
Horizon Leadership Academy's Algebra II course is designed to deepen students' understanding of advanced algebraic concepts, building on their previous knowledge from Algebra I. The curriculum aligns with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) and emphasizes practical applications and problem-solving strategies. Through this course, students develop a robust foundation in functions, equations, and data analysis that prepares them for higher-level math and real-world problem-solving.
Students will explore a range of topics, including linear equations, quadratic and polynomial functions, rational expressions, exponential and logarithmic functions, inferential statistics, and trigonometry. The course incorporates graphing, operations, and transformations to enable students to analyze and interpret complex mathematical relationships. In addition, students will apply their knowledge to solve equations algebraically and graphically, work with systems of equations, and prove trigonometric identities.
A unique aspect of the program is its focus on integrating technology, such as graphing calculators and software, to enhance understanding and visualization of concepts. The course also emphasizes collaborative learning through group projects, where students can communicate and solve problems collectively, fostering critical thinking and teamwork.
Standards and Skills:
Demonstrate understanding and application of linear, quadratic, and polynomial equations.
Graph and analyze functions, including exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric types.Solve equations and systems algebraically and graphically.
Apply statistical measures and probability principles.
Prove and use trigonometric identities.The Algebra II program at HLA not only strengthens mathematical skills but also equips students with analytical thinking and problem-solving capabilities essential for success in future academic pursuits.
Horizon Leadership Academy’s Geometry course is thoughtfully structured to give students a comprehensive understanding of essential geometric concepts and their applications. McGraw Hill curriculum is aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) and emphasizes both the theoretical and practical aspects of geometry, preparing students for advanced math courses and real-world problem-solving.
Throughout the course, students will explore topics such as tools of geometry, transformations, congruence, similarity, trigonometry, and properties of various geometric figures including triangles, quadrilaterals, and circles. Emphasis is placed on developing deductive reasoning skills to analyze relationships and prove geometric theorems. The course also covers measurement, surface area, volume of solids, and introduces students to probability in a geometric context.
Students will engage in hands-on activities and projects that encourage logical thinking and spatial visualization. The integration of technology, including graphing calculators and software, supports interactive learning and enhances students' ability to visualize and manipulate geometric figures.
Standards and Skills:
Demonstrate understanding of fundamental geometric concepts and relationships.
Apply deductive and inductive reasoning to prove theorems and solve problems.Model real-world scenarios using geometric principles.
Graph, measure, and analyze geometric figures in two and three dimensions.
Utilize trigonometric ratios and theorems for problem-solving.
Horizon Leadership Academy’s Geometry course fosters an appreciation of mathematics as an essential tool for logical thinking and problem-solving, laying a strong foundation for further mathematical study and practical application
Horizon Leadership Academy provides TEKS aligned Springboard English Language Arts curriculum for high school students. English language arts and reading Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) embody the interconnected nature of listening, speaking, reading, writing, and thinking through the seven integrated strands of developing and sustaining foundational language skills; comprehension; response; multiple genres; author's purpose and craft; composition; and inquiry and research. The strands focus on academic oracy (proficiency in oral expression and comprehension), authentic reading, and reflective writing to ensure a literate Texas. The strands are integrated and progressive with students continuing to develop knowledge and skills with increased complexity and nuance in order to think critically and adapt to the ever-evolving nature of language and literacy.
Learning Objectives of Springboard:
Teaches students the skills and knowledge that matter most to meet AP and college and career readiness standards.
Puts a special focus on close reading, giving students strategies and structure for developing this key skill
Provides compelling texts – fiction, nonfiction, poetry, drama, visuals, and film
Prepares students for the SAT, PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, and PSAT 8/9 in the classroom every day.
Horizon Leadership Academy provides TEKS aligned Springboard English Language Arts curriculum for high school students. English language arts and reading Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) embody the interconnected nature of listening, speaking, reading, writing, and thinking through the seven integrated strands of developing and sustaining foundational language skills; comprehension; response; multiple genres; author's purpose and craft; composition; and inquiry and research. The strands focus on academic oracy (proficiency in oral expression and comprehension), authentic reading, and reflective writing to ensure a literate Texas. The strands are integrated and progressive with students continuing to develop knowledge and skills with increased complexity and nuance in order to think critically and adapt to the ever-evolving nature of language and literacy.
