Houston ISD Introduces Dyad Classes, Offering Unique Real-World Learning Experiences to K-8 Students

With the installation of the New Education System (NES) at 85 Houston Independent School District (HISD) campuses, a groundbreaking approach to education has emerged, known as Dyad classes. Dyad, defined as “two individuals maintaining a sociological significant relationship” by Merriam-Webster, has been introduced to students in K-8 grades. This innovative system offers students a unique opportunity to explore various subjects and activities they might not encounter otherwise while connecting them to their communities and beyond.

The Dyad model is rooted in three fundamental principles of learning: knowledge, experience, and perspective. Through instruction by community members who are experts in their respective fields, students gain access to exclusive knowledge and real-world experiences, enriching their educational journey.

The selection of Dyad classes varies from one campus to another, encompassing subjects like gardening, photography, cosmetology, sewing, and more. Campus administrators collaborated with Dyad coordinators to identify the interests of their students and local professionals with unique skill sets willing to share their expertise.

At Edison Middle School, Dyad Coordinator Vanessa Vasquez, along with Principal Johnatan Guzman and the administrative team, curated a diverse array of Dyad courses for their students.

“These are very unique subjects that many of them won’t be able to experience until they’re adults,” commented Guzman. “These are not your typical types of classes found in any school. Bringing these experiences to Edison is incredibly unique and exciting for the students.”

One of the most anticipated Dyad courses at Edison is the barbering class, instructed by Ryan Taylor, the owner and operator of East End Barber, a well-known barbershop in the Edison area. As a father and a passionate advocate for community-based instruction, Taylor believes these classes provide students with valuable real-world skills.

“They’re learning how to interact with people in the real world. We do some haircut work, but mostly we talk about consultations, how to present yourself, how to open your own business, how to be respectful so you get respect back, things like that,” Taylor explained. “I feel like it’s important for students to realize that there are options out there. Learning how to get licensed so you can cut hair, do that for the rest of your life and open your own business, or cut hair while you’re going through a four-year university, or further than that, and realizing that there’s a world of options out there for you.”

Dyad specialty classes are carefully chosen to offer students hands-on learning experiences and prepare them for the workforce of 2035, equipping them with a wide range of high-demand skills and competencies.

To learn more about Dyad classes or to apply to become a Dyad consultant, visit the Dyad webpage.