The first days of school are always special, and this year the energy feels even more vibrant. Across Houston, more than 21,000 students walked through our doors ready to begin the 2025–26 school year, surpassing our enrollment goal and showing the continued trust families place in YES Prep. With new milestones, strong community support, and a clear vision for what’s ahead, we are prepared for an incredible year of learning and growth.
Preparing Students for Success
Each summer, elementary and secondary staff invest in transition programs that ensure students feel welcomed and supported from day one. These programs are designed to help students build confidence, connect with their school community, and step into the new school year ready to learn.
Camp Sparks gave our youngest learners in pre-K and kindergarten a joyful, supportive introduction to school. During these sessions, students met their teachers, explored their classrooms, and began learning routines based on our SPARKS values—Self-Aware, Passionate, Achiever, Relentless, Kind, and Safe. For many, it was their very first school experience, and Camp Sparks ensured it started with excitement and care.
Bridge Camp provided a strong foundation for our sixth and ninth graders as they transitioned into secondary school. This experience helped students feel confident and connected before the full school year began. They explored their new campuses, connected with peers and staff, learned expectations and routines, and built momentum for a successful year ahead. Additionally, Succeed at YES prepared all secondary students for a strong start. Through sessions on building safety, digital citizenship, academic integrity, technology readiness, and student engagement, students received the tools they need to thrive all year round. From learning campus protocols to launching their devices and mapping their journey through clubs, sports, and personal passions, students walked away equipped with knowledge, community, and confidence.
Milestones in Our Journey
This school year carries milestones that highlight our growth as a district. We are celebrating the fifth anniversary of YES Prep elementary schools, a reminder of the important role they play in providing a strong educational foundation. At the same time, Hobby Secondary will see its founding class graduate in May 2026, marking a historic moment not only for the campus but for YES Prep as a whole.
Celebrating Growth and Achievements
The successes of our students and schools are a source of pride across our community. Our system earned a B rating from the Texas Education Agency, with East End Elementary achieving an A rating in recognition of its outstanding results. Nearly all YES Prep secondaries were also ranked among the top schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, with several placing in the top 10 percent both locally and nationally. In addition to these academic accomplishments, we continue to expand our impact with the opening of White Oak Elementary and Brays Oaks Elementary this year, creating even more opportunities for Houston families to access a YES Prep education. Together, these achievements reflect the dedication of our students, families, and staff—and the growing strength of our community.
Looking Ahead
As we look ahead, we do so with confidence and excitement. With strong student supports, high academic standards, and a commitment to preparing students for college, careers, and beyond, we are ready to celebrate every achievement along the way. The 2025–26 school year promises to be filled with growth, success, and moments that showcase the power of our YES Prep community.
“Here’s to our best year ever, as we continue to provide the excellent education our students, families, and communities deserve.” — Phil Wright, Chief of Schools
📸 View and Download Your YES Prep Memories
We also know that the first day of school and campus celebrations are moments to treasure. Visit photos.yesprep.org to view and download your favorite memories from the first day of school and other YES Prep events throughout the year.