N Loop E, Houston, TX 77018

So here's how we ended up at Roosevelt, a school we'd never heard of: Went through HISD's complicated magnet process and picked only 3 Vanguard schools (not knowing that my son would easily qualify Vanguard). Obviously, we got none of our schools. On the second round, we found Roosevelt (why was it so hidden during the first round)?, visited the three-year-old campus building—toured its brand new facilities, modern computer labs, excellent, well-stocked and amenity-filled library—and, finally, talked to Kindergarten Vanguard teacher Ms. Trayers. A year later, I can only say, we can't have made a better choice. Ms. Trayers is an encouraging teacher who challenges her students. My son has emerged from Kindergarten reading at an advanced level, doing mental math, and able to discuss civil rights, debate philosophy, and write a haiku. He knows what onomatopoeia is, he's deeply interested in the scientific process, and he's a coder. Yes, coding for Kindergartners is an option for Roosevelt, and Ms. Trayers comes in early for interested students (and stays late for a book club). Every teacher I've met at Roosevelt has been deeply dedicated to their students. The school is respectful to their kids and encourages parent participation. Don't go by demographic dramatization at sites like this—Roosevelt is proof of that. Diversity is an incredible thing. The area around the school needs improvement—Stokes needs vegetation management and a clean up around Airline, but remember, this is a neighborhood that's on the periphery of 6-10 and may look different in another five years. Look at the school, the teachers, the calibre of education. It's pretty stellar!