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What is High-Quality Instruction?

At Houston ISD, we believe high-quality instruction is the foundation of student success. High-quality instruction is at the heart of how we empower our educators, and it’s how we’re preparing Houston’s students for the opportunities of the future. 

High-quality instruction means more than just delivering a lesson. It’s about creating learning environments where every student is actively thinking, problem-solving, and making connections to the world around them. When instruction is excellent, students grow faster, feel more confident, enjoy school more, and are better prepared for the future.

The Key Elements of High-Quality Instruction

  • Clear Learning Goals
    • Students know what they are learning and why it matters, with clear expectations that help students stay on track.
  • Strong Student Engagement
    • Students are listening, discussing what they heard, solving problems, and applying what they learned.
  • Purposeful, Challenging Lessons
    • Every lesson is thoughtfully planned, uses high-quality materials, and challenges students to think critically.
  • Frequent Checks for Understanding
    • Teachers regularly check to make sure students are comprehending the lesson and adjust their teaching in real time.
  • Support for Every Learner
    • Teachers provide extra help to students who need it and extend learning for those who are ready to advance.

How HISD Supports High-Quality Instruction

HISD is focused on developing teachers on every campus. We invest in high-quality professional development, consistent on-the-job coaching, and clear, actionable feedback to help teachers continuously grow in their practice. Our approach emphasizes instructional excellence grounded in state standards and research-based strategies that drive student achievement. In every school, principals are trained to be strong instructional leaders who support teacher development, monitor progress in classrooms, and hold high expectations for student learning. By building a culture of accountability and support, we are creating the conditions for effective teaching and learning in every single HISD classroom.