Houston ISD Launching Future 2 Schools Focused on AI-Era Skills and Extended Learning
HOUSTON — Houston Independent School District announced plans to launch nine “Future 2” campuses beginning in the 2026-27 school year, a new education model district leaders say is designed to prepare students for a rapidly changing workforce shaped by artificial intelligence and automation.
The Future 2 program will transition selected campuses into PreK-8 schools focused on combining traditional academics with hands-on learning, leadership development, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
District officials said the initiative is intended to help students adapt to what they describe as a modern economy where an estimated 57% of jobs could be impacted by automation by 2030.
According to HISD, students will continue core instruction in reading, math, and science while also participating in workshops, applied learning experiences, and collaborative projects designed to strengthen interpersonal and analytical skills.
The following campuses were selected for the program:
- Gregg Elementary School
- Clemente Martinez Elementary School
- Bonham Elementary School
- Deady Middle School
- Forest Brook Middle School
- Hartman Middle School
- Shadydale Elementary School
- Southmayd Elementary School
- Sugar Grove Academy Middle School
Under the program, students in grades 3-8 will attend school from 7:30 a.m. until 4 p.m., while campuses will remain open from 6:30 a.m. until 6 p.m.
HISD said some required educational experiences may occur after school hours, on weekends, or outside campus facilities.
District officials emphasized the program is open to all students and does not require academic qualifications for admission.
Students will be placed into either accelerated or regular academic tracks based on assessment results, but all students will be expected to meet standards for attendance, participation, and completion of required learning experiences.
Applications for Clemente Martinez Elementary School and Gregg Elementary School will be handled through a separate flagship application process, while the remaining campuses will use the district’s standard school choice application system.
Superintendent F. Mike Miles said the program reflects a broader shift in public education.
“This is the last generation of children that will go through public education before the skills gap is locked in for the next 30 years,” Miles said. “Schools must shift focus from ‘what to know’ to ‘how to think.’”
HISD said applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, though enrollment will be limited based on campus capacity.
