At Harmony Public Schools, our top priorities are the health and safety of our students and staff, as well as the academic and developmental growth of our scholars.
In response to the continued spread of COVID-19 in the communities which we proudly serve, Harmony Public Schools is announcing the following revised plan for the start of the 2020-21 school year.
THE BASICS
Students at all HPS campuses statewide will start the academic year on Monday, August 17 in an online-only setting. Classes will continue online-only until at least Tuesday, September 8. During these three weeks, you will receive a survey asking your family to choose the option of either continuing classes online only, or returning to campus for in-person learning after Labor Day, if possible. Harmony will announce no later than the first week of September whether there is a need to extend online-only learning further, or if families who have opted for on-campus learning may return for in-person instruction. Students who opted for at-home learning will continue to learn remotely throughout the remainder of the school year, unless they notify their campus of a change request through Skyward.
All HPS staff will continue to work remotely while campuses are closed, unless a specific and essential job function requires their presence on campus or at an administrative office.
REASON FOR CHANGE
The primary purpose of these changes is to provide a safe educational environment for both our students and staff members, as well as to comply with local ordinances in many of our Harmony communities which specifically prohibit in-person schooling until after Labor Day.
SUPERIOR NEW ONLINE LEARNING SYSTEM, FEATURING ENHANCED STUDENT ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES & EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Accelerating your child’s education – even when learning from home – is one of our core missions. That’s why we’ve spent the summer completely revamping our online learning system to create a more interactive learning environment that’s easier to use for families, better connects students to their teachers and classmates, and – most importantly – promotes academic growth even while our campuses are closed.
With our new Schoology learning management system, students attending classes online will experience a robust academic experience with more one-to-one engagement with teachers through live classroom sessions, regular online office hours, as well as academic tutorial sessions, and intervention services for students who need them.
Students also will enjoy options for at-home, online extracurricular activities — including club activities, and both e-sports and academic competitions — that will allow them to stay connected with their classmates online, even if they can’t be together in person.
Parents will have full access to instructional materials, assignments, grading, calendars, student progress updates, and parent messaging in one simple platform.
Best of all, when it’s time for your student to return to campus, the Schoology system will follow them seamlessly back to campus, making the transition easier for both your student and your family.
Harmony teachers have spent their summers learning the intricacies of Schoology and will be prepared to incorporate it into their learning beginning on the first day of class.
STUDENTS NEEDING COMPUTER DEVICE OR INTERNET ACCESS
For the purpose of completing schoolwork, Harmony Public Schools will provide computer devices and/or internet access by request to those students without access at home. Each campus will have a drive-by pickup option for computer and WiFi access in early August. For more information, please contact your Harmony campus.
MEAL SERVICES
Free meal services will continue to be provided beginning the first day of school. Please contact your campus or follow them on Facebook to learn more about meal pickup dates, times, and locations.
ATTENDANCE FOR AT-HOME LEARNERS
A daily digital attendance record will be taken for all students learning from home, according to Texas Education Agency guidelines and requirements. Those at-home learners not in attendance will be marked “Absent,” as they would if learning on campus.
ENHANCED ON-CAMPUS SAFETY PROTOCOLS
To make sure our on-campus learning experience is as safe as possible for HPS students and staff members, Harmony will institute a broad spectrum of campus safety protocols once on-campus instruction resumes. Some of the new safety protocols include:
- Temperature screenings for students and staff.
- Requiring all students and employees to wear a mask when on campus or in other group settings. (Students may bring their own mask, or the school will provide them.)
- Limiting average class sizes to allow for social distancing. (Exact class size will be dependent on number of students attending in-person versus online-only.)
- Spacing desks at least six feet apart to maintain proper social distancing and/or installing partitions where students cannot be kept six feet apart.
- Severely limiting classroom rotations/switches to prevent the spread of germs across campus and to limit person-to-person exchanges.
- Staggered drop off and pickup times to limit person-to-person exchanges.
- Modified drop off and pickup procedures (ex. Students going directly to class after drop off and/or waiting in classroom at the end of the day until parent arrives for pickup).
- Requesting all students wash hands frequently.
- Detailed nightly cleaning by contracted company.
- Required Coronavirus Awareness & Prevention trainings for all employees.
- Remaining flexible regarding student and team member absences due to COVID-19, as allowed by TEA guidelines and applicable employment laws.
HANDLING OF COVID-19 SYMPTOMS
Whether screened at school or self-screened at home, the following conditions are considered symptomatic of COVID-19 by the Centers for Disease Control and could lead to a required leave from campus:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Chills
- Repeated shaking with chills
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Loss of taste or smell
- Diarrhea
- Feeling feverish or a measured temperature greater than or equal to 100.0 degrees Fahrenheit
- Known close contact with a person who is lab confirmed to have COVID-19
RETURNING TO CAMPUS AFTER COVID DIAGNOSIS OR SYMPTOMS
Anyone displaying the signs or symptoms of COVID-19 should follow below self-quarantine policy:
Exposure (confirmed or unconfirmed) or Illness with Positive Testing
The following criteria must be met in FULL:
-
at least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications);
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the individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and
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at least 14 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
-
Exposure (confirmed or unconfirmed) or Illness with Negative Testing or MD Note
If an individual has symptoms of COVID-19 and wants to return to campus before completing the above stay at home period, the following criteria must be met in FULL:
-
Either obtain a medical professional’s note clearing the individual for return based on an alternative diagnosis OR obtain a negative COVID-19 test AND
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at least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications).
Exposure (confirmed or unconfirmed) or Illness with No Testing and No U.S. Based Medical Provider’s Note
The following criteria must be met in FULL:
-
at least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications);
-
the individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and
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at least 14 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
Readmittance will be granted when the following has been completed:
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Proof of negative COVID tests or U.S. based medical provider’s alternative diagnosis delivered to campus health staff or registrar if no health staff is available OR
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when all three of the following criteria are met:
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At least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications);
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The individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and
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At least 14 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
FAMILIES NEEDING ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE
We look forward to partnering with your family this school year to help your child continue to grow academically. We understand that any adjustments to the normal school environment or calendar may create unexpected challenges for some families. If you would like to discuss specific needs for your student or family that are not addressed above, please contact your local Harmony campus or contact us via our Let’s Talk online platform.
AVISO DE CAMBIO EN EL PLAN DE REAPERTURA DE LAS ESCUELAS PÚBLICAS DE HARMONY
En las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony, nuestras prioridades son la salud y la seguridad de nuestros estudiantes y nuestro personal, así como el crecimiento académico y de desarrollo de nuestros estudiantes.
En respuesta a la continua propagación del COVID-19 en las comunidades a las que orgullosamente servimos, las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony anuncian el siguiente plan revisado para el inicio del año escolar 2020-21.
ASPECTOS BÁSICOS
Los estudiantes de todos los campus de HPS en todo el estado comenzarán el año académico el lunes 17 de agosto en un entorno solo en línea. Las clases continuarán solo en línea hasta al menos el martes, 8 de septiembre. Durante estas tres semanas, usted recibirá una encuesta en la que se le pedirá a su familia que elija la opción de continuar las clases solo en línea o regresar al campus para el aprendizaje presencial después del Día del Trabajo, si fuese posible. Harmony anunciará, a más tardar en la primera semana de septiembre, si es necesario extender más el aprendizaje solo en línea, o si las familias que han optado por el aprendizaje en el campus pueden regresar para la instrucción presencial. Los estudiantes que optaron por el aprendizaje en casa continuarán aprendiendo a distancia durante el resto del año escolar, a menos que notifiquen a su campus una solicitud de cambio a través de Skyward.
Todo el personal de HPS continuará trabajando a distancia mientras los campus estén cerrados, a menos que una función de trabajo específica y esencial requiera su presencia en el campus o en una oficina administrativa.
MOTIVO DEL CAMBIO
El propósito principal de estos cambios es proporcionar un entorno educativo seguro tanto para nuestros estudiantes como para los miembros del personal, así como para cumplir con las ordenanzas locales en muchas de nuestras comunidades de Harmony que prohíben específicamente la escolarización presencial hasta después del Día del Trabajo.
NUEVO SISTEMA SUPERIOR DE APRENDIZAJE EN LÍNEA, CON MEJORES OPORTUNIDADES DE PARTICIPACIÓN DE LOS ESTUDIANTES Y ACTIVIDADES EXTRACURRICULARES
Acelerar la educación de su hijo, incluso cuando aprende en casa, es una de nuestras misiones principales. Por eso hemos pasado el verano renovando completamente nuestro sistema de aprendizaje en línea para crear un entorno de aprendizaje más interactivo que sea más fácil de usar para las familias, que conecte mejor a los estudiantes con sus maestros y compañeros de clase y, lo que es más importante, que promueva el crecimiento académico incluso cuando nuestros campus estén cerrados.
Con nuestro nuevo sistema de gestión del aprendizaje Schoology, los estudiantes que asistan a clases en línea experimentarán una sólida experiencia académica con un mayor compromiso individual con los maestros a través de sesiones de clase en vivo, horarios de oficina regulares en línea, así como sesiones de tutoría académica y servicios de intervención para los estudiantes que los necesiten.
Los estudiantes también disfrutarán de opciones de actividades extracurriculares en línea en casa -incluyendo actividades de club y competiciones académicas y de deportes electrónicos- que les permitirán estar conectados con sus compañeros de clase en línea, incluso si no pueden estar juntos en persona.
Los padres tendrán acceso completo a los materiales de instrucción, tareas, calificaciones, calendarios, actualizaciones del progreso de los estudiantes y mensajes para los padres en una plataforma sencilla.
Lo mejor de todo es que cuando sea el momento de que su estudiante regrese al campus, el sistema Schoology lo seguirá de forma constante de regreso al campus, haciendo la transición más fácil tanto para su estudiante como para su familia.
Los maestros de Harmony han pasado sus veranos aprendiendo las complejidades de Schoology y estarán preparados para incorporarlo a su aprendizaje a partir del primer día de clase.
ESTUDIANTES QUE NECESITAN COMPUTADORA O ACCESO A INTERNET
Con el fin de completar las tareas escolares, las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony proporcionarán computadoras y/o acceso a Internet, previa solicitud, a aquellos estudiantes que no tengan acceso en su casa. Para solicitar un dispositivo o acceso a Internet, comuníquese con su campus de Harmony.
SERVICIOS DE COMIDA
Se seguirán ofreciendo servicios de comida gratuitos desde el primer día de clases. Comuníquese con su campus o sígalos en Facebook para obtener más información sobre las fechas, horarios y lugares de retiro de las comidas.
ASISTENCIA PARA LOS ESTUDIANTES EN CASA
Se llevará un registro digital de asistencia diaria para todos los estudiantes que aprendan desde casa, de acuerdo con las directrices y los requisitos de la Agencia de Educación de Texas. Aquellos estudiantes en casa que no asistan serán marcados como “Ausentes”, como si estuvieran aprendiendo en el campus.
PROTOCOLOS DE SEGURIDAD MEJORADOS EN EL CAMPUS
Para asegurarnos de que nuestra experiencia de aprendizaje en el campus sea lo más segura posible para los estudiantes y miembros del personal de HPS, Harmony instituirá un amplio espectro de protocolos de seguridad en el campus una vez que se retome la instrucción en el campus. Algunos de los nuevos protocolos de seguridad incluyen:
- Controles de temperatura para los estudiantes y el personal.
- Exigir que todos los estudiantes y empleados usen mascarilla cuando estén en el campus o en otros ambientes de grupo. (Los estudiantes pueden traer su propia mascarilla, o la escuela se la proporcionará).
- Limitar el tamaño promedio de las clases para permitir el distanciamiento social. (El tamaño exacto de la clase dependerá del número de estudiantes que asistan de forma presencial o solo en línea).
- Espaciar los pupitres al menos seis pies de distancia para mantener un distanciamiento social adecuado y/o instalar separaciones donde los estudiantes no puedan mantenerse a seis pies de distancia.
- Limitar severamente las rotaciones/los intercambios de clase para prevenir la propagación de gérmenes en el campus y limitar los intercambios de persona a persona.
- Escalonar los horarios de entrada y salida para limitar los intercambios de persona a persona.
- Modificar los procedimientos de entrada y salida (por ej., los estudiantes van directamente a clase después de la entrada y/o esperan en el aula al final del día hasta que los padres llegan a buscarlos).
- Pedir a todos los estudiantes que se laven las manos con frecuencia.
- Limpieza nocturna minuciosa por la empresa contratada.
- Requerir capacitaciones de Concientización y Prevención del Coronavirus para todos los empleados.
- Permanecer flexible en cuanto a las ausencias de los estudiantes y miembros del equipo debido a COVID-19, como lo permiten las directrices de TEA y las leyes laborales correspondientes.
MANEJO DE LOS SÍNTOMAS DE COVID-19
Ya sea que se examinen en la escuela o que se autoexaminen en casa, los Centros para el Control de Enfermedades consideran que las siguientes condiciones son sintomáticas de COVID-19 y podrían implicar un abandono obligatorio del campus:
- Tos
- Falta de aire o dificultad para respirar
- Escalofríos
- Temblores repetidos con escalofríos
- Dolor muscular
- Dolor de cabeza
- Dolor de garganta
- Pérdida del gusto u olfato
- Diarrea
- Sentirse afiebrado o una temperatura medida mayor o igual a 100 grados Fahrenheit
- Contacto cercano conocido con una persona con COVID-19 confirmado por un laboratorio
REGRESO AL CAMPUS DESPUÉS DE UN DIAGNÓSTICO O SÍNTOMAS DE COVID
Después de un diagnóstico de COVID-19 o de la aparición de síntomas, los estudiantes y el personal deben estar sin síntomas durante al menos 72 horas antes de regresar al campus, incluyendo una temperatura de menos de 100 grados sin el uso de medicamentos antifebriles. Aquellos diagnosticados con COVID-19 también deben tener una nota del médico que permita el regreso.
FAMILIAS QUE NECESITAN APOYO EXTRA
Esperamos asociarnos con su familia este año escolar para ayudar a su hijo a seguir creciendo académicamente. Entendemos que cualquier ajuste en el entorno o calendario escolar normal puede crear desafíos inesperados para algunas familias. Si desea hablar sobre las necesidades específicas de su estudiante o familia que no se han tratado anteriormente, comuníquese con su campus local de Harmony o comuníquese con nosotros a través de nuestra plataforma en línea Let’s Talk.
Bilingual Teachers Needed!
Harmony Public Schools is recruiting talented, compassionate bilingual teachers dedicated to helping every student succeed. Harmony offers a competitive salary, excellent benefits and a commitment to excellence in the classroom.
Interested applicants may read the job description, or apply online.
Summer Meals Program
When the school year ends, Summer meals begin! Visit Summerfood.org for nearby locations to receive nutritious meals during the summer for teens ages 18 and younger; and enrolled students with disabilities up to age 21. Meals start June 1.
Summer Reading Program 2023 – Harmony Public Schools North Texas District
Summer is a time for fun and relaxation. Enhance your relaxation with a book! Click on the link below for information on the HPS North Texas District’s Summer Reading Program 2023. The article includes summer reading assignments; summer reading challenges and information about summer reading programs.
https://www.smore.com/khn68
Family Movie Night Rescheduled
Join us tomorrow for Movie Night at HSI-Carrollton. See the flyer above for information.
Harmony Public Schools awarded $18 million grant for ‘Inspiring Futures Across Texas’
The U.S. Department of Education has granted Texas-based Harmony Public Schools $18 million for further expansion of its public charter school network throughout the Lone Star State.
The announcement was made April 3 by the DOE’s Office of Elementary & Secondary Education. The grant will further Harmony’s current “Inspiring Futures Across Texas” growth initiative, which focuses on offering quality enrollment opportunities to more Texas students at future Harmony campuses. Currently, Harmony has 60 campuses across Texas, and one online-only virtual academy.
“Our new student application numbers are higher than they have ever been, and continue to grow each year,” Harmony CEO Fatih Ay said. “All over Texas, families are seeing the opportunity that Harmony Public Schools contributes to their communities, and this grant is proof that the U.S. Department of Education sees the value that Harmony provides, as well.”
The award was the latest in multiple major federal grants received by Harmony for its schools and programs. In recent years, Harmony has been awarded more than $110 million by the Department of Education, including:
Additionally, Harmony Public Schools has recently received financial support from a variety of education-focused philanthropic organizations, including the Charter School Growth Fund, KLE, CREEED, FWEP, and the George W. Brackenridge Foundation.
Harmony Public Schools is a Texas-born, Texas-wide public charter school system with campuses serving PreK-12 students in 23 cities across the state, including Greater Houston, DFW, San Antonio, Austin, El Paso, Waco, Lubbock, Odessa, Bryan, Beaumont, and the Rio Grande Valley. Harmony’s curriculum places a heavy focus on STEM skills, Character Education, project-based learning, and college readiness.
Harmony is now accepting applications for both students and team members for the 2023-24 school year.
About Harmony Public Schools
Harmony Public Schools are 61 high performing PreK-12 college preparatory charter schools throughout Texas. Harmony blends the highest standards and expectations, with a rigorous math- and science-centered curriculum and dedicated and engaged teachers and families to cultivate excellence and prepare students to succeed in college, careers and life. At Harmony Public Schools, we believe every child can succeed, and we are committed to helping them realize their full potential. To learn more about Harmony Public Schools and our 58 campuses across Texas, please visit: www.harmonytx.org, and follow us on Twitter at @HarmonyEdu and ‘Like’ us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HarmonyTexas.
Updated Meal Charge Policy 22-23
Hello HSIC families, please see the information regarding costs for the school meal plan at the link below. Thank you.
Meal charge Policy 2022-2023
STEP IT UP Fundraiser!
HSIC Needs You to help us raise money to benefit our scholars both present and future!
Contact Ms. D. Soriano, campus counselor/engagement coordinator, at 469-892-5556 or dsoriano@harmonytx.org for more information.
Yearbook Purchase Deadline Soon
Join us for STAAR Night
STAAR Night
Parents/Guardians of 3rd, 4th, 5th grade scholars join us for a night of information to help your Tiger to succeed on the STAAR test!
4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m., Tuesday, March 21, 2023
HSIC 2022-23 Yearbooks Coming Soon!
Order your HSIC 2022-23 Yearbook today! The deadline is April 3rd.
2023 Public Comment on Federal Grant Applications
We are moving into the time of the year when we make plans and apply for Federal Funds applications (ESSA) for next school year, and we would like to gather parent and community feedback for our applications. Please use one of the public comment links below to share your comments or feedback with us:
Estamos entrando en la época del año en que hacemos planes y solicitamos solicitudes de fondos federales (ESSA) para el próximo año escolar, y nos gustaría recopilar comentarios de los padres y la comunidad para nuestras solicitudes. Utilice uno de los enlaces de comentarios públicos a continuación para compartir sus comentarios o comentarios con nosotros:
Join the 9th Annual Harmony Science and Engineering Fair
Dear Students,
We hope you will consider joining us with your projects for our 9th annual Harmony Science and Engineering Fair (H-SEF).
H-SEF 2023 will be virtual in two rounds this year. Details can be found here.
It is open to the 6th -12th grade level students.
The application deadline is March 3rd, 2023.
Registration link: https://harmonytx.org/hsef
H-SEF 2023 Committee
North Texas District Announces Lottery Date and Location
Lottery Date and Location
Harmony makes history, winning TASBO Award of Excellence for finance
Closing Update for Friday, Feb. 3
For the safety of our students, their families, and our staff, and out of an abundance of caution, all Harmony campuses in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, as well as its District offices, will remain closed Friday, Feb. 3, 2023. All extracurricular activities on Friday are also canceled.
Harmony’s Waco campuses will start classes at their regularly scheduled times.
Please stay safe and warm!
School Closing Update for Friday, Feb. 3, 2023
Please stay safe and warm, and we’ll see you on Monday!
Harmony D/FW campuses closed Thurs. Feb. 2
Update: All Harmony campuses in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, as well as District Offices, will be closed on Thursday, Feb. 2, due to continued unsafe road conditions. All extra-curricular activities are also canceled tomorrow.
Further updates or changes to school operations will be communicated through our school Messenger system, school website, and official Facebook pages.
School Closing Update for Thursday, Feb. 2, 2023
School Closure Update for Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023
UPDATE: All Harmony North Texas & Waco schools, as well as the District Office, will be closed on Wednesday, Feb. 1, due to continued winter weather conditions. All extra-curricular activities are also canceled for tomorrow.
We will continue to closely monitor roadway reports for Thursday, Feb. 2. Any additional updates or changes to school operations for Thursday will be communicated through our school Messenger system, school website, and official Facebook pages.
Stay warm and safe!
Harmony North Texas & Waco schools closed Wed. Feb. 1
Update: All Harmony North Texas & Waco schools, as well as the District Office, will be closed on Wednesday, Feb. 1 due to continued winter weather conditions. All extra-curricular activities are also canceled for tomorrow.
We will continue to closely monitor roadway reports for Thursday, Feb. 2. Any additional updates or changes to school operations for Thursday will be communicated through our school Messenger system, school website, and official Facebook pages.
Stay warm & safe!
School Closing Update for Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2023
HPS North Texas District and Waco schools closed Tuesday, Jan. 31
UPDATE: All Harmony North Texas & Waco Schools, as well as, the District Office will be closed on Tuesday, Jan. 31 due to anticipated winter weather this evening and overnight. All extra-curricular activities are also canceled for tomorrow.
We will continue to closely monitor the weather for Wednesday, Feb. 1. Any additional updates or changes to school operations for Wednesday will be communicated to our Harmony families through our school Messenger system, school website, and official Facebook pages.
Stay warm and safe!
HSIC 2022 Federal Report Card
Federal_Report_Card_2022_161807004
The word is out! Read our Federal Report Card 2022 to see how are doing here at Harmony School of Innovation-Carrollton. This information was just recently released by the Texas Education Agency. Click the link above.
HSIC Winterfest!
Join us in the school cafeteria beginning at 5:30 p.m., Thursday, January 19 for a fun, free, family event! At Winterfest, there will be family games followed by PTO Elections. All HSIC scholars’ family members are eligible to run for a PTO office. For information on the offices that are available and to let us know you are interested, just highlight and click on the link below:
http://bit.ly/3QB6UuG
It’s Testing Season 2023!
Greetings Everyone and Happy New Year!
Although specific testing dates for the HSI-Carrollton campus have not been determined yet, please note there are three very important testing session coming up within the next few months. For now, we are only able to share the test windows, but specific dates will be determined soon.
MAP Test window – Jan. 17-Feb. 3 – Grades K-5
STAAR Interim test window – Feb. 21-March 3 – Grades 3-5
TELPAS window – Feb. 20-March 31 – Grades K-5 (emergent bilingual students only)
Please keep the dates of the testing windows in mind and plan for students to attend school each day, if at all possible. Again, we will release specific test dates soon.
