The top reported proficiency rate is 13% in English language arts. The lowest is 2% in Social studies.
Original Research by School Decision on Secondary Daep
Secondary DAEP is a small alternative school in Houston ISD serving grades six through eight. It sits on Jensen Drive in northeast Houston and functions as a disciplinary alternative education program, meaning it serves students removed from regular campuses for behavior or conduct infractions rather than students who have chosen an alternative pathway.
The school's enrollment is small. Students come from diverse backgrounds, with a roughly even split between Black and Hispanic students, and a very high share qualify for free or reduced-price lunch. Data on special education enrollment and English learners was not provided, so the full composition of student needs is not fully visible.
The state testing results tell a stark story of very low academic performance. In math, only a handful of students met grade-level proficiency in each grade tested. Sixth grade math proficiency was minimal, seventh grade showed slight improvement at the eighth-grade level, where roughly one in ten students demonstrated proficiency. Reading and language arts results were somewhat better, particularly in eighth grade, where about one in five students met standard, but remained well below typical performance. Science and social studies at eighth grade showed proficiency rates in the single digits. Across the board, these are among the lowest results reported across the district's schools. A parent may want to ask the school directly about how students transition back to their home campuses, what specific academic supports are in place, and what the typical length of stay is for students at this facility.
The comparison to other schools in Harris County shows Secondary DAEP's proficiency index is in the bottom quartile, well below the median, reflecting the school's role as a disciplinary placement rather than a college-preparatory or academically advanced program. This is not surprising for the school type; students arrive academically behind and facing significant barriers.
Secondary DAEP operates within Houston ISD during a time of substantial district change. The district has been under state takeover since June 2023, with an appointed board of managers and superintendent, and control is not expected to return to elected leadership until at least June 2027. The takeover has also brought the New Education System instructional model to many schools, featuring standardized curricula, frequent assessments, and longer school days, though it is unclear which elements, if any, apply at this disciplinary program. Additionally, Houston ISD voters rejected a large bond package in November 2024, leaving facility needs unaddressed, and the district announced in February 2026 that it would close or consolidate twelve campuses due to declining enrollment. Families should confirm whether Secondary DAEP is affected by these facility or consolidation plans.
The neighborhood and broader Houston context offer some resources. The school sits in northeast Houston, part of a large city anchored by Hermann Park, the Museum District, and an extensive public library system, though walkability and transit availability vary by location. Housing values in the zip code show a modest recent decline, and rental costs are rising modestly. The city is experiencing rapid overall growth driven by energy, healthcare, and logistics employment, though enrollment in Houston ISD has declined significantly during the state takeover.
For families, Secondary DAEP represents a structured, small-scale disciplinary placement focused on students who have been removed from traditional campuses. The very low test results reflect both the population served and the school's purpose; the relevant question is not whether this is a high-performing school, but whether the re-entry supports and academic services help students return successfully to their home schools or on-grade pathways.
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