School History
Today
Yolanda Black Navarro Middle School is located at 5100 Polk Street. The main building was constructed in 1925 with an addition built-in 1980.
Our school’s mission is for the faculty, staff, and parents at Yolanda Black Navarro Middle School of Excellence to support and holds each other accountable to respond to all students by reinforcing and recognizing all students’ progress and academic success. The Yolanda Black Navarro Middle School of Excellence community utilizes subject and cluster team collaboration in implementing educational initiatives that meet individualized student needs. Our vision for Yolanda Black Navarro Middle School of Excellence will continue to be the school of choice in this community by taking pride in and embracing our school’s cultural diversity. We will foster community and family relationships that promote a safe and productive learning environment.
Navarro is structured into professional learning communities whose major focus is student achievement. The professional learning community process is guided by leadership teams are composed of teachers and administrators. The team looks at all aspects of the PLC process to ensure implementation and efficiency at all grade levels and makes recommendations for adjustments to the principal. The PLC teams supports all curricular and extracurricular activities at Navarro Middle School. Many of these team members also serve on the campus Site Decision-Making Committee (SDMC).
History & Legacy of Navarro Middle School
Founded in 1925, the red-brick main building at 5100 Polk Street marked a significant educational milestone for Houston's East End community. Designed during the early period of Eastwood’s boom, the original structure features architectural details that reflect the era: symmetrical façades, large multi-pane windows, and classic masonry—later enhanced by a thoughtful addition built in 1980 .
Architectural Highlights
The original 1925 structure showcases stately brickwork, decorative cornices, and tall windows that flood classrooms with natural light—hallmarks of early 20th-century school architecture. The 1980 addition was carefully integrated, matching the historic style while upgrading facilities to modern educational standards. Set amidst the verdant, tree-lined streets of Eastwood, Navarro’s enduring architecture aligns with the neighborhood’s broader Craftsman and Arts & Crafts residential aesthetics.
Community Milestones
Renamed in October 2016, the campus was rechristened Yolanda Black Navarro Middle School of Excellence in honor of Yolanda Black Navarro—a respected educator, Latina civic leader, and founder of the “Shoes for Kids” program—reinforcing the district’s dedication to social justice and celebration of local heroes. Recognized as a Community School, Navarro partners with Houston Endowment, City entities, and Area non-profits to offer wraparound support: free after-school clubs, adult education, mental and health services, and family outreach—embedding the school at the heart of neighborhood life. In 2023, Navarro introduced high school credit courses in Algebra and Geometry, enabling advanced middle school learners to accelerate their academic pathway under Principal Lopez’s leadership Houston Independent School District. Today, Navarro operates as an NES School in the East End Neighborhood, continuing under Principal Lopez's leadership.
A Lasting Legacy
From its distinguished architectural roots in the 1920s to its recognition as a modern Community School, Navarro has consistently evolved to reflect the needs and pride of the East End. As it continues to embrace academic innovation, cultural inclusivity, and holistic community support, Navarro builds on nearly a century of civic excellence and educational impact. Founded in 1925, the original building (with a later addition circa 1980) has long served the Eastwood community in Houston’s historic East End. Originally known as Jackson Middle School, the campus was renamed in October 2016 to honor Yolanda Black Navarro, a revered Latina educator, civic leader, and founder of “Shoes for Kids.” This name change reflected HISD’s commitment to celebrating diversity and community role models.
Yolanda Black Navarro was a lifelong Houstonian who championed educational equity, civic engagement, and cultural empowerment. She founded the Association for the Advancement of Mexican Americans and served on multiple city boards, including METRO and the Parks Board. Navarro’s legacy of advocacy, compassion, and leadership continues to inspire students daily.
Today, the school proudly operates as a a vital hub for both students and neighbors. Navarro serves grades 6‑8 with a focus on STEM and the whole child, reflecting its longstanding motto as a Middle School of Excellence.
Navarro's Total Enrollment is 387 students
