Photo: Melanie Barajas, Alief Hicks Elementary School
Cover photo by Mike Alvarez and Adelina Cruz
An Alief ISD Publication
Welcome to the first issue of Achieve, the official magazine for the Alief ISD community. It is designed and published by the Alief ISD Communications & Public Relations department to foster a sense of pride and keep the community informed about all things Alief ISD.
Kristyn Hunt Cathey, APR Chief of Communications & PR
Li Wen Su Public Relations Specialist
Amanda Materre Manager of Digital & Web Services
Mike Alvarez Multimedia Production Specialist
Adelina Cruz Social Media & PR Liaison
Delores Jones Coordinator of Business & Community Partnerships
Zepheena Henry Administrative Assistant to Chief of Communications & Chief of Staff
The Alief Independent School District, an Equal Opportunity Educational Provider and Employer, does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sex, national origin, disability and/or age, military status, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by law in educational programs or activities that it operates or in employment decisions. Additionally, the District does not discriminate against an employee or applicant who acts to oppose such discrimination or participates in the investigation of a complaint related to a discriminatory employment practice. Employment decisions will be based on each applicant’s qualifications, experience, and abilities.
If you have questions about any of Alief ISD's policies, please contact Alief ISD by calling 281-498-8110.
ACHIEVE
FEATURING
4 8 2 7 12 11 3 14 6
Celebrating the Outstanding Educators in Alief ISD
The Power of Paws: How Therapy Dogs Transform Lives in Alief ISD
WHAT’S INSIDE
Meet Your Board of Trustees
Golfing for Good: Education Foundation Raises $100,000
Learn more about the Nov. 5 School Election
Alief Early College High School Earns Prestigious National Blue Ribbon Recognition
Innovative Paths to Protection: Rethinking School Safety for a Secure Future
Ribbon Cutting Marks Exciting New Chapter for Crump Stadium
Alief ISD Receives $8M to Power Clean School Buses!
Creating connections with our community to show our mission in action
Dear Alief ISD community,
I am pleased to welcome you to the inaugural edition of our district magazine, Achieve. This publication marks an exciting milestone for our community, offering a platform to celebrate the remarkable achievements, innovative ideas, and vibrant spirit that have defined who we are since the inception of our district from a three-story brick school in 1911 to the diverse district we have today with nearly 50 campuses and close to 40,000 students.
In Alief ISD, our motto is “Preparing students for tomorrow, caring for them today.” We believe in the power of sharing stories, insights, and creativity to inspire and unite us all. The content of this magazine is a testament to that vision.
In this space, students, staff, and community members can contribute their voices, experiences, and perspectives that highlight the diversity of our students, staff, and community. Each edition will explore relevant and meaningful topics pertinent to our community, from our students’ academic achievements, innovative programs shaping our future, and creative pursuits showcasing our district’s diverse talents. We aim for Achieve to become a source of pride and connection for those directly involved and for every individual who supports and contributes to our collective success.
Thank you for supporting our efforts to foster a thriving and dynamic community and being part of our Alief ISD story. I hope this magazine reflects our shared commitment to excellence and growth. As we look towards the future, I hope we continue to move this district forward and provide students with the education they need to be successful in an ever-changing world. We want our students to look at the many success stories that have walked the halls of our buildings over the years and see themselves. From Grammy-award nominated and winning artists to professional athletes, scientists, educators, politicians, entrepreneurs, philanthropic leaders, and so much more…it all happens here on the southwest side of Houston in Alief ISD.
I look forward to many more editions filled with inspiration, celebration, and collaboration that show the world what it means to be Alief Proud.
Warm regards,
Dr. Anthony Mays Superintendent, Alief Independent School District
Explore what’s happening in Alief ISD through our photo highlights!
Meet Your Alief ISD Board of Trustees
The Alief ISD Board of Trustees establishes the policies by which schools operate. The board identifies needs, establishes priorities for Alief ISD, allocates financial and human resources among the priority areas, and evaluates school performance.
The board has five goals that guide its decision-making:
ALIEF ISD WILL...
• Close the achievement gap to ensure all students reach their academic potential.
• Improve student preparation for college and career.
• Maintain a safe and orderly environment.
• Recruit, develop, and retain highly qualified and effective personnel.
• Continue to build positive relationships with all stakeholders.
Thank you to the valued community members who serve as Alief ISD Board of Trustees for their selfless dedication and hard work. They work tirelessly to support the efforts, work, and accomplishments of all Alief ISD students, parents, and staff.
The Alief ISD Board of Trustees consists of seven members elected by a plurality vote for four-year terms. Elections are held in November. The board meets in the Administration Building Board Room at 4250 Cook Road. The board encourages citizens to attend meetings to actively engage in the decisions shaping our educational system.