GIFTED AND TALENTED EDUCATION (GATE) ANNOUNCEMENT
In accordance with the Texas State Plan for the Education of Gifted/Talented students, Harmony Public Schools will begin taking referrals for all interested students in grades K-12 for Gifted and Talented (G/T) screening.
Anyone interested in the educational welfare of these students may nominate them for assessment. Students in grades 1 & up who were tested in Fall 2022 are not eligible to test in Spring 2023. Referral forms are available at the front office and on the school’s website (see below).
The referral forms must be returned or emailed to the front office by January 31, 2023. The Spring GT testing window is set by the campus in February or March. Campuses may elect to use NWEA MAP scores as a prescreening criterion for GT Testing.
For more information about the screening and identification process, parents may contact the school’s GT Coordinator/Teacher.
Parent GT Referral Form in English
ANUNCIO DE EDUCACIÓN PARA DOTADOS Y TALENTOSOS (GATE)
De acuerdo con el Plan Estatal de Texas para la Educación de Estudiantes Dotados / Talentosos, Harmony Public Schools comenzará a tomar referencias para todos los estudiantes interesados en los grados K-12 para la evaluación de estudiantes dotados y talentosos.
Cualquier persona interesada en el bienestar educativo de estos estudiantes puede nominarlos para dicha evaluación. Los estudiantes en los grados 1 y superiores que fueron evaluados en el otoño de 2022 no son elegibles para la prueba en la primavera de 2023. Los formularios de referencia están disponibles en la oficina y en el sitio web de la escuela.
Los formularios de referencia deben devolverse a la oficina de la escuela antes del lunes 31 de enero del 2023. Los campus pueden optar por utilizar las puntuaciones de NWEA MAP como criterios de preselección para las pruebas de GT.
Para obtener más información sobre el proceso de selección e identificación, los padres pueden comunicarse con el entrenador / maestro de GT de la escuela.
Parent GT Referral Form in Spanish
Holiday Spirit Dress-Up Days!
–Holiday Spirit Countdown
Hey HSIC Scholars,
Let’s all join in on making the countdown to our winter break festive! See our calendar which suggests the theme for each day. We can’t wait to see you in your festive clothing. On Monday, Dec. 5, come to school dressed as your favorite holiday character!
Upcoming: STAAR Interim Exams
Get ready! Get ready! Testing time approaches! Scholars in the 3rd, 4th and 5th grades will participate in sessions of the STAAR Interim exams on Tuesday, Dec. 6, Wed., Dec. 7 and Thurs., Dec. 8. We ask that all scholars arrive to school on time and ready to test. The campus will be closed to visitors each of the testing days. Scholars in Kindergarten, 1st grade and 2nd grade will continue with their regular school day. For more information contact, Dr. T. Solis-Mosby, campus testing coordinator, tmosby@harmonytx.org
Breaking News…Pre-K is coming to HSIC!
Pre-Kindergarten is coming to HSI-Carrollton for the 23-24 school year! Applications are accepted now! Apply today!!
Breaking News…PK is coming to HSIC!!
BILINGUAL AND ESL TEACHERS NEEDED!
Harmony Public Schools is recruiting talented, compassionate bilingual teachers dedicated to helping every student succeed. Harmony offers a competitive salary, excellent benefits and a commitment to excellence in the classroom.
Interested applicants may apply online.
Tardy Policy Enforced Starting Oct. 31
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ktfMBwsNkdZ2LmwzXA-XdxNa3N-DWJcg/view?usp=share_link
Weekly Newsletter
Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) Announcement!
Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) Announcement!
In accordance with the Texas State Plan for the Education of Gifted/Talented students, Harmony Public Schools will begin taking referrals for kindergarten and newly enrolled students in grades 1-12 for gifted and talented screening.
Anyone interested in the educational welfare of these students may refer them for assessment. Referral forms are available at the front office and on the school’s website.
Parent GT Referral Form in English
Parent GT Referral Form in Spanish
The deadline for GATE referral is September 30, 2022, and G/T assessment period will take place in October. For more information about the screening and identification process, parents may contact the school’s G/T coordinator or G/T coach/teacher.
GATE (Educación para estudiantes dotados/talentosos) Anuncio
De acuerdo con el Plan Estatal de Texas para la Educación de Estudiantes Dotados / Talentosos, las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony comenzarán a recibir referencias para kindergarten y estudiantes recién inscritos en los grados 1-12 para la evaluación de estudiantes dotados y talentosos.
Cualquier persona interesada en el bienestar educativo de estos estudiantes puede nominarlos para dicha evaluación. Los formularios de referencia están disponibles en la oficina y en el sitio web de la escuela.
Forma de nominación
La fecha límite de referencia de GATE es el 30 de septiembre de 2022 y el período de evaluación de G / T se llevará a cabo en octubre.
Para obtener más información sobre el proceso de selección e identificación, los padres pueden comunicarse con el entrenador / maestro de GT de la escuela.
Welcome to 2022-23: A message from CEO Fatih Ay
Dear Harmony Families & Team Members,
Welcome back!
With a new year comes new opportunities and a time for new beginnings. We believe this school year is going to be filled with more opportunities than ever for achievement, exploration, and inspiration for our students and team members across Texas.
This year, Harmony is proud to welcome its largest class ever – roughly 42,000 students – to our 60 campuses. Harmony also experienced its largest batch of new student applicants – more than 50,000 – for this school year. Neither of these accomplishments could have been possible without the support of our Harmony families and staff members sharing the good word about their school with friends, neighbors, and families. For that, we owe you our thanks.
Whether your family is new to Harmony or you’ve been with us for years, Harmony will offer each of our scholars the same high-quality, STEM-focused education filled with opportunities to connect and engage with their schools, teachers, and classmates.
Though it has been only a few days since the first of our schools opened for the 2022-23 school year, already we have some exciting news to share. This week, the Texas Education Agency released its first State Accountability Ratings since the start of the pandemic. We are excited to report that five HPS districts and 23 HPS campuses earned a perfect “A” rating on this key report. Two districts and 32 campuses also received “B” ratings. Collectively, Harmony was the highest scoring major Texas charter school network in terms of the percentage of campuses which scored a “B” or better.
These results come on the heels of some extraordinary spring STAAR test results, which found that statewide not only had most of our students made up any achievement loss caused by the COVID pandemic, but in the majority of our schools, our students actually scored higher than they did pre-pandemic. Despite these successes, the work to help our students fully rebound from the pandemic will continue throughout 2022-23, as we continue to emphasize additional learning acceleration and ongoing emotional well-being support for our students.
Our TEA Ratings and STAAR scores are just a couple of the reasons why we’re so excited to begin another school year, but there are plenty more. In addition to our normal annual programs and initiatives, Harmony will be focusing on several key areas this school year:
As you can see, we all have a lot to look forward to this year.
On behalf of our team members, faculty and staff, I would like to welcome you and your family to the 2022- 2023 school year. We look forward to getting to know your family better this school year and sharing all that Harmony has to offer.
Sincerely,
CEO | Harmony Public Schools
Harmony Public Schools uniform store restocked with new inventory
Due to high demand, many uniform sizes quickly were sold out shortly after we launched our new online uniform store Thursday.
Stock shortage is not expected to be an ongoing issue. Fortunately, our uniform supplier has informed that they have added new inventory and are continuing to work to provide additional color and size choices as quickly as possible.
Shop now to get your uniforms purchases in time for the first day of school and take advantage of these offers:
EARLY SHOPPER SAVINGS
Shop July 21-Aug. 4 to get short sleeve polos for only $13.50 (reg. $15) or long sleeve for only $16.50 (reg. $18).
FREE HOME SHIPPING
Buy two or more items to qualify for free shipping directly to your home using promo code HPSPOLO at checkout.
Two Ways to Shop Your School’s Uniform Store
On Our Site
Click ‘Uniforms’ under the PARENTS tab of your child’s campus website.
Find Your School Website
On FrenchToast
Search for your campus name and city on the ‘Shop By School’ page.
Go to ‘Shop By School’
Frequently Asked Questions
The size and color I want are still out of stock – what can I do?
Our partners at French Toast are working hard to get more colors and sizes in stock as soon as possible. To get an automatic update when your uniform preference is ready to purchase, just enter your email in the ‘Notify Me’ box under the product ‘Out of Stock’ message.
Can my child still wear uniforms that were purchased previously?
Of course! If your child’s uniform is still in good condition, they are welcome to continue wearing uniforms from previous years, even if the campus has updated to a new uniform color scheme.
The free shipping code isn’t working – what’s up?
The free shipping code – HPSPOLO – is for orders of two items are more, so just make sure you have enough items to qualify for free shipping in your cart. If you’re still experiencing issues, please contact Customer Service at https://www.frenchtoast.com/contact-us.
Which uniform color do I need for my child?
When ordering new uniforms and polos, the following are the approved color schemes for each grade level:
The uniform color options don’t look like the ones I see above
– is something wrong?
There might be a minor color variation between the preview image on the French Toast website and the images above, but not by much. If the uniform you’re selecting doesn’t look right, just make sure you have the correct dress code selected from the drop down near the top of your screen.
Why can’t I just order uniforms directly at my campus anymore?
Unfortunately, year-round direct sales of school uniforms can be a complicated and time-consuming process for an individual campus. We’d rather put our team’s talents to use by serving our students. By partnering with an industry-leading school uniform supply company like French Toast, Harmony is able to keep uniform costs down for families while freeing up school staff (and storage space!) to focus on the other needs of our schools.
No returns or exchanges.
Uniforms will no longer be available for purchase at campuses.
Notice of District Safety Committee Meeting
District Safety Committee Meeting Invitation 7.20.2022
2022-23 School Supply Lists (K-5)
The supply kit pre-order time has ended. Here are the supply lists for each grade level.
HPS North Texas District Wellness Plan Committee Meeting
HPS North Texas District Wellness Plan Committee Meeting
We invite all parents, students, staff and other community stakeholders to attend Harmony Public Schools-North Texas District Wellness Plan Committee meeting that will be held virtually on May 24th from 9am-10am. We will review our current District Wellness Plan (located on the website of each campus) in regards to nutrition education, Smart Snack Guidelines, fundraisers, exemption days, classroom parties, etc. that will be implemented during the 2022-2023 school year. If you are interested in joining, please register at the link below. We look forward to your attendance. For questions or additional information, please contact Linda Moore at LMoore@harmonytx.org.
Register in advance for this meeting: HPS-North Texas District-Wellness Plan Committee Meeting Registration Link: District Wellness Plan Committee Meeting Information
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Summer Meal Programs provide no-cost, health meals to students
C
hildren need nutritious meals to learn, grow and thrive.
The Summer Meal Programs ensures kids have no-cost, health meals this summer and return to school read to learn.
Help us spread the word about this valuable program!
Text FOOD to 304-304 or visit SummerFood.org to find a site.
Los niños necesitan comidas nutritivas para aprender, crecer y prosperar.
Los programas de comidas de verano aseguran que los niños tengan comidas saludables sin costo este verano y regresen a la escuela leyendo para aprender.
¡Ayúdenos a correr la voz acerca de este valioso programa!
Envíe FOOD al 304-304 o visite SummerFood.org para encontrar un sitio.
School Cafe applications now open to establish meal eligibility for PEBT eligible students!
PEBT benefits will soon be available for families whose children have experienced COVID related absences and who qualify for free or reduced price benefits through the National School Lunch Program.
Does my child qualify?
Both criteria must be met to qualify for PEBT benefits.
#1 A COVID related absence from August – December due to a positive test or exposure that has been verified by the campus. COVID absences from January – May will receive benefits in July.
#2 Eligible for free or reduced price meals through the National School Lunch Program. To determine your child’s eligibility, submit an application through www.schoolcafe.com. Paper applications may also be requested from the school office. Students attending a CEP campus or who are directly certified automatically meet the eligibility requirement.
The deadline to complete a meal eligibility application is April 6th.
If you have any questions, please contact your school’s Child Nutrition Assistant.
Public Comment on Federal Grant Applications
In accordance with United States Code (U.S.C.) Annotated, Title 20, Chapter 70, Subchapter VIII, Part C, Section 7846, and Public Law (P.L.) 114-95, Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), Section 8306, an entity planning to submit a federal grant application must afford a reasonable opportunity for public comment on the application before it is submitted.
Harmony Public Schools hereby gives notice to the public that it intends to file the following applications and request awarded amounts for federal grant funds with the Texas Education Agency for the school year 2022-23. HPS welcomes comments or questions concerning any of these grants, and requests that any comments or questions be submitted by June 30, 2022 using the form below.
En concordancia con United States Code (U.S.C.) Annotated, Title 20, Chapter 70, Subchapter VIII, Part C, Section 7846, and Public Law (P.L.) 114-95, Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), Section 8306, una entidad que planea presentar una solicitud de subvención federal (subsidio) debe brindar una oportunidad razonable para comentarios públicos. Las siguientes son las subvenciones federales que
Harmony Public Schools por la presente notifica al público que tiene la intención de presentar las siguientes solicitudes y solicitar los montos otorgados para fondos de subvenciones federales con la Agencia de Educación de Texas para el año escolar 2022-23. HPS agradece los comentarios o preguntas sobre cualquiera de estas subvenciones y solicita que los comentarios o preguntas se envíen antes del 30 de junio de 2022 mediante este Google form.
Harmony Public Schools enrollment and lottery process
Each school year, thousands of families submit their application to become a part of Harmony Public Schools.
Here’s how we select applicants for enrollment each year to make sure each applicant has an equal opportunity to become our next high-achieving Harmony scholar.
STEP 1
Each January, we ask current families to let us know if they’ll be coming back to Harmony next year. This is called “Re-Enrollment.”
STEP 2
Based on the number of students returning next year and the number of classes in each grade level, we determine how many open spots we will have for new students.
STEP 3
Meanwhile, new families are submitting their applications during our annual Open Enrollment season, which runs from November 1 through February 10 each year.
STEP 4
After February 10, if the number of new applicants is greater than the number of available spots we have, Harmony holds a “blind lottery” to make sure all applicants have a fair opportunity to be seated.
STEP 5
Families of students selected for enrollment are notified. Those not selected are put on a “waitlist” and contacted as soon as a spot opens up.
… and that’s it!
Here are some answers to our applicants’ most frequently asked questions.
#1 – IS THERE ALWAYS A LOTTERY?
Not always, but often.
Whether a lottery is needed is determined by the number of spots available at each grade level and the number of eligible applicants interested in them.
#2 – I WAS SELECTED FOR ENROLLMENT –
WHAT DO I NEED TO DO NEXT?
Most importantly, we need you to officially accept the spot (a link will be provided on the acceptance letter). Then, between now and next fall, you’ll need to officially register your child and provide a few documents verifying their identity and home address.
After that, we’ll see you on the first day of school!
(Note: If you were accepted by more than one campus, please register at your preferred campus and decline the invitation of any others. This will allow us to offer those spots to another prospective Harmony family.)
#3 – I WAS PLACED ON A WAITLIST –
IS THERE ANY CHANCE I WILL GET TO ATTEND?
Absolutely – so don’t give up hope! Students initially placed on a waitlist are given the opportunity to enroll all the time at Harmony, often for one of the following reasons:
and reached out to see if you were interested in attending there.
More Questions?
Reach out to us on Let’s Talk to let us know how we can help!
Substitute teacher pay raises announced at Harmony Public Schools
Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) announcement
January Breakfast & Lunch Menus
Re-enrollment is January 4-28 for 2022-23 at Harmony Public Schools
Re-Enrollment for current Harmony families who plan to return next school year is January 4-28, 2022.
Re-Enrollment for the 2022-2023 school year for Harmony families begins soon.
During this time of year each January, we ask families to complete a simple, online Re-Enrollment process, letting us know they’ll be joining us for another great year of learning and fun next school year, which starts in August 2022.
This simple step allows us to make sure each current student’s spot at Harmony is reserved for the following school year, and assess how many new student seats we have available for other applicants.
Re-Enrollment at Harmony Public Schools runs January 4-28, 2022. Look for more details in your email inbox, via Skyward, or on our Facebook page soon.
In the meantime, check out these 6 things families need to know about Re-Enrollment at Harmony Public Schools.
#1 – When is Re-Enrollment season?
For the 2022-2023 school year, re-enrollment will be January 4-28, 2022.
#2 – How do I apply for Re-Enrollment?
The preferred method for re-enrollment is through the student’s online Skyward account. (A link to Skyward can be found at the top of your campus homepage or you can simply click here.). Parents without internet and/or Skyward access may also request a paper re-enrollment option from their child’s campus.
#3 – What is the difference between Re-Enrollment and Open Enrollment?
Re-enrollment is intended for current Harmony students planning to stay at their current campus the following school year, or who will naturally feed upward to a new campus (e. from elementary to nearby middle school). Open Enrollment is for new students, or current students who wish to change Harmony campuses for personal reasons (ex. transferring to a campus closer to home).
#4 – If a student plans to stay at the same school next year, are they automatically guaranteed re-enrollment if they complete the re-enrollment process before the deadline?
Yes, so long as their family completes the re-enrollment process.
#5 – What happens if a parent does not submit their re-enrollment information before the deadline?
If a parent misses the deadline to complete the re-enrollment process, then the student will lose his/her reserved space for next school year and must apply during Open Enrollment, held November 1-February 10 each school year. To apply, visit www.HarmonyTX.org/Apply.
#6 – What does a Harmony parent need to do if they would like to stay with Harmony, but transfer to a different campus for the next school year?
If a parent would like to change Harmony campuses for the following school year, they must submit an application for the desired school at www.HarmonyTX.org/Apply.
Harmony offers free online tutoring for all students through TutorMe
If your student is struggling in a subject, or just has a question about tonight’s homework assignment, Harmony Public Schools has a solution.
Harmony is proud to now offer free tutoring 24/7 with TutorMe.
Through TutorMe, students in Grades 3-12 have free, 24/7 online access to verified experts in more than 300 fields.
Check out the video below to learn more, or look for the TutorMe option inside Clever in your family’s MyHarmony Portal account.
November Breakfast & Lunch Menu
November 2021 Breakfast and Lunch Menu
What is a charter school? The difference between ISD schools and Texas public charter schools
One of the questions we hear most from prospective parents interested in applying to Harmony Public Schools is “I’ve been looking at schools near me, but I don’t understand – what is the difference between a charter school and an ISD public school?”
Public charter schools have grown exponentially in the past 25 years – both in Texas, and around the country – but we understand why many parents who grew up in a traditional independent school district setting themselves may still have questions.
That’s OK. We’ve got the answers to all of your biggest questions about charter schools.
So, what exactly is a charter school?
A charter school is a public school, and in many ways very similar to a traditional ISD school as you might think of one.
However, what makes charter schools different is what we believe makes them special. In a word, that difference is “choice.”
Way back in 1995, the Texas State Legislature decided that even though there were a lot of great schools in Texas, a one-size-fits-all approach to education might not work for all families. Each child is unique: some with special gifts, others with special challenges, and all with special dreams for their futures.
To help better serve every Texas student, the Texas public charter school system was created to allow independent, education-based nonprofit organizations called Charter Management Organizations (CMOs) to open and operate free public schools for Texas students with the promise that they would provide a new school choice in education for local Texas families.
For some charter schools, that new choice might be a curriculum that focuses on dual-language learning. For others, it might be helping students who have dropped out of the traditional school setting reclaim their path to graduation.
At Harmony Public Schools, we specialize in hands-on, project-based learning with a heavy emphasis on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), as well as advanced college preparedness and character education.
DID YOU KNOW?
Of the roughly 100 schools in Texas certified as official Texas STEM Academies be the Texas Education Agency, 23 are Harmony Public Schools high schools – more than any other school system in Texas!
Thirteen Harmony high schools have also been named among the Best STEM High Schools in the U.S. by Newsweek.
Who can attend a charter school?
As long as a student lives within its geographic boundaries of the school, any child can attend a Texas public charter school. However, unlike traditional ISD schools where students usually must attend whichever nearby campus they are “zoned” to, public charter school geographic boundaries are generally very large – often covering multiple communities or counties. These large geographic boundaries are another way Texas public charter schools offer Texas families a choice in their student’s education, and are unique from traditional ISDs. For example, rather than sending their child to an ISD campus near their home address, a parent may prefer for their child to attend a school near a grandparent’s home, or the parent’s place of work. Or they may prefer to send their child to a campus that specializes in a specific curriculum, like STEM, or with a higher TEA accountability rating than their neighborhood ISD school. All of these are options with Texas public charter schools.
Do public charter schools charge tuition?
Texas public charter schools are free to attend. Applying to a Texas public charter school is also free.
How do charter schools choose who gets to attend?
They don’t. Charter school students are never “cherry picked” from an applicant pool. Any student who applies to attend a charter school will be accepted, so long as they meet three basic criteria:
RELATED: Learn more about Harmony Public School’s application, enrollment and lottery processes
When and how can a student apply to a charter school?
A student can apply to a charter school at any time during the school year and be accepted if space is available. However, most Texas public charter schools also offer an open enrollment period each year specifically for prospective new students. During this time, families can learn more about their charter school options and enter their name for the enrollment lottery, which is held in the event there are more applicants than available seats. For Harmony Public Schools, open enrollment runs each November 1 through February 10.
MORE INFO: Learn more about how to apply to Harmony Public Schools.
How is a charter school funded?
As opposed to a traditional ISD school, which receives its funding primarily from the taxes local homeowners pay each year combined with additional funding from the state, charter schools receive their primary funding from the state and federal governments. Additionally, charters often receive both public and private grants to fund many of their innovative academic programs. For example, in recent years Harmony Public Schools has received grants of varying amounts from the U.S. Department of Education, the Texas Education Agency, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, and the Elon Musk Foundation, among others.
Are Texas public charter schools for-profit?
No. By law, Texas public charter schools must be nonprofit entities. All funds received are used in the service of our students and school teams.
Do charter schools require uniforms?
That’s a decision that’s up to each charter school. At Harmony Public Schools, we do have a uniform policy. (Our students do get regular “free dress” days, though.)
Do charter schools offer the same types of programs and extracurricular activities as ISD schools?
Charter schools offer almost all of the same programs and extracurricular activities as ISD schools, though just like at an ISD school, the exact selection of extracurricular opportunities varies from campus-to-campus. Traditionally, charter schools specialize in offering a wide variety of academic-focused extracurriculars. For example, at Harmony Public Schools, some of our most popular extracurricular activities are our groundbreaking eSports clubs, LEGO robotics, rocketry, computer coding, and biomedicine. Our schools also compete in a wide variety of sports, including basketball, volleyball, soccer, and football.
