Richardson was an interim principal for the Fall semester of 2016, and Thomas Wallis was the interim principal for the Spring semester of 2017. The current principal is Andre Roberson. By 2006, Hightower had over 2,600 students and 140 teachers. Academies In 2006, Hightower High School was one of the district's only two high schools with block scheduling. Todd Spivak of the Houston Press said during that year that the school "is considered the most innovative of the district's seven public high schools". As of the 2015–16 school year, the school went to a normal 7- period schedule. Hightower has specialized academies that offer specialized education for gifted and ambitious students. The Medical Science Academy allows students opportunities to explore world class medical facilities and offers courses such as Medical Terminology and Medical Ethics. Also, a Medical Science Internship is offered in which students may volunteer in a hospital. The current coordinator of the Medical Science Academy is Donald Lam. The Digital Media Academy allows students to focus on using the computer as a creative tool. Classes are designed to teach technical proficiency in a broad range of software while encouraging innovative design. Courses allow students to use real world equipment and professional programs. Also, students are able to assume the roles of professionals and direct their own news-broadcasting channel known as HTV. The academy has merged with the Telecommunications Media Academy as the Digital Media Academy. The current coordinator of the Digital Media Academy is Laine Skelton. Athletics In 2006, Todd Spivak of the Houston Press said that Hightower's athletic facilities were "state-of-the-art" and "rival those of some colleges." Hightower is adjacent to the District owned Hall Stadium and Hopson Field House, resulting in a decrease of transportation for football games. As of February 1, 2016, Hightower is one of the eight 6A schools in the District. In UIL terms, they are in district 6A-20, alongside Austin, Bush, Clements, Dulles, Kempner, Ridge Point, and Travis High Schools, all of which are in Fort Bend ISD. Student bodies In 2016, 72% of the school's student body was African American and Hispanic. Associations In 2006, Hightower qualified 16 students for the National HOSA competition in Anaheim, of which all 16 placed top 4 or higher in their respective categories. In addition, 2 students qualified for the FBLA national competition in Nashville, Tennessee. In 2007, Hightower High School qualified 31 students for