FRONT (L TO R): Jennifer Key (Assistant Secretary), Dr. Darlene Breaux (President), Dr. Lily Truong (Vice President)
BACK (L TO R): Dr. Gregg Patrick (Trustee), Ann Williams (Trustee), Dr. Anthony Mays (Superintendent), Janet Spurlock (Trustee), Rick Moreno (Secretary)
G LFING FOR GOOD
Education Foundation Raises $100,000
By: Li Wen Su, PR Specialist
The Alief Independent School District Education Foundation celebrated a significant milestone with its 20th annual golf tournament on September 23rd at Sweetwater Country Club in Sugarland. The event saw remarkable support from the community, raising an impressive $100,000 dedicated to providing scholarships for senior students and supporting the uniform pantry. This significant achievement underscores the foundation's commitment to enriching the lives of students and educators within the Alief community.
Just one part of the Foundation’s work
Through various initiatives and fundraising events, Alief ISD Education Foundation works tirelessly to support educational excellence and ensure all students have the necessary resources to succeed. The annual golf tournament is a vital part of these efforts, serving as a platform for the community to unite and show their support for the future of Alief's young minds.
20 years of golfing for good
The 20th annual golf tournament was a testament of a community coming together for a day of fun and supporting students with golfers from all walks of life coming together to tee off for a cause. The event was not just about swings and putts; it was about giving back and making a tangible difference in the lives of students and teachers. The beautiful greens of the country club provided the perfect backdrop for a day of camaraderie, competition, and, most importantly, generosity.
The funds raised during the tournament will have a lasting impact on the Alief community. Most will be dedicated to providing scholarships for deserving students, opening doors to higher education and brighter futures. Additionally, the contribution to the uniform pantry will ensure that families have the resources they need to focus on what truly matters— educating and inspiring the next generation.
Looking to the future
We extend our heartfelt thanks to each and every sponsor and volunteer for their invaluable contributions towards enriching the lives of the Alief community,” expressed Raquel Olivier, president of the Alief ISD Education Foundation.
“Their generosity and tireless efforts have made our 20th annual golf tournament a resounding success!”
As the Alief ISD Education Foundation celebrates this outstanding achievement, it also looks toward the future with hope and determination. With continued dedication and support, the Foundation will continue to make a difference in the lives of students and teachers, shaping a brighter tomorrow for all within the Alief community. The success of this event is a testament to the power of collective action and the profound difference that can be made when we come together to support our schools and uplift the next generation.
in Alief ISD Outstanding EducatorsCelebrating the
ELEMENTARY TEACHER OF THE YEAR
RHANIECE CHOICE
Cummings Elementary School
Rhaniece Choice is an in-class support K-4th math and ELAR teacher with nearly 10 years of experience, all in Alief ISD. Choice began teaching in January 2015. She received her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and a master’s in special populations from the University of Houston.
Choice’s foray into education was not by happenstance. Her third-grade teacher in her home state of Nebraska helped her discover her passion.
“When I was in the third grade, my teacher made every effort to cultivate a bond, connecting both inside and beyond school,” she said. “I resolved to become a devoted educator mirroring the inspiration I admired.”
Her desire to service the needs of students in special populations led her to her master’s program and her current position as an in-class support specialist. “This in-class support position allows me to tailor assignments to meet individual needs, personalizing the approach to help every learner master their educational goals.”
When asked about her educational philosophy, Choice was full of passion while sharing. “My belief that every child can learn is a guiding principle that drives me. It motivates me as an educator to be a facilitator of discovery, to celebrate diversity, and to find the keys to the learning experiences that allow every young learner's potential to be unlocked. Being the change I wish to see in the world starts here by providing my students with opportunities to learn about various cultures, exposing them to different ethnicities, loving ourselves by embracing our differences, valuing that emotions are real, and discovering ways to handle them. Overall, my philosophy is that all students are capable of learning; we must find ways and strategies to meet the needs of each individual learner - there's no such thing as a master key.”
SECONDARY TEACHER OF THE YEAR
JANECE SIMPSON
Killough Middle School
Janece Simpson is currently an eighth-grade ELAR and AVID teacher at Killough Middle School. She has been employed with Alief ISD for the past 10 years, with 6.5 years spent in the classroom. A graduate of Texas Southern University, Simpson earned her bachelor’s degree in ELAR fourth through eighth-grade instruction.
A native Houstonian, Simpson had dreamed of being a teacher since the young age of six.
