Herbert O'Neil
Superintendent

Dear Team Hempstead, 

The week before Spring Break has arrived, and I am aware that many of our students will be taking various assessments. Some will engage in STAAR interim assessments, while others will complete quarterly benchmarks. It is always beneficial to offer students an encouraging word before they begin their exams. They appreciate hearing their teacher, or even the proctor, express confidence in their abilities. I recall feeling anxious about the exit level math test in high school. The reassurance from a teacher who believed in me, telling me, "Herbert, you can do this, you got this," made a significant difference. It spurred me to put in even more effort. Please take the moment to uplift our students before they face their exams.

I encourage you to spend quality time with family and friends during your spring break. When we return, we will refocus on the demanding preparations for STAAR. Your rest is important so that you can be at your best for yourself and also for our students.  

March is Women’s History Month. Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate the contributions women have made to the United States and recognize the specific achievements women have made throughout American History in a variety of fields. I want to recognize all the women who work in Hempstead ISD who work hard each day to provide the very best education possible for all of our Bobcats. Regardless of your role in Hempstead ISD, the work that you do is important. Thank you! 

Our students have been excelling in numerous activities. Hempstead FFA's Project Show, the promising start to the Track and Field season, success at the Regional Powerlifting meet, Color Guard's victory, and achievements in golf, softball, and baseball, all highlight the hard work and dedication of our students. Our elementary students are thriving in the classroom and extracurriculars like the HES Garden Club, while Hempstead Early Childhood Center and Hempstead Middle School have been engaged with various student activities. None of this would be possible without our devoted staff. Thank you for your tireless efforts and deep commitment to our Bobcat students.

Goal 1 of our five-year strategic plan states:

Hempstead ISD will provide the tools and resources to support effective teaching and learning that fosters communication, engagement, and critical thinking." 

The second strategy within this goal is to "create a plan for ensuring each student is provided customized learning opportunities." This is highlighted because offering these tailored learning experiences based on individual needs will be paramount when we return from spring break. We must grow and I am confident it will happen. I believe in each of you. Having a customized plan that addresses student’s precise needs and providing high-quality instruction to meet those needs will make a significant difference. I have already observed that Tier 1 instruction has been improving steadily, and with additional support and intervention, we will achieve the growth we seek.

Tomorrow is election day. Voting is a great way to help shape the future of the community. If you haven’t voted yet, I encourage you to find out where you can vote on election day in your community. You can showcase your I VOTED sticker with us by tagging #HempsteadVotes. We will feature your photo on our social media channels.

As we approach Spring Break, let's give it our all and look forward to enjoying a well-deserved week off. Through our collective efforts and dedication to teaching the right content in the right way, we will ascend to #HigherHeights together.

With Bobcat Pride, 

Herbert O’Neil
Superintendent
Hempstead ISD