Houston ISD Halts Synchronous Learning Plan for This Year
Houston ISD Halts Synchronous Learning Initiative
Houston Independent School District (HISD) has put on hold its plans for a new learning model known as “synchronous learning.” This approach, initially proposed by state-appointed Superintendent Mike Miles, would have allowed students to learn remotely from another teacher while their own instructor participated in professional development. The initiative was meant to be a pilot program aimed at improving teacher effectiveness, which Miles considers a key driver of student success.
According to an email sent to school leaders on September 30, the district will not implement this strategy during the current academic year. The decision came after no middle schools volunteered to participate in the experiment. However, HISD plans to revisit the idea in the spring to gauge interest again.
Earlier in the school year, Miles announced the initiative during a teachers convocation. He revealed that English and math teachers at approximately eight middle schools would take part in “synchronous learning schools.” These schools were expected to volunteer for the program, which would allow them to test the concept.
What is Synchronous Learning?
Synchronous learning refers to a type of online education where students and instructors engage in real-time instruction. This can occur either virtually or in person, with both parties participating simultaneously. In contrast, asynchronous learning allows students to access materials at their own pace without real-time interaction with instructors or peers.
Under the planned program, students would use a video platform twice a month to attend lessons taught at another school. During these remote learning sessions, their regular teachers would have two days per month dedicated to professional development and work from home. This model would apply to both schools involved in Miles’ reforms and those outside his New Education System.
Miles emphasized that the goal of the initiative was to enhance teacher effectiveness, which he believes directly impacts student achievement. By providing teachers with more time for training and development, the district hoped to improve instructional quality across the board.
Additional Announcements from the Teachers Convocation
In addition to the synchronous learning plan, Miles made several other announcements during the teachers convocation. One of the highlights was the opening of two new magnet schools, which are designed to offer specialized educational programs to students.
Another significant announcement involved HISD borrowing $180 million for a new career and technical education center. This project is pending approval from the school board and aims to provide students with advanced training opportunities in various technical fields.
Ongoing Challenges and Community Concerns
While the district continues to explore new strategies to improve student outcomes, it also faces ongoing challenges. Recent events, such as the disappearance of Cile Steward, have raised concerns among parents and the broader community. Parents of Cile have expressed frustration, stating that Camp Mystic has not acknowledged her absence or mentioned her name.
Additionally, local school districts have faced scrutiny over book bans. For example, Lamar CISD recently banned more than 700 books from its libraries before the start of the 2025-26 school year, sparking debates about censorship and access to information.
Looking Ahead
As HISD evaluates its next steps, the focus remains on finding innovative ways to support both students and educators. While the synchronous learning initiative has been paused for now, the district is likely to revisit similar concepts in the future. The ongoing dialogue between administrators, teachers, and the community will play a crucial role in shaping the direction of education in Houston.
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