In June 1982 the Houston Independent School District's Board of Education approved the formation of a magnet program at Paul W. Horn Elementary School to be known as the Paul W. Horn Academy. The academy emphasizes the academic and social development of the "whole child." The strong traditional educational program at Horn enhances the magnet program, which offers all students in grades K-5 experiences in computer literacy, art, life sports, science, and oral and written communication and creative writing.
The following Magnet components serve to enrich and reinforce the regular instructional programs.
Art - Through the techniques used in Horn’s drawing, painting, pottery and craft classes, students become more aware of their environment and the community in which they live. Art instruction is closely correlated with the academic curriculum. Horn’s program focuses on original art, elements of design, appropriate mediums, and art in history.
Communications/Creative Writing - The communications program emphasizes oral and written communication skills and is designed to enrich and enhance the daily classroom language-arts curriculum. As students are exposed to exciting writing through first-rate children's literature, they learn to write for a a variety of purposes, such as memoir writing in narrative and poetic forms presenting facts, and expressing opinions. Daily, the students can express their ideas in both formal and informal settings through prose, dramatization, and student-made computer-generated books.
Computer Technology - Horn’s computer literacy program is designed to familiarize students with the capabilities of the computer and communications through technology. Students learn computer terminology, word processing, spreadsheets, and keyboarding skills. The computer lab teacher works with the students and teachers to provide skill lessons in the computer lab and to provide assistance in the classroom for the integration of curriculum and technology.
Earth Science - Earth science is emphasized, including life and physical science. Students attend the hands-on lab once a week. They learn the use of scientific inquiry and discovery as they delve into the world around them.
Life Sports - A unique experience in physical fitness, the life sports program emphasizes the development of skills and sportsmanship. What the students learn here can be a source of recreation throughout their lives.