“As a child, the desire to teach has been my dream. I still remember the day I said I wanted to be a teacher out loud,” she recalled. As I grew up, that desire never left, and I ended up attending Texas Southern University to pursue my dream.”
The path to fulfilling that dream was met with obstacles she would have to overcome. In 2005, at the age of 21, Janece was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. However, she continued to take classes while receiving chemotherapy, ultimately graduating in 2010 cancer-free. She credits her faith, family, and prayer for getting her through and often shares this testimony with her students.
“This road was not easy, but in the end, I look back on it to remind myself and my students. Our students will face many challenges, but if they can see an example of what perseverance looks like, I know it will encourage them and motivate them that they can do anything if they try. As an educator in Alief over these past 10 years, I know more than ever that education is where I am destined to be.”
Simpson’s educational philosophy is built on her love for children. “As educators, we have the honor and privilege to mold and shape the minds of so many children. It is not only for us to teach them but also to build them up, motivate them, equip them, and help prepare them for our world. For many children, we are the only family they have. We are the only part of stability and structure they may ever see while with us. This blessing of being a teacher is more than just a job.”
Alief ISD Calls a Nov. 5 Election
Alief ISD’s Board of Trustees called a Voter Approval Tax Ratification Election or VATRE for Tuesday, November 5 to ask voters to consider approving a six-cent tax increase on the Maintenance & Operations tax rate to generate additional local funding, which in turn, would require the state to provide additional state funding as well.
WHAT IS A VOTER APPROVAL TAX RATE ELECTION (VATRE)?
A Voter Approval Tax Ratification Election, or VATRE, is a local school funding election that asks voters whether or not they authorize the school district to access the maintenance and operations tax rate to create additional local funding and additional state funding to be used for specific purposes. Unlike a school bond election, a VATRE does not create additional debt for the school district. It generates funds both locally and at the state level for the day-to-day operations of the district. The money stays locally, and the additional funds return each year.
IF VOTERS APPROVE THE VATRE,
the VATRE will generate $11.3 million more each year in local funding and an additional $4.1 million each year in state funding.
WHY IS ALIEF ISD CALLING A VATRE?
Despite a $32.7 billion surplus, Texas’ 88th Legislature did not increase the basic student allotment nor did they provide funds to address teacher salaries.
The Texas Legislature has not increased the $6,160 basic student allotment since 2019. That’s five years of continually being asked to do more, with less despite inflation and rising costs.
With voter approval, the additional funds generated by the VATRE election on November 5 could be used to potentially mitigate inflationary pressures including but not limited to salary increases making them more competitive in the market. These funds could also be used to address the deficit budget caused by inflation and rising costs of insurance, fuel and utilities.
IF VOTERS REJECT THE VATRE, the district will not have access to the additional $15 million in funding and a potential budget deficit of more than $6.2 million will be in place for the 24-25 school year.
Despite conservative spending and fiscal responsibility, AISD is not keeping pace with other area school districts on compensation and benefits for employees. AISD currently ranks 11th in the region when it comes to salaries/ compensation.
Tax Impact
Since 2013, the Alief ISD ISD tax rate has decreased by 30 cents per $100 of taxable value. If you look historically back to the 2005-2006 school year, the total local school tax rate has decreased by more than 73 cents per $100 of taxable value.
The VATRE represents a six-cent tax increase, but it will result in $11.3 million more in local funding and an additional $4.1 million in state funding to address local district costs and the deficit budget.
Tax Breakdown with and without the VATRE Election:
If the VATRE is approved, the tax rate will be set at $1.0476 per $100 valuation.
If the VATRE is rejected, the tax rate will be set at $.9867 per $100 valuation.
What will be on the ballot
Voters Will Decide If They Are FOR or AGAINST Ratifying the ad valorem tax rate of $1.0476 per $100 valuation in Alief Independent School District for the current year, a rate that will result in an increase of 9.43 percent in maintenance and operations tax revenue for the District for the current year as compared to the preceding year, which is an additional $13.5 million.
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TAX IMPACT:
$7.16 per month increase for an average home valued at $140,990
Voting Information
Visit votetexas.gov to register or check your voter eligibility.
Early Voting Oct. 21-Nov. 1 At any Harris County Voting site
Election Day Voting Tuesday, November 5, 2024
Vote by Precinct #
Learn more about where to vote at harrisvotes.com/Vote-Centers
Alief Early College High School Earns
PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL BLUE RIBBON RECOGNITION
By: Li Wen Su, PR Specialist
The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools designation reflects American education's full diversity and serves students from all backgrounds. While awardees represent a wide array of schools with unique cultures and programming, they share common traits.
