguir aprendiendo de manera presencial desde el campus, Harmony continuará ofreciendo su opción de “conferencias remotas” según sea necesario. Bajo este programa, los estudiantes pueden aprender desde casa durante hasta 20 días de instrucción si tienen una afección médica preexistente o si se ven obligados a ponerse en cuarentena debido a un diagnóstico positivo o exposición a la COVID-19. Se pueden otorgar días adicionales con la aprobación de la TEA con la documentación requerida.
Gracias por su continuo apoyo y paciencia mientras se desarrolló el aprendizaje virtual estas últimas semanas. Ya sea que su estudiante asista virtual o presencialmente, esperamos tener un gran año escolar con usted y su familia.
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2021/09/Wordpress-Virtual-Learning.png940940John Boydhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngJohn Boyd2021-09-13 13:30:072021-09-13 13:30:07Harmony Public Schools offering virtual learning option for 2021-22 school year
The HPS Fall Research Program in Biomedical Sciences provides opportunities for highly motivated and talented Harmony high school students to develop skills and to explore their interest in biomedical research. Do not miss this opportunity and apply at the link below.
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.png00zkonakhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngzkonak2021-09-10 11:39:182021-09-10 11:40:56Fall Research Program in Biomedical Sciences
Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) Announcement!
In accordance with the Texas State Plan for the Education of Gifted/Talented students, Harmony Public Schools will begin taking referrals for kindergarten and currently enrolled students in grades 1-12 for gifted and talented screening.
Anyone interested in the educational welfare of these students may refer them for assessment. Referral forms are available at the front office and on the school’s website.
The deadline for GATE referral is September 30, 2021, and G/T assessment period will take place in October. For more information about the screening and identification process, parents may contact the school’s G/T coordinator or G/T coach/teacher.
GATE (Educación para estudiantes dotados/talentosos) Anuncio
De acuerdo con el Plan Estatal de Texas para la Educación de Estudiantes Dotados / Talentosos, las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony comenzarán a recibir referencias para kindergarten y estudiantes actualmente inscritos en los grados 1-12 para la evaluación de estudiantes dotados y talentosos.
Cualquier persona interesada en el bienestar educativo de estos estudiantes puede nominarlos para dicha evaluación. Los formularios de referencia están disponibles en la oficina y en el sitio web de la escuela.
La fecha límite de referencia de GATE es el 30 de septiembre de 2021 y el período de evaluación de G / T se llevará a cabo en octubre.
Para obtener más información sobre el proceso de selección e identificación, los padres pueden comunicarse con el entrenador / maestro de GT de la escuela.
Today, we would like to share some important news regarding a potential virtual learning option at your child’s school.
This weekend, a new bill to fund virtual learning in Texas public schools like Harmony cleared a major hurdle in the Texas Legislature. In its current form, schools such as Harmony Public Schools would be allowed to provide virtual learning for up to 10 percent of its student body throughout the remainder of the school year.
While the bill has not received final approval and specific details may change before being signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott, it now appears very likely that schools like ours will be able to offer virtual learning in some form to students in the near future and we are looking forward to offering comprehensive virtual learning to our student population during 2021-2022 school year.
Currently, in your child’s Skyward account is a form asking your family’s interest in virtual learning. We ask that you please complete this virtual learning application form as soon as you are able. While we may not be able to accommodate every request due to potential new legal restrictions on the number of students who can participate, by understanding your preference we will be able to more quickly assign students to virtual learning should it become an option.
We will continue to share important updates with you as new information becomes available.
Thank you.
Estimadas familias de Harmony,
Hoy, no nos gustaría compartie algunas noticias importantes sobre una posible opción de aprendizaje virtual en la escuela de sus hijos. Este fin de semana, un nuevo proyecto de ley para financiar el aprendizaje virtual en escuelas públicas de Texas como Harmony eliminó un obstáculo importante en la Legislatura de Texas. En su forma actual, las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony podrían proporcionar aprendizaje virtual para hasta el 10 por ciento de su cuerpo estudiantil durante el resto del año escolar.
