Harmony Public Schools

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Harmony Public Schools
HarmonyPS.png
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Harmony Public Schools headquarters in Houston
Location
Texas
United States
District information
Type Public charter school
Established2000 [1]
SuperintendentFatih Ay [2]
Chair of the boardOner Ulvi Celepcikay [2]
Governing agency Texas Education Agency
Schools61 [3]
Budget$548,949,291 (2022) [4]
Students and staff
Enrollment45,000 (2024) [5]
Faculty5,000 (approx.) [6]
ColorsRed, White & Blue
Other information
Tax ID76-0615245
Website www.harmonytx.org

Harmony Public Schools (or HPS) is a charter management organization that operates the largest network of charter schools in Texas, with 61 campuses serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. [3] Established in 2000, Harmony emphasizes Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. Headquartered in the Southwest Management District (formerly Greater Sharpstown), Houston.

Contents

History

The first Harmony Public School opened in Houston in 2000 with 200 students, [7] following a charter school proposal developed by a group of Turkish-American graduate students, including Dr. Soner Tarim as one of the founders, who also became the first superintendent/CEO of the school. [8] The proposal was approved by the Texas Education Agency in April 2000, with the inaugural campus opening in August of the same year. [9] Cosmos Foundation sponsored the establishment of the school. [9]

Harmony Public Schools expanded with its second campus opening in Austin in 2002, followed by a third campus in Dallas in 2004. In 2005, the network started elementary schools. [7] By 2006, over 85% of the student population at each campus consisted of minority students. [9]

Within a decade of its founding, Harmony expanded to 33 campuses across Texas, becoming the largest charter network in the state, serving approximately 16,500 students by that time. [10] [11]

As of 2016, there were 46 campuses, serving over 30,000 students. [7]

By the end of 2024, the network has 61 campuses and 45,000 students. [3] [5]

Academic performance

Harmony Public Schools aims to improve access to Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education for students from low-socioeconomic backgrounds. [12] Its proprietary "STEM Students on the Stage" (STEM SOS) model combines teacher-led instruction, hands-on activities, and interdisciplinary projects to enhance academic performance and 21st-century skills. The approach fosters collaboration, communication, and self-motivation, preparing students for higher education and STEM careers. [7] [13]

In 2011, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) rated 21 out of 33 Harmony schools as either "Exemplary" or "Recognized," with the remaining schools receiving an "Acceptable" rating. [11]

As of 2015–2016 academic year, all Harmony Public Schools campuses met or exceeded the state academic standards, with six campuses earning all seven available academic distinctions and two districts receiving the post-secondary readiness distinction. [14]

As of 2010, Texas newspapers, including The Dallas Morning News , the Austin American-Statesman , and the West University Examiner , commented favorably on the schools. [15] [16] [17] HSA Houston was awarded by U.S. News & World Report a 'Bronze' medal in 2009 and a 'Silver' Medal in 2010. [18] [19] A Newsweek report in 2011 named two of the Harmony schools "Miracle Schools". [20]

In January 2024, Eighteen Harmony campuses in Texas, including four in El Paso, were named "State Schools of Character" by Character.org for their commitment to character development and community leadership. [21] As of 2024, Harmony had 40 State School of Character winners and 21 National School of Character winners, the highest number among U.S. school systems for character education. [22]

Participation in competitions

Harmony Public Schools emphasizes extracurricular activities, encouraging students to participate in a range of academic and STEM competitions. Students are particularly active in programs such as MathCounts, the FIRST LEGO League (FLL), DISTCO (Digital Storytelling Contests), science fairs, and Quiz Bowl. The Harmony Science Academy in Euless was recognized as the "Best School" at the Fort Worth Regional Science and Engineering Fair in 2010, just a year after opening. Additionally, Harmony School of Excellence earned first place at the national level in its rookie year and second place in its third year. [23]

Harmony Schools hosted several I-SWEEEP (International Sustainable World Energy, Engineering, and Environment Project), an international science fair that attracts students from numerous countries to present their projects. The event held at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, with many Harmony campuses participated to support their classmates and exhibit their own work. [24]

