Tomball ISD Sets National Record with 16 Great Expectations® Model Schools, Four Earning Distinction for First Time
Tomball Independent School District (Tomball ISD) has earned national recognition for its unparalleled dedication to educational excellence. With four new campuses recently honored as Great Expectations® (GE) Model Schools, the district now leads the nation with 16 total GE Model campuses—every eligible elementary and intermediate school within the district.
Joining the distinguished list for the first time this year are Tomball Intermediate, Early Excellence Academy, Rosehill Elementary, and West Elementary. These campuses now stand alongside long-time honorees, reaffirming the district’s systemic commitment to a culture of respect, academic achievement, and whole-child development through the GE framework.
“Great Expectations is woven through the culture of every elementary and intermediate school in Tomball ISD,” said Dr. Lee Wright, Assistant Superintendent of Human Talent. “The culture of respect and academic excellence that GE promotes continues to help solidify our schools and our district as a destination for families.”
Great Expectations® is a professional development initiative designed to enhance the quality of education by focusing on the human element of teaching and learning. It equips educators with tools to inspire students, foster respectful classroom climates, and promote academic rigor. Rooted in six guiding tenets—High Expectations, Teacher Attitude and Responsibility, All Children Can Learn, Building Self-Esteem, Climate of Mutual Respect, and Teacher Knowledge and Skill—the program sets the foundation for GE Model Schools.
To earn the GE Model School designation, schools must meet rigorous standards set by GE coaches, with 100% of staff demonstrating at least 90% of classroom practices aligned with the program’s principles during evaluation visits.
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Stories of First-Time Honorees
At Tomball Intermediate, Principal Dr. Kelly Marchiando described the achievement as a campus-wide triumph.
“Achieving Great Expectations Model School status was truly a collective effort. Every member of our staff, from teachers to support personnel, and our entire student body, rallied together to embrace and live the principles of Great Expectations,” she said. “This recognition is a reflection of the heart and soul of our school community, and I couldn't be more honored to lead such an extraordinary team.”
Early Excellence Academy (EEA) reached a historic benchmark as the only early childhood center in Texas to earn GE Model School status. Principal Dr. Jessica Perez celebrated the passion behind the recognition.
“This recognition reflects the heart and dedication of our teachers and staff who create a nurturing, high-quality environment for our youngest learners. More than anything, we believe in building character, fostering curiosity, and setting a strong foundation for lifelong success.” Dr. Wright added, “It is inspiring to know that each day our youngest learners start their day at EEA with a Call to Excellence.”
Rosehill Elementary marked the culmination of years of dedication and persistence. Principal Gabriela Avellaneda shared, “Rosehill has worked incredibly hard for three years to be recognized for a culture of high expectations and student achievement. As a Great Expectations model school, I could not be more excited to congratulate our staff for demonstrating that all students can learn.”
In a landmark moment, West Elementary became the first school in the GE network to earn Model School status in its inaugural year. Principal Chad Schmidt reflected on this unprecedented success, saying “We are excited and honored at West Elementary to be recognized as a Model Great Expectations School as we are completing our very first year in existence. We are very proud of this recognition and excited for the future.”
Dr. Wright emphasized the impact of this debut accomplishment: “What the staff and leadership at West Elementary have done to achieve GE Model School status in their first year is unprecedented.”
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.