Hollibrook Elementary School, Spring Branch Independent School District, 3602 Hollister, Houston, TX 77080, 713-329-6430.
Hollibrook Elementary School in Houston, Texas, has, through a combination of clear and shared mission, teamwork, a strong instructional program, and a well-developed improvement process, become a successful school serving a largely low-income Hispanic population. Using The Accelerated Schools Project as an initial guide, the school developed a mission focused on serving its bilingual population, many of whom in the past had not achieved well in school. Under the visionary leadership of Suzanne Still, the school members worked together to make the school a high- achieving learning environment where the culture of the students is valued and supported.
Through teamwork, staff development, and a continuous focus on student learning, the staff and principal implemented new instructional techniques, tightened the curriculum, and improved their skills. The school's goal of having all fifth graders passing exams at grade level became a driving force that focused energies and energized staff. But the school did not simply focus on basic skills, but enriched the curriculum and "accelerated" the learning for students. It has largely been able to accomplish its goals.