Academics & Culture
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The model for Uplift Williams’ success is based on a global, college-preparatory focus. Beginning in kindergarten, our scholars learn about college and the possibilities that lie ahead. Each classroom has a college theme, often based on the alma mater of that teacher, and scholars are often heard singing university fight songs and cheers. As scholars progress to middle school and high school, they enter our Road to College program and begin to picture their futures on a college campus through campus visits and a tailored curriculum focused on college preparation.
International Baccalaureate
Uplift Williams is an IB Continuum school, offering the Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme, and the Diploma Programme. The International Baccalaureate® (IB) aims to do more than other curricula by developing inquiring, knowledgeable and caring young people who are motivated to succeed. We hope our students will help to build a better world through intercultural understanding and respect.
The IB is different from other curricula because it:
- encourages students to think critically and challenge what they are told
- is independent of governments and national systems, and therefore able to incorporate best practice from a range of international frameworks and curricula
- encourages students to consider both their local and international environment.
Click to learn more about International Baccalaureate and its programs.
For specific questions on the IB Programmes at this school, contact the PYP, MYP, or DP Deans. Visit our Leadership page for more information.
T-STEM
Uplift Williams is the only school in the state of Texas offering IB and T-STEM FOR ALL scholars.
Texas Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Initiative (T-STEM)Texas Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (T-STEM) Academies are rigorous secondary schools focusing on improving instruction and academic performance in science and mathematics-related subjects and increasing the number of students who study and enter STEM careers:- Provide dual credit at no cost to students
- Offer rigorous instruction and accelerated courses
- Provide academic and social support services to help students succeed
- Increase college readiness
- Reduce barriers to college access
- Provide WBL opportunities for scholars to gain hands on experience
- Align to regional workforce needs for ICIA, P-TECH, and T-STEM models
Click for additional resources and information about our T-STEM Initiative.
AP and Dual Credit
We offer a variety of Advanced Placement® (AP) classes, dual-credit opportunities and credit recovery during the summer. AP® courses increase the academic rigor in our high schools and expose scholars to the types of materials they will encounter in college. High school scholars who score 3-5 can earn college credit, reducing the number of hours they will have to take toward their undergraduate degree.
Testing
As a public school, we administer state STAAR tests. Our scholars are also tested and evaluated against national standards using MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) tests in K-8, and the PLAN and EXPLORE series of tests developed by ACT. These tests are used to inform instruction in the classroom in order to best prepare every scholar for college success. We strive to teach a well-rounded curriculum that encourages critical thinking, and develop customized learning plans for each scholar. Our proven model prepares our scholars for effective test-taking without our teachers having to spend excessive time teaching for a specific test.
Technology
Technology is an integral part of the academic life at Uplift Williams. We utilize laptops and computer workstations which are integrated every day into the classroom at every grade level. Additionally, we use computer tablets in some classrooms to help scholars with independent learning. Online grading and reporting systems help keep our scholars and families up to date.
Career and Technical Education
Career & Technical Education (CTE) prepares our scholars in the pursuit of high skill employment and advanced education. Our goal is to allow our scholars to engage in a changing economy and compete in the global marketplace through life-long learning skills. CTE Non-discrimination Statement.
Road To College
Beginning in the sixth grade our scholars begin our formal Road To College & Career program, which is unlike any other. We not only put our scholars on the road to a successful future, but we ride along with them for every mile of the journey. We know that a college degree is the best pathway to achieve a comfortable income and a fulfilling life, but we also acknowledge that college might not be the right path for every graduate. For those instances, we provide career guidance and other means to help our alumni move into successful occupation options. Read more about our Road To College and Career program.
Culture & Safety
At Uplift Williams each scholar is held to a high standard of moral character, encouraged to get involved in community service, and taught the value of random acts of kindness. The atmosphere at Uplift Williams is evident when you walk in the door. It is an environment centered on not only academic achievement, but also developing scholars who will become informed, successful, compassionate leaders in their communities. It is our goal that our scholars develop a joy for learning and adopt the mindset of being a life-long learner.
We also pride ourselves on campus safety. Our gated campuses, card entry system, and well-rehearsed emergency procedures ensure our scholars and our staff are kept safe and secure.