Was Michael E. DeBakey High School for Health Professions named after someone famous? It was indeed. This is Michael E. DeBakey High School for Health Professions. It is a unique institution with a focus on medical careers.
The school’s namesake is Michael E. DeBakey a famous heart surgeon. The school opened in 1972. It started as the High School for Health Professions. This was a partnership between the Houston Independent School District and Baylor College of Medicine.
DeBakey High School was the first of its kind in the nation. It aimed to provide opportunities in medicine and science. In 1996 the school was renamed to honor Dr. Michael E. DeBakey.
Initially, only 45 students attended classes. They met in the Cullen building at Baylor. Today DeBakey High School has grown significantly. Nearly 1000 students attend the school. It now has its own five-story building in the Texas Medical Center.
The school’s mission is clear. It provides a challenging college preparatory program. It emphasizes science and health professions. The goal is to foster understanding in a diverse community.
DeBakey High School achieves remarkable academic results. The Texas Education Agency consistently recognizes its excellence. In 2017 and 2018 the school met the accountability standard. It earned distinctions in various subjects. These include English mathematics science and social studies.
Children at Risk ranked DeBakey High School highly. It was number one in the Greater Houston area. It was second in the state of Texas. US News and World Report also awarded it gold status.
The school’s curriculum is rigorous. Students complete five years of math. They also take advanced science courses. Three years of a foreign language are required. Students dedicate four years to health science.
Graduates from DeBakey High School often excel. Many go on to the University of Houston or the University of Texas at Austin. A special program guarantees admission to Baylor College of Medicine for some.
DeBakey High School has received numerous awards. The U.S. Department of Education recognized it multiple times. It was named a New American High School in 1998. The Texas Education Agency has given it the Exemplary School Award for 20 years in a row.
The school has a global presence. A branch campus exists in Doha Qatar. It provides a U.S. curriculum with a focus on science and math. This prepares students for careers in medicine.
The new campus opened in 2017. It is located on Pressler Street in the Texas Medical Center. The campus features modern science laboratories. It also has mock hospital rooms. These facilities enhance the learning experience.
The school’s mascot is the viper. DeBakey High School celebrates various events. These include the Scientific Symposium and International Festival. Students also enjoy a talent show and field day.
DeBakey High School does not have official sports teams. However students participate in athletic clubs. These clubs compete with other local high schools. Students also thrive in sports outside of school.
The DeBakey orchestra offers musical opportunities. Students perform concerts for patients and caregivers. This partnership with Houston’s Orchestra On Call enriches the community.
DeBakey High School graduates have made significant contributions. They work in various medical fields. They are doctors nurses and researchers. Their education at DeBakey prepared them for success.
Denis DeBakey shared his father’s vision. Michael E. DeBakey wanted to provide access to health professions. He wanted to reflect Houston’s diversity. His legacy lives on through the school’s achievements. The Michael E. DeBakey High School for Health Professions continues to inspire future generations.