What level accountability do charter schools have to maintain?
Just like traditional ISDs, Texas charter schools must remain in good academic and financial accountability with the Texas Education Agency. That includes annual inclusion in the TEA’s Financial Integrity System of Texas (FIRST) and Overall Accountability ratings. Charter schools that do not meet these standards face closure by the TEA. Finally, to help families easily understand how their charter school is performing, the TEA has created a Charter School Performance Framework (CSPF), which grades charter districts on overall academic performance and closing achievement gaps.
What other differences are there between charter schools and traditional ISD schools?
There are a few other differences between Texas public charter schools and ISDs, but most don’t impact the day-to-day campus life of our students. For example, charter school boards consist of appointed volunteers with a unique interest in education, rather than private individuals who have chosen to run for election. However, charter school board meetings are still open to the public to attend and participate.
What about …?
We couldn’t possibly share all the things that make charter schools a unique and important part of the Texas educational environment in just one article. So if you have more questions, we’d love the opportunity to tell you more. Just tell us what you want to know in our Let’s Talk family communication platform, and we’ll reach out with an answer soon!
Parent & Family Engagement Policy and Compact Documents
Thanks to all of the families that attended our virtual parent academy on September 28. As a result of the Title I parent meeting at this event, we have updated our 2021-22 Family Engagement Policy and School-Parent Compact. We have attached those below for your access. We appreciate everyone’s support and look forward to working with you throughout the year to provide your child with excellent educational opportunities.
HSI Parent Compact English
HSI Parent Compact Spanish
October Lunch Menu
october menu
An important request for parents of Harmony Public Schools students
Harmony Public Schools offering virtual learning option for 2021-22 school year
Last week, Gov. Greg Abbott officially signed into law a new education funding bill that will allow public schools like ours to offer full virtual learning to up to 10 percent of our student body enrolled in Grades K-12.
Under the law, to be eligible to participate and remain in virtual learning, students must meet all of the following criteria:
Recently, we asked families to log into Skyward to let us know if they prefer for their child to attend virtual learning or continue in-person learning on campus. The deadline to make your selection is Wednesday September 15, 2021. For those who select “Virtual Learning,” we will cross-checking their student records to determine their eligibility status. Those selected will be notified by their home campus soon and given further directions on how to begin online learning.
For those not selected for virtual learning or who wish to remain in-person learning from campus, Harmony will continue to offer its “remote conferencing” option on an as-needed basis. Under this program, students can learn from home for up to 20 instructional days if they have a pre-existing medical condition, or are forced to quarantine due to positive COVID-19 diagnosis or exposure. Additional days may be granted upon TEA approval with required documentation.
Harmony thanks you for your ongoing support and patience as the situation regarding virtual learning unfolded these past few weeks. Whether your student is attending virtual or in-person, we look forward to a great school year with you and your family.
– – –
La semana pasada, el gobernador Greg Abbott promulgó oficialmente una nueva ley de financiación de la educación que permitirá a las escuelas públicas como la nuestra ofrecer aprendizaje virtual completo para hasta el 10 por ciento de nuestros estudiantes.
En consecuencia, Harmony Public Schools se complace en anunciar que comenzará a ofrecer una opción de aprendizaje virtual a partir del lunes 4 de octubre para los estudiantes elegibles, según lo permitan los límites de inscripción.
Según la ley, para ser elegible para participar y permanecer en el aprendizaje virtual, los estudiantes deben cumplir con todos los siguientes criterios:
Recientemente, les pedimos a las familias que inicien sesión en Skyward para informarnos si prefieren que su hijo asista al aprendizaje virtual o que continúe con el aprendizaje presencial en el campus. La fecha límite para hacer su selección es el miércoles 15 de septiembre de 2021. Para aquellos que seleccionen “Aprendizaje virtual”, verificaremos sus registros de estudiantes para determinar su estado de elegibilidad. Los seleccionados serán notificados por su campus de origen pronto y se les dará más instrucciones sobre cómo comenzar el aprendizaje en línea.
Para aquellos que no hayan sido seleccionados para el aprendizaje virtual o que deseen seguir aprendiendo de manera presencial desde el campus, Harmony continuará ofreciendo su opción de “conferencias remotas” según sea necesario. Bajo este programa, los estudiantes pueden aprender desde casa durante hasta 20 días de instrucción si tienen una afección médica preexistente o si se ven obligados a ponerse en cuarentena debido a un diagnóstico positivo o exposición a la COVID-19. Se pueden otorgar días adicionales con la aprobación de la TEA con la documentación requerida.
Gracias por su continuo apoyo y paciencia mientras se desarrolló el aprendizaje virtual estas últimas semanas. Ya sea que su estudiante asista virtual o presencialmente, esperamos tener un gran año escolar con usted y su familia.
Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) Announcement!
Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) Announcement!
In accordance with the Texas State Plan for the Education of Gifted/Talented students, Harmony Public Schools will begin taking referrals for kindergarten and currently enrolled students in grades 1-12 for gifted and talented screening.
Anyone interested in the educational welfare of these students may refer them for assessment. Referral forms are available at the front office and on the school’s website.
Parent GT Referral Form in English
Parent GT Referral Form in Spanish
The deadline for GATE referral is September 30, 2021, and G/T assessment period will take place in October. For more information about the screening and identification process, parents may contact the school’s G/T coordinator or G/T coach/teacher.
GATE (Educación para estudiantes dotados/talentosos) Anuncio
De acuerdo con el Plan Estatal de Texas para la Educación de Estudiantes Dotados / Talentosos, las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony comenzarán a recibir referencias para kindergarten y estudiantes actualmente inscritos en los grados 1-12 para la evaluación de estudiantes dotados y talentosos.
Cualquier persona interesada en el bienestar educativo de estos estudiantes puede nominarlos para dicha evaluación. Los formularios de referencia están disponibles en la oficina y en el sitio web de la escuela.
Forma de nominación
La fecha límite de referencia de GATE es el 30 de septiembre de 2021 y el período de evaluación de G / T se llevará a cabo en octubre.
Para obtener más información sobre el proceso de selección e identificación, los padres pueden comunicarse con el entrenador / maestro de GT de la escuela.
Important update regarding Virtual Learning at Harmony
Dear Harmony Families,
Today, we would like to share some important news regarding a potential virtual learning option at your child’s school.
This weekend, a new bill to fund virtual learning in Texas public schools like Harmony cleared a major hurdle in the Texas Legislature. In its current form, schools such as Harmony Public Schools would be allowed to provide virtual learning for up to 10 percent of its student body throughout the remainder of the school year.
While the bill has not received final approval and specific details may change before being signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott, it now appears very likely that schools like ours will be able to offer virtual learning in some form to students in the near future and we are looking forward to offering comprehensive virtual learning to our student population during 2021-2022 school year.
Currently, in your child’s Skyward account is a form asking your family’s interest in virtual learning. We ask that you please complete this virtual learning application form as soon as you are able. While we may not be able to accommodate every request due to potential new legal restrictions on the number of students who can participate, by understanding your preference we will be able to more quickly assign students to virtual learning should it become an option.
We will continue to share important updates with you as new information becomes available.
Thank you.
Estimadas familias de Harmony,
Hoy, no nos gustaría compartie algunas noticias importantes sobre una posible opción de aprendizaje virtual en la escuela de sus hijos. Este fin de semana, un nuevo proyecto de ley para financiar el aprendizaje virtual en escuelas públicas de Texas como Harmony eliminó un obstáculo importante en la Legislatura de Texas. En su forma actual, las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony podrían proporcionar aprendizaje virtual para hasta el 10 por ciento de su cuerpo estudiantil durante el resto del año escolar.
Aunque el proyecto no ha recibido la aprobación final y unos detalles específicos pueden cambiar antes de set convertida en lay por en gobernador, Greg Abbott, ahora parece muy probable que las escuelas como la nuestra puedan ofrecer aprendizaje virtual de alguna forma a los estudiantes en un futuro cercano y esperamos ofrecer un aprendizaje virtual integral a nuestra población estudiantil durante la escuela 2021-2022 año.
Actualmente, en la cuenta de Skyward de si hijo o hija hay un formulario que pregunta el interés de su familia en el aprendizaje virtual. Le pedimos que complete este formulario de solicitud de aprendizaje virtual tan pronto como pueda. Si bien es posible que no podamos atender todas las solicitudes debido a posibles nuevas restricciones legales sobre la cantidad de estudiantes que pueden participar, al comprender su preferencia, podremos asignar estudiantes más rápidamente al aprendizaje virtual si se convierte en una opción.
Continuaremos compartiendo actualizaciones importantes con usted a medida que haya nueva información disponible.
Gracias.
Harmony expands COVID-19 leave benefits for all employees
On Saturday, the HPS executive board approved a recommendation allowing all regular employees 10 additional days of paid leave should they test positive for COVID-19 or be asked to quarantine due to close contact with another COVID-19 positive individual.
The benefit is available retroactively to August 2 (first day of 2021-22 school year), and extends through December 31, 2021.
Employees with additional questions or who need to request leave for any purpose should contact leave@harmonytx.org.
Harmony Public Schools Mask Policy
Dear Harmony Families,
From its beginning, Harmony Public Schools has held onto two strong beliefs.
First, that by focusing on STEM, we could help our students better understand their connection to the world around them, and prepare them to help tackle the challenges of our collective future.
Second, that schools work best when parents, teachers, and school leaders are all working together to do what’s best for our students.
Few issues have put those two core beliefs – following science, and doing what’s best for kids – into sharper focus than the issue of protective face masks at our schools.
At Harmony, we firmly believe the preponderance of credible medical evidence proves that masks are a simple and effective way to stop the spread of COVID-19 in our schools, communities, and homes. This is why we frequently and publicly advocate for their use by students and team members – because it’s good science, and it’s what is best for kids.
Today, we would like to share a new Harmony Public Schools mask policy that we believe is strongly based on science and student safety, while also taking into account the legitimate reasons some families may prefer for their child not to wear a mask. We also believe this policy can remain consistent regardless of the outcome of current legal decisions related to mask “mandates” in schools.
Harmony Student Mask Policy
(Effective DATE)
When it comes to masks, there may be no perfect policy for all families. Masks have become one of the more hotly debated issues of our time. The one thing we can all agree on, though, is that we all look forward to a day when no one needs to wear a mask.
In the late spring and early summer, many of us believed that day was close. Unfortunately, it’s not quite here, yet. But by working together, we will get there – hopefully soon.
For now, we’re asking for Harmony to mask up.
It’s good science, and it’s what is best for kids.
Thank you.
Parents have option for student to repeat grade or retake course
Dear Parents and Guardians:
Today, we would like to inform you of important education option for your family if you believe your student may have experienced significant academic losses during the 2020-2021 school year.
This summer, the 87th Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill (SB) 1697, which allows parents and guardians to elect for a student to repeat a grade or retake a high school course.
This gives parents or guardians the right to opt for their child to:
For the 2021-2022 school year only, parents or guardians have the right to opt for their child:
When determining whether these options may be right for your student, here are some things which may be helpful to consider:
According to the new law, parents or guardians are required to notify the district in writing (letter or email to school principal) if they elect for their child to retake a grade level or course.
By law, if a district disagrees, the district must convene a retention committee and meet with the parent or guardian to discuss the proposed retention.
After the parent/ guardian has participated in the retention committee meeting, the parent or guardian will decide if the student will be retained.
For more information or to request retention for your student, please contact your campus administration.
Thank you.
Additional information is available at: https://tea.texas.gov/repeatgrade and https://tea.texas.gov/restartkinder
Public Comment on Federal Grant Applications
Public Comment on Federal Grant Applications
In accordance with United States Code (U.S.C.) Annotated, Title 20, Chapter 70, Subchapter VIII, Part C, Section 7846, and Public Law (P.L.) 114-95, Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), Section 8306, an entity planning to submit a federal grant application must afford a reasonable opportunity for public comment on the application before it is submitted.
Harmony Public Schools hereby gives notice to the public that it intends to file the following applications and request awarded amounts for federal grant funds with the Texas Education Agency for the school year 2021-22. HPS welcomes comments or questions concerning any of these grants and requests that any comments or questions be submitted by Aug 30, 2021, using the form below.
Public Input Survey
HPS Federal Grant Applications Overview
An important COVID-19 update from Harmony Public Schools CEO Fatih Ay
The following is a message from Harmony Public Schools CEO Fatih Ay.
Dear Harmony Families,
Like many of you, we at Harmony Public Schools are greatly concerned by the rise in COVID-19 cases attributed to the Delta variant.
At Harmony, we are working diligently to keep our schools safe and provide families the tools they need to keep their child protected from COVID-19.
Today, we would like to share with you several important updates regarding Harmony’s COVID-19 policy and procedures.
First, we would like to announce that we will be offering a TEA-approved “remote conferencing” option that will allow students a limited ability to attend classes from home if they are sick, have been exposed to COVID-19, or in a COVID-19 high-risk group.
Per TEA requirement, the total amount of time for remote instruction may not exceed more than 20 instructional days for the entire 2021-22 school year. In order to be eligible, students must meet one of the criteria below:
Next, we would like to share an update regarding contact tracing and reporting of potential COVID-19 cases on campus.
Although it is not required for schools to conduct contract tracing and inform parents if someone in their child’s class had tested positive for COVID-19, we believe families have the right to know what is happening at their child’s school. That’s why we will continue to implement the following measures.
We will:
Finally, we understand that a full remote learning option is something some of our families are highly interested in. Currently, state leaders in the Texas Legislature are convening in Austin to vote on whether they will allow districts to offer full virtual learning.
We don’t yet know what the decision of the Texas Legislature will be, or how long it may take to reach that decision.
What we do know is that an option for virtual learning is an important issue to our Harmony families across the state. That’s why, despite the challenges schools across Texas have faced in offering virtual learning this fall, we are fully prepared to quickly move to a virtual option for those families interested, should state leaders approve this option.
We will continue to keep you updated as new developments occur.
Thank you for your support and collaboration throughout this process, and for being a part of our Harmony family.
Sincerely,
Fatih Ay | CEO, Harmony Public Schools
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FAQ: Back to School 2021-22 at Harmony Public Schools
The following is a list of questions commonly asked by parents and students about the start of the 2021-22 school year at Harmony Public Schools.
For more information, visit https://www.HarmonyTX.org/playbook.
Harmony Public Schools
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will Harmony Public Schools offer virtual learning this year?
A: No. Harmony will return to face to face instruction at all campuses for the 21-22 school year as mandated by the Texas Education Agency. We are excited to have our students back in the classroom and will continue to support their social, emotional, and academic growth.
Q: What will on-campus instruction look like for this year?
A: Just as before the pandemic, students will attend in-person learning according to the academic calendar. This calendar can be found on your campus website. Teachers will provide in-person learning, which includes hands-on activities, small group projects and intervention, station rotations, teacher one-on-one support, etc.
Q: What COVID-19 safety protocols will be in place for students and teachers?
A: Face masks are optional for both students and Harmony team members, but are strongly recommended. Physical distancing may be maintained to the extent possible. Hand sanitizer will be provided, and students will be encouraged to practice frequent hand washing, use of hand sanitizer, and physical distancing. Teachers will sanitize high-touch areas in the classroom when necessary. Because the COVID-19 pandemic is evolving, we may update protocols as the situation dictates.
Q: My child struggled with virtual learning, and I am concerned they are academically behind. How will Harmony help my child regain academic progress?
A: We understand that some students struggled last year. Our educational teams are here to diagnose learning loss and provide an intervention plan to address it. This will include regular Response to Intervention (RTI) system implementation, after school tutoring, small group instruction, Saturday school, and summer school options.
Q: My child excelled with virtual learning last year. Will they be academically challenged this year?
A: Yes! We will continue to provide rigorous instruction with differentiated options for students including emphasis on college and career readiness.
Q: Will extracurricular activities resume this year?
A: Yes! We anticipate all extracurricular activities to resume for students, including academic clubs, athletics, fine arts, UIL, competitions, etc. Check the Clubs page of your campus website throughout the year for new clubs and extracurriculars.
Q: After a year out of the classroom, how will students and staff be supported in transitioning back to a social setting?
A: Harmony will provide mental health support to our students and staff during and after the back to school transition period. Each campus will utilize a Behavioral Counselor and implement support systems to ensure all students and staff receive the help they need.
Q: Where can I apply for free or reduced price meals?
A: All students eat FREE this year at all schools! Your child will automatically receive their free meal(s) each day in your campus cafeteria. You may, however, still be asked to complete a Free & Reduced Meal eligibility form once the school year starts, as this plays a crucial role in determining the amount of federal and state funding your child’s school may receive.
Q: What safety protocols will be in place during breakfast and lunch?
A: Cafeteria teams will continue to clean and sanitize dining areas. Physical distancing will be maintained to the extent possible. Students will sanitize their hands before and after eating, and will not be allowed to share food or utensils. Harmony will maintain adult supervision in the cafeteria to reinforce mealtime safety measures.
Q: Will water fountains be available for students?
A: Students will have access to touchless water fountains and are encouraged to bring their own reusable clear water bottles to use throughout the day. Water bottles should be taken home daily to be cleaned.
Q: What if my child displays symptoms of COVID-19 while at school?
A: The teacher will immediately call the Health Aide, who will pick up the student from the classroom and place the student in isolation to minimize interaction. The school Health Aide will communicate with the parent/guardian, and the student will be sent home. The student may not return to school until clearance is given by the school Health Aide. Additional guidance on the criteria that must be met prior to the student’s return to school is located in the Harmony Public Schools Back to School Playbook, 2021-2022.
Q: Should I notify the school if my child tested positive for COVID-19 or was in close contact with someone who tested positive?
A: Yes, families will self-report within 48 hours to the Health Aide if their child(ren) tested positive for COVID-19 or if they believe the child(ren) has been in close contact with an individual who has tested positive for COVID-19.
Q: How will I be notified if my child is exposed to COVID-19 at school?
A: If classroom exposure occurs, families will be notified via letter home, call, or school messaging services and the classroom will be sanitized.
Q: May I visit my child’s school?
A: Harmony always welcomes visitors to campuses and district offices, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic we will implement some limitations to minimize risk. Visitors will check in through the front office security system, and we will continue utilization of temperature checks. All visitors should complete a self-check before entering a school building, and visitors with COVID symptoms should NOT enter school buildings or offices.
On Campus After School Care
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What to expect at Harmony Public Schools for Fall 2021
The following is a message from Harmony Public Schools CEO Fatih Ay for HPS students, families and team members.
Hello … and happy summer vacation!
We hope you are having a fun and relaxing break. Here at Harmony, we’re already hard at work preparing for another exciting and engaging school year for our students and team members. With the first day of classes just a few weeks away, we wanted to take this opportunity to provide our students, team members, and their families a little more information on what to expect in the coming school year.
Here are a few highlights, but expect more details along with our annual Back to School Playbook in the days ahead:
We can’t wait to see you this fall!
Back to School Activities
Parent & Community Volunteer Opportunity
https://forms.gle/JpkQZ2jYHNa1gDuq6
2022-23 Academic Calendar
2021-2022 Academic Calendar
DFW Calendar One-Pager 2021-2022
Harmony Public Schools announces compensation increases for all teachers, team members
The Harmony Public Schools Executive Board unanimously approved a systemwide compensation increase for its 4,000+ teachers and team members across Texas.
Harmony teachers and other education professionals will receive between $4,000-$7,500 per year in additional compensation beginning the 2021-22 school year for a total annual system investment of roughly $15 million.
“The obstacles our schools have overcome the past two years have shown the profound impact that highly-qualified, highly-dedicated teachers can have on positive student outcomes,” Harmony CEO Fatih Ay said. “Opportunities like this are just one way we are showing our appreciation for all that our team members have contributed the past two years and for all the hard work still to come.”
The compensation increase comes in two parts:
A $2,000-$5,500 base pay increase for teachers and education professionals. The exact amount varies by community based on local market pay scales (see chart below).
A $2,000 across-the-board “Acceleration Stipend” for all teachers and professional employees.
All non-exempt (i.e. hourly) employees also will receive a raise of at least $1/hour, with some employees receiving $2/hour or more increases depending on position and location. With these increases, no full-time hourly worker in the Harmony system will earn less than $15/hour.
The increase was the third occasion in the past two school years in which Harmony announced a major improvement to employee compensation and benefits.
In January 2021, Harmony announced a sweeping upgrade of its employer-paid benefits that provided free vision and dental plans to all full-time employees, introduced matching retirement plan contributions for 403(b) and (457(b) participants, and increased life insurance payouts from $20,000 to $100,000.
In Summer 2019, Harmony also announced statewide base pay increases for employees ranging from $3,500-$5,000, as well as additional stipends for teachers working in hard-to-staff subjects.
Harmony also was selected by the Texas Education Agency in 2020 among its first round of Teacher Incentive Allotment recipients, which provided annual bonuses for a select group of high-performing educators.
“Our teachers are always looking for new ways to invest in their students, so it’s important to Harmony as a school system to always find new opportunities to invest in our teachers,” Ay said. “Whether its compensation or benefits increases like these, or professional development opportunities that help team members grow their personal skillset or advance their careers, we believe that an investment in our people is among the best investments we can make.”
Harmony Public Schools is a Texas-born, Texas-wide public charter school system with campuses serving PreK-Grade 12 students in 23 cities across the state, including Greater Houston, DFW, San Antonio, Austin, El Paso, Waco, Lubbock, Odessa, Bryan, Beaumont, and the Rio Grande Valley. Harmony’s curriculum places a heavy focus on STEM skills, Character Education, project-based learning, and college readiness.
Harmony Public Schools is currently accepting applications for the 2021-2022 school year for both students and team members.
About Harmony Public Schools
Harmony Public Schools are 58 high performing PreK-12 college preparatory charter schools throughout Texas. Harmony blends the highest standards and expectations, with a rigorous math- and science-centered curriculum and dedicated and engaged teachers and families to cultivate excellence and prepare students to succeed in college, careers and life. At Harmony Public Schools, we believe every child can succeed, and we are committed to helping them realize their full potential. To learn more about Harmony Public Schools and our 58 campuses across Texas, please visit: www.harmonytx.org, and follow us on Twitter at @HarmonyEdu and ‘Like’ us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HarmonyTexas.
Join us for Bubbles & Books
Did you know we have new electives being added for students in the 2021-22 school year? Come join us at the park on Monday, June 28 for an interactive peek at STEM and Social-Emotional Learning. Bring your blanket for some stories and activities! with Ms. Sponsel, our school principal. We can answer any questions, set up a tour date, or help you get enrolled for the 2021-22 school year. All current and future students are welcome to attend.
2021-22 School Supply Lists
Harmony families may qualify for financial benefits for summer food through P-EBT program
This letter is for families with:
• Children who are certified for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).
