Howard University Middle School of Mathematics and Science: Nurturing Future Leaders
Howard University Middle School of Mathematics and Science PCS (HUMS) offers a unique educational experience for students in grades 6-8. Situated on the campus of Howard University in Washington, D.C., the charter school aims to cultivate curious, self-directed, and purposeful learners who are prepared to make a positive impact on the world.
A Unique Setting for Learning
Located on a picturesque college campus, HUMS provides its students with an inspiring environment. Principal Corbet Houston emphasizes the value of this setting, noting that students begin each day in a higher education environment, which can help them visualize their own potential future in college. The proximity to Howard University offers a unique advantage, exposing middle schoolers to a world of academic possibilities.
Focus on the Whole Student
While academics are a priority, HUMS is deeply committed to the holistic development of its students. Principal Houston and his team of educators strive to create an environment where each student feels recognized, celebrated, and valued. Houston believes that the emotional impact of their middle school experience will resonate with students for years to come, shaping their self-perception and future aspirations. "For years to come, these kids will usually remember more of how we made them feel versus what comes out of our mouth," Houston said. "I still have those positive feelings about some of my middle school teachers.”
The school's mission is to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed choices about their lives, leverage the resources around them, and contribute to the greater good. The school aims to develop well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also socially and emotionally intelligent.
Cultivating Future Leaders
HUMS aims to inspire students to pursue ambitious goals and make a difference in the world. Eighth-graders Tyler Branch and Annikah Akpan exemplify this aspiration. Tyler envisions a future as a public speaker and orthopedic surgeon, traveling to different countries to share his knowledge and skills. Annikah aspires to become a criminal justice lawyer, advocating for justice and equality.
Read also: Tuition and Fees at Howard
Both students recognize the importance of taking full advantage of the opportunities offered by HUMS to achieve their goals. They appreciate the supportive and trusting environment fostered by their teachers and the close-knit community that Principal Houston has cultivated. “I want to make a difference,” Tyler said. “I want to help people and be a known face they can trust,” Annikah said.
Tyler credits HUMS with boosting his confidence and encouraging him to pursue his dreams. He recalls speaking before nearly 1,000 educators at the National Blue Ribbon Schools Awards Ceremony in Maryland, an experience that solidified his desire to continue public speaking in the future. “Howard definitely gave me the confidence to not only want to do it, but to have dreams to keep giving speeches like that in the future,” Tyler said. “That was definitely a day to remember.” The teachers make you feel comfortable, like you’re at home,” Tyler said.
Personalized Learning and Mentorship
HUMS utilizes the Summit Learning program to provide personalized learning experiences for its students. Each week, students set goals for themselves and discuss their progress with a trusted adult mentor. These regular check-ins help students develop into curious, self-directed, and purposeful learners. "It’s about getting them to where they need to be in life,” said Essence Brown, a teacher at HUMS.
A Supportive School Community
The sense of community at HUMS extends beyond the classroom. Assistant Principal Ebony Brown, who also teaches at HUMS, values the connections she makes with students during lunchtime in the cafeteria. These informal interactions provide opportunities to strengthen relationships and offer support. The school's location, with views of the Capitol building in the distance, and the dedication of its educators contribute to a positive and nurturing environment. From the Capitol building can be seen in the distance-to the physical education classes outdoors, Howard University Middle School’s community is filled with like-minded educators who celebrate the unique gifts and talents of each individual student.
PE teacher Essence Brown, a former Howard University women’s basketball player, feels a strong connection to her students, having grown up in the same city and attended college on the same campus. “I see myself in every one of these kids, simply because I am from this city, born and raised, and I went to college on this campus,” said Essence Brown.
Read also: Discover the scholarship at Howard University's History Department
School Profile and Performance Data
Howard University Middle School of Mathematics and Science PCS is a charter school located in a large city setting in Washington, DC. The school serves students in grades 6-8 and has a student population of 284. The minority student enrollment is 100%. The student population is made up of 49% female students and 51% male students. There are 28 equivalent full-time teachers and 2 full-time school counselors. The student-teacher ratio is 10:1, which is the same as that of the district. 75% is Percentage of full-time teachers who are certified.
According to government data, 5% of HUMS students scored at or above the proficient level for math, and 24% scored at or above that level for reading. In comparison to the district, the school performed about the same in math and reading. In District of Columbia, 26% of students tested at or above the proficient level for reading, and 19% tested at or above that level for math.
HUMS's statewide ranking out of 54 schools in the District of Columbia is as follows: Reading Proficiency Rank #25 (tie), Math Proficiency Rank #35 (tie). The school's reading performance is considered somewhat above expectations, while its math performance is somewhat below expectations.
Read also: Explore Howard County Community College
tags: #Howard #University #Middle #School
