HAIS Modified Academic Calendar 26-27

HAIS Community,

We are excited to share the official Houston Academy for International Studies 2026–2027 School Calendar! 

As we begin our first year as an SB 1882 Partnership School with Friends of HAIS, one of the exciting benefits is the ability to develop a calendar specifically designed around the needs of our students while remaining closely aligned with the Houston ISD calendar.
You'll notice that our calendar looks very similar to HISD's, preserving the holidays and breaks that families are accustomed to, while incorporating several important improvements for the HAIS community.

What's Different?

Students begin school one week later

• HAIS: Monday, August 17, 2026
• HISD: Monday, August 10

Beginning one week later provides our teachers and staff with additional time for planning, professional learning, and preparation as we launch our first year under the new partnership. The later start time also better aligns with the Houston Community College calendar.

Students finish one day earlier
The last day of school for HAIS students will be Thursday, May 27, allowing us to conclude the school year before Memorial Day weekend. Final exams will also include early-release days to better support students during exam week. 

Final Exam Days
Final Exams dates will be aligned with other HISD High Schools, however, HAIS will have early release on Final Exam Days.

What Stays the Same?

We know consistency is important for families, so we've intentionally remained aligned with Houston ISD whenever possible.
You'll notice that:

• Labor Day remains the same.
• Thanksgiving Break remains the same.
• Winter Break remains the same.
• Spring Break remains the same.
• Professional development days mirror the district calendar.

This means families with children attending other HISD schools will experience very few scheduling differences.

One of the greatest advantages of becoming an SB 1882 Partnership School is the flexibility to make decisions that best serve HAIS students.  Before adopting the 2026–2027 calendar, we surveyed both our parents and our teachers, and more than 95% agreed that this calendar better meets the needs of our students while preserving the district holidays and breaks that are important to families. Rather than following a one-size-fits-all calendar, we are now able to thoughtfully tailor our school year around the unique needs of our early college campus. We believe these adjustments will help ensure a successful launch of the 2026–2027 school year and continue the tradition of excellence that defines Houston Academy for International Studies.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back to school on Monday, August 17!

 

 

Melissa Jacobs

Founding Principal

Houston Academy for International Studies