Hayes students SOAR: Succeed in lifelong learning; Open doors to meet challenges; Achieve in academics; Respect themselves and their world.
Classrooms at JHE are self-contained in grades PK-2; teaming begins in grade 3. Guided reading and literature circles are a regular part of the reading curriculum. Math, science, and social studies classes are designed to allow students real world connections with hands-on experiences. Writing across the curriculum allows students to develop writing skills in many formats. Art, music and PE programs are offered on a rotation schedule: art and music at least once a week and PE at least twice a week. An active library program allows students to have interactive lessons and check out books on a weekly basis. They also have the opportunity to meet with visiting authors several times during the year. Incentive programs such as the Texas Bluebonnet Award and Accelerated Reader encourage and reward student reading.
The instructional curriculum is challenging and meets the needs of each individual student. The staff studies data together to constantly strive for excellence. All students receive additional differentiation of curriculum in the regular classroom and through a variety of programs. An enrichment period, HAWK Academy, gives students an opportunity for extra tutoring and enrichment on a daily basis. Challenge serves identified gifted and talented students in grades 1-5. Qualifying Challenge students in each grade level are pulled for a day of specialized instruction during the week. In fourth and fifth grade, the KISD Math and Science Investigators program is used to enrich the curriculum of students who excel in those subject areas.
Reading instruction gets a boost from compensatory programs such as REACH and special services for dyslexic students. Our ESOL department serves English language learners as they strengthen their skills. Co-teach models are used in many areas of instruction to broaden instruction for diverse learners by having multiple educators in one classroom. Hayes also has a pre-kindergarten program. Students may qualify for this program based on language needs or income. JHE serves as a life skills cluster unit for several surrounding schools and also houses a "Young Children With Autism"(YCAP) program.
A highly supportive PTA and parent volunteer program bring community resources to Hayes. Parents participate in instruction by volunteering to assist in programs like Junior Achievement, BIZ TOWN, and Celebrate Science. Parent tutors and mentors enhance academics, assist with enrichment and computer activities, and provide much-needed services in every area of the school. In partnership with PTA, JHE has developed exemplary curriculum supports like the Literacy Library, Science Lab and Math Resource Library. PTA funds help to underwrite staff development opportunities for teachers, playground and physical education equipment, and a "wish list" allocation that helps each teacher provide materials for curriculum enhancement.
Parent involvement is encouraged through a wide variety of activities. Annual curriculum nights for grades K-5, "Reading Restaurant" for first grade, musical programs in second, fourth, and fifth grades, International Night, and a Family Art Night are just a few of the activities that allow teachers and students to share learning with parents. Business partners also participate in instructional and mentoring programs at JHE. For a community of students, teachers, parents, and business partners, working together is the key to our successful school.