• Children who attend a Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) or Provision 2 (P2) school that offers free meals to all students.*
• Children born after Aug. 1, 2014, in families who received SNAP benefits for at least one month between October 2020 and June 2021.
*Contact your child’s school if you have questions about the school’s participation in these programs.
If you do not meet at least one of the requirements listed above, your child is not eligible for the P-EBT benefits described below.
Enrolled students (up to 21 years of age) in families that temporarily lost access to free or reduced-price school meals for the 2020–2021 school year due to the COVID-19 pandemic may be eligible to receive Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT). P-EBT benefits can be used to buy food from any retailer that accepts the Lone Star Card.
The application for P-EBT will open June 2, 2021. Go to yourtexasbenefits.com/Learn/PEBT to apply.
The application link is case-sensitive. The deadline to apply is Aug. 13, 2021.
Who Needs to Apply?
A parent/guardian must apply if eligible child is:
o Enrolled in K-12 and NOT part of a family who received SNAP benefits for at least one
month between August 2020 and June 2021.
o Born on or before Aug. 1, 2014, and is part of a family who received SNAP benefits for the first time during the 2020–2021 school year in May or June 2021.
• A parent/guardian does not have to apply if eligible child is:
o Born on or before Aug. 1, 2014, and is part of a family who received SNAP benefits for at least one month between August 2020 and April 2021.
o Born after Aug. 1, 2014, and is part of a family who received SNAP benefits for at least one month between October 2020 and June 2021.
For more information about eligibility, applying and getting your P-EBT benefits, visit hhs.texas.gov/pebt, or call the P-EBT Call Center at 833-442-1255, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–6
p.m. Central time.
Esta carta es para las familias con:
• Niños que están aprobados para recibir comidas gratuitas o a precio reducido a través del Programa Nacional de Almuerzos Escolares (NSLP).
• Niños que asisten a una escuela beneficiaria de la Cláusula de Elegibilidad Comunitaria (CEP) o a una escuela de la Cláusula 2 (P2) que ofrece comidas gratuitas a todos los estudiantes.*
• Niños nacidos después del 1 de agosto de 2014 en familias que recibieron beneficios de SNAP durante al menos un mes entre octubre de 2020 y junio de 2021.
*Comuníquese con la escuela de su hijo si tiene preguntas sobre la participación de la escuela en estos programas.
Si usted no cumple con al menos uno de los requisitos mencionados anteriormente, su hijo no puede recibir los beneficios de P-EBT descritos a continuación.
Estimado padre o tutor,
Los estudiantes matriculados (hasta los 21 años de edad) de familias que perdieron temporalmente el acceso a las comidas escolares gratuitas o de precio reducido para el año escolar 2020-2021 debido a la pandemia de COVID-19 podrían reunir los requisitos para recibir la Transferencia Electrónica de Beneficios durante la Pandemia (P-EBT). Los beneficios de P-EBT pueden usarse para comprar alimentos en cualquier tienda que acepte la tarjeta Lone Star.
La presentación de solicitudes para P-EBT se abrirá el 2 de junio de 2021. Visite yourtexasbenefits.com/Learn/PEBT (en inglés) para presentar la solicitud. El enlace para la solicitud distingue entre mayúsculas y minúsculas. La fecha límite para presentar la solicitud es el 13 de agosto de 2021.
¿Quién debe presentar la solicitud?
Un padre o tutor deberá presentar la solicitud si el niño que reúne los requisitos:
o Está matriculado en K-12 y NO pertenece a una familia que recibió beneficios de SNAP durante al menos un mes entre agosto de 2020 y junio de 2021.
o Nació el 1 de agosto de 2014 o antes y pertenece a una familia que recibió beneficios de SNAP por primera vez durante el año escolar 2020-2021 en mayo o junio de 2021.
• Un padre o tutor no tiene que presentar la solicitud si el niño que reúne los requisitos:
o Nació el 1 de agosto de 2014 o antes y pertenece a una familia que recibió beneficios de SNAP durante al menos un mes entre agosto de 2020 y abril de 2021.
o Nació después del 1 de agosto de 2014 y pertenece a una familia que recibió beneficios de SNAP durante al menos un mes entre octubre de 2020 y junio de 2021.
Para más información sobre los requisitos, la presentación de la solicitud y cómo recibir sus beneficios de P-EBT, visite hhs.texas.gov/es/pebt, o llame al Centro de llamadas de P-EBT al 833-442-1255, de lunes a viernes, de 8 a.m. a 6 p.m. hora del centro.
District Wellness Plan Meeting
DISTRICT WELLNESS PLAN MEETING INFORMATION
Waiver of the Student Success Initiative (SSI) Promotion Requirements
The purpose of this announcement is to inform our HPS communities about changes to the Student Success Initiative (SSI) promotion/retention and retesting requirements for the 2020–2021 school year. In light of past and anticipated impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Commissioner of Education has waived grade promotion requirements for students in fifth and eighth grade for the 2020–2021 school year. Notwithstanding anything the contrary in prior policy or procedure, Harmony Public Schools will comply with the Commissioner’s waiver of SSI requirements for this school year.
For additional information, please click on this link to review TEA’s correspondence in regards to the matter: Waiver of the Student Success Initiative (SSI) Promotion Requirements)
Meal Boxes to Be Distributed
Meal box distribution will be moved from Monday, Feb. 22, to Wednesday, Feb. 24, from 9-11 a.m. at the following locations:
Harmony School of Innovation-Fort Worth: 8100 S. Hulen St., Fort Worth, TX 76123
Harmony School of Innovation-Grand Prairie: 1441 Fish Creek Rd., Grand Prairie, TX 75052
Harmony School of Innovation-Garland: 2250 Firewheel Pkwy., Garland, TX 75040
Harmony School of Innovation-Dallas: 8080 W. President George Bush Turnpike, Dallas, TX 75252
Harmony School of Innovation-Waco: 1110 S. Valley Mills Dr., Beverly Hills, TX 76711
Harmony Science Academy-Carrollton: 1024 W. Rosemeade Pkwy., Carrollton, TX 75007
Harmony Science Academy-Dallas (Middle School): 12005 Forestgate Dr., Dallas, TX 75243
Harmony Science Academy-Euless: 701 S. Industrial Blvd., Euless, TX 76040
Meal Distribution Update
Due to inclement weather, meal distributions will resume once school buildings are open for on campus learning.
We’re Hiring!
Harmony Public Schools is recruiting talented, compassionate bilingual teachers dedicated to helping every student succeed. Harmony offers a competitive salary, excellent benefits and a commitment to excellence in the classroom.
Interested applicants may apply online by clicking here.
February Meal Distribution
Weekly Distribution letter February 2021
Harmony Public Schools employees receive major benefits upgrade
Teachers and other staff members of Harmony Public Schools will receive a major upgrade to their employer-paid benefits package after the Harmony Public Schools Executive Board unanimously approved a sweeping new benefits expansion.
The package will go into effect later this spring with the start of Harmony’s annual benefits enrollment period, and includes new employer-paid benefits related to health care, retirement, and life insurance.
“The past year, the world has seen the true value of our teachers and team members in a way they never have before,” Harmony Public Schools CEO Fatih Ay said. “These professionals who take such good care of our students deserve to know that they are being taken care of, as well – both their immediate needs and their long-term needs. So we are excited to be able to offer them an additional set of benefits that saves them money on their health care costs each month, while also helping them prepare for their retirement down the road.”
The new benefits include:
MATCHING RETIREMENT CONTRIBUTIONS: Exempt employees can receive 100% matching contribution to employee 403(b) and/or 457(b) plan, up to $1,500 annually depending on tenure of service. This is in addition to employee’s TRS Retirement System Benefits.
FREE VISION: Free vision care for employees.
FREE DENTAL: Free dental care for employees.
INCREASED FREE LIFE INSURANCE POLICY: Free $100,000 life insurance policy for all Exempt employees.
The package amounts to a roughly $2.4 million estimated increase in annual expenditure on employer-paid benefits for the Texas-based school system. However, Harmony Public Schools CEO Fatih Ay said the investment was worth it because of the positive impact on employee quality of life, work-life balance, and workplace satisfaction.
“The investments with the best returns are always the investment made in people,” Ay said. “We’ll continue to make these kinds of investments on behalf of our employees as often as we can.”
The expansion was the fourth major announcement related to employee benefits made by Harmony in the past year. The school system also announced two employee bonuses last year, as well as a promise to continue independently offering the now-expired federal COVID-19 leave benefits for impacted employees.
For a full list of Harmony Public Schools employer-paid and supplemental benefits, please visit https://www.harmonytx.org/benefits.
Harmony Public Schools is a Texas-born, Texas-wide public charter school system with campuses serving PreK-Grade 12 students in 23 cities across the state, including Greater Houston, DFW, San Antonio, Austin, El Paso, Waco, Lubbock, Odessa, Bryan, Beaumont, and the Rio Grande Valley. Harmony’s curriculum places a heavy focus on STEM skills, Character Education, project-based learning, and college readiness.
Harmony Public Schools is currently accepting applications for the 2020-2021 school year for both students and team members.
About Harmony Public Schools
Harmony Public Schools are 58 high performing PreK-12 college preparatory charter schools throughout Texas. Harmony blends the highest standards and expectations, with a rigorous math- and science-centered curriculum and dedicated and engaged teachers and families to cultivate excellence and prepare students to succeed in college, careers and life. At Harmony Public Schools, we believe every child can succeed, and we are committed to helping them realize their full potential. To learn more about Harmony Public Schools and our 58 campuses across Texas, please visit: www.harmonytx.org, and follow us on Twitter at @HarmonyEdu and ‘Like’ us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HarmonyTexas.
Meal Distribution
The following link is an update about meals being distributed to students.
SSO Meal Distribution Letter English and Spanish 2021
Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) Announcement!
In accordance with the Texas State Plan for the Education of Gifted/Talented students, Harmony Public Schools will begin taking referrals for all interested students in grades K-12 for Gifted and Talented (G/T) screening.
Anyone interested in the educational welfare of these students may nominate them for assessment. Students in grades 2 & up who were tested in Fall 2020 are not eligible to test in Spring 2021. Referral forms are available at the front office and on the school’s website.
Please complete this form to nominate your student.
The referral forms must be returned to the front office by Monday, February 8, 2021. The Spring GT testing window is set by the campus in February or March. Campuses may elect to use NWEA MAP scores as a prescreening criterion for GT Testing.
For more information about the screening and identification process, parents may contact the school’s GT Coach/teacher.
Educación para estudiantes dotados/talentosos (GATE) Anuncio
De acuerdo con el Plan Estatal de Texas para la Educación de Estudiantes Dotados / Talentosos, Harmony Public Schools comenzará a tomar referencias para todos los estudiantes interesados en los grados K-12 para la evaluación de estudiantes dotados y talentosos.
Cualquier persona interesada en el bienestar educativo de estos estudiantes puede nominarlos para dicha evaluación. Los estudiantes en los grados 2 y superiores que fueron evaluados en el otoño de 2020 no son elegibles para la prueba en la primavera de 2021. Los formularios de referencia están disponibles en la oficina y en el sitio web de la escuela.
Por favor complete este formulario para nominar a su estudiante.
Los formularios de referencia deben devolverse a la oficina de la escuela antes del lunes 8 de febrero del 2021.
Para obtener más información sobre el proceso de selección e identificación, los padres pueden comunicarse con el entrenador / maestro de GT de la escuela.
Harmony extends expired federal COVID-19 benefits for all employees
On the first school day after important federal workplace safeguards expired for millions of Americans, Harmony Public Schools’ Executive Board voted to independently provide the much-needed benefits to its 4,000+ employees.
The benefits previously were part of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), a federal program which provided American workers a number of workplace safeguards related to COVID-19. Primarily, the benefits included up to 10 Emergency Paid Sick Leave (EPSL) days if an employee was unable to work due to COVID-19 diagnosis, symptoms, possible exposure, or required quarantine for themselves, a family member, or child care provider.
Those federal benefits expired December 31, 2020. However, The Harmony Public Schools’ Executive Board voted at an emergency meeting Monday night, January 4, to independently extend the same benefits to employees throughout the remainder of the 2020-21 school year.
“The Harmony board felt this action was not only an important thing to do, but the right thing to do for our staff and their families,” Harmony CEO Fatih Ay said in a letter to employees Tuesday. “By offering these benefits, our team members can know that their jobs and livelihoods will not be impacted if they need to seek treatment for COVID-19 or stay home with possible symptoms. Additionally, our student families also can know that Harmony is doing all it can to take care of the team members who take care of their students, and reduce potential COVID-19 exposure on campus.”
On the first school day after important federal workplace safeguards expired for millions of Americans, Harmony Public Schools’ Executive Board voted to independently provide the much-needed benefits to its 4,000+ employees.
Harmony Public Schools is a Texas-born, Texas-wide public charter school system with campuses serving PreK-12 students in 23 cities across the state, including Greater Houston, DFW, San Antonio, Austin, El Paso, Waco, Lubbock, Odessa, Bryan, Beaumont, and the Rio Grande Valley. Harmony’s curriculum places a heavy focus on STEM skills, Character Education, project-based learning, and college readiness.
The school system has committed to offering both in-person and remote learning options for students throughout the 2020-2021 school year, and is now accepting applications for new students for the 2021-22 school year.
About Harmony Public Schools
Harmony Public Schools are 58 high performing PreK-12 college preparatory charter schools throughout Texas. Harmony blends the highest standards and expectations, with a rigorous math- and science-centered curriculum and dedicated and engaged teachers and families to cultivate excellence and prepare students to succeed in college, careers and life. At Harmony Public Schools, we believe every child can succeed, and we are committed to helping them realize their full potential. To learn more about Harmony Public Schools and our 58 campuses across Texas, please visit: www.harmonytx.org, and follow us on Twitter at @HarmonyEdu and ‘Like’ us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HarmonyTexas.
2019–20 School Report Card
December 18 Meal Service Announcement
On Friday, December 18, 2020, meal distribution will be at Harmony School of Innovation – Carrollton from 3:00 pm-4:00 pm. We will distribute a 7-day meal box that includes breakfast, lunch, and milk. SSO is a free meal program for all children ages 18 and under. Students 21 and under who are currently enrolled in a school and are identified as mentally or physically disabled are also eligible. Parents wishing to pick up a meal box without children present will need to present one of the following to verify guardianship: Individual student report cards, attendance record from parent portal of a school website, birth certificate, official letter/email from the facility or school listing children enrolled, or other official ID cards (for example, IDs issued by a child care facility). Meal distribution will resume Wednesday, January 6, 2021, from 9 am-10 am. For additional resources and locations to mobile pantries in your area during the winter break, please visit Tarrant Area Food Bank, North Texas Food Bank, or Central Texas Food Bank. Have a safe and happy winter break.
Meal Services for Thanksgiving Week
Greetings HSI-Carrollton friends and family,
As we look forward to a wonderful Thanksgiving break off, we wanted to make you aware of some
changes regarding meal distribution for Thanksgiving Break.
Harmony School Academy Carrollton will not be having SSO meal distribution during the
Thanksgiving week of November 23 rd to November 27th, 2020. To receive meals for these days, we will
be giving a 7-day distribution package on Friday, November 20th, 2020 during our normal distribution
hours between 3:00 p.m. — 4:00 p.m.
SSO is a free meals program for all children ages 18 and under. Students under 21 who are currently
enrolled in a school and are identified as mentally or physically disabled are also eligible. Free
breakfast and lunch will be available daily for students attending classes at the school. Meal distribution
is open to our students, their siblings, and the community.
For distance learners, meal boxes will be available for pick up at 1024 W. Rosemeade Pkwy,
Carrollton, Texas, 75007 Building #2 on Mondays from 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. and Fridays from 3:00
p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
For on-campus learners, in addition to free breakfast and lunch on campus, they are also able to receive
a weekend meals box that will be available for pick up at 1024 W. Rosemeade Pwky, Carrollton, Texas,
75007 Building #2 on Fridays from 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m..
Parents wishing to pick up a meal box without children present will need to present one of the
following to verify guardianship:
• Individual student report cards
• Attendance record from parent portal of a school website
• Birth certificate
• Official letter/email from facility or school listing children enrolled
• Other official ID cards (for example, IDs issued by a child care facility)
If you have any questions, please contact Karen Buendia, CNA, at KBuendia@harmonytx.org.
Saludos a amigos y familiares de Harmony School of Innovation Carrollton,
Mientras esperamos una maravillosa pausa de Acción de Gracias, queríamos informarles sobre algunos
cambios con respecto a la distribución de comidas para las vacaciones de Acción de Gracias.
Harmony School of Innovation Carrollton no tendrá distribución de comidas SSO durante la semana de
Acción de Gracias del 23 de noviembre al 27 de noviembre de 2020. Para recibir comidas para estos
días, entregaremos un paquete de distribución de 7 días el viernes 20 de noviembre de 2020 durante
nuestro horario normal. horario de distribución entre las Friday pick-up time de la tarde.
SSO es un programa de comidas gratis para todos los niños menores de 18 años. Los estudiantes
menores de 21 años que están actualmente inscritos en una escuela y están identificados como
discapacitados mental o fisicamente también son elegibles. El desayuno y el almuerzo gratuitos estarán
disponibles todos los días para los estudiantes que asistan a clases en la escuela. La distribución de
comidas está abierta a nuestros estudiantes, sus hermanos y la comunidad.
Para los estudiantes a distancia, habrá cajas de comida disponibles para recoger en 1024 W Rosemeade
Pkwy, Building 2 los lunes de Monday pick up time y los viernes de Friday pick up time de la tarde.
Para los estudiantes en el campus, además del desayuno y el almuerzo gratuitos en el campus, también
pueden recibir una caja de comidas de fin de semana que estará disponible para recoger en 1024 W
Rosemeade Pkwy, Building 2 los viernes a partir de las pick up time de la tarde..
Los padres que deseen recoger una caja de comida sin los niños presentes deberán presentar uno de los
siguientes para verificar la tutela:
• Boletas de calificaciones individuales de los estudiantes
• Registro de asistencia del portal para padres de un sitio web de la escuela
• Acta de nacimiento
• Carta oficial / correo electrónico de la instalación o escuela que enumera a los niños
• Otras tarjetas de identificación oficiales (por ejemplo, identificaciones emitidas por un centro de
cuidado infantil)
• Si tiene alguna pregunta, comuníquese con Karen Buendia, CNA, en kbuendia@harmonytx.org
Free School Meals Available
Beginning November 2nd
Harmony Public Schools will offer free meals for all children ages 18 and
under. Students under 21 who are currently enrolled in a school and are identified as mentally or
physically disabled are also eligible. Free breakfast and lunch will be available daily for students
attending classes at the school. For distance learners, meal boxes will be available for pick up at
HSA Carrollton on Mondays 9:00-10:00 a.m. and Fridays 3:00-4:00 p.m. Meal distribution is open to our
students, their siblings, and the community.
Parents wishing to pick up a meal box without children present will need to present one of the following
to verify guardianship:
∙ Individual student report cards
∙ Attendance record from parent portal of a school website
∙ Birth certificate
∙ Official letter/email from facility or school listing children enrolled
∙ Other official ID cards (for example, IDs issued by a child care facility)
If you have any questions, please contact Karen Buendia, Child Nutrition Assistant, kbuendia@harmonytx.org or 469-892-5556.
U.S. Department of Education awards Harmony $27.8 million grant
(TEXAS) – On the eve of National Principals Month, the U.S. Department of Education has awarded a $27.8 million Teacher and School Leader Incentive grant to Harmony Public Schools to train, equip, and retain top-level school leaders at its campuses across the state.
This project will strengthen and evolve Harmony’s existing Human Capital Management System, developed through a previous Department of Education grant project (Teacher Incentive Fund, 2016), to more explicitly focus on strengthening instructional leadership by better positioning and supporting current and rising principals and instructional leadership teams to excel and remain in their roles—especially in high-need schools. Harmony has 50 schools designated as high-needs throughout the state.
The project design draws on proven research showing that strong instructional leadership improves educator effectiveness, which, in turn, accelerates growth in student outcomes.
“Great schools require great leadership,” said Harmony CEO Fatih Ay. “That’s why one of our highest priorities at Harmony Public Schools is to equip our principals and other school leaders with the tools they need to build cultures of achievement, character, and community at their campuses.”
Harmony was one of only 13 school systems in the country to receive the DOE grant and the largest of three Texas recipients.
“Great teachers deserve to be treated as the professionals they are and to be compensated accordingly,” U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos said in a statement Wednesday, September 1. “All too often, though, they lack access to relevant professional development courses and are compensated on a step-scale ladder that treats them like cogs in a machine instead of as individuals with unique talents and interests. We’ve challenged today’s awardees to rethink all of that, and they have risen to the challenge.”
The new funding brings the total amount awarded to Harmony by the Department of Education within the past few years to $92.5 million.
“Great principals and school leaders, given their unique talents and devotion to their teachers and students, should receive the support they need to continue to be successful,” said U.S. Assistant Secretary of Education for Elementary and Secondary Education Frank Brogan. “Under the Teacher and School Leader Incentive Program, the U.S. Department of Education provides assistance to school districts that are rethinking how to strengthen instructional leadership to make sure principals and leadership teams are well equipped to support their teachers and students. I look forward to seeing how the grant funds are utilized by Harmony Public Schools.”
Harmony Public Schools is a Texas-born, Texas-wide public charter school system with campuses serving PreK-Grade 12 students in 23 cities across the state, including Greater Houston, DFW, San Antonio, Austin, El Paso, Waco, Lubbock, Odessa, Bryan, Beaumont, and the Rio Grande Valley. Harmony’s curriculum places a heavy focus on STEM skills, Character Education, project-based learning, and college readiness. In 2020, Harmony hadall 23 high school campuses named among the Best High Schools in America by U.S. News and World Report, 13 named to the Best STEM High Schools in America by Newsweek, and earned two National School of Character recognitions from Character.org.
Harmony Public Schools is currently accepting applications for the 2020-2021 school year for both students and team members.
About Harmony Public Schools
Harmony Public Schools are 58 high performing PreK-12 college preparatory charter schools throughout Texas. Harmony blends the highest standards and expectations, with a rigorous math- and science-centered curriculum and dedicated and engaged teachers and families to cultivate excellence and prepare students to succeed in college, careers and life. At Harmony Public Schools, we believe every child can succeed, and we are committed to helping them realize their full potential. To learn more about Harmony Public Schools and our 58 campuses across Texas, please visit: www.harmonytx.org, and follow us on Twitter at @HarmonyEdu and ‘Like’ us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HarmonyTexas.
Harmony Public Schools hosts HPS Reading Challenge
Reading skills are foundational to educational success for all students.