Learning Objectives of Springboard:
Teaches students the skills and knowledge that matter most to meet AP and college and career readiness standards.
Puts a special focus on close reading, giving students strategies and structure for developing this key skill
Provides compelling texts – fiction, nonfiction, poetry, drama, visuals, and film
Prepares students for the SAT, PSAT/NMSQT, PSAT 10, and PSATTM 8/9 in the classroom every day.
Course Goals:
Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography (One-Half to One Credit).
Students shall be awarded either one-half credit or one credit for successful completion of this course. When completed for one credit, this course may be used as a substitute for World Geography Studies. When completed for one-half credit, this course may be used to meet only elective course requirements.
Learning Objectives:
This course introduces students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that
have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth’s surface. Students employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine socio economic organization and its environmental consequences. They also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their research and applications. The curriculum reflects the goals of the National Geography Standards (2012).
College Course Equivalent:
The AP Human Geography course is equivalent to an introductory college-level course in human geography.
Course Goals:
Advanced Placement (AP) World History (One Credit).
Students shall be awarded one credit for successful completion of this course. This course may be used as a substitute for World History Studies.
Learning Objectives:
In AP World History: Modern, students investigate significant events, individuals,developments, and processes from 1200 to the present. Students develop and usethe same skills, practices, and methods employed by historians: analyzing primary andsecondary sources; developing historical arguments; making historical connections; andutilizing reasoning about comparison, causation, and continuity and change over time. Thecourse provides six themes that students explore throughout the course in order to makeconnections among historical developments in different times and places: humans and theenvironment, cultural developments and interactions, governance, economic systems, socialinteractions and organization, and technology and innovation.
College Course Equivalent:
AP World History: Modern is designed to be the equivalent of an introductory college oruniversity survey of modern world history.
Horizon Leadership Academy’s AP Biology program for grade 10 offers a TEKS-aligned curriculum that prepares students for college-level biology. This course emphasizes critical skills in scientific problem-solving and inquiry, bridging classroom learning with real-world applications to build “science esteem”—students' confidence in their scientific abilities.
Program Structure and Approach: Using a Concrete Pictorial Abstract (CPA) approach, students progress from concrete biological models to visual and abstract theories, fostering a deep understanding of complex life sciences and their practical relevance.
Core Areas of Study:
• Foundations of Biology: Chemistry of life, cellular processes, and genetics.
• Advanced Systems: Evolution, biodiversity, and ecology, emphasizing ecosystems and conservation.
• Organismal Biology: Examines physiology and systems with projects linking biology to daily life.
Skills and Laboratory Work: Students develop proficiency in scientific inquiry, experiment design, and data analysis. Hands-on labs connect theory to real-world biology, strengthening both skills and scientific confidence. This supportive and rigorous AP Biology course equips students for the AP exam and nurtures a lifelong appreciation of biology.
Horizon Leadership Academy’s Honors Biology course offers an in-depth exploration of fundamental biology concepts tailored for motivated students. This course emphasizes analytical and critical-thinking skills, scientific problem-solving, and a hands-on approach to biological study. Lessons integrate real-life applications to build "science esteem"—confidence in students' scientific inquiry abilities and understanding.
Program Structure and Approach:
Honors Biology follows a structured progression that begins with tangible, concrete examples and moves toward abstract understanding, enabling students to grasp complex biological processes and their relevance to everyday life.
Core Areas of Study:
• Biochemistry and Cellular Biology: Covers the chemistry of life, cellular structures, and metabolic processes.
• Genetics and Evolution: Focuses on genetic principles, DNA, inheritance, and evolutionary theory.
• Ecology and Organismal Biology: Examines ecosystems, biodiversity, and physiological systems, linking biology with environmental and health contexts.
