Huston Middle School is taking a bold step into the future of education. Beginning in 7th grade, students will no longer be limited to traditional electives. Instead, they’ll choose from career-connected “studios” designed to spark curiosity, build real-world skills, and connect learning to future opportunities.
Studios are organized into five broad career pathways — Arts & Communication, Engineering & Industrial Technology, Science & Health, Business & Information Technology, and Human Services. Within each, students will explore hands-on, project-based learning guided by outside experts, often Burrell alumni who can share their professional experiences and career journeys. These mentors will help bridge the gap between classroom learning and the working world, providing site visits, feedback, and real-world challenges.
Every studio will include a project that makes an impact—whether that’s designing a marketing campaign for a local business, creating sustainable products, solving a manufacturing problem, or launching a student-run venture. The school also plans to redesign learning spaces into flexible maker labs and think tanks, with future plans for “pop-up” hubs in community locations like libraries and coffee shops once the core model is established.
One of the most exciting changes is the move toward flexible scheduling. Students will have more voice and choice, with the ability to explore all five career pathways while diving deeper into their interests. This approach allows students to progress based on mastery of skills rather than simply the time spent in the classroom.
“Our goal is for students to see learning as something they own—not something that just happens to them,” says Courtney Barbiaux, Personalized Learning Coach. “When they connect their passions to real opportunities, the experience becomes transformative.”
Assistant Principal Krista Pisano adds, “We’ve heard from so many parents that specials are their child’s favorite part of the day. Studios build on that excitement, giving students even more chances to explore what they love while learning skills that will serve them for life.”
With this innovative model, Huston Middle School is redefining what middle school can be—a launchpad for future-ready learners, where curiosity drives the day and students see their education as the start of something bigger.