Our Mission, Vision, & Purpose

MISSION

The Rice School/La Escuela Rice will provide a diverse group of children with challenging academic experiences and the nurturing environment necessary to become lifelong learners, critical thinkers and responsible citizens in a diverse, democratic society.

VISION

We are creating a College Bound culture through effective Teaching and Learning at The Rice School

VALUES

All adults at The Rice School/La Escuela Rice expect high levels of Learning for ALL students. Our commitment to this purpose is reflected in our responses to four guiding questions that frame our concept of a professional learning community

  • What is it that we want all students to learn?
  • How will we know when they learned?
  • How will we respond when they don't learn?
  • How will we respond when they demonstrate learning beyond expectations?

TENETS OF THE SCHOOL

  • Public education should be high quality education.
  • All children have gifts and talents that need to be recognized and nurtured.
  • A technology-rich environment must be present and used as an instructional tool across all disciplines to prepare students for education and work environments.
  • Every child needs and deserves at least two languages to function in a global society.
  • Learning in school is most effective when it relates to real-life problems and challenges.
  • Natural connections among school subjects will be emphasized through an integrated curriculum.
  • The school will serve as a professional development center for HISD and other educational institutions.
  • The intellectual resources of Rice University and other community institutions are key ingredients and supporting the innovative work of the school.
  • Teachers are important role models for children and must be lifelong learners themselves.
  • Family participation directly and positively impacts student’s achievement, and parents will be encouraged to be active in the life of the school.
  • The school community should foster an atmosphere that promotes respect, responsibility, cooperation and honesty in accordance with a school honor code.
  • Community service helps children develop important values and will be encouraged for all students.
  • Decision-making and school governance are best carried out by those most affected; school personnel, students, parents and members of the community.