Birdville ISD’s (BISD) vision of “Excellence, Integrity, and Service” is the foundation for continued student and staff excellence in its 21 elementary schools, seven middle schools, four high schools, and one career and technology campus. The mission of BISD is to ensure that all students position themselves to excel with integrity in an ever-changing global society through innovative and responsive learning environments. Starting with the 2017–18 school year, BISD introduced programs at selected campuses as part of the Schools with a Specialization initiative. These programs go above and beyond the state-required curriculum and are designed to broaden a student’s educational experience by providing concentrated study in a specific area of interest. Schools with a Specialization began at three BISD campuses. Based on feedback from parents and community leaders, BISD will expand the initiative with additional programs on other campuses in the coming years. In August 2018: North Richland Middle School (grades 6–8) will continue to expand its curriculum as a nationally STEM-certified middle school (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics); Richland Middle School (grades 6–8) will continue with a specialization in Leadership; Smithfield Middle School (grades 6–8) will open as an Advanced Learning and College Prep campus; Haltom Middle School (grades 6–8) will open as a College Readiness* campus; and Birdville Elementary (grades K–5) will continue with a Fine Arts Specialization. Birdville ISD is the fifth-largest school district in Northeast Tarrant County, with more than 23,800 students. The district’s 33 campuses serve the community of Richland Hills and portions of Haltom City, Hurst, North Richland Hills, Watauga, Colleyville and Fort Worth. Instruction: The Birdville Independent School District provides a comprehensive educational program to over 23,800 students in grades pre-K through 12. A strong foundation of language arts, math, science and social studies form a core curriculum which is tightly aligned to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) in all grade levels. Birdville ISD students continue to score above average on state and national tests. In addition, secondary students participate in a variety of college-level, pre-AP, and AP courses. Other programs include world languages, fine arts, physical education/athletics, military science, and career and technology, where students have an opportunity to graduate with one or more endorsements, including Arts and Humanities, Business and Industry, Public Services, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and Multidisciplinary Studies. Quality instruction is also provided for students who are served in special programs such as special education, dual language/ESL, gifted and talented, and alternative educational options. Career and Technology Education: BISD's career and technology education program is recognized both statewide and nationally for its exemplary programs. The district offers innovative programs with business and industry partners in the BISD community. Athletics: The athletics program offers a full range of sports activities. The district competes in 13 sports in the University Interscholastic League, Class 5A and 6A, in Texas. Fine Arts: The program includes an elementary art and music program, as well as band, choir, art, theatre arts, dance and music history for secondary students. BISD Fine Arts programs have been recognized across the state and nation.