Aunque el proyecto no ha recibido la aprobación final y unos detalles específicos pueden cambiar antes de set convertida en lay por en gobernador, Greg Abbott, ahora parece muy probable que las escuelas como la nuestra puedan ofrecer aprendizaje virtual de alguna forma a los estudiantes en un futuro cercano y esperamos ofrecer un aprendizaje virtual integral a nuestra población estudiantil durante la escuela 2021-2022 año.
Actualmente, en la cuenta de Skyward de si hijo o hija hay un formulario que pregunta el interés de su familia en el aprendizaje virtual. Le pedimos que complete este formulario de solicitud de aprendizaje virtual tan pronto como pueda. Si bien es posible que no podamos atender todas las solicitudes debido a posibles nuevas restricciones legales sobre la cantidad de estudiantes que pueden participar, al comprender su preferencia, podremos asignar estudiantes más rápidamente al aprendizaje virtual si se convierte en una opción.
Continuaremos compartiendo actualizaciones importantes con usted a medida que haya nueva información disponible.
On Saturday, the HPS executive board approved a recommendation allowing all regular employees 10 additional days of paid leave should they test positive for COVID-19 or be asked to quarantine due to close contact with another COVID-19 positive individual.
The benefit is available retroactively to August 2 (first day of 2021-22 school year), and extends through December 31, 2021.
Employees with additional questions or who need to request leave for any purpose should contact leave@harmonytx.org.
From its beginning, Harmony Public Schools has held onto two strong beliefs.
First, that by focusing on STEM, we could help our students better understand their connection to the world around them, and prepare them to help tackle the challenges of our collective future.
Second, that schools work best when parents, teachers, and school leaders are all working together to do what’s best for our students.
Few issues have put those two core beliefs – following science, and doing what’s best for kids – into sharper focus than the issue of protective face masks at our schools.
At Harmony, we firmly believe the preponderance of credible medical evidence proves that masks are a simple and effective way to stop the spread of COVID-19 in our schools, communities, and homes. This is why we frequently and publicly advocate for their use by students and team members – because it’s good science, and it’s what is best for kids.
Today, we would like to share a new Harmony Public Schools mask policy that we believe is strongly based on science and student safety, while also taking into account the legitimate reasons some families may prefer for their child not to wear a mask. We also believe this policy can remain consistent regardless of the outcome of current legal decisions related to mask “mandates” in schools.
Harmony Student Mask Policy
(Effective DATE)
All Harmony staff members are asked to wear a mask on campus, unless there are medical, religious or other specific reasons that is not possible.
All Harmony Public Schools students are asked to wear masks on campus. If a student does not have a mask, one will be provided.
The parents of children who are unable to wear a mask due to medical or other specific issues, including difficulty breathing while wearing a mask, may submit a formal exemption request on Skyward. (This is consistent with our long-standing student Dress Code exemption policy, which can be found on page 22 of the HPS Student & Parent Handbook).
We are asking that all employees, students, parents and visitors voluntarily comply with this mask policy.
When it comes to masks, there may be no perfect policy for all families. Masks have become one of the more hotly debated issues of our time. The one thing we can all agree on, though, is that we all look forward to a day when no one needs to wear a mask.
In the late spring and early summer, many of us believed that day was close. Unfortunately, it’s not quite here, yet. But by working together, we will get there – hopefully soon.
For now, we’re asking for Harmony to mask up.
It’s good science, and it’s what is best for kids.
This year we would like all students to check out a Chromebook to use in all classes and at home in the event of illness. Students will carry the Chromebooks with them from class to class and take them home each day. One charger will be provided. Please ensure your student brings the Chromebook and charger to school every day. One form must be completed for each student. Please return any Chromebooks and chargers you may have at home from last year. They require updates so a new Chromebook will be issued.
Este año nos gustaría que todos los estudiantes saquen un Chromebook para usar en todas las clases y en casa en caso de enfermedad. Los estudiantes llevarán los Chromebooks con ellos de clase en clase y se llevarán a casa todos los días. Se proporcionará un cargador. Asegúrese de que su estudiante traiga el Chromebook y el cargador a la escuela todos los días. Se debe completar un formulario para cada estudiante. Devuelva cualquier Chromebook y cargador que tenga en casa del año pasado por favor. Requieren actualizaciones, por lo que se emitirá una nueva Chromebook.
