Understanding School Accountability Ratings in the State of Texas
The state of Texas has one of the most comprehensive accountability systems for student performance in the nation. When campus ratings such as Acceptable, Recognized, or Exemplary are published, very few people really understand what factors are used to determine these ratings. The primary components that determine the ratings are Dropout Rates, TAAS, Scores, and Attendance. Probably the least understood aspect of the system is how campuses with more diverse populations are rated. To determine the campus’ rating all ethnic groups within the populations that comprises at lest 10% of the school’s population are assessed individually. The same holds true for the population of students who are economically disadvantaged. A campus rating can be no higher than the rating of each student group. In schools where these populations are less than 10%, the campus rating is determined by the total campus performance.
At Hamilton Middle School, the major ethnic groups and the economically disadvantaged group are at least 10%. Therefore each group is considered independently from the overall campus totals. For the pass two years the Hamilton Middle School meet the standards for Recognized rating; this means that the campus rating can be no higher than that rating of any of the student groups.
This year our school’s goal is to attain the Exemplary rating or at least maintain the Recognized rating. We have worked very hard and are quite positive we will achieve our goal. School ratings under this system are very complex and sometimes misunderstood. School diversity presents a unique challenge. There is one special thing about the Texas System of Accountability, it forces all Texas schools to focus on the performance of all students.

For more information call the school at (713) 802-4725 or you may reach your child's counselors at the same number