Standardized testing in U.S. schools began circa 1850. It’s difficult to pinpoint every student’s academic level, but testing can give us a snapshot of student progress. Tests can identify strengths, weaknesses, and promote educational equality throughout our country’s schools. Our state’s testing includes State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR®), STAAR Alternate 2, the Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System (TELPAS), and TELPAS Alternate. Teachers are encouraged to facilitate higher student scores on Texas Education Agency assessments, which are also structured to meet federal educational standards.
The number of Houston Independent School District students scoring below “meets grade level” was enough to warrant an intervention by the State of Texas. In June 2024, following the first year of a “polarizing takeover,” gains in K-8 math and reading scores were reported. Houston high schools saw similar levels of improvement.
Should we become complacent about the educational advantages offered at Tomball ISD schools, it’s important to remember: Lower test scores can happen anywhere, even here. U.S. schools are dealing with historical, never-before-now challenges. Teacher shortages, unavailability of qualified bus drivers, and financial instability have contributed to unprecedented operational uncertainties within educational organizations.
Districts with strong community support are the reason many Texas schools successfully ride the storm. They can prioritize educational accomplishment and advancement while other district schools struggle to make payroll. Tomball Education Foundation is grateful for the amazing support of our community volunteers and donors. Together, we’re working to guarantee Tomball ISD students are getting the best possible educational advantages in Texas.
Tomball ISD a ‘Destination District’
Tomball ISD encompasses 83 square miles in northwest Harris County and southwest Montgomery County. It is located approximately 30 miles from downtown Houston. Tomball ISD serves students in northern Harris County and southwestern Montgomery County, including Creekside Park Village (a section of The Woodlands), Decker Prairie, Hufsmith, Lakewood Grove, Northepointe, Pinehurst, Rose Hill, and Village Creek.Tomball ISD is bounded by Waller ISD to the west, Magnolia ISD to the north, Conroe ISD to the east, Klein ISD to the southeast, and Cypress-Fairbanks ISD to the southwest. Tomball Independent School District is accredited by the Texas Education Agency, which rated it “Superior.” –Wikipedia
There are 1,052 school districts in Texas. When families plan relocation to Southeast Texas and Harris County, Realtors say Tomball-area neighborhoods are preferred for many reasons. One of the reasons is Tomball Independent School District is considered a destination district. More people move here because they want to send their kids to Tomball ISD schools than for any other reason.
The sense of community in Tomball, TX is almost surprising in an all-about-me society. Many events and gatherings celebrate Tomball’s culture, diversity, and small-town charm and many visitors from all over join our festive activities. But our schools’ stellar reputation for academic excellence and superior educational professionals is one of the biggest draws when families evaluate communities.
Tomball ISD is:
- #1 in Harris County (5 years in a row)
- #18 Best Teachers in Texas
- #20 in Texas Best School Districts
- #43 in Best Places to Teach in Texas
In 2023, when Tomball ISD high schools were nationally recognized, it reinforced what we know: Tomball schools offer students “a premier educational experience.”
TEF Needs You
You have many good lifestyle options in Southeast Texas. One of the best choices you can make is choosing Tomball ISD for your students’ education. Channeling community support for our schools by leveling the playing field for children with challenges and giving our teachers financial freedom to focus on quality education is TEF’s mission. We need your support. For more information, contact Tomball Education Foundation.
FAQ
Two frequently asked questions include:
To volunteer with Tomball ISD, you must pass a criminal background check and submit an application. As a rule, TEF volunteers don’t work directly with Tomball ISD students. Submit a contact form to learn more about future TEF volunteer opportunities.
A grant is a type of “reward;” usually a lump-sum monetary donation or financial assistance. It differs from an allotment, which is often distributed over a period of time. For example, 314 Tomball ISD teachers recently received a Teacher Incentive Allotment as a reward for exceptional student growth within their classrooms during the 2022-2023 school year. The allotment will be reflected in their salaries. In 2024, TEF offered monetary grants to 84 Tomball ISD educational professionals as a reward for their innovative student project ideas.
