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HISD Explores Level 5 Autonomy for Top High Schools Under SB 1882

Eligible A-rated campuses can seek nonprofit-managed performance contracts that keep them within the district.

Overview

  • Only high schools with four consecutive A accountability ratings and achievement gaps under 25% are being invited to explore the option.
  • Participating campuses would remain HISD schools under performance contracts that define district-provided services while giving principals greater control over curriculum, staffing, testing, and calendars.
  • Approved partnerships could receive an estimated $700 to $1,500 in additional state funding per student, with a portion potentially allocated to HISD for support services per contract terms.
  • Any agreement would require approval from the HISD Board of Managers and the Texas Education Agency, with multi-year terms allowed under state law.
  • District officials describe the effort as early-stage with stakeholder outreach underway, as union leaders raise privatization concerns and an expert notes it is unusual to use SB 1882 for high-performing schools.