Skills and Laboratory Work:
Through lab investigations and experiments, students apply the scientific method, conduct research, and analyze data, building a solid foundation for advanced biology. Honors Biology at Horizon Leadership Academy is designed to challenge students while fostering a deep, lasting appreciation for the life sciences
Horizon Leadership Academy’s 9th-grade AP Computer Science Principles course, delivered through Project STEM, provides TEKS-aligned instruction and prepares students for the AP Computer Science Principles exam. This rigorous course introduces students to foundational computing concepts and real-world applications of computer science, emphasizing collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking. Students who successfully complete the course and AP exam may earn college credit.
The curriculum explores computer science fundamentals, programming in Scratch and Python, algorithm development, data analysis, cybersecurity, and the global impacts of computing. Students engage in hands-on projects, allowing them to apply their knowledge creatively. They also complete the AP-required Create Performance Task to demonstrate their ability to design and program computational solutions.In addition to technical skills, students learn ethical computing practices, the societal impact of technology, and strategies for preparing for the AP exam through practice questions and review sessions.
Standards and Skills
Master foundational computer science concepts, including algorithms, iteration, andabstraction.
Develop programming skills in Scratch and Python to create computational artifacts.
Analyze and interpret data to solve complex problems.
Explore the societal and ethical implications of computing, including cybersecurity andprivacy.
Engage in collaborative, project-based learning with real-world applications.
Prepare for the AP Computer Science Principles exam through structured reviews andpractice.
The 10th Grade AP 2-D Art and Design course emphasizes mastery of two-dimensional art and design skills. Students will refine their understanding of essential elements like point, line, shape, space, texture, color, and value, incorporating concepts of opacity, transparency, and dynamic time-based elements into their compositions. They will explore Principles of Design, including unity, rhythm, movement, proportion, and balance, while applying techniques like juxtaposition, hierarchy, and figure/ground relationships to create thoughtful, visually compelling works. This advanced curriculum prepares students to effectively articulate their creative vision through sophisticated two-dimensional design.
OnRamps Chemistry I + Lab is a rigorous dual-enrollment course developed by The University of Texas at Austin. The course combines Principles of Chemistry I with Introduction to Chemical Practices I, allowing students to study the theoretical foundations of chemistry while applying their knowledge through laboratory investigations, group work, and simulations. Students explore the relationship between matter and energy, connect scientific principles to real-world experiences, and support scientific arguments with quantitative evidence.
Students who successfully meet the university’s course requirements have the opportunity to earn four transferable college credits: three lecture credits and one laboratory credit.
Core Chemistry Concepts
-Examine atomic structure and the properties of atoms.
-Explore states of matter and changes in matter.
-Analyze chemical bonding and molecular interactions.Investigate chemical reactions and -quantitative relationships.
-Study energy changes and the principles of thermodynamics.
-Connect chemical concepts to real-world phenomena.
Laboratory and Scientific Practices:
-Conduct hands-on experiments using appropriate laboratory procedures.
-Collect, organize, and analyze quantitative and qualitative data.
-Apply mathematical reasoning to chemical problems.Use evidence to construct and support -scientific explanations.
-Collaborate during laboratory investigations and simulations.
-Develop safe and responsible laboratory practices.
College Readiness:
-Develop college-level scientific reasoning and literacy.
-Strengthen analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
-Practice managing college-level assignments and assessments.
-Build effective study habits through a flipped-learning model.
-Take greater ownership of learning and academic progress.
In partnership with The University of Texas at Austin, Horizon Leadership Academy proudly offers OnRamps Physics, a dual-enrollment program that provides students with the opportunity to earn both high school and college credit while experiencing authentic university-level coursework.
This course sequence includes:
Students will engage in peer instruction, collaborative problem-solving, and experimental analysis while using university learning platforms such as Canvas and Quest. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and data interpretation, building a strong foundation for future STEM studies.
Upon successful completion, students may earn transferable college credit from UT Austin, gaining early exposure to the expectations of higher education and enhancing their readiness for college success.
