Nativity Academy Houston: Supporting Success in Houston’s Low-Income Communities

Since 2016, Nativity Academy in Houston has been working to provide quality Catholic education to low-income families. Starting with pre-kindergarten, the school has been expanding by one grade each year, now serving middle school students up to sixth grade. A recipient of the Basilian Human Development Grant, N.A.H aims to break the cycle of poverty through Christian-driven education, with a particular focus on students who face unique challenges, such as language barriers and learning disabilities.

Located in the second-lowest income neighborhood of Houston, Texas, most of Nativity’s students come from Hispanic backgrounds, many entering the school without a strong grasp of English.

“Some children join as late as fourth grade with little to no English skills, making it a challenge to catch up to their peers.” Explained Sophia Furnace Director of Advancement.

The school operates as an English immersion program, ensuring that students not only learn the language but excel academically. Nativity Academy also serves students with dyslexia, requiring specialized staff trained in reading instruction for those that struggle.

“The Basilians help sponsor our reading instruction program, which assess the child’s reading level to see where they are. This targeted intervention helps us provide the necessary guidance for the student to succeed academically.”

All students undergo a reading assessment to determine their current reading level, and afterwards are paired with a tutor who can continue to work with them in order to expand their capabilities. 

Nativity Academy’s mission goes beyond providing solely an education for its students.

“We need to undo the children’s beliefs about themselves – particularly the belief that they are not deserving of what they have. We teach them that we are all made in the image of God, who wants us to use our talents to be the best versions of ourselves.”

If students show a desire to pursue academics, N.A.H connects them with St. Thomas High School; for those inclined toward practical skills, vocational schools become an option. Volunteers from the St. Thomas High School also play a critical role in the process, helping students with their studies and inspiring a sense of service and community.

Nativity School works closely with families to support the overall success of each child. Parents are required to volunteer 20 hours a year at the school, contributing through maintenance, repairs, and other support. This expectation fosters a sense of community and commitment, helping parents appreciate the value of the education their children are receiving.

“Many families face obstacles, such as working multiple jobs, which makes it difficult to meet attendance and punctuality expectations. We try to emphasize the importance of consistency, reminding parents that their children’s academic success depends on their involvement and reliability.”

A newly enrolled 6th grade class prepares to begin learning.

Despite challenges, the dedication of the staff and the determination of the students are what drive N.A.H’s success.

“The children are our motivation. When you walk through the school and see how hard the kids are working and how invested they are in their own future, it makes all the hard moments worth it.” The school fosters a sense of dignity and purpose in its students, helping them believe in their potential and pushing them to be the best version of themselves.

“We are very thankful for the support the Basilians have offered us for the last two, it helps provide the opportunity for our students to realize their God-given talents and use them to create a better life.”

As Nativity Academy Houston continues to grow and flourish, it remains a beacon of hope for its students, their families, and the community for a better future.

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