Dear Bobcat Families & Staff,
I wanted to make you aware of some important information. Student success is our top priority in Hempstead ISD, and I am incredibly proud of the progress and growth we have seen over the last three years.
When I first arrived to lead Hempstead ISD, we had some academic challenges that we discussed with you. Since then, we have had record growth and improvement across our campuses in the state accountability ratings. The district’s double-digit gains since the 2023 refreshed TEA accountability framework have earned Hempstead ISD a D (69) rating, an 11-point improvement. Hempstead High School has improved by 12 points, Hempstead Middle School by 18 points, and Hempstead Elementary School by 9 points. Hempstead ISD students are showing the fastest academic gains in Waller County and are tied for the Highest Growth in Region IV.
I am extremely proud of the continued progress our students and staff have made. However, there are still some academic challenges for Hempstead Elementary School. The 2016-2017 school year academic campus rating started a chain of consecutive unsatisfactory ratings in the state accountability system. Due to receiving either a ‘D’ or ‘F’ rating consecutively, the elementary school is running out of time for improvement.
The state has options to ensure that we do not lose local control of our district. We have to be bold and accelerate the growth and improvement at Hempstead Elementary School.
Transformation must happen now.
The Hempstead ISD Board of Trustees and leadership team have decided to enter into an 1882 Partnership. This partnership will allow an in-district charter to partner with us to jumpstart academic improvement at Hempstead Elementary. This allows the district to maintain local control of our school district.
I believe in our teachers and our students, but we have to ensure that we do not meet the same fate as some districts across the state.
While challenging decisions will need to be made, we are committed to addressing every question along the way. We will be hosting informational meetings and workshops to keep you informed throughout this process. Our Hempstead Elementary School students will continue to learn at their campus, while we work to rapidly improve academic performance and move our district forward. Any changes made will be implemented beginning the 2026-2027 school year.
It is a joy to serve as your Superintendent and to work alongside the Board of Trustees, our teachers, district leaders, and our staff. My ask is that you continue to support our students, stay informed, and be a part of the process to improve student outcomes across Hempstead ISD.
We have improved tremendously, but we still have work to do. We will work boldly so that we can continue to take Hempstead ISD to Higher Heights together.
With Bobcat Pride,
Herbert O’Neil
Superintendent
Hempstead ISD