Management and operations

Financial operations

Harmony Public Schools holds a AAA financial bond rating, reflecting its qualification for the Texas Permanent School Fund (PSF) Bond Guarantee Program. [25] The network has also secured significant federal funding, including a five-year, $30 million Race to the Top grant awarded in the 2011–2012 academic year. [26] Five Harmony schools in Austin reported spending $7,923 per student, approximately $800 less than the statewide average and $1,600 below the Austin Independent School District average. According to Kate Alexander of the Austin American-Statesman, the schools achieved strong academic performance despite operating "on a shoestring." [27]

In 2012, it was reported that the Harmony network also provides management and consulting services to other charter school networks. According to Tarim, Cosmos, the managing entity of Harmony, offers consulting services to the School of Science and Technology in San Antonio, which is operated by the Riverwalk Education Foundation and governed by an independent school board separate from Harmony Public Schools. [11]

In 2015, Harmony received $22.8 million in federal grants and $229.2 million in local and state funding. [28]

In 2024, the Texas Association of School Business Officials (TASBO) awarded Harmony Public Schools its highest honors for financial responsibility, including the Award of Excellence for Financial Management and the Award of Merit for Purchasing Operations. [29] Harmony was the first Texas public charter school to receive the Award of Merit in 2019 and the Award of Excellence in 2023, earning both recognitions again in 2024. [29] In October the same year, Harmony announced $15 million in bonuses for teachers and staff, with average stipends ranging from $3,000 to $4,000. Harmony also participates in the Teacher Incentive Allotment program, providing high-performing teachers with annual rewards of up to $30,000. [30]

Business contracting

The Harris County Department of Education supports Harmony Public Schools in its bidding process by reviewing submissions and recommending the lowest responsible bidder to the board of directors for contract approval. [31]

Criticism

In May 2016, Amsterdam & Partners LLP filed a complaint with the Texas Education Agency (TEA) alleging Harmony Public Schools engaged in employment discrimination based on national origin and gender, improper vendor selection, and misappropriation of public funds. The complaint also raised concerns about potential ties to the Gülen movement, led by Turkish cleric Fethullah Gülen. [32]

Use of H1-B visas

As of 2011, Harmony Public Schools faced scrutiny for its use of H-1B visas to employ Turkish-born staff, with 292 out of 1,500 employees working under the program, and for awarding contracts to Turkish-owned businesses. [12] Despite these criticisms, the schools received praise for their academic performance and were recognized as one of the highest-rated charter school networks in Texas. [11]

As of the 2016–17 school year, 197 of Harmony Public Schools' 3,500 employees, or less than 7%, were on H1-B visas, primarily from Turkey, a decrease from previous years when 20% of the workforce held such visas. To reduce reliance on foreign workers, Harmony implemented a "grow your own teacher program" to encourage former students to pursue careers in math and science education. The initiative has led to 80 alumni returning as teachers and 300 working as teacher aides while attending college. [31]

Influence of Gülen movement

Harmony schools has been accused at many events of having ties to the Gülen movement, a global network inspired by Turkish cleric Gülen. While critics suggest alignment with Gülen's teachings, Harmony officials deny any formal connection to the movement. [12] [31]

William Martin of Rice University said, as paraphrased by USA Today, that "educators' assertions of 'no organic connection' to Gülen are 'accurate,' but that 'their efforts to minimize ties to Gülen, likely from fear of being branded Islamists, bring unnecessary and probably counterproductive suspicion.'" [33]

Civil rights compliance review

Harmony Public Schools underwent a compliance review by the United States Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR) to assess adherence to Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act (prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, or national origin), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act (prohibiting discrimination based on disability in federally funded education programs), and Title II of the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act (prohibiting disability-based discrimination by public entities). The review determined that while HPS's admissions policies and procedures appeared non-discriminatory, the enrollment of students with disabilities and English-language learners was notably lower compared to public school districts in the same areas. The investigation was resolved in late 2014 after HPS submitted proposals to address the issues identified by the OCR. [34]