Encouraging students to read more improves their skills and promotes a love of reading they can continue throughout their educational years and into adulthood.
That’s why Harmony Public Schools is hosting a fall Reading Challenge for all students in all campuses.
Join your classmates from across your campus and across the state from Monday, October 5, 2020 though Sunday, January 3, 2021 as together we show our love for reading and discover new and exciting ideas, authors, and stories through our favorite books.
Along the way, we’ll recognize our top readers and campuses each month, share favorite book picks, and ask for your reviews on some of your favorite reads.
The reading challenges by grade are:
Kindergarten – Grade 2
20 Books
Grade 3-5
10 Novels
3 Fiction
3 Nonfiction
1 Poetry
3 Student Choice
Grade 6-8
11 Novels
4 Fiction
4 Nonfiction
1 Poetry
2 Student Choice
Grade 9-12
12 Novels
4 Fiction
4 Nonfiction
1 Poetry
3 Student Choice
Share your favorite reads on social media by tagging Harmony and using the hashtag #HarmonyReads.
GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) Announcement!
In accordance with the Texas State Plan for the Education of Gifted/Talented students, Harmony Public Schools will begin taking referrals for kindergarten and newly- enrolled students in grades 1-12 for gifted and talented screening. Anyone interested in the educational welfare of these students may refer them for assessment. Referral forms are available on the school’s website. Read more
Does your child need a Chromebook? Let us know so we can help!
Virtual Learning Supply List
All Grades (K-5)
Headphones (not earbuds)
3 Composition Notebooks (1st-5th grades, wide ruled)
1 (24 count) Pencils
1 (24 count) Crayons
1 (24 count) Colored Pencils
9”x12” white board (kindergarten board should have writing lines)
1 pkg fine tip dry erase markers
1 pkg broad tip dry erase markers
1 plastic pencil box (approx. 8.5”x 5.5”x2)
1 Ream of paper (for art class)
Kindergarten & First Grade Only
1 Stylus
Kindergarten only
Mead brand Primary Journals
Harmony Public Schools Reopening FAQ: Restart & Reopening Basics
Note: This document is intended as a simplified version of our “Harmony Public Schools Back to School Playbook.” For further information or clarification on any topic, please refer to the Playbook.
When is the first day of school?
The first day of school for all Harmony campuses is Monday, August 17. It will be held online-only.
When will campuses re-open?
As of August 1, 2020, campuses are scheduled to open Tuesday, September 8 for in-person learning to those students who wish to attend in person. Families may also elect to continue learning in a virtual setting from home.
Could the campus reopening date change?
Possibly. Harmony Public Schools is closely following guidance from the Texas Education Agency, public health officials, and others in determining when to reopen our campuses. Our top priority is ensuring the safety of our students, team members, and communities while preserving academic continuity for our learners.
Is anything different about online learning this year?
Yes, quite a bit. Harmony has upgraded its online learning by switching to a new system called Schoology. Through Schoology, students will be able to interact and engage with their teachers and peers in real-time throughout the school day to provide and more advanced and enriching school experience. Families will also have full access to grades, progress reports, assignments, classroom learning materials, calendars, and more from within the Schoology platform, providing a simple one-stop-shop for all things related to their student’s learning experience. Students and families will receive more instruction on accessing and logging into Schoology as classes begin.
What safety measures will be in place when campuses open?
Harmony is instituting a wide variety of health protocols, which are described in detail in the Harmony “Back to School Playbook 2020-2021.” Among the new measures are:
How do I inform my campus that I would like to continue learning from home or return to campus to learn once campuses re-open?
Parents will be sent a survey in Skyward the first week of school asking them to inform the campus of their choice.
Once campuses reopen, how do I switch between online and on-campus learning later in the school, if needed?
Parents should notify their campuses in advance through Skyward of their decisions to change learning environments. Failure to notify campuses could result in a student to be marked as absent.
What hours of the day will online classes be taught?
Your campus will announce the specific schedule for your student, but generally speaking, classes will be taught online in real-time by their teachers during normal school hours (instructional minutes may vary by grade, according to Texas Education Agency requirements). This is called “synchronous learning.” Students needing to learn outside this timeframe can choose to learn independently. This is called “asynchronous learning.”
How will absences and attendance be counted for online learning?
Students who are logged in and learning alongside their teacher and classmates during normal school hours (synchronous learning) will be counted in attendance when they lo in to learn.
Student who learn independently through self-guided instruction (asynchronous learning) will be counted in attendance when they meet daily learning benchmarks and/or turn in daily assignments by no later than 11:59 p.m. on the given schoolday.
What will my child need to complete their schoolwork from home?
At-home learners will need consistent access to a computer and the internet (see next question for more information). Headphones, especially noise-canceling headphones, may be helpful for online learning, but are not required.
Do I still need to buy school supplies from the campus school supply list?
Yes. All students regardless of learning location (i.e. home or campus) will be completing assignments alongside their peers using the supplies listed by their campus.
What happens if my child doesn’t have a computer to do their schoolwork on while learning from home?
Harmony will supply a computer device and/or internet access for the purpose of completing schoolwork to any student that does not have consistent access at home. These will be provided beginning the first week of August and distributed by drive-through pickups at your nearby Harmony campus.
Will my child have to wear a Harmony uniform for online learning?
Students may choose to wear a uniform if they would like to when learning online, however they are not required to. Instead, they are required to follow the dress code guidelines set forth for “Free Dress Days” set forth in the Student & Parent Handbook. This states:
“Garments must be free of holes, tears, inappropriate wording, logos, messages or advertising. No short, skin tight, or legging dresses, or skirts may be worn. All dresses must have sleeves. Students may not wear low cut, midriff-baring, or backless blouses. Students may wear jeans, but they cannot be tight pants including jeggings, tights or skinny style pants. Clothing items must not depict images of violence.”
Harmony Public Schools Reopening FAQ: Operations & Health
Note: This document is intended as a simplified version of our Harmony Public Schools “Back to School Playbook 2020-2021.” For further information or clarification on any topic, please refer to the Playbook.
When will campuses re-open?
As of August 1, 2020, campuses are scheduled to open Tuesday, September 8 for in-person learning to those students who wish to attend in person. Families may also elect to continue learning in a virtual setting from home.
Could the campus reopening date change?
Possibly. Harmony Public Schools is closely following guidance from the Texas Education Agency, public health officials, and others in determining when to reopen our campuses. Our top priority is ensuring the safety of our students, team members, and communities while preserving academic continuity for our learners.
What safety measures will be in place when campuses open?
Harmony is instituting a wide variety of health protocols, which are described in detail in “Back to School Playbook 2020-2021.” Among the new measures are:
How often will the campus and/or my student’s work station be cleaned and disinfected.
At the end of the day, custodial services will clean and sanitize all desk surfaces including seat, chair back, desk, any dividers if available with soap and water or all-purpose cleaning agents and sanitizers that meet state and local food safety regulations. Staff, including teachers, may also perform more frequent cleanings throughout the day, as needed.
What happens if a child or staff member attending school on-campus tests positive for COVID-19, is exposed to someone who is positive, or displays symptoms of COVID-19?
If the person is on-campus, they will be immediately removed from the classroom setting. For students, parents will be notified immediately and required to pick up their child within one hour. For staff members, employees will be asked to leave the campus immediately.
Before returning to campus, the student or staff members must self-quarantine until the following criteria are met:
If physically able, the student can continue classwork from home using HPS online learning system.
For more information on quarantine measures, including requirements for specific scenarios, see the “Back to School Playbook 2020-2021.”
Can parents their child at school during the school day?
Harmony is asking parents to limit visits to campus only to necessary appointments which cannot be done through virtual meetings. Harmony requests that all in-person visits be scheduled in advance. All visitors who enter the building will be required to wear a face covering and those who proceed beyond the reception area (pre-arranged and approved appointments) will follow campus guidelines for visitors.
How do I purchase uniforms for the new school year?
Uniforms can be ordered online using the Revtrak online ordering site listed on your campus website. Uniforms will be available to pick up once campuses reopen. Campuses will remain flexible with the enforcement of uniform policies until families are given an appropriate amount of time to order and pick up uniforms. Students will not be required to wear uniforms for online learning.
Will drop-off and pick-up change?
Yes. Both drop-off and pick-up times will be staggered to limit potential cross-exposure among persons.
What will lunchtime and breakfast look like?
Lunch will be served in the classrooms, however breakfast may be served either in the classrooms or in the cafeteria based on the number of students attending in-person. If eating in the cafeteria, students will be socially distanced.
Before and after meals or snacks all students and staff will also be able to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer.
Can I eat lunch with my child on campus?
At this time, due to COVID-19, parents and visitors will not be permitted to visit students during mealtimes.
Can I bring lunch to my child on campus?
Parents bringing food during the school day is prohibited. Students who forget their lunch will be provided a school meal.
Harmony Public Schools Reopening FAQ: Operations & Health
Note: This document is intended as a simplified version of our Harmony Public Schools “Back to School Playbook 2020-2021.” For further information or clarification on any topic, please refer to the Playbook.
When will campuses re-open?
As of August 1, 2020, campuses are scheduled to open Tuesday, September 8 for in-person learning to those students who wish to attend in person. Families may also elect to continue learning in a virtual setting from home.
Could the campus reopening date change?
Possibly. Harmony Public Schools is closely following guidance from the Texas Education Agency, public health officials, and others in determining when to reopen our campuses. Our top priority is ensuring the safety of our students, team members, and communities while preserving academic continuity for our learners.
What safety measures will be in place when campuses open?
Harmony is instituting a wide variety of health protocols, which are described in detail in “Back to School Playbook 2020-2021.” Among the new measures are:
How often will the campus and/or my student’s work station be cleaned and disinfected.
At the end of the day, custodial services will clean and sanitize all desk surfaces including seat, chair back, desk, any dividers if available with soap and water or all-purpose cleaning agents and sanitizers that meet state and local food safety regulations. Staff, including teachers, may also perform more frequent cleanings throughout the day, as needed.
What happens if a child or staff member attending school on-campus tests positive for COVID-19, is exposed to someone who is positive, or displays symptoms of COVID-19?
Anyone displaying the signs or symptoms of COVID-19 should follow below self-quarantine policy:
Exposure (confirmed or unconfirmed) or Illness with Positive Testing
The following criteria must be met in FULL:
at least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications);
the individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and
at least 14 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
Exposure (confirmed or unconfirmed) or Illness with Negative Testing or MD Note
If an individual has symptoms of COVID-19 and wants to return to campus before completing the above stay at home period, the following criteria must be met in FULL:
Either obtain a medical professional’s note clearing the individual for return based on an alternative diagnosis OR obtain a negative COVID-19 test AND
at least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications).
Exposure (confirmed or unconfirmed) or Illness with No Testing and No U.S. Based Medical Provider’s Note
The following criteria must be met in FULL:
at least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications);
the individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and
at least 14 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
Proof of negative COVID tests or U.S. based medical provider’s alternative diagnosis delivered to campus health staff or registrar if no health staff is available OR
when all three of the following criteria are met:
At least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications);
The individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and
At least 14 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
For more information on quarantine measures, including requirements for specific scenarios, see the “Back to School Playbook 2020-2021.”
Can parents visit their child at school during the school day?
Harmony is asking parents to limit visits to campus only to necessary appointments which cannot be done through virtual meetings. Harmony requests that all in-person visits be scheduled in advance. All visitors who enter the building will be required to wear a face covering and those who proceed beyond the reception area (pre-arranged and approved appointments) will follow campus guidelines for visitors.
How do I purchase uniforms for the new school year?
Uniforms can be ordered online using the Revtrak online ordering site listed on your campus website. Uniforms will be available to pick up once campuses reopen. Campuses will remain flexible with the enforcement of uniform policies until families are given an appropriate amount of time to order and pick up uniforms. Students will not be required to wear uniforms for online learning.
Will drop-off and pick-up change?
Yes. Both drop-off and pick-up times will be staggered to limit potential cross-exposure among persons.
What will lunchtime and breakfast look like?
Lunch will be served in the classrooms, however breakfast may be served either in the classrooms or in the cafeteria based on the number of students attending in-person. If eating in the cafeteria, students will be socially distanced.
Before and after meals or snacks all students and staff will also be able to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer.
Can I eat lunch with my child on campus?
At this time, due to COVID-19, parents and visitors will not be permitted to visit students during mealtimes.
Can I bring lunch to my child on campus?
Parents bringing food during the school day is prohibited. Students who forget their lunch will be provided a school meal.
Harmony Public Schools Reopening FAQ: Academics
Note: This document is intended as a simplified version of our Harmony Public Schools “Back to School Playbook 2020-2021.” For further information or clarification on any topic, please refer to the Playbook.
What do I need to learn from home?
Students will need access to a computer device and the internet to complete schoolwork from home. Students without consistent access to either may receive them from their Harmony campus. Campuses will begin distributing them via drive-through pick-ups starting the first week of August. Additionally, students may find that headphones, especially noise-canceling headphones, are helpful for online learning, however they are not required.
Will I need to shop for school supplies?
Yes. All students regardless of learning location (i.e. home or campus) will be completing assignments alongside their peers using the supplies listed by their campus.
Is anything different about online learning this year?
Yes, quite a bit. Harmony has upgraded its online learning by switching to a new system called Schoology. Through Schoology, students will be able to interact and engage with their teachers and peers in real-time throughout the school day to provide and more advanced and enriching school experience. Families will also have full access to grades, progress reports, assignments, classroom learning materials, calendars, and more from within the Schoology platform, providing a simple one-stop-shop for all things related to their student’s learning experience. Students and families will receive more instruction on accessing and logging into Schoology as classes begin.
Will online learners be taught differently than on-campus learners?
No. All students will be taught using the same material and at the same pace by the same Harmony teacher. In most cases, online learners will be taught simultaneously alongside their on-campus peers, unless the student is taking part in asynchronous learning (i.e independent learning outside normal school hours).
How will grades be calculated?
Grades will be counted on the traditional 0-100 scale. The “pass/fail” grading system that was implemented out of necessity during the Spring 2020 semester will not be used.
What hours of the day will online classes be taught?
Your campus will announce the specific schedule for your student, but generally speaking, classes will be taught online in real-time by their teachers during normal school hours (instructional minutes may vary by grade, according to Texas Education Agency requirements). This is called “synchronous learning.” A sample schedule can be found in the Harmony “Back to School Playbook 2020-2021.” Students needing to learn outside this timeframe can choose to learn independently. This is called “asynchronous learning.”
What rules or expectations are there for online learners?
Synchronous online learners will be asked to comply with the following rules:
How will absences and attendance be counted for online learning?
Students who are logged in and learning alongside their teacher and classmates during normal school hours (synchronous learning) will be counted in attendance when they lo in to learn.
Student who learn independently through self-guided instruction (asynchronous learning) will be counted in attendance when they meet daily learning benchmarks and/or turn in daily assignments by no later than 11:59 p.m. on the given schoolday.
What happens if my child doesn’t have a computer to do their schoolwork on while learning from home?
Harmony will supply a computer device and/or internet access for the purpose of completing schoolwork to any student that does not have consistent access at home. These will be provided beginning the first week of August and distributed by drive-through pickups at your nearby Harmony campus.
Will my child have to wear a Harmony uniform for online learning?
Students may choose to wear a uniform if they would like to when learning online, however they are not required to. Instead, they are required to follow the dress code guidelines set forth for “Free Dress Days” set forth in the Student & Parent Handbook. This states:
“Garments must be free of holes, tears, inappropriate wording, logos, messages or advertising. No short, skin tight, or legging dresses, or skirts may be worn. All dresses must have sleeves. Students may not wear low cut, midriff-baring, or backless blouses. Students may wear jeans, but they cannot be tight pants including jeggings, tights or skinny style pants. Clothing items must not depict images of violence.”
Need a computer for virtual learning? Harmony can help
Families have enough to concentrate on these days without having to worry if their child has the tools they need to complete their schoolwork.
If your child doesn’t have consistent access to a computer device or the internet to complete schoolwork during virtual learning, Harmony Public Schools is here to help.
Beginning the first week of August, Harmony campuses across the state will be offering drive-by technology pickup days where families can pick up free computer devices and internet access solutions (ex. WiFi hot spot) for students to use to complete virtual learning during the 2020-2021 school year.
Last spring, about 4,000 Harmony students took advantage of our device-lending program, or about 1-in-every-8 students.
Through these devices, students and families will be able to access Harmony’s new learning management program Schoology. Through Schoology, students will be able to interact with both teachers and peers in a more in-depth, interactive learning experience that includes both live and on-demand classes, academic tutoring, interventions services, parent-teacher conferencing, and even extracurricular activities.
Families will also have full access to grading, assignments, schedules, progress reports, and messaging with Schoology, placing all a family’s educational tools in one easy-to-use program.
Best of all, when the time to return to campus comes, the student’s Schoology account will follow them back to campus, easing the transition for students, families, and teachers.
To find out when your campus will host its technology pickup day, follow them on Facebook.
To learn more about Harmony’s 2020-2021 reopening plan, visit https://www.HarmonyTX.org/ReOpening.
Announcement of school re-opening plan for Harmony Public Schools
At Harmony Public Schools, our top priorities are the health and safety of our students and staff, as well as the academic and developmental growth of our scholars.
In response to the continued spread of COVID-19 in the communities which we proudly serve, Harmony Public Schools is announcing the following revised plan for the start of the 2020-21 school year.
THE BASICS
Students at all HPS campuses statewide will start the academic year on Monday, August 17 in an online-only setting. Classes will continue online-only until at least Tuesday, September 8. During these three weeks, you will receive a survey asking your family to choose the option of either continuing classes online only, or returning to campus for in-person learning after Labor Day, if possible. Harmony will announce no later than the first week of September whether there is a need to extend online-only learning further, or if families who have opted for on-campus learning may return for in-person instruction. Students who opted for at-home learning will continue to learn remotely throughout the remainder of the school year, unless they notify their campus of a change request through Skyward.
All HPS staff will continue to work remotely while campuses are closed, unless a specific and essential job function requires their presence on campus or at an administrative office.
REASON FOR CHANGE
The primary purpose of these changes is to provide a safe educational environment for both our students and staff members, as well as to comply with local ordinances in many of our Harmony communities which specifically prohibit in-person schooling until after Labor Day.
SUPERIOR NEW ONLINE LEARNING SYSTEM, FEATURING ENHANCED STUDENT ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES & EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Accelerating your child’s education – even when learning from home – is one of our core missions. That’s why we’ve spent the summer completely revamping our online learning system to create a more interactive learning environment that’s easier to use for families, better connects students to their teachers and classmates, and – most importantly – promotes academic growth even while our campuses are closed.
With our new Schoology learning management system, students attending classes online will experience a robust academic experience with more one-to-one engagement with teachers through live classroom sessions, regular online office hours, as well as academic tutorial sessions, and intervention services for students who need them.
Students also will enjoy options for at-home, online extracurricular activities — including club activities, and both e-sports and academic competitions — that will allow them to stay connected with their classmates online, even if they can’t be together in person.
Parents will have full access to instructional materials, assignments, grading, calendars, student progress updates, and parent messaging in one simple platform.
Best of all, when it’s time for your student to return to campus, the Schoology system will follow them seamlessly back to campus, making the transition easier for both your student and your family.
Harmony teachers have spent their summers learning the intricacies of Schoology and will be prepared to incorporate it into their learning beginning on the first day of class.
STUDENTS NEEDING COMPUTER DEVICE OR INTERNET ACCESS
For the purpose of completing schoolwork, Harmony Public Schools will provide computer devices and/or internet access by request to those students without access at home. Each campus will have a drive-by pickup option for computer and WiFi access in early August. For more information, please contact your Harmony campus.
MEAL SERVICES
Free meal services will continue to be provided beginning the first day of school. Please contact your campus or follow them on Facebook to learn more about meal pickup dates, times, and locations.
ATTENDANCE FOR AT-HOME LEARNERS
A daily digital attendance record will be taken for all students learning from home, according to Texas Education Agency guidelines and requirements. Those at-home learners not in attendance will be marked “Absent,” as they would if learning on campus.
ENHANCED ON-CAMPUS SAFETY PROTOCOLS
To make sure our on-campus learning experience is as safe as possible for HPS students and staff members, Harmony will institute a broad spectrum of campus safety protocols once on-campus instruction resumes. Some of the new safety protocols include:
HANDLING OF COVID-19 SYMPTOMS
Whether screened at school or self-screened at home, the following conditions are considered symptomatic of COVID-19 by the Centers for Disease Control and could lead to a required leave from campus:
RETURNING TO CAMPUS AFTER COVID DIAGNOSIS OR SYMPTOMS
Anyone displaying the signs or symptoms of COVID-19 should follow below self-quarantine policy:
Exposure (confirmed or unconfirmed) or Illness with Positive Testing
The following criteria must be met in FULL:
at least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications);
the individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and
at least 14 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
Exposure (confirmed or unconfirmed) or Illness with Negative Testing or MD Note
If an individual has symptoms of COVID-19 and wants to return to campus before completing the above stay at home period, the following criteria must be met in FULL:
Either obtain a medical professional’s note clearing the individual for return based on an alternative diagnosis OR obtain a negative COVID-19 test AND
at least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications).
Exposure (confirmed or unconfirmed) or Illness with No Testing and No U.S. Based Medical Provider’s Note
The following criteria must be met in FULL:
at least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications);
the individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and
at least 14 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
Proof of negative COVID tests or U.S. based medical provider’s alternative diagnosis delivered to campus health staff or registrar if no health staff is available OR
when all three of the following criteria are met:
At least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications);
The individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and
At least 14 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
FAMILIES NEEDING ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE
We look forward to partnering with your family this school year to help your child continue to grow academically. We understand that any adjustments to the normal school environment or calendar may create unexpected challenges for some families. If you would like to discuss specific needs for your student or family that are not addressed above, please contact your local Harmony campus or contact us via our Let’s Talk online platform.
AVISO DE CAMBIO EN EL PLAN DE REAPERTURA DE LAS ESCUELAS PÚBLICAS DE HARMONY
En las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony, nuestras prioridades son la salud y la seguridad de nuestros estudiantes y nuestro personal, así como el crecimiento académico y de desarrollo de nuestros estudiantes.
En respuesta a la continua propagación del COVID-19 en las comunidades a las que orgullosamente servimos, las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony anuncian el siguiente plan revisado para el inicio del año escolar 2020-21.
