Travis Elementary School

Our daughter entered 2nd grade, new to Travis (after living in another state). We researched the school and had high expectations. Travis has met those expectations. Second grade teacher Mrs. Weaver is amazing. She is engaged, focused, organized, and a terrific motivator. The principal, Ms. Walker, likewise seems focused and engaged with the students, parents, and program. I don't know about this "two tiered" system. The fact is, our child has been receiving a solid education throughout the year. She has homework every week, and good projects. Meanwhile, the school itself is beautiful, with a restored historic building combined with a new addition. Each class has a garden. There is a great "Spark Park." Parents are engaged and supportive. There are also strong after-school options for the children. All in all, we feel lucky that our child has attended Travis and can recommend it unconditionally.
--Submitted by a parent

Travis is an awesome place that has nurtured and cared for our son. I am disturbed by some of the other parent reviews, as I have certainly never experienced the "two school" issue. We are magnet transfers to Travis and put much thought, consideration, and prayer into our decision about where to put our son in school. Travis has exceeded our expectations.
--Submitted by a parent

It is shocking and disturbing how 2 schools are operating under one roof. The Vanguard Program looks very much like a "private" school, receiving opportunities to participate in extra field trips, be mentors for younger grades, participate in academic and dramatic district-wide contests, while the regular classrooms are neglected. The teachers at this school are wonderful but the system here is extremely dysfunctional. The dysfunction carries over to the students by about the third grade, when they begin realizing the differences in the two programs. Animosity builds and the entire culture is affected in a very negative way.
--Submitted by a parent

Travis is a wonderful Title I School that serves a diverse community near downtown Houston. Our daughter is thriving there!
--Submitted by a parent

We love Travis! The principal, teachers and administration are wonderful and really care about the children. The community and parents are very supportive. It's been a great experience for us and our child!
--Submitted by a parent

If you have a Vanguard child and you don't mind raising that child with a view of a 'Haves and Have Not' world, then you are in the right place. There is a distinct line between those kids deemed 'gifted' and those in the neighborhood classes. They are not treated equally...pray your child passes the HISD 'gifted' test.
--Submitted by a parent

Travis is an inner-city school that is flourishing. Great teacher, fantastic administration and involved parents. The perfect trifecta! Oh yeah, and students who are engaged.
--Submitted by a parent

Wonderful faculty, supportive administration. Great environment for our kids!
--Submitted by a parent

This school is great! My son was in pre-k last year and he loved it. Mrs. Wolford was fantastic. He can't wait to start kindergarten. The parent involvement is wonderful. The staff truly cares about the children and does a great job creating interest and motivation.
--Submitted by a parent

Travis has been an experience beyond my wildest imagination. Sadly, no one could have described to me how wonderful this school is until I experienced it myself. Travis encourages every kid to be creative and unique and happy. My child has had an absolutely magical fabulous experience at school. She loves art class and PE, coach Miller is everyone's hero and my child now begs to exercise. Mrs. Hodge is amazing, and Mrs. Nelson is one of the best teachers in the world, this is the kindergarten experience you dream about. the kindergarten class has outdoor centers every m: Children get to play outdoors and explore each activity, from painting to sawing to letter games to jump ropes. Also amazing is the Travis family camp! You will make friends you'll never forget. we love the teachers, the kids, the parents -- they're artsy, fun, warm, wonderful!
--Submitted by a parent