The last day of the 2024-2025 school year for Harris County Department of Education’s (HCDE) four Special Schools was June 5, and less than two weeks later, campus administration teams and division leadership were already busy at work prepping for next fall.

“You win championships in the offseason,” said Dr. CJ Rodgers, assistant superintendent of Education and Enrichment.

With the theme, “Boots on the Ground: On Mission,” leaders from both Academic and Behavior Schools, Highpoint School and Fortis Academy spent the day setting goals, assessing data and preparing professional development.

“The fact that you guys just let out of school and are already thinking and planning on making next school year better speaks to the level of leadership that’s in this room,” Rodgers said.

Each section had its own special title, from the “Rodeo Roundup” opening activity to the “Ranch Hand Roundtable” and “Wrangler Wisdom Workshop.” And of course, attendees dressed the part with boots and jeans.

The day ended with each campus putting together a plant bed, with each handpicked plant representing traits such as positivity, endurance and peace.