ASPECTOS BÁSICOS
Los estudiantes de todos los campus de HPS en todo el estado comenzarán el año académico el lunes 17 de agosto en un entorno solo en línea. Las clases continuarán solo en línea hasta al menos el martes, 8 de septiembre. Durante estas tres semanas, usted recibirá una encuesta en la que se le pedirá a su familia que elija la opción de continuar las clases solo en línea o regresar al campus para el aprendizaje presencial después del Día del Trabajo, si fuese posible. Harmony anunciará, a más tardar en la primera semana de septiembre, si es necesario extender más el aprendizaje solo en línea, o si las familias que han optado por el aprendizaje en el campus pueden regresar para la instrucción presencial. Los estudiantes que optaron por el aprendizaje en casa continuarán aprendiendo a distancia durante el resto del año escolar, a menos que notifiquen a su campus una solicitud de cambio a través de Skyward.
Todo el personal de HPS continuará trabajando a distancia mientras los campus estén cerrados, a menos que una función de trabajo específica y esencial requiera su presencia en el campus o en una oficina administrativa.
MOTIVO DEL CAMBIO
El propósito principal de estos cambios es proporcionar un entorno educativo seguro tanto para nuestros estudiantes como para los miembros del personal, así como para cumplir con las ordenanzas locales en muchas de nuestras comunidades de Harmony que prohíben específicamente la escolarización presencial hasta después del Día del Trabajo.
NUEVO SISTEMA SUPERIOR DE APRENDIZAJE EN LÍNEA, CON MEJORES OPORTUNIDADES DE PARTICIPACIÓN DE LOS ESTUDIANTES Y ACTIVIDADES EXTRACURRICULARES
Acelerar la educación de su hijo, incluso cuando aprende en casa, es una de nuestras misiones principales. Por eso hemos pasado el verano renovando completamente nuestro sistema de aprendizaje en línea para crear un entorno de aprendizaje más interactivo que sea más fácil de usar para las familias, que conecte mejor a los estudiantes con sus maestros y compañeros de clase y, lo que es más importante, que promueva el crecimiento académico incluso cuando nuestros campus estén cerrados.
Con nuestro nuevo sistema de gestión del aprendizaje Schoology, los estudiantes que asistan a clases en línea experimentarán una sólida experiencia académica con un mayor compromiso individual con los maestros a través de sesiones de clase en vivo, horarios de oficina regulares en línea, así como sesiones de tutoría académica y servicios de intervención para los estudiantes que los necesiten.
Los estudiantes también disfrutarán de opciones de actividades extracurriculares en línea en casa -incluyendo actividades de club y competiciones académicas y de deportes electrónicos- que les permitirán estar conectados con sus compañeros de clase en línea, incluso si no pueden estar juntos en persona.
Los padres tendrán acceso completo a los materiales de instrucción, tareas, calificaciones, calendarios, actualizaciones del progreso de los estudiantes y mensajes para los padres en una plataforma sencilla.
Lo mejor de todo es que cuando sea el momento de que su estudiante regrese al campus, el sistema Schoology lo seguirá de forma constante de regreso al campus, haciendo la transición más fácil tanto para su estudiante como para su familia.
Los maestros de Harmony han pasado sus veranos aprendiendo las complejidades de Schoology y estarán preparados para incorporarlo a su aprendizaje a partir del primer día de clase.
ESTUDIANTES QUE NECESITAN COMPUTADORA O ACCESO A INTERNET
Con el fin de completar las tareas escolares, las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony proporcionarán computadoras y/o acceso a Internet, previa solicitud, a aquellos estudiantes que no tengan acceso en su casa. Para solicitar un dispositivo o acceso a Internet, comuníquese con su campus de Harmony.
SERVICIOS DE COMIDA
Se seguirán ofreciendo servicios de comida gratuitos desde el primer día de clases. Comuníquese con su campus o sígalos en Facebook para obtener más información sobre las fechas, horarios y lugares de retiro de las comidas.
ASISTENCIA PARA LOS ESTUDIANTES EN CASA
Se llevará un registro digital de asistencia diaria para todos los estudiantes que aprendan desde casa, de acuerdo con las directrices y los requisitos de la Agencia de Educación de Texas. Aquellos estudiantes en casa que no asistan serán marcados como “Ausentes”, como si estuvieran aprendiendo en el campus.
PROTOCOLOS DE SEGURIDAD MEJORADOS EN EL CAMPUS
Para asegurarnos de que nuestra experiencia de aprendizaje en el campus sea lo más segura posible para los estudiantes y miembros del personal de HPS, Harmony instituirá un amplio espectro de protocolos de seguridad en el campus una vez que se retome la instrucción en el campus. Algunos de los nuevos protocolos de seguridad incluyen:
MANEJO DE LOS SÍNTOMAS DE COVID-19
Ya sea que se examinen en la escuela o que se autoexaminen en casa, los Centros para el Control de Enfermedades consideran que las siguientes condiciones son sintomáticas de COVID-19 y podrían implicar un abandono obligatorio del campus:
REGRESO AL CAMPUS DESPUÉS DE UN DIAGNÓSTICO O SÍNTOMAS DE COVID
Después de un diagnóstico de COVID-19 o de la aparición de síntomas, los estudiantes y el personal deben estar sin síntomas durante al menos 72 horas antes de regresar al campus, incluyendo una temperatura de menos de 100 grados sin el uso de medicamentos antifebriles. Aquellos diagnosticados con COVID-19 también deben tener una nota del médico que permita el regreso.
FAMILIAS QUE NECESITAN APOYO EXTRA
Esperamos asociarnos con su familia este año escolar para ayudar a su hijo a seguir creciendo académicamente. Entendemos que cualquier ajuste en el entorno o calendario escolar normal puede crear desafíos inesperados para algunas familias. Si desea hablar sobre las necesidades específicas de su estudiante o familia que no se han tratado anteriormente, comuníquese con su campus local de Harmony o comuníquese con nosotros a través de nuestra plataforma en línea Let’s Talk.
Harmony Public Schools to allow each family to choose to return to school or continue at-home learning for 2020-21 school year
Harmony Public Schools will allow each family to choose whether to continue learning from home or return to campus for in-person learning for the 2020-2021 school year, based on each family’s unique needs. Families can also switch between the two as local COVID-19 conditions or family situation changes.
The flexible learning plan was announced by Harmony CEO Fatih Ay in a letter to families.
“The best choice for Harmony in 2020-2021 is the choice that’s best for your family,” Fatih said. “While this flexible plan may be an uncommon approach, we firmly believe it is the right approach for families during these uncommon times.”
Families that choose at-home learning will have access to the same rigorous, academic environment that they have come to expect from their neighborhood Harmony campus, taught by teachers trained for educating and engaging students in a virtual environment.
Families who choose to send their students for in-person learning will find a safe and organized learning environment that they can feel comfortable sending their child to each day. This includes enhanced health and sanitary protocols, as well as possible adjustments to daily routines to help keep all of our students and team members as safe as possible.
All students will continue to receive the same full academic and support services from their teachers, counselors, and school leaders that they would receive on-campus, including our English-language learners and students receiving Special Education services.
Helping to keep families connected regardless of their learning location is Harmony’s new, all-in-one learning management system Schoology. Through Schoology, students and families will have full access to instructional materials, assignments, grading, calendars, and parent messaging in one platform that follows them seamlessly from at-home to in-person learning and back, if needed.
Harmony Public Schools is a Texas-born, Texas-wide public charter school system with campuses serving PreK-Grade 12 students in 23 cities across the state, including Greater Houston, DFW, San Antonio, Austin, El Paso, Waco, Lubbock, Odessa, Bryan, Beaumont, and the Rio Grande Valley. Harmony’s curriculum places a heavy focus on STEM skills, Character Education, project-based learning, and college readiness.
Harmony Public Schools is currently accepting applications for the 2020-2021 school year for both students and team members.
About Harmony Public Schools
Harmony Public Schools are 58 high performing PreK-12 college preparatory charter schools throughout Texas. Harmony blends the highest standards and expectations, with a rigorous math- and science-centered curriculum and dedicated and engaged teachers and families to cultivate excellence and prepare students to succeed in college, careers and life. At Harmony Public Schools, we believe every child can succeed, and we are committed to helping them realize their full potential. To learn more about Harmony Public Schools and our 58 campuses across Texas, please visit: www.harmonytx.org, and follow us on Twitter at @HarmonyEdu and ‘Like’ us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HarmonyTexas.
Your family counts! Be sure to complete the 2020 U.S. Census
Harmony Public Schools is encouraging our families to take a few moments to complete the 2020 U.S. Census online, by phone, or mail.
The 2020 Census is a count of everyone who lives in the United States and its territories. The 2020 Census questionnaire asks a few simple questions like the age, sex, and the number of people living in your home. Individual responses are confidential and cannot be used against you by any court or government agency.
When it comes to schools, the 2020 Census will determine funding for special education, teacher training, technology, school lunch assistance, Head Start and after-school programs. The census will also help determine funding for other important programs for families, such as maternal and child health programs, and housing, heating and food assistance.
People should count all children who live in their homes, including newborns and others too young for school. That’s important because responses to the census help schools plan for the resources they will need when the new generation of children is ready for school.
To begin, click here or call one of the numbers below, or look for the Census form in your mail.
CENSUS BY PHONE:
Letter from our CEO: Classes remain online-only until further notice
Dear Harmony Families & Team Members,
For the past 20 years, Harmony Public Schools has established an educational model built strongly on the foundations of science-based learning and responsible citizenship in our communities.
Currently, all available science from community health experts continues to tell us that the best way to be responsible members of our communities is to have our students and staff remain at home.
This is why we have determined that it is in the best interest of our students, team members, and communities to discontinue in-person schooling at our campuses and administrative offices statewide until further notice.
While these facilities remain closed, instruction and learning at Harmony schools will continue. Our classes are operating online through our established digital learning tools, taking advantage of many of the technology tools and blended learning methods already practiced in Harmony’s physical classrooms. Because our teachers and school leaders will remain available to guide our students each school day, we anticipate instructional continuity during these unusual and difficult times. To request access to a Chromebook and/or for questions regarding internet access, please contact your child’s campus.
(For more information on our at-home learning program, visit HarmonyTX.org/AtHome . To request access to a Chromebook or internet access, contact your child’s campus.)
We will also continue to offer free meal services to children in our communities, as local and state safety guidelines allow.
We thank you for your support and understanding in making this critical decision. We also are profoundly grateful for the extreme determination and Harmony pride shown by both our students and team members these past several weeks. Time and again you have proven why Harmony Public Schools is an institution where excellence is the standard.
We will continue to provide timely updates as new, relevant information comes available, and inform you immediately if our campuses reopen prior to the end of the school year.
Thank you and be well,
Fatih Ay
CEO | Harmony Public Schools
IMPORTANT UPDATE: TEMPORARY CLOSURE
The safety of our students and staff is our top priority at Harmony Public Schools. As new developments continue to unfold regarding the COVID-19 situation, we wanted to provide you an important update regarding the potential impact of the virus on our schools.
While there have been no cases of COVID-19 reported on our campuses or within our school family at this time, out of an abundance of caution we are announcing a temporary closure of all Harmony Public Schools campuses through Monday, April 6. All school activities, field trips, athletics events, and competitions have also been cancelled during this time.
At this time, we are anticipating classes will be able to resume for students on Tuesday, April 7. Staff will return for a work-day on Monday, April 6.
This decision was made after discussions with, and upon the recommendations of, local health officials. We strongly believe it is the best decision for helping to keep our students, staff, and communities safe at this time.
During this closure, our Harmony team members will continue to work remotely to finalize the details of distance-learning plan to make sure students continue to receive educational services with minimal interruption.You will receive regular updates how this plan will be implemented.
Additionally, all full-time, non-exempt and exempt employees will continue to be paid according to their normal rate and schedule.
We continue to urge families and team members to stay informed of current Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines related to the prevention of the spreading of viruses, including limiting out of town travel, “social distancing,” and self-quarantine for those who have recently traveled to impacted areas.
We recognize this is a rapidly evolving situation and will continue to aggressively monitor new developments and respond with appropriate actions based on the best interests of our Harmony families and the guidance of local health officials. Throughout this process, we will continue to communicate with you new information as soon as possible. We anticipate further updates no later than the week of March 23-27.
Thank you for your support during these unusual circumstances. With your continued collaboration, together we can provide a healthy learning environment for our students and staff.
COVID-19 & ‘clean campus’ procedures for after spring break
As students return from spring break, we would like to ask the Harmony community for your renewed diligence in helping our schools maintain the best-practices for clean campuses established before break.
That of course includes the normal requests regarding washing hands, covering your mouth when coughing, and staying home when sick. However, we also need your help keeping viruses and germs contained by asking your student to immediately report to their campus health office if their experience any of the following symptoms while at school:
Additionally, families should be aware that any student returning from a travel area on the CDC list of at-risk countries for COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) MUST see their medical provider before returning to campus. Students will have 48 hours to submit a clearance letter from their doctor before returning to campus. After this, student absences will not be excused. A student cannot return until they have clearance from their doctor or have finished quarantine if medically recommended.
With your continued support and collaboration, together we can provide a healthy learning environment for our students and staff.
Thank you.
P.S. … For more information about COVID-19 and our school system’s response, including additional resources for families, visit https://www.HarmonyTX.org/coronavirus.
A note for families about Coronavirus & spring break travel
Spring Break is almost here for our students and staff members across the state. We sincerely hope everyone in our Harmony community has a fun and relaxing break before together we begin the final stretch toward the end of the school year.
We understand that many of you will be traveling this spring break. With concerns about the Coronavirus in the minds of many, we want to share a few tips from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) about staying healthy when traveling, as well as provide more info about a few Harmony policies related to returning to school after visiting certain risk-prone destinations.
Tips for Healthy Travel
In general, the same advice for fighting germs and bacteria applies when traveling as it does when staying home:
Additionally, here are a few additional tips related specifically to those traveling:
Returning to School After Visiting Risk-Prone Areas
Due to CDC travel guidelines, students and families that have traveled to locations that are marked as a Coronavirus risk by the CDC must have a letter of clearance from their medical provider before returning to campus. Failure to provide a clearance letter will result in the student being dismissed home. Students will have 48 hours to provide proof of doctor’s clearance. Any additional absence will require further documentation from the parents or doctor. For a list of countries with COVID-19 travel advisories, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html.
Currently these countries include:
Additionally, please be aware that families travelling to China’s Hubei province or mainland China may face a mandatory quarantine and be monitored by public health officials. Any health department guidelines should be followed by any affected families and absences will be waived upon return to school with provision of proof of quarantine.
At Harmony Public Schools, we take the health and safety of our students and staff members seriously. Harmony is closely tracking all new developments regarding the Coronavirus and will continue to share timely, relevant updates, as needed.
If you have any questions or concerns, please refer to your campus health staff.
We appreciate your help in supporting healthy and happy learning environments for our Harmony community.
Earn prizes in our Spring Reading Challenge
This spring, Harmony is challenging our students to participate in a friendly reading competition across classrooms and other campuses.
Beginning March 3, students are challenged to read books and advance through pre-determined advancement levels in order to earn rewards at each stage.
With Spring Break coming up, we urge parents to help encourage their children to take advantage of this time to read books they are excited about.
You can find challenges for each grade level by clicking the link to our Spring Reading Challenge PDF below.
HPS Spring Reading Challenge
Parent-Teacher Data Team Meeting (conferences)
Parent-Teacher Data Team Meeting (conferences) will be held on Friday, February 28 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. These sessions will run similarly to our fall meetings. Parents will receive updated student data from their child’s teachers. We will also have a family night event running in the cafeteria at the same time. The topic of this session will be Mindfulness. Electives teachers will have mindfulness stations for families to visit together.
At each station, families can participate in an activity together and discuss how the activity allows them to refocus and relax. There will also be a set of activities that families can take home to extend the practices. Every family that completes all the stations and returns the evaluation will be entered into a drawing for a family fun night gift basket.
Data Team Meetings 5:00-5:45 (K-2 Families)
Data Team Meeting 6:00-6:45 (3-5 Families)
Mindfulness family event in Cafeteria 5:00-7:00
Harmony’s Got Talent competition
Got Talent? Harmony Students, tryout for the Harmony’s Got Talent competition. We would love to hear your beautiful voice or witty jokes and see your dance skills on display! The winner will go on to compete at the district level and be eligible to win prizes.
Auditions are held on:
March 2nd, 3rd, and 6th from 4-5pm
Room 140
Room 141
*Make sure to bring any props, instruments, and music you might need for your performance.
*Acts should be 3-5 mins.
*Students selected must attend rehearsals dates and times listed below.
*A permission slip should also be sent home today for parents to sign for their students who want to participate.
Please reach out to the HGT committee with any of your questions:
Mr. Hare rhare@harmonytx.org
Mrs. Copher scopher@harmonytx.org
Ms. Ogor cogor@harmonytx.org
Ms. Draney jdraney@harmonytx.org
Mrs. Reyes wreyes@harmonytx.org
Ms. Amani amomani@harmonytx.org
NATIONAL SCHOOL BREAKFAST WEEK
MARCH 2-6, 2020
You Art What You Eat statewide student art contest
TDA’s You Art What You Eat statewide student art contest engages students K-12 in learning about healthy nutrition by encouraging them to use their imagination and illustrate healthy school meals while also incorporating TDA’s provided theme. The winning entries inspire designs for cafeteria posters, social media ads, flyers and other resources that schools across Texas will use for celebrating National School Lunch Week and School Breakfast Week.
Contest Overview
2020 Art Contest Themes
Deadline
Guidelines
Forms
KINDER PERFORMANCE
Kindergarteners are learning the importance of friendship and empathy by singing songs.
Please join us on Friday, February 28th, from 10:00-10:30 am in the gym and enjoy our annual Winter Show!
PROCEEDS BENEFIT KINDERGARTEN GRADUATION CELEBRATION!
CASH ONLY!
Read Across America Spirit Week. March 2nd-6th
Read Across America Spirit Week
The week of March 2, we will have a spirit week to celebrate Read Across America and beloved children’s author Dr. Seuss. The schedule for spirit week is in the link below. We look forward to a fun week of celebrating reading.
https://adobe.ly/39Rz9hN
Friendship Day Celebration
Donuts With Dad
Dear Harmony Dads,
You and your child can enjoy Donuts, fresh-brewed coffee, and juice, along with lively conversation with other HSI Dads and friends.
Friday, February 14 from 7:15-7:45am
School Cafeteria
$3/ticket per guest
*If Dad is not available, another guardian may bring your child.
Tickets are sold online ONLY!
https://harmonytx.revtrak.net/gr-dfw/harmony-school-of-innovation-carrollton/#/v/donuts-with-dad
Parent-Teacher Conferences
Parent-Teacher Conferences/ Parent Academy 2/28 from 5-7pm
More information coming your way
No School- Monday, February 17th
Monday, February 17th- No School for Students/Staff Professional Development Day
3-5th Practice STAAR is next week!
Dear Parents,
Practice STAAR is next week! Practice STAAR is used to collect student data to guide instruction. Please do not schedule appointments on testing days and encourage your child to do well on the tests and help them at home by doing the following:
Below is the Testing Schedule:
Thank you for your continued support!
CALLING ALL TALENTS #HSIGotTalent
CALLING ALL TALENTS ? If you have a special talent you would like to show everyone, come be apart of the annual HSI Got Talent! We will be holding auditions on March 2nd, 3rd and 6th from 4-5pm! It will take place in the school campus. In order to participate, you will need to audition! We hope to see you all at our auditions! #HSIGOTTALENT
Questions? Please reach out to Ms. Amani at amomani@harmonytx.org
All Harmony DFW schools will be OPEN for normal classes today, Wednesday, Feb. 5
All Harmony DFW schools will be OPEN for normal classes today, Wednesday, Feb. 5. Bundle up—hats, scarves, gloves, and jackets—it’s cold out there!
Weather Alert
Deadline approaching for Open Enrollment for the 2020-2021 school year at Harmony
The deadline for application for open enrollment for the 2020-2021 school year at Harmony Public Schools is almost here. If you are a current Harmony family that would like to change campuses next year, or would like to apply to become a first-time Harmony student in 2020-2021 here’s s everything you need to know about how to apply for next year.
WHAT WE BELIEVE
Every child isn’t the same. So why should every school be?
Harmony Public Schools believes each student can achieve their own unique, full potential through a caring and collaborative academic environment that emphasizes personalized learning and innovative instructional methods.
WHAT MAKES HARMONY DIFFERENT
Engaging Education: Our project-based learning engages critical thinking skills and makes learning fun with hands-on activities that educate and excite.
Skills for Tomorrow: Our curriculum has been recognized by the TEA & others for providing students the STEM skills they need for the in-demand jobs of the future.
College Ready: Harmony has a 100% college acceptance rate, and almost two-thirds of our students are the first in their families ever to attend college.
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does Harmony Public Schools charge tuition to attend?
Absolutely not. Harmony is a tuition-free, Texas public charter school. We believe every student deserves the opportunity to attend a high-quality public school that fits their individual needs regardless of income.
Who is eligible to attend Harmony Public Schools?
All children residing in a Harmony school’s geographic boundary who meet registration requirements are eligible to attend. Unlike most other schools, though, Harmony’s geographic boundaries are much wider and generally include the entire community in which the school resides, meaning that all students in the area – regardless of neighborhood or family income level – have the same opportunity to attend a high-quality Harmony school.
What documents do I need to apply?
No documents are needed just to apply. However, if your child is selected for enrollment during the lottery process, you will need to provide a few basic documents that verify your child’s identity and home address.
I have a child in Harmony already, and would like to enroll their sibling for the first time. Do I still need to apply?
Yes. Siblings of current Harmony students still need to apply, but are given priority status if a campus lottery is needed.
DATES TO REMEMBER
February 10
Open Enrollment for 2020-2021 Application Deadline
February 11-25
Campus Lotteries Held (if needed)
Apply Now!
School Choice Week
As we continue to celebrate #SchoolChoiceWeek:
Wednesday 1/29: Learning is Fun!
Dress to represent your favorite subject in school. Be creative!
(ex. Favorite historical figure, t-shirt representing that subject, scientist, mathlete, etc… )
Go Tigers!
100 Days of School is tomorrow at Harmony School of Innovation!
100 Days of School is tomorrow at Harmony School of Innovation!
It’s a milestone for children (and teachers!)
Our Kinders can dress up like they’re 100 years old, or wear a shirt with 100 items.
As we continue to celebrate National School Choice Week, our 1st- 5th graders will represent their favorite college by wearing apparel/colors to represent that college.
Make tomorrow a special day, GO TIGERS?
National School Choice Week- Tuesday, January 28
It’s time to celebrate National School Choice Week! This is an opportunity where schools across America celebrate and promote the variety of effective education opportunities for every child.
Today our students enjoyed wearing their favorite hats to show “Hats off to choosing Harmony!”
This is the activity for tomorrow, Tuesday 1/28:
Where will your education take you?
Represent your favorite college by wearing apparel/colors to represent that college.