Superintendents/CEOs

Schools

Harmony Public Schools initially operated in repurposed spaces, such as former retail locations and facilities leased from churches, which are common for charter schools. Following the sale of over $645 million in state-guaranteed public bonds, Harmony began constructing its own campuses, although some schools continue to operate in leased facilities. [11] It is the largest charter school network in Texas, operating 61 campuses and serving approximately 45,000 students from kindergarten through 12th grade. [3] [5]

Austin

Beaumont

Brownsville

Bryan/College Station

Dallas

El Paso

Fort Worth

Garland/Rowlett/Sachse

Grand Prairie

Euless

Houston

Harmony School of Ingenuity Harmony School of Ingenuity.jpg
Harmony School of Ingenuity

Laredo

Lubbock

Odessa

San Antonio

Waco

Behavioral System

Harmony Public Schools for grades 6–12 utilize a behavioral system to document student actions. The system includes the "Positive Behavior Award" (PBA), which acknowledges students for constructive contributions, such as organizing classroom materials or assisting with tasks. [35]

Conversely, "Reinforcement Points" (RP) are issued for behaviors that deviate from the guidelines outlined in the Harmony Student Handbook. [35] [36] Examples of actions that may result in RP include not adhering to the dress code, which requires grade-specific uniforms, or other infractions such as sleeping during class. [35]

Alumni

Harmony Public Schools launches the "Together We Give" campaign annually to raise funds for supporting its college-enrolled alumni. The initiative aims to provide scholarships, mentorships, internships, and career preparation resources. [37]