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Today, we would like to inform you of important education option for your family if you believe your student may have experienced significant academic losses during the 2020-2021 school year.
This summer, the 87th Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill (SB) 1697, which allows parents and guardians to elect for a student to repeat a grade or retake a high school course.
This gives parents or guardians the right to opt for their child to:
repeat pre-kindergarten or enroll in pre-kindergarten if the child was eligible to enroll in pre-kindergarten in the previous school year and has not yet enrolled in kindergarten;
repeat kindergarten; or enroll in kindergarten if the child would have enrolled in kindergarten in the previous school year and has not yet enrolled in first grade; and
for grades one through three, repeat the grade the student was enrolled in during the previous school year.
For the 2021-2022 school year only, parents or guardians have the right to opt for their child:
for grades four through eight, repeat the grade the student was enrolled in during the 2020-2021 school year; and
for courses taken for high school credit, repeat any course in which the student was enrolled during the 2020-2021 school year.
When determining whether these options may be right for your student, here are some things which may be helpful to consider:
For children in grades 1-8, repeating may be right for your child if he/she struggled learning while remaining virtual most of the year.
For students who took high school courses, repeating one or more courses may be right for your child if he/she struggled in a foundational course (e.g. Algebra I or computer science) and is worried about being successful in higher-level courses.
If a high school student received a passing grade for the course they are requesting to repeat, they will keep their original grade on their transcript.
For children interested in high school interscholastic competition, parents and guardians should review eligibility rulesbased on student age.
According to the new law, parents or guardians are required to notify the district in writing (letter or email to school principal) if they elect for their child to retake a grade level or course.
By law, if a district disagrees, the district must convene a retention committee and meet with the parent or guardian to discuss the proposed retention.
After the parent/ guardian has participated in the retention committee meeting, the parent or guardian will decide if the student will be retained.
For more information or to request retention for your student, please contact your campus administration.
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2021/08/Important-Update-1.png940940John Boydhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngJohn Boyd2021-08-18 07:29:452021-08-18 07:29:45Parents have option for student to repeat grade or retake course
In accordance with United States Code (U.S.C.) Annotated, Title 20, Chapter 70, Subchapter VIII, Part C, Section 7846, and Public Law (P.L.) 114-95, Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), Section 8306, an entity planning to submit a federal grant application must afford a reasonable opportunity for public comment on the application before it is submitted.
Harmony Public Schools hereby gives notice to the public that it intends to file the following applications and request awarded amounts for federal grant funds with the Texas Education Agency for the school year 2021-22. HPS welcomes comments or questions concerning any of these grants and requests that any comments or questions be submitted by Aug 30, 2021, using the form below. Public Input Survey
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https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.png00htosunhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pnghtosun2021-08-12 15:33:452021-08-12 15:33:45NEW STUDENTS ONLY - Claim Harmony Portal account
Supplies are listed by grade level for middle school and by course for high school. Please note that not all courses are listed so it is advised to wait until after the first two days of class so teachers can share what supplies are needed for their specific classes. All students should come prepared with a zipper pouch with pencils/pens, sanitizer, and a notebook/binder with paper on the first two days of class. Most teachers prefer that students keep supplies with them. Students can access their schedules on Skyward to see which classes they are taking.
The Link to the spreadsheet for the supplies can be foundHERE.
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The following is a message from Harmony Public Schools CEO Fatih Ay.
Dear Harmony Families,
Like many of you, we at Harmony Public Schools are greatly concerned by the rise in COVID-19 cases attributed to the Delta variant.
At Harmony, we are working diligently to keep our schools safe and provide families the tools they need to keep their child protected from COVID-19.
Today, we would like to share with you several important updates regarding Harmony’s COVID-19 policy and procedures.
First, we would like to announce that we will be offering a TEA-approved “remote conferencing” option that will allow students a limited ability to attend classes from home if they are sick, have been exposed to COVID-19, or in a COVID-19 high-risk group.
Per TEA requirement, the total amount of time for remote instruction may not exceed more than 20 instructional days for the entire 2021-22 school year. In order to be eligible, students must meet one of the criteria below:
The student is unable to attend school because of a temporary medical condition that is documented by a physician licensed to practice in the United States.
