Alexander Middle School students with Principal Jimmy Nowell

During the first week, campus hallways and classrooms welcomed more than 19,500 students and 140 new teachers.

Building on past achievements and greeting new faces, the district will continue to create a culture of high academic expectations and results.

Exciting Opportunities

Pearland ISD strives to provide a world-class education that develops every child's unique gifts and talents. New programs are on the horizon to provide even more opportunities for students.

This August, Carleston and Magnolia elementary schools launched the Dual Language Pilot Program at the kindergarten level. Native English and Spanish speakers will learn both languages side by side in the classroom, developing language proficiency, high academic achievement and cross-cultural understanding.

Slated to open in fall 2013, Robert Turner College and Career High School is gaining momentum.

Recently-named principal Dr. Jennifer Morrow, who hails from Clear Creek ISD, will work with high school counselors, the Career and Technical Education Department and local community colleges to determine dual credit and course offerings for students.

Through partnerships with local businesses and colleges, this high school of choice will provide Dawson and Pearland high school students with certifications and career paths in fields such as medicine, information technology and agriculture. Students may also have the opportunity to graduate with associate degrees under their belts.

Testing/Academic Achievements

Pearland ISD ushers in the new school year with a track record of success in standardized testing and high student involvement in dual credit.

Preliminary results from 2012 STAAR and TAKS tests reflect the hard work of teachers, students, principals and staff.

Based on STAAR end-of-course (EOC) exam results, Pearland ISD ranks among the best four Houston-area districts.

In addition, students' STAAR raw score averages and high school TAKS scores number among the highest in the greater Houston area.

Also on the rise is dual credit enrollment. In 2011-12, 887 students received college credit in dual credit classes. Currently, 1,280 students have enrolled in dual credit for 2012-13.

Future Goals

In his convocation address to teachers, Superintendent Dr. John Kelly outlined his world-class vision for Pearland ISD schools this year and beyond:

• Steady rise to the top of Texas on STAAR/EOC
• Steady rise to the top of the U.S. in Advanced Placement/dual credit participation and results
• Students graduating with more college/career credits than anywhere else in the U.S.
• Students and staff who stress grit over gifts
• Continued excellence in fine arts and athletics
• A third high school of choice
• Outstanding teachers teaching teachers
• Technology effectively harnessed to enhance teacher efforts

Working individually and collectively, Pearland ISD teachers and staff provide a haven for students -- a place where they are safe to pursue their full potential.

"In Pearland ISD, we are a place of great promise for thousands of families, and we must see our work as that important," Kelly said.