They shout cheers, wave banners, bang drums, sing songs, and exhibit a team spirit that rivals any Texas football pep rally. During these pep rallies, teachers perform skits, dress up in costumes and play games. The students say that when they see their teachers can be silly and have fun, this makes it easier for them to relate to and talk to them. Although FIS teachers and students like to have fun, they know how to get results for all its students, even the ones who are most at-risk of failure. Although FIS has not formal advisory program or period, students report that the school feels like a second home to them.
Many students say that the teachers are the best part of the school.
When a student has a problem, all teachers who interact with that student are engaged in finding a solution. Clara Sale, the principal, says there isn't one advisor or person who is responsible for addressing the needs of the studeents, it is all the people who are invovled in that student's schooling. This becomes clear when students refer to the office staff as their second moms, and when Sale puts her arm around a student and talks to himas she escorts him to class. The emphasis on the development of relationships in the school and the tight knit structure of the teams ensure that each student is known well by at least one or more members of the faculty and staff. Teachers discuss their students in team meetings, and work together to identify issues and solve problems.