The student’s healthcare provider is required to complete and sign an HPS COVID-19 High Risk Exemption Medical Certification form. Parents need to submit the form to the school health aide to confirm eligibility. Failure to provide the completed form will disqualify a student from participating. Here is the link to download exemption application form: https://www.HarmonyTX.org/medicalrequest
The student has a positive test result for a communicable condition listed in state regulations at 25 Tex. Admin. Code §97.7. Parents need to provide test results to the school health aide listing the communicable condition. This includes a positive test result for COVID-19.
The student has been identified as having been in close contact with a COVID-19 positive individual as confirmed by the school, the student’s health care provider, or local health agency. Parents need to provide written notification or send email to the school health aide.
Next, we would like to share an update regarding contact tracing and reporting of potential COVID-19 cases on campus.
Although it is not required for schools to conduct contract tracing and inform parents if someone in their child’s class had tested positive for COVID-19, we believe families have the right to know what is happening at their child’s school. That’s why we will continue to implement the following measures.
We will:
Inform parents if a child or team member tests positive for COVID-19 in their classroom.
Conduct contact tracing to determine the potential spread of COVID-19 in our schools.
Provide transparency to the public about our schools by continuing to update our COVID-19 “case count” dashboard, which can be found at www.HarmonyTX.org/coviddashboard.
Continue to work with local pharmacies and community health organizations to host on-campus vaccination clinics for team members and eligible students age 12 and older. (Please follow your campus Facebook page and parents newsletter for more info about upcoming campus clinics near you.)
Finally, we understand that a full remote learning option is something some of our families are highly interested in. Currently, state leaders in the Texas Legislature are convening in Austin to vote on whether they will allow districts to offer full virtual learning.
We don’t yet know what the decision of the Texas Legislature will be, or how long it may take to reach that decision.
What we do know is that an option for virtual learning is an important issue to our Harmony families across the state. That’s why, despite the challenges schools across Texas have faced in offering virtual learning this fall,we are fully prepared to quickly move to a virtual option for those families interested, should state leaders approve this option.
We will continue to keep you updated as new developments occur.
Thank you for your support and collaboration throughout this process, and for being a part of our Harmony family.
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2021/08/Important-Update.png940940John Boydhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngJohn Boyd2021-08-09 16:41:232021-08-09 16:48:54An important COVID-19 update from Harmony Public Schools CEO Fatih Ay
Q: Will Harmony Public Schools offer virtual learning this year?
A: No. Harmony will return to face to face instruction at all campuses for the 21-22 school year as mandated by the Texas Education Agency. We are excited to have our students back in the classroom and will continue to support their social, emotional, and academic growth.
Q: What will on-campus instruction look like for this year?
A: Just as before the pandemic, students will attend in-person learning according to the academic calendar. This calendar can be found on your campus website. Teachers will provide in-person learning, which includes hands-on activities, small group projects and intervention, station rotations, teacher one-on-one support, etc.
Q: What COVID-19 safety protocols will be in place for students and teachers?
A: Face masks are optional for both students and Harmony team members, but are strongly recommended. Physical distancing may be maintained to the extent possible. Hand sanitizer will be provided, and students will be encouraged to practice frequent hand washing, use of hand sanitizer, and physical distancing. Teachers will sanitize high-touch areas in the classroom when necessary. Because the COVID-19 pandemic is evolving, we may update protocols as the situation dictates.
Q: My child struggled with virtual learning, and I am concerned they are academically behind. How will Harmony help my child regain academic progress?
A: We understand that some students struggled last year. Our educational teams are here to diagnose learning loss and provide an intervention plan to address it. This will include regular Response to Intervention (RTI) system implementation, after school tutoring, small group instruction, Saturday school, and summer school options.
Q: My child excelled with virtual learning last year. Will they be academically challenged this year?
A: Yes! We will continue to provide rigorous instruction with differentiated options for students including emphasis on college and career readiness.
Q: Will extracurricular activities resume this year?
A: Yes! We anticipate all extracurricular activities to resume for students, including academic clubs, athletics, fine arts, UIL, competitions, etc. Check the Clubs page of your campus website throughout the year for new clubs and extracurriculars.
Q: After a year out of the classroom, how will students and staff be supported in transitioning back to a social setting?
