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Welcome
to Houston Gateway Academy, an open enrollment charter school
that serves approximately 625 students in the south and south
east end of Houston. The Vision of Houston Gateway Academy, Inc
(HGA) is to provide all students with access to state-of-the-art
educational programs and incorporate information technology into
the curriculum in order to assist them in becoming proficient
in reading, writing, mathematics, science and critical thinking.
We want them to become prepared for the next level of education
and successfully attain the skills and proficiencies required
of today's work force. In addition, through our after school program,
HGA wants to instill in our students the reflection of moral and
ethical principles that address social justice, fairness, inclusion
and concern for others. We want our teachers to model personal
and interpersonal leadership qualities and communicate high standards
for themselves, our students and colleagues. My vision is to have
a school that performs effectively in a self-directed environment
and challenge old assumptions while seeking innovative ways in
educational programs that cater to the high-risk, undeserved,
impoverished student. I want campus based and off-campus based
programs that meet or exceed the expectations of students, faculty
and employers. In addition, all HGA administrators, teachers,
and district/school staff will use technology daily to effectively
help students attain high standards and prepare for tomorrow's
world of challenges. In the 21st century, understanding and using
technology will be an integral part of virtually every aspect
of daily life. It is the school system's responsibility to prepare
students for this future. The classroom is the primary place where
this preparation will occur; therefore, every classroom must be
equipped with diverse technologies to support teaching and learning.
Every teacher must be knowledgeable and skilled in the use of
these technologies in daily instruction. When integrated into
instruction, technology will support new strategies for teaching
and learning. Lastly, I want HGA to become a pillar of the community
where everyone can come and learn. Some of our objectives will
be to:
• Assess all students in order to be able to address specific
diverse learning styles.
• accommodate individual learning rates,
• encourage cooperative learning,
• help students accept responsibility for their learning,
• provide the means to communicate globally, and
• improve academic achievement in all areas.
The use of technology in instruction changes the structure of
the classroom. No longer will the teacher rely solely on the traditional
lecture/seat work method of instruction. In a technology-rich,
learner-centered classroom, the teacher serves as a facilitator
of instruction, mentor, and coach. Technology will provide a record
of the student's academic history and ways to manage learning
progress and activities. Teachers have the data and information
needed to individualize instruction and assessment as well as
make other important instructional management decisions. Through
technology, teachers and students will access a wealth of materials,
services, and networks throughout the state, nation, and world.
Technology does not replace the teacher, but rather supports and
enhances the educational process.
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