Clear Creek ISD families in Friendswood, Webster, Seabrook, Nassau Bay and Clear Lake Shores now have a tuition-free, fully online school option for students in grades 3 through 9.
The district announced Aug. 6 the launch of Clear Tech, a partnership with Texas Tech K-12 that lets enrolled students complete coursework on a flexible, asynchronous schedule while remaining CCISD students with access to counseling, extracurricular activities, clubs and district-issued technology.
"Our partnership with Texas Tech K-12 allows us to meet students where they are while keeping them connected to a vibrant public school community that prepares them for lifelong success," Superintendent Karen Engle said in the district's announcement.
Who it's for
Clear Tech targets families whose children don't fit neatly into a traditional classroom schedule. That includes homeschool families who want an accredited public school option, student athletes or performers juggling demanding training schedules, and independent learners who work best at their own pace.
Coursework is asynchronous and aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills standards, taught by Texas-certified educators through Texas Tech K-12. The program follows the CCISD academic calendar, meaning students start alongside their peers when classes begin Wednesday, Aug. 12.
What students keep
Enrolled students retain access to CCISD counseling services, college and career planning tools, digital citizenship instruction and the chance to join extracurricular activities and school traditions. The district also provides technology devices.
The partner
Texas Tech K-12, a division of Texas Tech University, has offered accredited online education since 1993 and holds both Cognia and Texas Education Agency accreditation. Robert Bayard, superintendent of Texas Tech K-12, said the partnership gives families a flexible public school option without compromising academics or student support.
Broader context
The virtual option arrives as CCISD navigates a projected $19.7 million budget shortfall for the 2026-27 fiscal year. District enrollment has fallen more than 6% since 2019-20, dropping from 42,388 students to 39,684 in 2024-25, according to Community Impact, citing TEA data. Expanded open enrollment and the addition of a virtual school are among the revenue strategies CCISD has pursued alongside its 2023 voter-approved tax rate election.
How to enroll
CCISD plans to add grade levels each year beyond the initial third- through ninth-grade offering. Enrollment details have not yet been posted, but the district directs families to cleartech.ccisd.net for program information, FAQs and future enrollment updates.
The first day of school for all CCISD students is Wednesday, Aug. 12.
Upcoming community dates
- Aug. 10 — Seabrook opens registration for free kids fishing tournament at Bayside Park
- Aug. 12 — CCISD first day of school
- Aug. 17 — Space Center Houston opens applications for aerospace career program
