What does Alief Kerr High School offer?

Kerr is a high school which allows students to work at a flexible pace.  Under the direction of their teachers, the students proceed through their courses, completing their work and consulting with teachers as required or as needed by the student.  The prescribed Texas high school curriculum is offered leading to the General Diploma with the option of the Recommended or Distinguished plans.

What makes Kerr different from the traditional high school?

Students are able to take advantage of a non-traditional system of education.  They are given a suggested timeline for completion of assignments, projects, and tests; however, there are deadlines. Students who understand the material and are focused on class work during the school day may proceed faster.  Those needing more time may move at a slower pace, but must complete the course within the parameters of the term or semester. The object of this teaching system is that students complete their work by taking the time appropriate for their level of learning.  Course material is assembled in self-study learning guides (PAKs) enabling the students to work continuously on their studies.

How does the system actually work?

All courses have been packaged as independent study materials known as Personal Activity Kits (PAKs).  The PAKs inform students of the objectives, direct them to learning materials which support the objectives, and prepare them for evaluation. PAKs include a wide variety of activities such as reading books and articles, using audio-visual materials and technology, completing written and computer assignments, conducting laboratory experiments, demonstrating skills, and giving performances.

Teachers are always available in the academic centers to meet with individuals who want assistance with a PAK activity.  This one-on-one consultation is a powerful teaching/learning setting; however, it is only one of a variety of teaching/learning experiences.  The PAK may often direct students to participate in team work, seminars, and large group presentations to provide opportunities for teacher-directed and group learning.

How does Kerr provide a "personalized education?"

Every teacher serves as a teacher-advisor and is responsible for overseeing the educational progress of a number of students.  Each new student is assigned to a teacher-advisor and remains with this support person until graduation.  The teacher-advisor program allows the student and the teacher to develop a strong and productive relationship.  Teachers-advisors meet with their students daily and provide support and encouragement in all classes.  The teacher-advisor often serves as a liaison between the home and the school.

What kind of student will attend Kerr?

Students of ALL abilities will comprise the student population at Kerr.  Those who exhibit initiative, personal motivation and self discipline will find the transition to continuous  learning smooth and self-satisfying. Many times students who do not come to Kerr with these qualifications are able to attain them with the assistance of Kerr's staff.  Students who are currently enrolled in an ESL program or serviced through Special Education are considered on an individual basis.  The school staff assesses the educational needs of the student to determine whether Kerr can meet their academic requirements.   The Alief Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, or disability in providing education or providing access to benefits of education services, activities, and programs.

What is the extra-curricular program?

Students have a wide choice of extra-curricular activities including clubs and organizations.  We have a full fine arts program which includes art, theatre, choirs, hand bells, orchestra, and band.  We offer traditional high school clubs along with other clubs that are established  when enough students are interested and a teacher-sponsor is available.  Teachers stay appraised of contests that students may enter such as writing, art, speech, drama, etc. and notify students of those opportunities. Kerr High School does not participate in UIL athletics but does provide intramurals.

Will transportation be provided?

All students qualify for bus transportation to and from school.  With proper driver's license and proof of insurance, any student may drive to school.  The student will be required to purchase a parking permit.

How do you become a student?

The parent/guardian and student should fully discuss the decision to apply.  Consideration should be given to the program, the student's ability to handle the independent, written materials, and the responsibility of scheduling his/her own learning.  The student's motivation and willingness to study in this type of learning atmosphere should also be considered.  Once a student has been accepted, he/she is expected to complete high school at this campus.

Applications will be accepted from eighth grade students who are attending the ALIEF I.S.D. middle schools and from ninth and tenth grade students enrolled at Elsik, Hastings, and Taylor.  Parent-student meetings are held throughout the school year to inform the community of the program and to accept the applications.  Attendance at one of these meetings is mandatory.  Students are then considered for enrollment beginning the next school year.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, YOU MAY CALL THE SCHOOL AT 281-983-8484. 

WE WILL BE HAPPY TO TALK ABOUT YOUR CHILD'S INDIVIDUAL ACADEMIC NEEDS.