Network Schools

Houston A+ Challenge has always sought ways to bring schools together as professional communities. Our network-building initiatives help schools learn from and support one another.

The first round of grants awarded by The Houston A+ Challenge was to Beacon Schools. These 11 "beacon" schools have proven records of reform to serve better their diverse students.

In 1999, Houston A+ established the Lamplighter Learning Communities. These 65 schools applied for Annenberg funding as clusters– some with as few as two schools, one with a total of 13. These communities worked together to meet the needs of their respective student populations, as well as the parents of students. The Lamplighters are particularly significant because they mark the beginning of personalized professional development in Houston public schools.

The Focused Impact Award supports whole school reform endeavors in the areas of math, literacy, or fine arts. In addition, recipients also address the A+ imperatives of personalization (size), community involvement (isolation and/or engagement) and professional development (quality teacher learning).