Harris County Department of Education

The Harris County Department of Education (HCDE) is a public entity dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities and providing valuable services throughout Harris County, Texas. Established in 1889, HCDE serves as a unique hybrid organization, functioning as a school district, a non-profit entity, and a revenue-generating corporation.

This structure enables HCDE to offer a diverse array of programs and services that cater to the evolving needs of students, educators, and the community.

Educational Programs and Services

HCDE directly serves approximately 30,000 students through various specialized programs.

• Special Schools: HCDE operates four special schools—Academic and Behavior Schools East, Academic and Behavior Schools West, Highpoint School, and Fortis Academy—catering to students with severe emotional, physical, or behavioral challenges.
• These institutions provide tailored educational environments designed to foster success among students with unique needs.
• Adult Education: As the oldest adult education program in Texas, HCDE offers comprehensive adult education services including English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, GED preparation, and vocational training, empowering adults to achieve personal and professional growth.
• Head Start Centers: With 21 Head Start centers, HCDE provides early childhood education programs that prepare children for academic success focusing on cognitive, social, and emotional development.
• After-School Programs: Through the Center for Afterschool, Summer and Enrichment for Kids (CASE for Kids), HCDE delivers after-school programs in numerous community and school settings, offering students safe and enriching environments beyond regular school hours.
• Therapy Services: HCDE provides therapy services including physical, occupational, and music therapy to students in local schools, supporting their physical and emotional well-being.

Support Services for Educators and School Districts

HCDE extends its support to educators and school staff through various services.

• Professional Development: Offering training in diverse instructional areas, HCDE equips educators with the skills and knowledge necessary to enhance teaching and learning experiences.
• School Safety and Emergency Preparedness: HCDE provides programs that support school safety and alternative certification, ensuring a secure and effective learning environment.
• Records Management: HCDE offers an advanced records management system to assist districts and public agencies in efficiently managing records, ensuring compliance and accessibility.
• Choice Partners Cooperative: This program offers government entities, school districts, and non-profit organizations access to quality, legal procurement contracts compliant with governmental requirements, facilitating cost savings and operational efficiency.

Fiscal Responsibility and Community Impact

HCDE operates with a property tax rate of less than ½ cent, translating to approximately $9 annually for the average Harris County homeowner.

Remarkably, for every $1 of property taxes, HCDE leverages nearly $5 in services through fees-for-service and grant funds. This fiscal efficiency allows HCDE to provide substantial support to Harris County’s 25 school districts, enabling more resources to be allocated directly to classrooms while maintaining their own tax rates.

Locations

HCDE's main office is located at 6300 Irvington Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77022.

Additional facilities include:

• North Post Oak: 6005 Westview Drive, Houston, Texas 77055
• Adult Education Learning Center: 6515 Irvington Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77022

These locations house various divisions and programs, including Administration, Adult Education, CASE for Kids, Head Start, and School-Based Therapy Services.

HCDE primarily serves the Harris County area from its locations in Houston, TX, USA.

Through its comprehensive programs and services, the Harris County Department of Education plays a pivotal role in enriching educational opportunities and providing valuable support to the community. It demonstrates a steadfast commitment to the success and well-being of all learners in Harris County.