A: Harmony will provide mental health support to our students and staff during and after the back to school transition period. Each campus will utilize a Behavioral Counselor and implement support systems to ensure all students and staff receive the help they need.
Q: Where can I apply for free or reduced price meals?
A: All students eat FREE this year at all schools! Your child will automatically receive their free meal(s) each day in your campus cafeteria. You may, however, still be asked to complete a Free & Reduced Meal eligibility form once the school year starts, as this plays a crucial role in determining the amount of federal and state funding your child’s school may receive.
Q: What safety protocols will be in place during breakfast and lunch?
A: Cafeteria teams will continue to clean and sanitize dining areas. Physical distancing will be maintained to the extent possible. Students will sanitize their hands before and after eating, and will not be allowed to share food or utensils. Harmony will maintain adult supervision in the cafeteria to reinforce mealtime safety measures.
Q: Will water fountains be available for students?
A: Students will have access to touchless water fountains and are encouraged to bring their own reusable clear water bottles to use throughout the day. Water bottles should be taken home daily to be cleaned.
Q: What if my child displays symptoms of COVID-19 while at school?
A: The teacher will immediately call the Health Aide, who will pick up the student from the classroom and place the student in isolation to minimize interaction. The school Health Aide will communicate with the parent/guardian, and the student will be sent home. The student may not return to school until clearance is given by the school Health Aide. Additional guidance on the criteria that must be met prior to the student’s return to school is located in the Harmony Public Schools Back to School Playbook, 2021-2022.
Q: Should I notify the school if my child tested positive for COVID-19 or was in close contact with someone who tested positive?
A: Yes, families will self-report within 48 hours to the Health Aide if their child(ren) tested positive for COVID-19 or if they believe the child(ren) has been in close contact with an individual who has tested positive for COVID-19.
Q: How will I be notified if my child is exposed to COVID-19 at school?
A: If classroom exposure occurs, families will be notified via letter home, call, or school messaging services and the classroom will be sanitized.
Q: May I visit my child’s school?
A: Harmony always welcomes visitors to campuses and district offices, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic we will implement some limitations to minimize risk. Visitors will check in through the front office security system, and we will continue utilization of temperature checks. All visitors should complete a self-check before entering a school building, and visitors with COVID symptoms should NOT enter school buildings or offices.
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The Harmony Public Schools Executive Board unanimously approved a systemwide compensation increase for its 4,000+ teachers and team members across Texas.
Harmony teachers and other education professionals will receive between $4,000-$7,500 per year in additional compensation beginning the 2021-22 school year for a total annual system investment of roughly $15 million.
“The obstacles our schools have overcome the past two years have shown the profound impact that highly-qualified, highly-dedicated teachers can have on positive student outcomes,” Harmony CEO Fatih Ay said. “Opportunities like this are just one way we are showing our appreciation for all that our team members have contributed the past two years and for all the hard work still to come.”
The compensation increase comes in two parts:
A $2,000-$5,500 base pay increase for teachers and education professionals. The exact amount varies by community based on local market pay scales (see chart below).
A $2,000 across-the-board “Acceleration Stipend” for all teachers and professional employees.
All non-exempt (i.e. hourly) employees also will receive a raise of at least $1/hour, with some employees receiving $2/hour or more increases depending on position and location. With these increases, no full-time hourly worker in the Harmony system will earn less than $15/hour.
The increase was the third occasion in the past two school years in which Harmony announced a major improvement to employee compensation and benefits.
In January 2021, Harmony announced a sweeping upgrade of its employer-paid benefits that provided free vision and dental plans to all full-time employees, introduced matching retirement plan contributions for 403(b) and (457(b) participants, and increased life insurance payouts from $20,000 to $100,000.
In Summer 2019, Harmony also announced statewide base pay increases for employees ranging from $3,500-$5,000, as well as additional stipends for teachers working in hard-to-staff subjects.
Harmony also was selected by the Texas Education Agency in 2020 among its first round of Teacher Incentive Allotment recipients, which provided annual bonuses for a select group of high-performing educators.
“Our teachers are always looking for new ways to invest in their students, so it’s important to Harmony as a school system to always find new opportunities to invest in our teachers,” Ay said. “Whether its compensation or benefits increases like these, or professional development opportunities that help team members grow their personal skillset or advance their careers, we believe that an investment in our people is among the best investments we can make.”
