YES Prep Public Schools
LINETTE PEREZ

Choosing the right school for a child is one of the most important decisions a parent can make. At YES Prep Hobby Elementary, families don’t just find a school—they find a home. From dedicated staff to a welcoming and supportive community, parents and teachers alike share why YES Prep is the best choice for their children’s education. 

A School That Feels Like Family 

Principal Ah-Tavia Maxey describes the culture at YES Prep Hobby Elementary in one word: family.  

“The school culture that we have created is simple. We’re family. I think and believe that most of the people that come to Hobby Elementary, they want to be here, and they aspire to stay here, and we can lean on each other.” 

This strong sense of belonging extends beyond students to parents and teachers, creating an environment where everyone works together to ensure success. At YES Prep, teachers and administrators take the time to build relationships with families, making sure that every child feels valued, supported and inspired to reach their full potential. 

Building a Strong Foundation 

Education starts early, and the foundation set in pre-K is critical for a child’s academic journey. Pre-K teacher Sasha Erskine emphasizes the importance of laying the groundwork for success, “Foundation is everything. What we like to say here in pre-K is, it starts with pre-K. Meaning we are the foundation, and we’re setting the tone for the rest of our school, the rest of these grade levels, everything.” 

The emphasis on early education ensures that students develop the social and academic skills necessary to thrive. By fostering a love for learning from the very beginning, the staff, teachers and community at YES Prep Hobby Elementary help students build confidence and curiosity that will carry them through their entire educational journey. 

Hobby families quickly see the difference in their children’s development. Parent Maria Madrigal, shares: “We came from a public school. He attended pre-K at a public school. So when we joined here, the difference just within a couple of months was very big.” 

A True Partnership Between Parents and Educators 

Education extends beyond the classroom at YES Prep, fostering a strong partnership between families and teachers. Teacher Laura Rios highlights how this collaboration supports student success: “Education doesn’t stop when you walk out of the campus. It also continues at home. Opportunities like teacher conferences and family events that YES Prep provides open the door to a lot of families to get those resources and to empower them.” 

Through regular parent engagement opportunities—including workshops, events and conferences—YES Prep ensures that families are equipped with the tools they need to support their child’s learning at home. This approach strengthens the connection between school and home, making education a shared journey. 

Parents feel this involvement firsthand. Parent Cynthia Hernandez appreciates the welcoming atmosphere: “It’s more of a community, because every time we come in, all the teachers, all the administrators, they seem so jolly, so happy, so inviting. And it’s not only for the students, but also for the parents.” 

A Safe and Supportive Environment 

Safety and comfort are top priorities for parents when choosing a school. Parent Emilse Olivas shares why she chose YES Prep: “As a parent, the most important thing for me was obviously somewhere where he would feel safe and comfortable. It will be a sense of community where parents will be involved in school as well.” 

This emphasis on safety and inclusivity creates a school culture that allows students to thrive. Principal Maxey reinforces this by explaining the school’s commitment to open communication: “We value partnership here at Hobby Elementary, with our families and other community partners. It takes a village to raise a child, and for our SPARKS to be the best that they can be, we know that it’s important for us to be a partnership.” 

At YES Prep, this commitment to student well-being is reflected in the campus culture, where children are encouraged to express themselves, ask questions and take on new challenges with confidence. Families know their children are in a place where they will be nurtured and empowered every single day. 

The Power of YES 

At YES Prep Hobby Elementary, students, teachers and parents work together toward one common goal: success

Rios believes in the school’s mission wholeheartedly: “I believe in the power of YES because if it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you.” 

This belief is echoed by parents like Madrigal, who encourages other families to consider YES Prep: “If you want a good future for your kid, this is definitely one of the top schools to join. You’ll feel like at home, you’ll feel connected to everybody around you.” 

Beyond academics, YES Prep Hobby Elementary instills values of leadership, perseverance and community in its students. Through extracurricular programs, leadership opportunities and a dedicated support system, students gain the skills they need to excel in school and in life. 

Enroll at YES Prep  

YES Prep’s 2024-2025 student enrollment lottery is now open! Our schools provide students with access to a high-quality, college-ready education in a supportive environment.  

As Olivas puts it: “Everyone’s working towards the same goal. Everyone wants their child to succeed in life. And I believe that YES Prep gives the parents, the students, and the teachers the tools that are needed to do that. My experience has been great. I love it here. I don’t regret anything about choosing YES Prep.” 

Apply today and give your child the opportunity to thrive. Submit your application here -Enroll at YES Prep


Sign up to receive The News Update directly in your inbox

The News Update is YES Prep Public Schools monthly e-newsletter where we share the latest news, teacher and student stories, as well as upcoming events and important dates. 

Subscribe to newsletter