Who We Are

School Overview

Houston Christian High School (HCHS) is an independent, non-profit, coeducational, private day school which educates students in grades 9-12. The academic year is comprised of two semesters extending from approximately August to December and January to May. Student leadership development through the Passport to Lead program is a distinct characteristic of each young persons college preparatory experience; leadership principles integrated into every course at Houston Christian. The Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) bestowed HCHS with its highest honor in 2000 – OVERALL STATE CHAMPION SCHOOL. To win this award, a school must compete and succeed at the state level in all areas of academic, fine arts, and athletic competition. Winning the award at the TAPPS 3A level demonstrates the commitment of HCHS to excellence in all areas of school life and showcases the hard work and determination of the student body as they prepare themselves for the future.

HCHS is unique, offering boundless opportunities. Add exemplarary academics, excellent spiritual guidance and award winning co-curricular programs, and like me, you will not only be prepared for college, but for the rest of your life."

Charlie Hasenbank

Organization

A Board of Trustees governs HCHS. The Board is organized into committees and subcommittees, each with specifically assigned duties and responsibilities. The Head of School is the chief executive officer, working collaboratively with trustees and a Leadership Team composed of the Principal, Director of Business Affairs, Director of Advancement, Director of Admissions, Director of Counseling and College Guidance, Athletic Director, Passport to Lead Program Director, one Faculty representative, and one Staff representative.

Curriculum

HCHS holds joint accreditation with the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) in association with the Texas Education Agency's Texas Education Private School Accreditation Commission (TEPSAC). HCHS maintains a Christ-centered environment where Christian principles are integrated throughout all courses. The premise that all truth comes from God is foundational to our style and method of teaching.

The curriculum is rigorous and comprehensive in nature and based on a college preparatory standard with three diploma choices – a Distinguished AP Diploma, a Recommended Diploma, and an Academic Diploma. Numerous Advanced Placement (AP) courses are offered in Art, English, Math, History and Computer. HCHS offers electives in areas such as music, band, art, drama, physical education and modern languages. HCHS also incorporates the NILD Discovery Program into its curriculum for a limited number of students to assist students with diagnosed learning differences. The Distinguished Scholars Program, new in 2004-05, offers gifted students the opportunity to study in an interdisciplinary environment comprised of a rigorous research and experienced-based curriculum.

Enrollment and Faculty

Enrollment for the 2007-2008 school year is 453 students with 49 faculty and 40 administrative and support staff. Prior to admittance, a prospective student must complete a satisfactory interview and take the Independent Schools Entrance Examination. Academic standing, conduct, disciplinary record, attendance and a writing sample are all carefully studied in this decision.

Student Body Demographics

The majority of Houston Christian's diverse student population comes from private schools throughout the Houston, Spring Branch, Cypress-Fairbanks, and Katy communities. HCHS graduates attend an ever-expanding list of top colleges and universities in Texas and throughout the United States.

Facilities

HCHS is continuing to construct the various components to complete our 55 million-dollar campus and educational facilities on 45 acres in west Houston on Beltway 8. The campus embodies a strong sense of community with instructional space for 500 students. Existing facilities include the academic and administration building, library, athletic complex, chapel, student pavilion, performing arts center, and ample parking. The remaining supporting facilities will include a student center, theatre, and additional athletic facilities.

Finances

Operating income is derived primarily through tuition and fees, supplemented by contributions from an Annual Giving Campaign. Full annual tuition and fees total approximately $14,000. Capital development funds are secured with individual, corporate and foundation giving. Teacher salaries are competitive with the highest paying schools in Houston.