At Horizon Leadership Academy, the AP English Language and Composition course challenges students to become skilled readers, writers, and thinkers through the study of nonfiction texts. This college-level course, aligned with the College Board AP Curriculum Framework, focuses on developing rhetorical analysis, argumentation, and synthesis writing skills while fostering critical engagement with complex ideas.
Students explore the power of language through rhetorical strategies, tone, diction, syntax, and figurative languageThey write evidence-based essays, analyze visual and written rhetoric, and participate in peer review and Socratic seminars.
By the end of the course, students are prepared to demonstrate college-level proficiency on the AP English Language and Composition Exam, earning the opportunity for college credit and building communication skills essential for academic and professional success.
At Horizon Leadership Academy, the Chemistry Honors course, aligned with TEKS and powered by McGraw Hill Chemistry, provides students with a rigorous and inquiry-based exploration of the physical and chemical world. The course emphasizes critical thinking, laboratory investigation, and real-world application of scientific concepts.
Students study the structure and behavior of matter, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, gas laws, solutions, and acids and bases. Through hands-on experiments and data analysis, they develop essential laboratory techniques, safety procedures, and an understanding of the scientific method.
The honors-level curriculum integrates problem-solving and mathematical modeling to strengthen analytical reasoning, preparing students for AP-level science and college-level coursework. Students use interactive McGraw Hill digital tools and simulations to visualize molecular interactions and reinforce conceptual understanding.
By the end of the course, students will not only understand key principles of chemistry but also appreciate its connection to technology, engineering, health, and the environment—building a foundation for future STEM pathways.
Our OnRamps U.S. History course offers students the opportunity to earn college credit through the University of Texas at Austin while completing rigorous high school coursework. This dual-enrollment experience immerses students in a college-level exploration of American history from pre-Columbian societies through the modern era.
Students develop historical thinking skills by analyzing primary and secondary sources, constructing evidence-based arguments, and evaluating the complex social, political, and economic forces that shaped the United States. The course emphasizes critical reading, academic writing, and research, mirroring the expectations of university-level study.
By completing this course, students gain valuable experience in college-level learning environments, strengthen their analytical and communication skills, and prepare for future success in postsecondary education.
The AP U.S. History course at Horizon Leadership Academy is designed for motivated students seeking a deep understanding of America’s past and preparation for the College Board’s AP U.S. History Exam. Following the official AP framework, students examine key themes such as American identity, politics and power, work and exchange, and geography and the environment, tracing the nation's evolution from early colonization to the 21st century.
Through intensive reading, document-based analysis, and class discussions, students build strong historical reasoning and writing skills. The course encourages students to think critically, compare perspectives, and draw connections between historical and contemporary issues.
Successful completion of AP U.S. History may lead to college credit or advanced placement depending on university policies, offering students a strong academic advantage for future studies.
OnRamps U.S. Government-officially titled Issues and Policies in American Government-is a dual-enrollment course developed by The University of Texas at Austin. The course provides historical context and a deeper understanding of American government, citizenship, and the role individuals play in shaping public institutions. Students examine the principles of self-government, the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and opportunities for civic participation.
Students who successfully meet the university’s requirements may earn three transferable college credits.
Government and Citizenship
• Examine the principles and foundations of American self-government.
• Study natural rights, civil rights, representation, and constitutional government.
• Explore freedom of speech and other individual liberties.
• Understand the rights and responsibilities of American citizens.
• Examine voting, elections, public service, and other forms of civic participation.
• Analyze how American government has developed and changed over time.
Analysis and Civic Engagement
• Read and analyze primary sources and foundational documents.
• Evaluate arguments from multiple political and historical perspectives.
• Use evidence to develop and defend informed positions.
• Participate in structured academic discussions and deliberations.
• Connect historical ideas and events to contemporary civic issues.
College Readiness
• Complete college-level readings, assignments, and assessments.
• Develop evidence-based reasoning and communication skills.
• Strengthen independent study and time-management habits.
• Take greater responsibility for academic progress through a flipped-learning model.
