As we wrap up the 2023-2024 school year, we reflect on a milestone that was nothing short of spectacular—our 25th anniversary! This year has been a remarkable journey, and we are incredibly grateful to everyone who made it memorable, including over 2,100 faculty and staff who passionately served nearly 18,000 students across Houston. 

Our celebrations spanned from the heart of our classrooms to the excitement on our sports fields. We saw our elementary students take their first steps into a world of learning and our seniors announce their post-secondary plans at Senior Signing Day. The vibrancy of our community shined brightly through every event, showcasing the diverse and dynamic spirit that defines YES Prep. 

Elementary school highlights 

We began the school year with groundbreaking ceremonies for three new elementary schools, continuing our elementary expansion that began five years ago and will continue until every YES Prep community has a pre-K through 12th grade feeder pattern. Hobby, North Rankin and Southwest Oaks Elementary Schools will open in August 2024. 

This school year was extra special as the founding classes at North Central Elementary and Southeast Elementary completed fifth grade, becoming our first elementary students to transition to secondary schools in August. 

Success at our secondary schools 

Our secondary schools continued to positively impact students across Houston and earned nationwide recognition. 

Eleven secondary schools ranked in the top 11% best high schools in the country per the latest U.S. News & World Report's 2023-2024 list of the Best High Schools. 

Eleven secondary schools were also recognized by the College Board’s AP School Honor Roll. 

This year was extra special as the founding class of YES Prep Northline Secondary graduated. 

Athletics and arts 

The year was packed with achievements on the field and creativity in the arts. Our student-athletes demonstrated dedication and sportsmanship, bringing home victories and lessons that will last a lifetime. Student-athletes earned three state championships and 12 regional championships this year! 

Meanwhile, our artists, musicians and performers expressed their talents and shared their passion with the community, reminding us of the power of creativity. 

Four art students shined at the Houston Rodeo School Art competition, earning three Best in Shows and a gold medal. This year marked the first time in YES Prep history that a secondary student was selected to have their work featured in the showcase. 

Community celebrations 

Our 25th anniversary was more than just a celebration of years—it was a celebration of the diverse community that makes YES Prep exceptional.  

• Four YES Prep teachers received the 2023 Kinder Excellence in Teaching Awards. 

• Eric Espinoza '03 received the inaugural YES Prep Alumni Legacy Award at the Leading Houston Forward Luncheon. 

• YES Prep celebrated staff who have served our schools for 10+ years at the Silver Stars Celebration. 

• YES Fest celebrated our 25 years of impact with family, food and lots of fun! 

• At Senior Signing Day, 1,631 seniors from 14 secondary campuses took the stage to declare their post-secondary plans, cheered on by over 8,000 YES Prep students, faculty, staff, families, alumni and donors at the University of Houston's Fertitta Center. 

We are proud to be a place where every student can thrive, where families are engaged, and where staff are dedicated to nurturing future leaders. 

Looking ahead 

As we celebrate 25 years of YES, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our students, families and staff who have been integral to our success. Your commitment and support make YES Prep a place where education and community go hand in hand. 

Thank you for joining us on this journey. Here’s to our next chapter and many more years of empowering all Houston students to succeed in college and to pursue lives of opportunity!