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The Energy newsletter is published every two weeks.
| | Important Upcoming Dates & Deadlines | | |
October 30- Cohort 5 Field Experience
November 1-Saturday Tutorials & Detention
November 7- Student Holiday
November 20- Underclass Fall Exhibition (5:00-6:30 PM)
November 24-28- Thanksgiving Break
December 4- Senior Exhibition (5:00-6:30 PM)
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Cohort 2 Chronicles: Learning, Creating, and Growing Together!
Cohort 2 has had a busy and inspiring few weeks! Between hands-on projects, teamwork, and lots of learning, our students are proving that innovation and curiosity go hand in hand.
In English, students are in full collaboration mode as they tackle their first PBL Project. They’ve been exploring the fascinating world of informational texts, especially infographics, and recently put their analysis skills to the test in an Infographic Analysis Verbal Quiz. Be sure to ask your student what new insights they discovered about text structures and how visuals can tell powerful stories.
In Engineering, creativity meets problem-solving! Students have begun constructing their prototypes through the engineering design process. Each team is preparing to present their work on a trifold poster board, showcasing their research, problem statements, and final designs. It’s all about innovation, teamwork, and building ideas that work.
In Biology, students are diving into research for their biome dioramas, their first PBL Deliverable! From rainforests to tundras, they’re learning how ecosystems function and how to represent those complex systems in three-dimensional form. Parents, you might start seeing a lot of shoeboxes and craft materials at home!
In World Geography, exploration is the name of the game. Students have been developing detailed “Survival Map” projects, identifying remote regions across the globe and researching everything from geography to cultural context. They’re learning that surviving, and thriving, starts with understanding the land.
Cohort 2 is charging ahead with energy and enthusiasm. From critical thinking in the classroom to creativity in their projects, these students are making their learning visible every step of the way. Keep cheering them on as they prepare for the Fall Exhibition on November 20th (5:00–6:30 p.m.) and take a well-earned break during Thanksgiving week (Nov. 24–28).
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Manufacturing Students Bring Halloween Spirit to Life
In Manufacturing Engineering Technology I, students have been busy bringing their creativity to life—literally—with a seasonal twist. Using jigsaws and other shop tools, these young engineers have designed and cut out custom Halloween yard signs, showcasing both their technical skills and artistic flair.
Each design is unique, reflecting the students’ imagination and growing confidence in precision manufacturing. From sketching concepts to safely operating power tools, the project has been a fun and practical way to reinforce design principles while adding some festive Energy flair to campus life.
Be sure to keep an eye out next week; these student-made Halloween yard signs will make their debut along the parent pick-up line, turning an ordinary space into a creative gallery of spooky (and impressive) craftsmanship!
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Energy Students Lead Record-Breaking Blood Drive!
A huge round of applause goes out to our incredible Energy Institute students for hosting a stellar blood drive this month! Under the leadership of Gisele Maldonado and with the help of a team of dedicated volunteers, our students achieved the best turnout in two years of partnership with Blood Donor Services.
Together, they registered an amazing 60 donors and collected 51 units of blood—the highest number ever collected at Energy! Each volunteer played a vital role, from greeting donors with enthusiasm to ensuring the event ran smoothly from start to finish.
Tyler Reyna, Community Representative with Blood Donor Services, praised the students’ “wonderful energy, motivation, and diligence,” adding that the team’s preparation and encouragement “made Tuesday’s results possible.”
We’re beyond proud of our students’ commitment to service, teamwork, and community impact. Their efforts truly embody the Energy spirit—innovative minds and compassionate hearts making a difference.
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Energy Institute Kicks Off Tour Season with an Electrifying Start!
The first parent tour of the season was a tremendous success, setting the tone for what’s sure to be an exciting year ahead for our future Energy Scholars! Nearly 50 families registered for the inaugural tour, eager to experience firsthand what makes Energy Institute High School one of Houston’s most innovative learning communities.
From the moment families arrived, our Student Ambassadors led the way, welcoming guests at the front door, guiding them to their seats, and sharing their personal “Why Energy?” stories with warmth and pride. Their professionalism and authenticity left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.
The program began with an inspiring presentation by Founding Principal, Ms. Lori Lambropoulos, who shared the heartfelt story of how Energy Institute came to be, from its humble beginnings and key partnerships to its continued journey toward innovation and excellence. Dean of Instruction, Ms. Liz Harris, followed with an overview of the school’s instructional expectations, unique PBL curriculum, and how Global Graduate Skills are woven into every student’s experience, reinforcing the concept that Engineering is Core.
Parents and students also participated in a hands-on Entry Event, giving them a glimpse into how learning through Project-Based Learning (PBL) fosters collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking. The tour continued through our building’s dynamic learning spaces, each one intentionally designed to support inquiry, design, and authentic problem-solving. Feedback from families was overwhelmingly positive.
Many expressed admiration for the school’s mission, curriculum, and facilities, but what stood out most were the students themselves. Our Ambassadors shined as the true heartbeat of Energy: confident, articulate, and deeply passionate about their learning journey.
The tour not only showcased the excellence of Energy Institute but also the spirit of innovation and community that defines us. If the first tour is any indication, the future looks bright for next year’s class of scholars!
| | | REMINDER: Seniors do not have to order a yearbook as the yearbook is a part of the Senior package. | | | |
TESLA Award: Honoring Excellence in the Classroom
This week’s TESLA Award goes to Mr. Valencia, our outstanding Algebra II teacher whose dedication and heart shine through every lesson!
Mr. Valencia was nominated by his co-teacher, Ariel York, who shared:
“He is an absolutely awesome Algebra II teacher. He works so hard to make sure all students are able to understand, even if it means walking around to help every single one of them. He is extremely kind, and I’m so happy to hava the honor of co-teaching with him this school year!”
Mr. Valencia’s commitment to ensuring every student feels supported and confident in math reflects the true spirit of teaching at Energy. His kindness, patience, and genuine care for students make him a shining example of the excellence we celebrate with the TESLA Award each week.
Congratulations, Mr. Valencia, and thank you for inspiring both students and colleagues alike! ⚡
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Join the PTO - it is free at Energy Institute! You'll get our biweekly newsletter and access to our online family directly.
Everyone, even returning families, must use this link to enter or re-confirm your contact information and sign up for the school year. If you are interested in volunteering, please include your volunteer preferences when you update.
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Spirit Wear Announcement: Order Your Energy Polo Shirts
Orders for Energy polo shirts are now being accepted. These polos are required for students when attending field trips and other group events, so be sure to get yours early. To place an order, email spiritstore@energyinstitutepto.org or order online. Shirts will be delivered directly to Energy for easy pickup.
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Energy is a proud recipient of the 2016 National Merit Awards
More Here!
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Energy is a public school in the Houston Independent School District
More Here!
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Energy is an active participant with the district's Canvas initiative
More Here!
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