Program Overview

Introduction to the Baylor College of Medicine Academy at Ryan

The Baylor College of Medicine Academy at Ryan is a Nationally Certified Demonstration Magnet School, designated by Magnet Schools of America. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the school's commitment to providing outstanding learning opportunities in the health sciences and medicine.

History and Partnership

The school was established over 10 years ago as a result of a partnership between Baylor College of Medicine and the Houston Independent School District. The partnership aimed to develop a health and biomedical sciences magnet school that would feed the next generation of healthcare professionals. The school was poised to close in 2013 due to low enrollment, but the partnership helped to revitalize it and establish it as a pipeline school for STEM fields.

Curriculum and Programs

The school provides a rigorous project-based, hands-on curriculum in the health sciences and medicine, as well as other disciplines. Students can earn high school credits, explore academic and career pathways in health and biomedical science, and become ready for challenging high school programs. The school offers an impressive choice of electives, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals.

Recognition and Certification

The school's recognition as a Nationally Certified Demonstration Magnet School is the highest level of certification from the national nonprofit professional education association. This certification is based on the Magnet School Standards of Excellence and the five pillars of magnet schools: diversity, innovative curriculum and professional development, academic excellence, leadership, and family and community partnerships.

Student Success and Testimonials

The school's success is evident in the testimonials of its students and former students. Eighth grader Saana Khodr described an interactive project where she and her classmates built a model of a liposome for the delivery of lung cancer treatment. Former student Hillary Jasso credited the school with setting her up for future success, saying that it provided her with a strong foundation in the health sciences.

Community Impact

The school is an open-enrollment school with no testing requirements for admittance, making it a pillar of the community. The school's contribution to the Third Ward community is significant, with many students and families benefiting from its programs and services. PTO president and local resident Nazim Ansari praised the school, saying that it "wraps its arms around our children because everyone here wants them to succeed."

Conclusion

The Baylor College of Medicine Academy at Ryan is a model of excellence in education, providing students with a rigorous and innovative curriculum in the health sciences and medicine. Its recognition as a Nationally Certified Demonstration Magnet School is a testament to its commitment to academic excellence and community partnerships.