Growing Thinkers is a teacher in-service program, designed and instituted in the Houston (Texas) Independent School District, which focuses on the development of higher-order thinking abilities. The three overall goals of the program are: (1) to recognize and further develop excellence in teaching; (2) to enhance the development of higher-order thinking in the classroom; and (3) to create a body of teachers, skilled in using higher-order thinking processes, who can model effective teaching as they share strategies with their colleagues. Each year, 24 teachers recognized for excellence and innovation in teaching are selected and then led through a year-long program in the use of higher-order thinking skills. The Growing Thinkers program has been selected by the Texas Education Agency as one of six exemplary and innovative educational programs which are offered as models to be adapted and modified by school districts to meet their varying needs. (RS)