Harmony Public Schools is a Texas-born, Texas-wide public charter school system with campuses serving PreK-Grade 12 students in 23 cities across the state, including Greater Houston, DFW, San Antonio, Austin, El Paso, Waco, Lubbock, Odessa, Bryan, Beaumont, and the Rio Grande Valley. Harmony’s curriculum places a heavy focus on STEM skills, Character Education, project-based learning, and college readiness.
Harmony Public Schools is currently accepting applications for the 2021-2022 school year for both students and team members.
About Harmony Public Schools
Harmony Public Schools are 58 high performing PreK-12 college preparatory charter schools throughout Texas. Harmony blends the highest standards and expectations, with a rigorous math- and science-centered curriculum and dedicated and engaged teachers and families to cultivate excellence and prepare students to succeed in college, careers and life. At Harmony Public Schools, we believe every child can succeed, and we are committed to helping them realize their full potential. To learn more about Harmony Public Schools and our 58 campuses across Texas, please visit: www.harmonytx.org, and follow us on Twitter at @HarmonyEdu and ‘Like’ us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HarmonyTexas.
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2021/08/Employee-Compensation-Increase-FB-2.png788788John Boydhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngJohn Boyd2021-06-28 13:46:472021-06-28 13:46:47Harmony Public Schools announces compensation increases for all teachers, team members
• Children who are certified for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).
• Children who attend a Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) or Provision 2 (P2) school that offers free meals to all students.*
• Children born after Aug. 1, 2014, in families who received SNAP benefits for at least one month between October 2020 and June 2021.
*Contact your child’s school if you have questions about the school’s participation in these programs.
If you do not meet at least one of the requirements listed above, your child is not eligible for the P-EBT benefits described below.
Enrolled students (up to 21 years of age) in families that temporarily lost access to free or reduced-price school meals for the 2020–2021 school year due to the COVID-19 pandemic may be eligible to receive Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT). P-EBT benefits can be used to buy food from any retailer that accepts the Lone Star Card.
The application for P-EBT will open June 2, 2021. Go to yourtexasbenefits.com/Learn/PEBT to apply.
The application link is case-sensitive. The deadline to apply is Aug. 13, 2021.
Who Needs to Apply?
A parent/guardian must apply if eligible child is:
o Enrolled in K-12 and NOT part of a family who received SNAP benefits for at least one
month between August 2020 and June 2021.
o Born on or before Aug. 1, 2014, and is part of a family who received SNAP benefits for the first time during the 2020–2021 school year in May or June 2021.
• A parent/guardian does not have to apply if eligible child is:
o Born on or before Aug. 1, 2014, and is part of a family who received SNAP benefits for at least one month between August 2020 and April 2021.
o Born after Aug. 1, 2014, and is part of a family who received SNAP benefits for at least one month between October 2020 and June 2021.
For more information about eligibility, applying and getting your P-EBT benefits, visit hhs.texas.gov/pebt, or call the P-EBT Call Center at 833-442-1255, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–6
p.m. Central time.
Esta carta es para las familias con:
• Niños que están aprobados para recibir comidas gratuitas o a precio reducido a través del Programa Nacional de Almuerzos Escolares (NSLP).
• Niños que asisten a una escuela beneficiaria de la Cláusula de Elegibilidad Comunitaria (CEP) o a una escuela de la Cláusula 2 (P2) que ofrece comidas gratuitas a todos los estudiantes.*
• Niños nacidos después del 1 de agosto de 2014 en familias que recibieron beneficios de SNAP durante al menos un mes entre octubre de 2020 y junio de 2021.
*Comuníquese con la escuela de su hijo si tiene preguntas sobre la participación de la escuela en estos programas.
Si usted no cumple con al menos uno de los requisitos mencionados anteriormente, su hijo no puede recibir los beneficios de P-EBT descritos a continuación.
Estimado padre o tutor,
Los estudiantes matriculados (hasta los 21 años de edad) de familias que perdieron temporalmente el acceso a las comidas escolares gratuitas o de precio reducido para el año escolar 2020-2021 debido a la pandemia de COVID-19 podrían reunir los requisitos para recibir la Transferencia Electrónica de Beneficios durante la Pandemia (P-EBT). Los beneficios de P-EBT pueden usarse para comprar alimentos en cualquier tienda que acepte la tarjeta Lone Star.