We can’t wait to see our future college students?!
⏱️ DEADLINE FRIDAY: The last day to re-enroll current students for the 2020-2021 school year is FRIDAY!
RE-ENROLLMENT FOR CURRENT HARMONY FAMILIES ENDS JAN. 24
Re-Enrollment for the 2020-2021 school year for Harmony families begins soon.
During this time of year each January, we ask families to complete a simple, online Re-Enrollment process, letting us know they’ll be joining us for another great year of learning and fun next school year, which starts in August 2020.
This simple step allows us to make sure each current student’s spot at Harmony is reserved for the following school year, and assess how many new student seats we have available for other applicants.
Re-Enrollment at Harmony Public Schools runs January 6-24, 2020. Look for more details in your email inbox, via Skyward, or on our Facebook page.
Home Visit Drive Jan 25 Sign Up
It is very important to us here at Harmony School of Innovation that we find ways to communicate with each other to support your involvement in your child’s education. We are organizing home visits drive on Saturday, January 25th. We would like to set up a time so teachers, admins, and coordinators come to your home for a brief 20-minute visit. We would like to learn more about you, your family and your hopes and dreams for your child’s education.
Please fill out this form: http://bit.ly/2L4esWB to sign up for a home visit on Jan 25. We are very excited about this opportunity to get to know you and your child!
Es muy importante para nosotros aquí en Harmony School of Innovation que encontremos formas de comunicarnos entre nosotros para apoyar su participación en la educación de sus hijos. Estamos organizando visitas a domicilio en coche el sábado 25 de enero. Nos gustaría establecer un horario para que los maestros, administradores y coordinadores vengan a su hogar para una breve visita de 20 minutos. Nos gustaría aprender más sobre usted, su familia y sus esperanzas y sueños para la educación de su hijo.
Reminder…no school on Monday, Jan. 20th for Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Reminder…no school on Monday, Jan. 20th for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Have a great long weekend!
“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.”
-Martin Luther King, Jr.
#MLK #MLKDay #DrKing
Second Quarter Awards Assembly
Here is the information for the second quarter awards assembly. It will be on January 31st in the gym. The times are as follows:
k-1st: 8:00-8:45 am
2nd-3rd: 9:00-9:45 am
4th-5th: 10:00-10:45am
The awards that will be given out:
Looking forward to seeing all our proud parents!
National School Choice Week
Dear parents,
It’s time to celebrate National School Choice Week! This is an opportunity where schools across America celebrate and promote the variety of effective education opportunities for every child. Thank you for choosing Harmony! Please help us celebrate by encouraging your child to participate in the following daily activities listed below:
Monday 1/27: Hats off to choosing Harmony!
Wear your favorite hat.
Tuesday 1/28:
Where will your education take you?
Represent your favorite college by wearing apparel/colors to represent that college
Wednesday 1/29: Learning is Fun!
Dress to represent your favorite subject in school. Be creative!
(ex. Favorite historical figure, t-shirt representing that subject, scientist, mathlete, etc… )
Thursday 1/30
Education inspires!
Dress up as your favorite superhero or hero/role model.
Friday 1/31
The choice is yours to shine bright at Harmony!
Wear yellow from head to toe
Student Contests:
“I love my school” art contest: Students can create a poster that displays their love for our school in a creative/artistic way. Posters are due Monday, January 27. Posters will be displayed in our hallways, and the winner will be announced on Friday, January 31.
“I love my school” writing contest. Students will have the opportunity to show their love for our school through writing. Using the template attached, students can write about why they love our school. Writings are due Monday, January 27. They will be displayed in our hallways, and the winner will be announced on Friday, January 31.
**Students may participate in one or both contests.
This is a link to download the I love my school card
https://adobe.ly/2RidIyZ
GATE Announcement
GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) Announcement!
In accordance with the Texas State Plan for the Education of Gifted/Talented students, Harmony Public Schools will begin taking referrals for all interested students in grades K-12 for Gifted and Talented (G/T) screening.
Anyone interested in the educational welfare of these students may nominate them for assessment. Students in grades 2 & up who were tested in Fall 2019 are not eligible to test in Spring 2020. Referral forms are available at the front office and on the school’s website.
Parent GT Referral Form in English
Parent GT Referral Form in Spanish
The referral forms must be returned to the front office by Friday, February 7, 2020. The Spring GT testing window is set by the campus in February or March. Campuses may elect to use NWEA MAP scores as a prescreening criterion for GT Testing.
For more information about the screening and identification process, parents may contact the school’s GT Coach/teacher.
GATE (Educación para estudiantes dotados/talentosos) Anuncio
De acuerdo con el Plan Estatal de Texas para la Educación de Estudiantes Dotados / Talentosos, Harmony Public Schools comenzará a tomar referencias para todos los estudiantes interesados en los grados K-12 para la evaluación de estudiantes dotados y talentosos.
Cualquier persona interesada en el bienestar educativo de estos estudiantes puede nominarlos para dicha evaluación. Los estudiantes en los grados 2 y superiores que fueron evaluados en el otoño de 2019 no son elegibles para la prueba en la primavera de 2020. Los formularios de referencia están disponibles en la oficina y en el sitio web de la escuela.
Forma de nominación
Los formularios de referencia deben devolverse a la oficina de la escuela antes del viernes 7 de febrero del 2020.
Para obtener más información sobre el proceso de selección e identificación, los padres pueden comunicarse con el entrenador / maestro de GT de la escuela.
Re-Enrollment is LIVE NOW for Fall 2020-2021 at Harmony Public Schools!
Re-Enrollment for the 2020-2021 school year for Harmony families has begun!
During this time of year each January, we ask families to complete a simple, online Re-Enrollment process, letting us know they’ll be joining us for another great year of learning and fun next school year, which starts in August 2020.
This simple step allows us to make sure each current student’s spot at Harmony is reserved for the following school year, and assess how many new student seats we have available for other applicants.
Re-Enrollment at Harmony Public Schools runs January 6-24, 2020. Look for more details in your email inbox, via Skyward, or on our Facebook page.
Need more info? Here are the full details:
#1
What is the difference between Re-Enrollment and Open Enrollment?
Re-enrollment is intended for current Harmony students planning to stay at their current campus the following school year, or who will be advancing to a nearby “feeder” campus (ex. moving from elementary school to middle school). Open Enrollment is for new students, or current students who wish to change Harmony campuses for other reasons (ex. transferring to a campus closer to home).
#2
When is Re-Enrollment season?
For the 2020-2021 school year, re-enrollment will be January 6-24, 2020.
#3
In what form will parents need to apply for Re-Enrollment?
The preferred method for re-enrollment is through the student’s online Skyward account. (A link to Skyward can be found at the top of your campus homepage or you can simply click here.). Parents without internet and/or Skyward access should contact the school registrar’s office for additional assistance.
#4
If a student plans to stay at the same school next year, are they automatically guaranteed re-enrollment if they complete the re-enrollment process before the deadline?
Yes, so long as their family completes the re-enrollment process.
#5
What happens if a parent does not submit their re-enrollment information before the deadline?
If a parent misses the deadline to complete the re-enrollment process, then the student will lose his/her reserved space for next school year and must apply during Open Enrollment (Nov. 1, 2019 through Feb. 10, 2020) at HarmonyTX.org/Apply.
#6
What does a Harmony parent need to do if they would like to stay with Harmony, but transfer to a different campus for the next school year?
If a parent would like to change Harmony campuses for the following school year, they must submit an application for the desired school at HarmonyTX.org/Apply.
HSI Carrollton Parents’ Survey
Dear Harmony Family,
As we strive to ensure that our school provides a safe and healthy learning environment for our students, we want to learn more about your experiences as a parent or caretaker of a student.
We send this letter as an invitation to participate in the School Survey for Parents and Families. The survey includes questions about your student’s learning, school safety, and interpersonal relationships, as well as your perceptions of the school environment and your personal involvement in school.
Your feedback will be very helpful in improving student engagement, learning conditions, and the overall school environment.
Beginning today, we invite all parents, guardians, and caretakers to complete the School Survey.
Your responses are completely anonymous, and your name or personally identifiable information will not be collected. As you respond to each survey item, please think about your own personal experiences as a parent, caregiver or guardian at your child’s school.
By participating in this survey, you will provide valuable insights that we can use to improve the climate and culture in our schools. Our school will use the survey results to develop strategies, procedures, and/or programs to enhance our school climate. You can take the survey online using the following link: https://forms.gle/t3NrgNG42Y23PouL8
Please complete your survey response by January 7.
Thank you for your time, and we hope you will support our effort to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.
Re-Enrollment for current Harmony families begins Jan. 6: Here are 6 things you need to know!
Re-Enrollment for the 2020-2021 school year for Harmony families begins soon.
During this time of year each January, we ask families to complete a simple, online Re-Enrollment process, letting us know they’ll be joining us for another great year of learning and fun next school year, which starts in August 2020.
This simple step allows us to make sure each current student’s spot at Harmony is reserved for the following school year, and assess how many new student seats we have available for other applicants.
Re-Enrollment at Harmony Public Schools runs January 6-24, 2020. Look for more details in your email inbox, via Skyward, or on our Facebook page soon.
In the meantime, check out these 6 things families need to know about Re-Enrollment at Harmony Public Schools.
#1
What is the difference between Re-Enrollment and Open Enrollment?
Re-enrollment is intended for current Harmony students planning to stay at their current campus the following school year. Open Enrollment is for new students, or current students who wish to change Harmony campuses (ex. moving from elementary to middle school, transferring to a campus closer to home).
#2
When is Re-Enrollment season?
For the 2020-2021 school year, re-enrollment will be January 6-24, 2020.
#3
In what form will parents need to apply for Re-Enrollment?
The preferred method for re-enrollment is through the student’s online Skyward account. (A link to Skyward can be found at the top of your campus homepage or you can simply click here.). Parents without internet and/or Skyward access may also request a paper re-enrollment option from their child’s campus.
#4
If a student plans to stay at the same school next year, are they automatically guaranteed re-enrollment if they complete the re-enrollment process before the deadline?
Yes, so long as their family completes the re-enrollment process.
#5
What happens if a parent does not submit their re-enrollment information before the deadline?
If a parent misses the deadline to complete the re-enrollment process, then the student will lose his/her reserved space for next school year and must apply during Open Enrollment (Nov. 1, 2019 through Feb. 10, 2020) at HarmonyTX.org/Apply.
#6
What does a Harmony parent need to do if they would like to stay with Harmony, but transfer to a different campus for the next school year?
If a parent would like to change Harmony campuses for the following school year, they must submit an application for the desired school at HarmonyTX.org/Apply.
GATE INFORMATION NIGHT
HARMONY SCIENCE ACADEMY CARROLLTON, INVITES All HSI Carrollton GATE Parents for INFORMATION NIGHT
When: December 17, 2019
Time: 5:00- 6:00 P.M
Where: HSA Building
District Assessment 2- Parent letter
Dear Parents,
Your child and his/her teachers have been working hard to prepare for the end of the semester assessments and now the time has arrived! The district assessment is used to collect student data to guide instruction. Please do not schedule appointments on testing days and encourage your child to do well on the tests and help them at home by doing the following:
Below is the Testing Schedule:
Thank you for your continued support!
2020 Spring Chess Program At Harmony School of Innovation
Chess Details:
When: Wednesdays, 3:00pm – 3:50pm
Where: Harmony Room #140
Level: Beginner/Intermediate
Dates: 1/8, 1/15, 1/22, 1/29, 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26, 3/4, 3/18, 3/25, 4/1, 4/8, 4/15,4/22, 4/29, 5/6 (15 total classes)
SOME Chess Experience Required
$255 per student
More details are found in this link: https://adobe.ly/2DN3EaV
Harmony demonstrates how schools should lead on STEM
On National STEM Day, educators across America celebrated the exciting opportunities made possible by science, technology, engineering, and math studies. Charter schools have been major contributors to making STEM education more widely available to students in every neighborhood and from every background.
One charter school network that’s leading the charge: Harmony Public Schools.
Harmony Public Schools was founded with a mission—to encourage students in underserved communities to pursue science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields. There’s a well-known gap in STEM education with African American, Hispanic, and low-income students taking AP science courses and majoring in sciences in college at much lower rates than White, Asian, and wealthier students. But Harmony’s founders and educators—many of whom hold advanced degrees in science and engineering fields—knew that these disparities were about access, not ability, so they leveraged the charter school model to build a different kind of school.
Based in Houston, Harmony places a heavy emphasis on STEM through its award-winning PreK-12 curriculum and helps students gain critical job skills and hands-on experience for the future. At Harmony campuses, it’s not unusual to see 2nd graders using a 3D printer to code and print their own toys or high schoolers creating 3D-printed prosthetic limbs for families in need. The end result is remarkable—58 percent of Harmony alumni choose STEM majors in college, more than double the national and Texas averages.
By exposing students to cutting-edge technology and hands-on experiences, Harmony is leveling the playing field for underrepresented groups and giving students the support they need to find their passion. Khalid, a Harmony School of Excellence alum, credited his school with helping him to discover his love of engineering and inspiring him to positively influence his community.
In addition, teachers like Theresa Gray (who was just awarded Teacher of the Year by the Texas Charter Schools Association) are given the flexibility to offer classes on Entrepreneurship and Social Media Marketing in order to prepare students for a 21st century workforce.
This dedication to personalized learning and innovative teaching approaches has paid off. Harmony has a 98 percent graduation rate, and 100 percent of those graduating seniors are accepted to college, a feat that is made even more impressive by the fact that 64 percent of Harmony alumni are the first in their family to attend college.
Harmony Public Schools have received glowing ratings from the Texas Education Agency. In 2019, the agency awarded five out of seven Harmony networks an overall “A” rating for their academics and gave all seven networks “A” ratings for financial accountability. National media have noticed, too. This year, all 23 Harmony high schools were on U.S. News & World Report’s list of best high schools.
Harmony’s CEO, Fatih Ay, says, “A solid foundation in STEM allows our students to better understand the world around them and connects them with the future careers and opportunities that can make that world a better place. That’s why STEM is at the heart of Harmony’s academic model.” Harmony schools are proving that no student should have their horizons limited by low expectations or lack of access to world-class teaching. By inspiring students to pursue some of the most innovative work in the world, Harmony is showing students that nothing is beyond their reach.
This article was written by Starlee Coleman, CEO of the Texas Charter Schools Association. It originally appeared in a blog post for the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools.
AEA Texas Elementary Art Meet (TEAM)
The Texas Elementary Art Meet is a visual arts event that recognizes exemplary student artwork. Any elementary art teacher who is a current member of TAEA can participate in TEAM. The teacher can enter as many pieces of artwork as they want, however, there is a limit of 2 per student. Each artwork entered has an entry fee of $12. This fee helps cover the costs of the jurors, webmaster, accounting, certificates, ribbons, and medals.
Here are the dates for this year’s event:
Jurying Date/artwork pickup – 04/04/20
During the event, the student artwork will be reviewed by jurors. The jurors will give each artwork a rating and will write comments for the student, giving them positives (glows) and constructive criticism (grows). Each student will have their artwork returned to them with the juror comments, and either an award ribbon or a medal for all artwork scored as Good or higher. Top of TEAM students will have their artwork photographed and featured on the TAEA website.
Please read over these tips while preparing artwork for the event. carefully (especially the part about Copyright and Selecting Artwork): http://bit.ly/2OqXZfE
If you have any questions, please go to the TEAM website (http://www.taea.org/TEAM/default.cfm) or send an email to Mrs. Hayes at lexi.hayes@harmonytx.org
¡La inscripción abierta para 2020-2021 ha comenzado!
La inscripción abierta para el año escolar 2020-2021 en las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony ha comenzado. Aquí encontrará todo lo que necesita saber para solicitar el próximo año.
Familias de las Escuelas Públicas actuales de Harmony Estudiantes que desean permanecer en el campus actual el próximo año
Espere a que llegue su formulario de reinscripción al comienzo del segundo semestre, luego envíelo entre el 6 y el 24 de enero para informarnos que volverá en 2020-2021
Familias de las Escuelas Públicas actuales de Harmony Estudiantes con la intención de mudarse de campus el próximo año
Visite HarmonyTX.org/Aplicar del 1 de noviembre al 1 de febrero. 10 para solicitar la inscripción en su nuevo campus de Harmony.
Familias de estudiantes potenciales de escuelas públicas de New Harmony
Visite HarmonyTX.org/Aplicar del 1 de noviembre al 1 de febrero. 10 para obtener más información sobre Harmony y solicitar la inscripción abierta.
LO QUE CREEMOS
No todos los niños son iguales. Entonces, ¿por qué debería ser cada escuela?
Las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony creen que cada estudiante puede lograr su propio potencial único y pleno a través de un entorno académico solidario y colaborativo que enfatiza el aprendizaje personalizado y los métodos de enseñanza innovadores.
QUE HACE DIFERENTE LA ARMONÍA
Educación atractiva: nuestro aprendizaje basado en proyectos involucra habilidades de pensamiento crítico y hace que el aprendizaje sea divertido con actividades prácticas que educan y entusiasman.
Habilidades para el mañana: Nuestro plan de estudios ha sido reconocido por TEA y otros por proporcionar a los estudiantes las habilidades STEM que necesitan para los trabajos demandados del futuro.
Preparado para la universidad: Harmony tiene una tasa de aceptación universitaria del 100%, y casi dos tercios de nuestros estudiantes son los primeros en sus familias en asistir a la universidad.
PREGUNTAS FRECUENTES
¿Las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony cobran matrícula para asistir?
Absolutamente no. Harmony es una escuela chárter pública gratuita de Texas. Creemos que cada estudiante merece la oportunidad de asistir a una escuela pública de alta calidad que se adapte a sus necesidades individuales, independientemente de sus ingresos.
¿Quién es elegible para asistir a las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony?
Todos los niños que residen en el límite geográfico de una escuela Harmony que cumplen con los requisitos de registro son elegibles para asistir. Sin embargo, a diferencia de la mayoría de las otras escuelas, los límites geográficos de Harmony son mucho más amplios y generalmente incluyen a toda la comunidad en la que reside la escuela, lo que significa que todos los estudiantes en el área, independientemente del nivel de ingresos del vecindario o la familia, tienen la misma oportunidad de asistir a un escuela de armonía de calidad.
¿Qué documentos necesito para solicitar?
No se necesitan documentos solo para aplicar. Sin embargo, si su hijo es seleccionado para la inscripción durante el proceso de lotería, deberá proporcionar algunos documentos básicos que verifiquen la identidad y el domicilio de su hijo.
Ya tengo un hijo en Harmony y me gustaría inscribir a su hermano por primera vez. ¿Todavía necesito solicitar?
Sí. Los hermanos de los estudiantes actuales de Harmony aún deben presentar una solicitud, pero se les da prioridad si se necesita una lotería en el campus.
FECHAS PARA RECORDAR
01 de noviembre
La inscripción abierta para 2020-2021 comienza para nuevos estudiantes
6-24 de enero
Período de reinscripción para estudiantes actuales
10 de febrero
Inscripción abierta para la fecha límite de solicitud 2020-2021
11-25 de febrero
Loterías del campus (si es necesario)
Parent Academy
Wonderful Harmony Family,
We have our Parent Academy scheduled November 21st from 5-6 pm. This will be targeting 3rd, 4th, and 5th-grade families. We will cover the importance of the STAAR assessment for all grades, and the transitions related to 3rd graders taking the test for the first time, and what the Student Succes Initiative means for 5th grade students. Parents will get all the information they need about the expectations of STAAR, promotion to 6th grade based on 5th STAAR results in ELA and Math.
We encourage all 3rd, 4th, and 5th-grade parents to attend! Parents will utilize the texasassessment.com website’s families section, as well as released test questions. Please sign up to attend this informative session. You can use Classtag to sign up.
There will be a PTO meeting following the last session.
HSI Open House
Please join us at Harmony School of Innovation- Carrollton at the dates below to receive a free tour of the school and more information about our enrollment for the 2020/2021 school year!
Please RSVP to Hannah Miller
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Thursday, November 14
Monday, November 18
Thursday, December 12
Email: hannah.miller@harmonytx.org
Phone: 469-892-5556
1024 W Rosemeade Pkwy Carrollton, TX 75007
WE’RE HIRING: Bilingual Teacher
Harmony Public Schools is recruiting talented, compassionate bilingual teachers dedicated to helping every student succeed. Harmony offers a competitive salary, excellent benefits and a commitment to excellence in the classroom.
Interested applicants may click here to apply online.
Request Teacher Qualifications
Dear Parent/ Guardian:
The educators of Harmony School of Innovation- Carrollton are committed to providing a quality instructional program for your child. Please read the attached letter to keep you informed of the educational commitment of our school
English
Spanish
Harmony School of Innovation Newsletter
https://www.smore.com/tv76y-hsic-weekly-newsletter
Fall Festival Admission
Dear Harmony Family,
Get your Fall Festival admission ticket to enjoy:
Games, Face-Painting, Bounce Houses, Mechanical Bull, Cake Walk, Chili Cook-Off, Pie-In-The-Face Booth, Popcorn and Cotton Candy Stations, Food Trucks, Kona Ice, Food Concessions and much more!
Buy online: https://harmonytx.revtrak.net/…/harmony-school-of-innovat…/…
or pay at the front office (No cash please)
An armband is necessary for any student/child who will be participating. There is no fee for adults.
$2/ticket if bought before the Fall Festival (by noon on or before November 7)
$3/Ticket $3 on the night of the festival
Save and BUY NOW!
Open Enrollment for 2020-2021 has begun at Harmony Public Schools!
Open enrollment for the 2020-2021 school year at Harmony Public Schools has begun. Here’s everything you need to know to apply for next year.
Families of Current Harmony Public Schools Students Intending to Stay at Current Campus Next Year
Wait for your re-enrollment form to arrive at the start of the second semester, then submit it between January 6-24 to let us know you’ll be coming back in 2020-2021
Families of Current Harmony Public Schools Students Intending to Move Campuses Next Year
Visit HarmonyTX.org/Apply from Nov. 1-Feb. 10 to apply for enrollment to your new intended Harmony campus.
Families of Potential New Harmony Public Schools Students
Visit HarmonyTX.org/Apply from Nov. 1-Feb. 10 to learn more about Harmony and apply for open enrollment.
WHAT WE BELIEVE
Every child isn’t the same. So why should every school be?
Harmony Public Schools believes each student can achieve their own unique, full potential through a caring and collaborative academic environment that emphasizes personalized learning and innovative instructional methods.
WHAT MAKES HARMONY DIFFERENT
Engaging Education: Our project-based learning engages critical thinking skills and makes learning fun with hands-on activities that educate and excite.
Skills for Tomorrow: Our curriculum has been recognized by the TEA & others for providing students the STEM skills they need for the in-demand jobs of the future.