Awards and recognitions

References

  1. ↑ "Harmony Public Schools History: Founding, Timeline, and Milestones". Zippia. August 27, 2020. Retrieved February 18, 2025.
  2. 1 2 "Board of Directors - Harmony Public Schools". Harmony Public Schools. Retrieved February 18, 2025.
  3. 1 2 3 4 "Schools - Harmony Public Schools". Harmony Public Schools. Retrieved February 18, 2025.
  4. ↑ "Harmony Public Schools Form 990 2015". ProPublica. May 9, 2013. Retrieved January 29, 2018.
  5. 1 2 3 American, Odessa (August 20, 2024). "Harmony Public Schools sets new enrollment record with largest class ever". Odessa American. Retrieved February 18, 2025.
  6. ↑ "About Us - Harmony Public Schools". Harmony Public Schools. Retrieved February 18, 2025.
  7. 1 2 3 4 Ark, Tom Vander (February 3, 2016). "Learner-Centered STEM: Meet Harmony Public Schools". Getting Smart. Retrieved February 19, 2025.
  8. 1 2 Brent, Kim (September 11, 2023). "15 Beaumont Harmony teachers among 380 to see big bonuses". Beaumont Enterprise. Retrieved February 19, 2025.
  9. 1 2 3 "Harmony School of Excellence" (PDF). castro.tea.state.tx.us. Retrieved February 19, 2025.
  10. ↑ Thevenot, Brian (September 27, 2010). "In Perfect Harmony?". The Texas Tribune . Retrieved February 19, 2025.
  11. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Kastner, Lindsay (January 1, 2012). "Harmony schools causing discord". San Antonio Express-News . Retrieved August 29, 2012.
  12. 1 2 3 Saul, Stephanie (June 6, 2011). "Charter Schools Tied to Turkey Grow in Texas". The New York Times . Retrieved February 21, 2012.
  13. ↑ "Teachers' Reflections on STEM Students on the Stage (SOS™) Model". ResearchGate . Retrieved February 20, 2025.
  14. ↑ "Harmony Public Schools". Spaces4Learning. August 7, 2015. Retrieved February 20, 2025.
  15. ↑ "Turkish scholars excel with charter schools that emphasize science, math". The Dallas Morning News. March 2, 2010. Retrieved July 24, 2010.
  16. ↑ "Group ranks Central Texas' best and worst schools: Westlake High, Harmony Science Academy and Pillow Elementary are ranked No. 1 in Austin area". Austin American-Statesman. September 20, 2009. Retrieved July 25, 2010.
  17. ↑ "DeBakey, Carnegie, HSPVA place high, but charters show gains in rankings". West University Examiner. April 26, 2010. Retrieved July 25, 2010.
  18. 1 2 "Best High Schools: Texas". U.S. News & World Report. 2009. Retrieved July 24, 2010.
  19. 1 2 "Best High Schools: Harmony Science Academy-Houston". U.S. News & World Report. 2010. Retrieved July 24, 2010.
  20. 1 2 "Ten Miracle High Schools". The Daily Beast . June 21, 2011. Retrieved August 29, 2012.
  21. 1 2 Pittock, Drew (January 13, 2024). "Harmony Public Schools most recognized 'State School of Character' nationwide". KFOX-TV . Retrieved February 20, 2025.
  22. ↑ "Harmony School of Excellence - Laredo named 2024 National School of Character". Laredo Morning Times . May 25, 2024. Retrieved February 20, 2025.
  23. ↑ "Local School and Educator Win Top Honors in Science Competition". PR Newswire. May 18, 2010. Retrieved July 24, 2010.
  24. ↑ Sahin, Alpaslan (2015). "STEM Students on the Stage (SOS): Promoting Student Voice and Choice in STEM Education through an Interdisciplinary, Standards-Focused, Project-Based Learning Approach". SAGE Open. 5 (3): 1–11. doi: 10.1177/2158244015605355 . Retrieved March 1, 2025.
  25. 1 2 "Harmony Public Schools Becomes First Charter School Ever to Win Award of Excellence for Financial Management". Focus Daily News . December 6, 2022. Retrieved February 23, 2025.
  26. ↑ Turque, Bill (November 12, 2013). "Harmony charter school seeks to expand to D.C.; business practices raised questions". The Washington Post . Retrieved February 23, 2025.
  27. ↑ Alexander, Kate (August 18, 2012). "Can traditional schools learn a lesson from charters' efficiency?". Austin American-Statesman . Archived from the original on August 22, 2012. Retrieved August 28, 2012.
  28. ↑ "HPS_Audit_Report_June_30_2016.pdf" (PDF). HarmonyTx.org. Retrieved June 30, 2017.
  29. 1 2 3 4 "Harmony Public Schools recognized with highest awards in Texas school finance". The Katy News. January 24, 2024. Retrieved March 2, 2025.
  30. ↑ Hawes, Trevor (October 21, 2024). "Harmony Public Schools awards $15M in bonuses to employees". Midland Reporter-Telegram. Retrieved February 23, 2025.
  31. 1 2 3 Radcliffe, Jennifer (May 21, 2016). "Harmony schools faces Turkish attack". Houston Chronicle . Retrieved February 23, 2025.
  32. ↑ "Texas Education Agency urged to investigate misappropriation of public funds, discrimination, and self-dealing by Harmony Public Schools". Amsterdam & Partners LLP. May 24, 2016. Retrieved February 23, 2025.
  33. ↑ Toppo, Greg. "Objectives of charter schools with Turkish ties questioned." USA Today . August 17, 2010. Retrieved on August 29, 2012.
  34. ↑ August, Taylor D. (November 26, 2014). "Letter: Harmony Public Schools, Texas: OCR Case #06-11-5004" (PDF). ed.gov . Retrieved September 1, 2016.
  35. 1 2 3 "School-wide Discipline Plan Parent Handbook 2024-2025" (PDF). Finalsite. Retrieved March 1, 2025.
  36. ↑ "Student & Parent Handbook - Harmony Public Schools". Harmony Public Schools. Retrieved March 1, 2025.
  37. ↑ "Harmony Public Schools seeking donations for Giving Tuesday alumni support campaign". Yahoo Life . December 3, 2024. Retrieved March 2, 2025.
  38. ↑ "The Broad Prize for Public Charter Schools". The Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation. Retrieved March 2, 2025.
  39. ↑ "Harmony Public Schools earn Texas CyberStar certification". Odessa American. April 28, 2024. Retrieved March 2, 2025.
  40. ↑ "Harmony Public Schools wins more awards than any school system in America for school communications". The Katy News. June 25, 2024. Retrieved March 2, 2025.

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