HOUSTON, Texas – It’s year two of the New Education System (NES), and the changes continue to stir debate among parents and teachers, with many unsure about the future of their schools.
However, one teacher at Fleming Middle School, initially a skeptic, now says her perspective has shifted after experiencing NES up close -- and her actions this year may surprise you.
“With new leadership, you’re always skeptical of their ideas and vision. My biggest concern was whether the students would have enough time to learn. Would we, as teachers, have enough time to do everything required while still being effective?” asked seventh-grade Science of Reading teacher Januel Plumber.
Fleming MS is entering its second year in this system, and KPRC 2 reporter Candace Burns has been covering how teachers, students, and staff are navigating the changes and challenges. To catch up or watch the documentary we produced last year, entitled: TAKEOVER, or visit the Focus on Fleming web page on click2Houston.
The NES model emphasizes immediate feedback and support. Students take a 10-minute assessment following each 45-minute lesson. Those who struggle receive help right away, while students who excel move on to enrichment work.
Despite some criticism, HISD has reported academic improvements across many NES campuses, including Fleming, with an increase in A- and B-rated schools.
This year, Plumber said she made a personal decision, reflecting her growing trust in the system... She transferred her sixth-grade daughter and seventh-grade son to Fleming from another district.
“I brought my kids here because I trust the teachers,” Plumber said. “I know they care about the students and have their best interests at heart. It was an easy decision this year.”
Plumber’s son, Christopher, has his own perspective on NES.
He said although his new teachers are helpful, he doesn’t like the DOL’s.
“It’s got some good qualities and some bad. The teachers mostly try to help you do your best, but I don’t like the 10-minute timer—it flies by too fast,” Christopher said.
As for his mother, she said she sees the progress her campus is making, but she knows there are still more improvements to be made.
“I wouldn’t say we need to get rid of the system, but it could be made better. Sometimes students need more time to process, and that’s something worth considering,” she explained.
Fleming is just one of many HISD schools under the NES, and while experiences with the system may differ, our goal at KPRC 2 through the Focus on Fleming series is to give a firsthand look at how these changes are being implemented and impacting schools and students through the eyes of educators like Plumber and students like Christopher.