OnRamps Economics-officially titled Introduction to Economics—is a dual-enrollment course developed by The University of Texas at Austin. The course introduces the principles, models, and conditions that influence the economy and examines how individuals, businesses, and governments make economic decisions. Students use logic, mathematics, technology, and basic statistics to interpret information and apply economic analysis to real-world situations.
Students who successfully meet the university’s requirements may earn three transferable college credits.
Economic Principles
• Examine scarcity, incentives, trade-offs, and opportunity cost.
• Explore supply, demand, prices, and the operation of markets.
• Analyze competition, market structures, production, and business costs.
• Study consumer behavior, decision-making, and satisfaction.
• Investigate how trade creates value for individuals and societies.
• Connect economics to business, entrepreneurship, government, and personal life.
Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Interpret graphs, tables, data, and basic economic statistics.
• Apply mathematical reasoning to economic situations.
• Use economic models to evaluate choices and predict possible outcomes.
• Analyze how consumers, businesses, and governments respond to incentives.
• Support economic conclusions with evidence and logical reasoning.
College and Financial Readiness
• Develop foundational microeconomic and macroeconomic understanding.
• Strengthen personal financial literacy.
• Collaborate with peers through discussions and problem-solving activities.
• Complete college-level assignments and assessments.
• Build independence through a flipped-learning instructional model.
AP Statistics is an introductory, college-level, non-calculus-based statistics course. Students learn how data are collected, represented, analyzed, and used to draw conclusions. The course emphasizes conceptual understanding, statistical reasoning, clear communication, and the responsible evaluation of claims involving data.
Exploring and Collecting Data
• Formulate statistical investigative questions.
• Represent and summarize categorical and quantitative data.
• Describe patterns, distributions, trends, associations, and unusual features.
• Compare data sets using appropriate graphical and numerical methods.
• Examine random sampling and principles of experimental design.
• Evaluate whether a study supports a reliable conclusion.
Probability and Statistical Inference
• Apply probability rules and use simulations to model uncertainty.
• Examine random variables and probability distributions.
• Work with binomial and normal distributions.
• Analyze sampling distributions.
• Construct and interpret confidence intervals.
• Perform significance tests to evaluate claims about populations.
• Apply inference procedures to proportions, categorical data, and quantitative data.
Regression and Communication
• Explore relationships between two quantitative variables.
• Analyze correlation and linear regression models.
• Use models to make predictions and evaluate their limitations.
• Select appropriate statistical methods for a given situation.
• Justify conclusions using evidence and statistical reasoning.
• Communicate results clearly within the context of the investigation.
AP Calculus AB is a college-level mathematics course focused on differential and integral calculus. The course is comparable to a first-semester college calculus course. Students explore how calculus can be used to analyze change, motion, accumulation, optimization, and relationships among mathematical quantities.
Limits and Continuity
• Evaluate limits using numerical, graphical, and algebraic representations.
• Explain how limits describe behavior and instantaneous change.
• Analyze continuity at a point and across an interval.
• Examine asymptotes and limits at infinity.
• Apply foundational limit theorems.
Differential Calculus
• Understand the derivative as an instantaneous rate of change.
• Calculate derivatives using established differentiation rules.
• Apply the chain rule, implicit differentiation, and inverse-function differentiation.
• Analyze motion, related rates, and local linear approximations.
• Use derivatives to determine increasing and decreasing behavior, extrema, and concavity.
• Solve optimization problems and interpret results in context.
Integral Calculus
• Understand definite integrals as accumulated change.
• Approximate integrals using Riemann sums.
• Apply the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.
• Determine antiderivatives and evaluate definite and indefinite integrals.
• Solve problems involving area, volume, average value, motion, and accumulation.
• Analyze and solve separable differential equations.
• Model exponential growth and decay.
Mathematical Communication
• Connect graphical, numerical, analytical, and verbal representations.
• Justify reasoning and solutions using appropriate mathematical evidence.
• Communicate results using correct notation, terminology, and conventions.
AP Seminar is an interdisciplinary, college-level course that develops students’ skills in critical thinking, academic research, collaboration, argumentation, and presentation. Students investigate real-world and academic issues of their choice, examine questions from multiple perspectives, evaluate evidence, and communicate evidence-based conclusions through writing and multimedia presentations.