College Ready: Harmony has a 100% college acceptance rate, and almost two-thirds of our students are the first in their families ever to attend college.
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does Harmony Public Schools charge tuition to attend?
Absolutely not. Harmony is a tuition-free, Texas public charter school. We believe every student deserves the opportunity to attend a high-quality public school that fits their individual needs regardless of income.
Who is eligible to attend Harmony Public Schools?
All children residing in a Harmony school’s geographic boundary who meet registration requirements are eligible to attend. Unlike most other schools, though, Harmony’s geographic boundaries are much wider and generally include the entire community in which the school resides, meaning that all students in the area – regardless of neighborhood or family income level – have the same opportunity to attend a high-quality Harmony school.
What documents do I need to apply?
No documents are needed just to apply. However, if your child is selected for enrollment during the lottery process, you will need to provide a few basic documents that verify your child’s identity and home address.
I have a child in Harmony already, and would like to enroll their sibling for the first time. Do I still need to apply?
Yes. Siblings of current Harmony students still need to apply, but are given priority status if a campus lottery is needed.
DATES TO REMEMBER
November 1
Open Enrollment for 2020-2021 Begins for New Students
January 6-24
Re-Enrollment Period for Current Students
February 10
Open Enrollment for 2020-2021 Application Deadline
February 11-25
Campus Lotteries Held (if needed)
Apply Now!
Open Enrollment for 2020-2021 has begun at Harmony Public Schools!
Open enrollment for the 2020-2021 school year at Harmony Public Schools has begun. Here’s everything you need to know to apply for next year.
Families of Current Harmony Public Schools Students Intending to Stay at Current Campus Next Year
Wait for your re-enrollment form to arrive at the start of the second semester, then submit it between January 6-24 to let us know you’ll be coming back in 2020-2021
Families of Current Harmony Public Schools Students Intending to Move Campuses Next Year
Visit HarmonyTX.org/Apply from Nov. 1-Feb. 10 to apply for enrollment to your new intended Harmony campus.
Families of Potential New Harmony Public Schools Students
Visit HarmonyTX.org/Apply from Nov. 1-Feb. 10 to learn more about Harmony and apply for open enrollment.
WHAT WE BELIEVE
Every child isn’t the same. So why should every school be?
Harmony Public Schools believes each student can achieve their own unique, full potential through a caring and collaborative academic environment that emphasizes personalized learning and innovative instructional methods.
WHAT MAKES HARMONY DIFFERENT
Engaging Education: Our project-based learning engages critical thinking skills and makes learning fun with hands-on activities that educate and excite.
Skills for Tomorrow: Our curriculum has been recognized by the TEA & others for providing students the STEM skills they need for the in-demand jobs of the future.
College Ready: Harmony has a 100% college acceptance rate, and almost two-thirds of our students are the first in their families ever to attend college.
COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does Harmony Public Schools charge tuition to attend?
Absolutely not. Harmony is a tuition-free, Texas public charter school. We believe every student deserves the opportunity to attend a high-quality public school that fits their individual needs regardless of income.
Who is eligible to attend Harmony Public Schools?
All children residing in a Harmony school’s geographic boundary who meet registration requirements are eligible to attend. Unlike most other schools, though, Harmony’s geographic boundaries are much wider and generally include the entire community in which the school resides, meaning that all students in the area – regardless of neighborhood or family income level – have the same opportunity to attend a high-quality Harmony school.
What documents do I need to apply?
No documents are needed just to apply. However, if your child is selected for enrollment during the lottery process, you will need to provide a few basic documents that verify your child’s identity and home address.
I have a child in Harmony already, and would like to enroll their sibling for the first time. Do I still need to apply?
Yes. Siblings of current Harmony students still need to apply, but are given priority status if a campus lottery is needed.
DATES TO REMEMBER
November 1
Open Enrollment for 2020-2021 Begins for New Students
January 6-24
Re-Enrollment Period for Current Students
February 10
Open Enrollment for 2020-2021 Application Deadline
February 11-25
Campus Lotteries Held (if needed)
Apply Now!
Red Ribbon Week- October 28-November 1
We will celebrate Red Ribbon Week the week of October 28-November 1. Our 4th and 5th grade ambassadors have planned some fun activities for this week:
1. Themed dress up days: every day students and staff can show their Red Ribbon Week pride with a different theme. Please check the attached flyer for the theme each day. https://adobe.ly/2J3MIQu
2. Red Ribbon Week Poster Contest: students can make a poster at home about being drug free or standing up to bullying. This year’s theme is “Send a Message, Stay Drug Free”.
CLASSES ARE IN SESSION AT HARMONY SCHOOL OF INNOVATION ON MONDAY, OCTOBER 14, 2019.
Meal Charge Policy, 2019-2020
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Harmony strives each day to provide a safe, caring and collaborative atmosphere for our students. Nutritious meals are available
daily for a price of $1.70 for breakfast, $3.00 for lunch, and $0.50 for a la carte milk. Schools may also sell Smart Snacks and ice
cream, which are only available for purchase from a positive meal account balance. Note that just a milk is an a la carte purchase and
costs $0.50 regardless of eligibility.
Upon enrollment in Harmony Public Schools, each student is provided a meal account onto which money may be deposited for
breakfast, lunch, or a la carte purchases. Money may be deposited by credit card or money order in the school office. You may also
deposit money online by setting up an account at www.schoolcafe.com. In addition to making payments, you may also arrange for
low balance alerts and schedule automatic payments. School Café is available online and as an app for both iPhone and Android
devices.
If you would like to apply for free or reduced price meals, the lunch application is available online at www.schoolcafe.com as well as
through the app. A paper copy of the application is also available at the school office. A reduced price breakfast is $0.30, and a
reduced price lunch is $0.40. Once an application is submitted, the school will notify the household by mail or email within 10
operating days of the student’s eligibility.
Should a student’s meal account balance fall below $0, he/she will be allowed to charge up to –$10 in breakfast or lunch meals.
Students will not be allowed to charge a la carte purchases. Once the negative meal account balance limit is reached, the student will
receive an alternate meal.
Harmony goes to great lengths to communicate with parents about the status of their student’s lunch balance. Parents will be notified
when a student’s balance approaches $0. The school will make several additional attempts to contact the parents regarding negative
balances prior to the student receiving an alternate meal. Parents may view meal account balances at any time by logging in to their
School Café account. Please note that while households later approved for free meals will begin receiving free meals immediately,
they are still responsible for paying negative balances accrued on the meal account.
We appreciate your continued support as we work to ensure a safe and productive learning environment for all of our students.
Sincerely,
Child Nutrition
In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees,
and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or
retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication
for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits.
Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program
information may be made available in languages other than English. To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint
Form, (AD-3027) found online at: http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter
all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S.
Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3)
email: program.intake@usda.gov. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Waco District
NO SCHOOL FRIDAY 10/25/19
Student Holiday
STAFF DEVELOPMENT DAY
October is Dyslexia Awareness Month
Join us on October 4th from 5-6 pm for an informative presentation on dyslexia at our first Parent-Teacher Conferences. Whether you are a parent of a student with dyslexia or just wanting more information this will be an event you don’t want to miss!
Where: HSI cafeteria.
Parent-Teacher Conference
We Love to See Our Students Grow!!!
Please join us for a Parent-Teacher Conference on Friday, October 4th from 5:00pm – 7:00pm. Your child’s Homeroom will be available from 5:00pm – 6:00pm (K-2) and 6:00pm – 7:00pm (3-5). At this time, the Homeroom Teachers will provide you with up-to-date academic growth on your child. A brief presentation will be held to help you learn how to read the MAP results and to see your child’s growth since last year. The teachers will address all parents at once. They will discuss classroom expectations, schedules, and pertinent data. Map and STARR information for grade levels affected. If you would like a one-on-one conference, there will be a sign up at this event. You can also sign up for a home visit.
Picture Retake Day Reminder
We want to remind all families that picture retakes are tomorrow, September 30. All students will be allowed to retake their Fall pictures. In order to accommodate this, students are allowed a FREE DRESS day tomorrow. Please make sure that the free dress chosen is within the dress code outlined below.
Dress Code on Free Dress Days (p. 19 of the student handbook)
All general guidelines for dress apply on free dress days, even
though school uniforms are not mandatory. Garments must be
free of holes, tears, inappropriate wording, logos, messages or
advertising. No short, skin tight, or legging dresses, or skirts may be worn. All dresses must have sleeves. Students may not wear low cut, midriff-baring, or backless blouses. Students may wear jeans, but they cannot be tight pants including jeggings, tights or skinny style pants. Clothing items must not depict images of violence. Parents will be called to bring a change of clothes or pick up a child if he or she violates the dress code.
Title I Parental Involvement Meeting
We would like our Harmony Family to be part of the decision-making process! Please join us today at 5:30 for the Title I Parental Involvement Meeting at the HSI building/ Room 137.
Usted está cordialmente invitado a asistir a la reunión de participación de padres de Harmony School of Innovation Carrollton Título I
JUEVES, 12 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 2019 5:30 PM en el edificio HSIC / Sala 137
Parent Involvement Leads to Student Success!
No School Friday 9/20/19- Staff Development Day
No School Friday 9/20/19- Staff Development Day
Title III ESL Night
ear Harmony Families,
You are invited to English as a Second Language Night (Title III)!
Please join us to learn all about the ESL program’s services and benefits, meet the ESL teachers and coordinators, celebrate our school-wide diversity, and get tips and resources for how to help your student at home. Get to know information about the support that your student’s receive from certified ESL teachers
We are thrilled to have Dr. Sarah Keramati (K), Ph.D., a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas as the keynote speaker for this event.
Dinner will be provided.
Estimadas familias de Harmony:
¡Estás invitado a la noche de inglés como segundo idioma (Título III)!
Únase a nosotros para conocer todo acerca de los servicios y beneficios del programa ESL, conozca a los maestros y coordinadores de ESL, celebre nuestra diversidad en toda la escuela y obtenga consejos y recursos sobre cómo ayudar a su estudiante en el hogar. Conozca la información sobre el apoyo que recibe su estudiante de maestros certificados de ESL
Estamos encantados de tener a la Dra. Sarah Keramati (K), Ph.D., una Consejera Profesional Licenciada en el Estado de Texas como la oradora principal de este evento.
Se proporcionará la cena.
Harmony School of Innovation Carrollton Fundraising Night 9/13/2019
JOIN US ON FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 AT CHUCK E. CHEESE FOR OUR FIRST FUNDRAISING NIGHT!
20% OF ALL SALES WILL BENEFIT THE SCHOOL.
YOUR SUPPORT MAKES A DIFFERENCE
When: 9/13/2019
Location: 2402 S Stemmons Fwy, Lewisville, TX 75056
Sign Up for a Home Visit on September 21st.
It is very important to us here at Harmony School of Innovation that we find ways to communicate with each other to support your involvement in your child’s education. This year I am organizing home visits drive on Saturday, September 21st. I would like to set up a time so teachers, admins, and coordinators come to your home for a brief 20-minute visit. We would like to learn more about you, your family and your hopes and dreams for your child’s education.
Please fill out this form: http://bit.ly/2L4esWB to sign up for a home visit on September 21st. A hard copy was sent home last Friday, your child should return it to his teacher by September 5th to allow teachers time to contact you and plan the home visit. We are very excited about this opportunity to get to know you and your child!
Noticias Y Anuncios de HSIC,
Es sumamente importante para nuestros en la Escuela de Harmony de Innovación que encontremos formas de comunicación el uno con el otro para sostener y que se envuelvan en la educación de su hijo/a. Este año estoy organizando las visitas del hogar para los sábados. En septiembre 21 me gustaría establecer un horario para que los maestros, administración y coordinadores puedan ir a su hogar por una breve visita de 20 minutos. Nos gustaría aprender mas de usted, su familia y su esperanza junto con los sueños educativos de su hijo/a.
Por favor llene la forma: http://bit.ly/2L1TV4Q incluida abajo para una visita en septiembre 21, 2019. Verifique hoy el cartapacio de su hijo/a que se le ha incluido una copia. Su hijo a debería de entregarlo antes de setiembre 5, 2019 para proveer tiempo a la maestra tiempo para comunicarse y coordinar con usted.
Estamos sumamente emocionados poder compartir con usted.
Title I Parental Involvement Meeting
Dear Harmony Family,
You are Cordially Invited to Attend Harmony School of Innovation Carrollton Title I Parental Involvement Meeting
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2019 5:30 PM at the HSIC building/Room 137
Goal/Purpose: Review, evaluate and update/develop Written Parent Involvement (PI) Policy and the School-Parent Compact
Agenda Items:
Usted está cordialmente invitado a asistir a la reunión de participación de padres de Harmony School of Innovation Carrollton Título I
JUEVES, 12 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 2019 5:30 PM en el edificio HSIC / Sala 137
Meta / Propósito: Revisar, evaluar y actualizar / desarrollar la Política de Participación Escrita de los Padres (PI) y el Pacto Escuela-Padre
Elementos de la agenda:
Presentación del programa Título I
Revise y evalúe la Política de PI del año pasado y el Acuerdo Escuela-Padre
Desarrollar conjuntamente PI Policy and Compact para el año en curso
Comentarios, preguntas y respuestas
GrandParents Breakfast
We love our Grandparents!
Thursday, September 19 @ 7:15- 7:45 am, we will be having a special breakfast in the school cafeteria for ALL GRANDPARENTS!
Fee: $3 per guest. HSI students who attend with a paid guest can bring their own breakfast or buy from the school’s breakfast menu.
Buy your ticket at the front office no later than 9/17/2019. No same-day payments will be accepted.
No Cash…Check or Credit Card Only…Thank you!
Coffee Talk with Admin Team
Join the HSI Carrollton admin team on Tuesday, September 10 at the school’s cafeteria for some coffee and conversation to further foster transparency and communication between the school and Harmony families.
When: September 10 at 8:00 am
Where: School cafeteria
STEM Club Registration- CODE:BOT For grades 3-5
We are proud to be partnering with Mad Science to offer a new Wednesday after school club option for K-2 and 3-5 grade levels. See below for registration information!
dfw.madscience.org
https://register.madscience.org/…/afterschool-register.aspx…
Bubbles, Smoke, Explosions!
For grades K-2
Have fun with chemistry at an exciting iSTEM Academy hands-on learning lab! Immerse your children in maker experiences that are fun and educational all at once. Students make a crystal garden, synthesize their own slime, learn about our solar system by making a comet with everyday items, and have a shocking time with a Van de Graaff generator by experiencing lightning up close!
CODE:BOT
For grades 3-5
The CODE:BOT program is our newest generation program, created to bring personalized, small-group experiences to your kids in a fun, educational, and high-energy setting.
Children will start with the basics of block-based coding and apply these concepts to their real-life robots! Our Mad Science instructor will lead the way as your child steps into a world filled with technology. Students will get a personalized cloud portal to write code and to program their robots. Students progress at their own pace through introductory, intermediate, advanced, and mastery levels.
To enroll visit register.madscience.org/dfwor call (972) 241-0475.
PLEASE DO NOT CONTACT THE SCHOOL. Call Mad Science directly.
● STEM Maker Labs run once a week – Each lab is different.
○ Take-home project each lab session (as applicable)
● Easy Installment Plan:
○ Total fee: 3 payments of $70
○ First payment is due at the time of registration
○ Future payments will be automatically calculated and drafted on the first day of the following months.
Please click the link for more details: https://adobe.ly/2kv2aMq
Clubs will start on August 26th
Dear Harmony Families,
Clubs will start on August 26th!!! It is not too late to sign up for most of our clubs!!!
HSI Carrollton offers clubs Monday, and Friday from 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm. Each club is $75 per semester. Students being dismissed from clubs will be picked up through the front office only, as regular dismissal ends promptly at 3:30 pm and no additional car plate numbers will be entered from the main dismissal area after that time.
You can find more information about the clubs that HSI Carrollton offers (in the link below):
https://hsicarrollton.harmonytx.org/hsi-carrollton-club-list/
On Wednesdays, the clubs are offered by a third party. There are 4 different clubs offered on Wednesdays. You can find more information about these clubs at the following links:
(K-5) Karate Club – Power KENPO Karate 972-358-0378, www.PowerKenpo.com
(2-5) Chess Club North Texas Chess 469-900-014, http://www.northtexaschessacademy.com/
Drama Kids www.dramakids.com
Young Rembrandts www.youngrembrandts.com
To register and pay for clubs, please visit our front office, they’ll be happy to assist you!
Parent Involvement Leads to Student Success!
HSI Carrollton Club List
https://hsicarrollton.harmonytx.org/hsi-carrollton-club-list/
HSIC Traffic Map
Drop-Off and Pick-Up Operation
You can find the traffic flow map Here.
Thank you!
GT Parent Night September 5th
Thursday, September 5th, all current GT parents are invited to our annual GT Parent Night, 5:30-6:30pm at the school cafeteria.
We are looking forward to another year filled with great learning opportunities for our students and families!
Visitors on Campus
Dear Harmony Families,
We will not have visitors on campus until September 6th in order to get students acclimated with the school lunch process and procedures before we have visitors.
If you have any questions, please email Ms. Amani at amomani@harmonytx.org
Tears and Cheers for Kindergarten Parents August 15
Thursday, August 15⋅7:30 – 8:30am
After you drop your kindergartner at class, come join us for a little cheering up and meet our supportive HSIC staff
FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL – Thursday AUGUST 15
Doors open as early as 7:15 AM
School starts at 7:45 AM Breakfast 7:20-7:40
Dismissal is at 2:55 pm
We can’t wait to see all our new and returning students!!!
Meet the Teacher August 14
We would like to invite our parents to meet the teacher on August 14th at 4:30-6:30 pm. It’s a chance for you to speak to your child’s teacher and see their classroom, meet the admin team, and drop off the school supplies. You will find out about what they are learning and what you can do to support their learning at home.
Fall Pictures- August 9
Free dress for pictures on Orientation day Give us your best smile :
Orientation Day! August 9
9:00am-12:00pm A-M (first letter in last name)
1:00pm-4:00pm N-Z (first letter in last name)
On Orientation day, parents get to:
Meet teachers and staff
Buy new uniform shirts
Complete free lunch applications
Join and meet PTO
Sign up for home visits, after-school care, clubs, and tutorials
Ensure all documents and shot records are turned into the office
Fall Pictures
And much more! See you all then!!
Tax Free Uniform Sale
The tax-free day is August 9, below are the prices of the shirts without tax:
1-2 Shirts per family: $15 each with Tax $13.86 without tax
3-4 Shirts per family: $12 each with Tax $11.09 without tax
5+ Shirts per family: $10 each with Tax $9.24 without tax
Due to high demand, there might be a limit on shirt sales on Orientation Day!
Purchase School Uniform online
Online School Uniform Link
Tiger Camp- August 3rd, 10am- 12pm
Calling all 2019-2020 Kindergartners! Join us for an amazing Tiger Camp filled with fun activities and a special treat. Show off your letter and number skills as we welcome you to our amazing school! We are looking forward to seeing you there!
2019-2020 School Supply list
Supply List 2020
Harmony teachers will receive a significant salary increase
“We are very happy to continue to reward our staff for their dedication to excellence,” said Fatih Ay, CEO of Harmony Public Schools. “Every year our 34,000 plus students consistently exceed state education standards. Our teacher’s hard work is recognized annually by major publications, such as US News Best High Schools, and noted children’s advocacy groups.”
In addition to a base salary increase of between $3,500 & $5,000, teachers will be awarded a stipend of $1,000 if they have between 5 and 9 years of classroom experience. Those with more than 10 years’ experience will receive $2,000. “We see this as an investment not only in our teachers but in our students as well,” Ay said.
The new salary schedule follows Governor Greg Abbott’s signing of the $11.5 Billion school finance reform package. Harmony chose to target additional funding into pay & benefits for teachers and staff. These increases have been presented to the HPS Board of Directors, and will be up for approval after receiving regulations from TEA.
Harmony Proposed Pay Increases
DFW Calendar 2019-2020
DFW Calendar 2019-2020
Find Summer Meals in Your Community
Nutritious free meals are available for children and teens 18 and younger at many locations throughout the nation throughout the summer while school is out of session. Use the mapping tool below to find a site near you.
STARTING JUNE 1, FIND A NEARBY MEAL SITE AND HOURS OF OPERATION
1 Call 211
2 Text* FOODTX to 877-877, or
3 Visit SummerFood.org
Mapping tool: https://www.fns.usda.gov/summerfoodrocks
—————-
Nuestros niños necesitan comida nutritiva para aprender, crecer y prosperar—incluso cuando no hay escuela. Bajo el Programa de Servicios de Alimentos para Niños durante el Verano, los niños de 18 años de edad o menores pueden seguir comiendo comida saludable durante todo el verano, sin costo. Solo tienen que ir a un sitio de comida que participe en el programa.
A PARTIR DEL 1 DE JUNIO BUSQUE UN SITIO DE COMIDA CERCANO Y LAS HORAS DE OPERACIÓN
1 Llame al 211
2 Envíe un mensaje de texto* COMIDA al 877–877, o
3 Visite SummerFood.org
Mapping tool: https://www.fns.usda.gov/summerfoodrocks
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QsLPbiOJP-E[/embedyt]
Parent Information Rack Card
Instructions for Viewing Your Child’s STAAR Scores
Harmony Parents – On June 12, you can visit TexasAssessment.gov to learn more about your child’s #STAAR performance and how you can provide additional support at home.
Texas Education Agency is committed to making sure you are informed and have an accurate picture of your child’s progress. Follow these 4 steps to Log in & Learn More.
STAAR Testing for 3rd, 4th and 5th Grade
STAAR Testing for 3rd, 4th and 5th Grade begins on Monday, May 13! Testing will take place on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday of that week.
Closed Campus: Monday 5/13- Friday 5/17
2 days left to order the FIELD DAY SHIRT
Dear HSI Families,
The new online store link is available for parents to order new Field Day shirts. This link: https://www.spiritworx.com/store/7315-S1/ will close at midnight on Wednesday 5/8/19.
We are not able to accept any cash orders. Online orders only! If you have any questions, please reach out to coach Martin at bmartin@harmonytx.org
*Field day is May 21st.
Thanks,
Kindergarten Graduation
We will be having Kindergarten Graduation on May 17.
8:30am-9:30am Mrs. Lackey and Mrs. Rowden
9:45am-10:45am Mrs. Daniel and Mrs. Copher
Go Tigers!
5th Grade Graduation
The 5th Grade Graduation is scheduled for May 23rd from 12:30-1:30 PM. The ceremony will be held in the gym with light refreshments to follow. Please see the attached invitation. Students are encouraged to wear formal clothes for the ceremony, but it is not required.