North East Independent School District, located in Bexar County, saw its overall Texas Education Agency (TEA) accountability rating improve from a C to a B in the latest A‑F school performance report released this week. The jump reflects progress across the district’s campuses and highlights the strong showing of Hidden Forest Elementary, which earned an A rating for its students’ academic achievement.
What the ratings measure
Each year the TEA evaluates more than 9,000 Texas campuses, assigning grades based on how well students meet grade‑level standards, are prepared for the next grade, college, the workforce, or military service. The ratings are intended to give families clear information about school performance and to help districts develop improvement plans.
District‑wide improvement
North East ISD’s rise to a B rating marks a notable shift for the district, which previously held a C rating. The improvement aligns with broader trends in the region; for example, San Antonio ISD reduced its count of failing schools from 20 last year to nine this year. In Bexar County, several districts earned high marks, with Fort Sam Houston ISD and Randolph Field ISD receiving A ratings, and Alamo Heights ISD, Somerset ISD, Southside ISD, and Medina Valley ISD each earning B ratings.
Hidden Forest Elementary’s achievement
Hidden Forest Elementary stood out by receiving an A rating, indicating strong performance in core academic areas. District leaders cited the school’s focus on mastering grade‑level skills and its commitment to supporting every student, regardless of background.
State officials’ perspective
Education Commissioner Mike Morah, speaking after the release of the ratings, said, “Public education exists to be the great equalizer. We want to ensure that all children, regardless of their background, regardless of where they live, have access to a great school.” He emphasized that the ratings are a tool for educators to evaluate performance and craft action plans for the upcoming school year. Morah also encouraged parents to review their schools’ grades and remain actively involved in their children’s education.
Implications for schools with low ratings
Under Texas law, campuses that receive five consecutive F ratings may face closure, and districts could be required to replace elected trustees and superintendents. While most districts in the region avoided such outcomes, Edgewood ISD did see an improvement but still received a D rating, underscoring the continued need for focused improvement efforts.
Looking ahead
District officials plan to use the TEA’s feedback to target areas where student performance can be further strengthened. Parents are urged to stay informed through the TEA’s online portal, attend school board meetings, and support initiatives that promote academic excellence.
The latest accountability results provide a snapshot of how Texas schools are progressing and offer a roadmap for continued improvement, with North East ISD’s upward movement serving as a positive example for neighboring districts.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
