Herbert O'Neil
Superintendent

Dear Team Hempstead, 

Welcome Back! I hope that each of you had a wonderful Spring Break. Breaks are always right on time in this business. Sometimes we just need time away. Now we are back and it’s time to power through the next nine weeks. We have two days of professional learning and I encourage you to utilize these days to prepare for great instruction. We are getting closer to the STAAR test and I know you will be working with your teams, administration, and members of the teaching and learning team to prepare for the upcoming STAAR assessments. Knowing where your students are and what their needs are is most important. Know them and ensure they have the best instruction possible. I believe that every student can show growth. Know what their growth target is, find the area of deficit, and watch how the growth will occur. I also encourage you to ask questions if you still have questions about the curriculum or anything that deals with teaching and learning. We all must be on the same page as we move toward this final stretch. I believe in them and I believe in you.

One of our beliefs in our five-year strategic plan is Appreciation.

“Appreciation is the expression of intentional empathy. When we strive to acknowledge the values, struggles, losses and victories of others, we create an environment that encourages connection, growth and understanding.” 

It is important that our students understand Appreciation. I love that our plan emphasizes “intentional empathy.” All of us can benefit from a strong sense of empathy. Think about how it will impact our students if they have a good understanding of empathy. If you have any extra time, speak to your students about appreciation and the value of having empathy.

I will be coming to your campus soon to talk to you and your families about our upcoming bond election. The bond election addresses safety and aging facilities within our school district. If you are not registered to vote, there is still time to register to vote in the May 4, 2024 election. The deadline to register is April 4, 2024. Visit our Bond 2024 Website to familiarize yourself with the bond election. When I visit your campus I will be happy to answer any questions that you may have. Our first Bond Community Information Meeting will be at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 26, at The Bobcat Den. 

I hope you have a wonderful week. The students of this community need you and they are blessed that you are here. Keep believing in them and keep striving for #HigherHeights.

With Bobcat Pride, 

Herbert O’Neil
Superintendent
Hempstead ISD