La presentación de solicitudes para P-EBT se abrirá el 2 de junio de 2021. Visite yourtexasbenefits.com/Learn/PEBT (en inglés) para presentar la solicitud. El enlace para la solicitud distingue entre mayúsculas y minúsculas. La fecha límite para presentar la solicitud es el 13 de agosto de 2021.
¿Quién debe presentar la solicitud?
Un padre o tutor deberá presentar la solicitud si el niño que reúne los requisitos:
o Está matriculado en K-12 y NO pertenece a una familia que recibió beneficios de SNAP durante al menos un mes entre agosto de 2020 y junio de 2021.
o Nació el 1 de agosto de 2014 o antes y pertenece a una familia que recibió beneficios de SNAP por primera vez durante el año escolar 2020-2021 en mayo o junio de 2021.
• Un padre o tutor no tiene que presentar la solicitud si el niño que reúne los requisitos:
o Nació el 1 de agosto de 2014 o antes y pertenece a una familia que recibió beneficios de SNAP durante al menos un mes entre agosto de 2020 y abril de 2021.
o Nació después del 1 de agosto de 2014 y pertenece a una familia que recibió beneficios de SNAP durante al menos un mes entre octubre de 2020 y junio de 2021.
Para más información sobre los requisitos, la presentación de la solicitud y cómo recibir sus beneficios de P-EBT, visite hhs.texas.gov/es/pebt, o llame al Centro de llamadas de P-EBT al 833-442-1255, de lunes a viernes, de 8 a.m. a 6 p.m. hora del centro.
https://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2021/05/FB-P-EBT-Summer-Food-BENEFITS-2.png788940John Boydhttps://campus.harmonytx.org/hsingenuity-new/wp-content/uploads/sites/134/2017/10/HS-Ingenuity-Houston-WHITE-letters-300px.pngJohn Boyd2021-05-26 16:23:312021-05-26 16:23:31Harmony families may qualify for financial benefits for summer food through P-EBT program
I hope you are well as this school year is coming to an end. We hope that all the computers, headphones, Chromebooks, and Hotspots that we have handed out have worked for your student. Starting May 27th, 2021 – May 28th, 2021, all students who have checked out any electronic devices are required to return their equipment to the I.T. Specialist at the Front Office. It is crucial to note that if students fail to return their checked-out equipment, an equipment fee will be charged to their account.
(See attached document for a breakdown regarding missing or damaged equipment)
Also, for students taking summer school classes, you must re-check out your device beginning on June 4th – June 5th. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at Htosun@harmonytx.org
Espero que estén bien ya que este año escolar está llegando a su fin. Esperamos que todas las computadoras, audífonos, Chromebooks y Hotspots que hemos entregado hayan funcionado para su estudiante. A partir del 27 de Mayo de 2021 al 28 de Mayo de 2021, todos los estudiantes que hayan prestado algún dispositivo electrónico deben devolver su equipo al I.T. Especialista en la Oficina Principal. Es fundamental tener en cuenta que si los estudiantes no devuelven su equipo prestado, se cargará una tarifa de equipo a su cuenta.
(Consulte el documento adjunto para obtener un desglose con respecto al equipo faltante o dañado)
Además, para los estudiantes que toman clases de la escuela de verano, deben volver a revisar su dispositivo a partir del 4 de Junio al 5 de Junio. Si tiene alguna pregunta o inquietud, no dude en enviarme un correo electrónico a Htosun@harmonytx.org
We invite all parents, staff, and other community stakeholders to attend Harmony Public Schools-Houston South/West District Wellness Plan Committee meeting and triennial assessment. The meeting will be held virtually on May 19th, 2021 from 2:00-3:00 PM. We will review our current District Wellness Plan as well as complete our triennial assessment on the implementation of our District Wellness Plan. If you are interested in joining please send an email to cmoreno@harmonytx.org. A link to join will be sent to you before the meeting.
For questions or additional information, please contact Celeste Morales at cmoreno@harmonytx.org.
hildren need nutritious meals to learn, grow and thrive.