Inquiry and Research
• Identify meaningful problems and develop focused research questions.
• Locate, organize, and evaluate information from credible sources.
• Read and analyze articles, studies, data, images, and other forms of evidence.
• Assess the credibility, relevance, limitations, and context of sources.
•Apply appropriate attribution and citation practices.
• Use research to deepen understanding of complex topics.
Analysis and Evaluation
• Identify and explain an author’s perspective and line of reasoning.
• Evaluate how effectively evidence supports an argument.
• Compare and interpret multiple perspectives on an issue.
• Recognize objections, implications, limitations, and competing viewpoints.
• Examine the complexity of real-world and academic problems.
• Evaluate possible conclusions, resolutions, or solutions.
Argumentation and Synthesis
• Combine information from multiple sources to form evidence-based conclusions.
• Develop clear claims supported by relevant and credible evidence.
• Connect evidence logically to claims and reasoning.
• Formulate well-reasoned arguments that acknowledge multiple perspectives.
• Propose conclusions or solutions supported by research.
Collaboration and Presentation
• Contribute responsibly to team research and collaborative projects.
• Plan and deliver organized multimedia presentations.
• Communicate ideas with attention to audience, context, and purpose.
• Respond thoughtfully to questions and defend conclusions with evidence.
• Complete individual and team performance tasks in preparation for the AP Seminar assessment.
Through Horizon Leadership Academy’s partnership with Houston City College (HCC), eligible high school students may enroll in college-level courses and earn high school and college credit simultaneously. These courses allow students to begin their college education while completing high school graduation requirements.
Dual credit courses follow HCC’s college-level curriculum, academic standards, grading expectations, and course requirements. Students become HCC students and gain access to applicable college resources and support services.
Benefits of Dual Credit
• Earn high school and college credit at the same time.
• Make progress toward a college degree or professional credential.
• Reduce the time and potential cost required to complete college.
• Build confidence before transitioning to full-time college study.
• Access applicable HCC academic resources and student support services.
College-Level Expectations
• Complete independent reading, assignments, projects, and assessments.
• Meet college deadlines and course attendance requirements.
• Communicate appropriately with instructors.
• Maintain academic honesty and follow HCC policies.
• Develop effective study, organization, and time-management skills.
• Take responsibility for monitoring grades and academic progress.
Eligibility and College Credit
Students must satisfy Horizon Leadership Academy and HCC eligibility requirements, meet applicable course prerequisites, and demonstrate college readiness through qualifying scores or approved exemptions. Successfully completed courses become part of the student’s official HCC academic record. Although many academic credits may transfer, students should confirm how individual courses will apply at their intended college or university.
Our team of professional school counselors is dedicated to providing a comprehensive and developmentally appropriate counseling program that addresses the academic, career, and personal/social needs of all students from K 12.
Ms. Sema Serenli
College Counselor 6th thru 12th grade
(832) 543-8008 (Ext.2207)
As educators, we understand that the years of K 12 education can be a challenging time for students, and we are here to support and guide them through this important phase of their lives. Our counseling program is designed to promote academic success, personal growth, and responsible decision-making.

Academic Counseling: Our counselor works closely with students and their families to set academic goals and develop strategies for success. We provide support for organization and study skills, as well as assist with course selection and college/career planning.
College Counseling: Our counselor provides individualized and group support to guide students through every step of the college preparation and application process. We assist with identifying best-fit colleges, understanding admission requirements, completing applications, writing personal statements, and preparing for interviews. Our goal is to empower each student to make informed decisions and confidently navigate their path to higher education.
Career Counseling: Our counselor provides career counseling and exploration to help students understand their strengths, interests, and career options. We provide guidance on college and career readiness and help students to explore their options and plan for their future.
Our school counseling program is available to all students and we encourage students to take advantage of the support and resources we offer. If you have any questions about our program or would like to schedule an appointment with one of our counselors, please contact us at:
Phone: (832) 543-8008
Mail: sserenli@myhla.org