National Blue Ribbon Schools are led by leaders who articulate a clear vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards. They showcase effective teaching methods and offer robust professional development for their staff. Data-driven instruction is a hallmark, and a concerted effort ensures every student succeeds. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is critical to their success. This prestigious recognition highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups.
AECHS Setting the Tone and Standing Out
It is an incredible honor for the Alief Early College High School to represent the district internationally. Dr. Miguel Cardona, the U.S. Secretary of Education, designated AECHS an Exemplary High Performing Schools National Blue Ribbon School for 2024. AECHS is one of 356 schools in the nation and one of 26 schools from Texas to be recognized in 2024.
Alief Early College is one of only six public high schools in the U.S. to receive this honor and the ONLY public high school in Houston to receive the recognition this year.
"This award is a testament to the value of doing the little things right daily,” expressed the Director of Advanced Academics and former Alief Early College High School principal, Dr. Brandi Brotherton. “This is a testament to believing in our teachers, students, and community. As proud of this award as I am, I am most proud of the opportunity to create an environment where staff and students alike want to come, a place that we can without hesitation call ‘home, right here in Alief ISD.’ Thank you, Alief ISD, for trusting me and providing every resource our students need to succeed.”
Matt Skiles, who took the helm as the leader of AECHS for the new school year, was equally excited and proud of this recognition. “Not many people get to say that they have attended or worked at a National Blue Ribbon School,” he said when the announcement was made. “Congratulations to Dr. Brandi Brotherton
Alief Early College is one of only six public high schools in the U.S. to receive this honor and the ONLY public high school in Houston to receive the recognition this year.
and the amazing AECHS staff. You are extraordinary people, and I’m so blessed to be a part of this team.”
Dr. Brotherton and the staff have done an incredible job of building a culture where people feel supported and can grow and this is the reason for their success. It’s no secret that the curriculum at AECHS can be challenging and rigorous. It’s not meant to be easy. The culture is what allows them to overcome those challenges. The staff's patience, belief, support, and love they pour into their students daily sets them apart from other schools in the region and across the state.
Along with the National Blue Ribbon designation, Niche.com named the campus an A+-rated school for the 2023-2024 school year, along with another School of Choice, Kerr High School.
What Makes a Blue RIbbon School?
The department recognizes all schools based on student performance, including assessment results, student subgroup performance, CE, and graduation rates. Schools are recognized in both or either of two performance categories:
Exemplary High-Performing Schools
These schools are among the top performers in their state, as measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.
Students interested in the district’s Schools of Choice program should visit aliefisd.net/o/aisd/page/ schools-of-choice
Exemplary Achievement Gap Closing Schools
These schools excel in narrowing achievement gaps between student groups and the student body.
How Therapy Dogs Transform Lives in Alief ISD THE POWER OF PAWS:
By: Li Wen Su, PR Specialist
Therapy dogs are more than just companions; they are a source of unconditional love and comfort, providing vital emotional support to students and staff alike. In educational settings, where stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation can often run high, the presence of therapy dogs has proven to be a game-changer. Their calming influence offers emotional stability during challenging times, creating a more supportive and nurturing environment for everyone.
Interacting with therapy dogs has been scientifically shown to release endorphins, the body’s natural "feel-good" chemicals, which help improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. These interactions can reduce stress levels, lower blood pressure, and create a sense of well-being. For students, this means a more positive and conducive learning environment; for staff, it translates into a more manageable and pleasant workplace.
The presence of therapy dogs also encourages the development of essential social skills among students. Acts of kindness, patience, and empathy become more prevalent when therapy dogs are around as students learn to connect with these animals in a gentle and understanding way. The bond formed with therapy dogs can also lead to improved communication skills and increased self-esteem.
The Dogs that Make a Difference at Alief ISD
The district’s standout Therapy Intervention K9 program member is Holly, a 1-year-old Border Collie mix who has served Alief ISD since May 2024. Holly’s presence has been nothing short of transformative, offering a unique form of support only a therapy dog can provide.
Holly's daily routine is carefully structured to ensure she is ready to bring joy and comfort to those she meets. Her day begins with a morning run, breakfast, and a quick potty break. Once she arrives at work, Holly's mission is simple: to spread happiness. She visits different campuses, meets with children and staff, and performs delightful tricks, including her famous high five and handshake. These small gestures of affection brighten the day for everyone she encounters.
After a full day of work, Holly returns home with her handler, Officer Allen, where she enjoys welldeserved relaxation with her human and fur siblings. Off-duty, Holly is just as delightful. According to Officer Allen, Holly adores snuggling up for cuddles with her human sister and playing with her fourpound fur brother. Her favorite treats include bully sticks, peanut butter, watermelon, hotdogs, and cheese. Holly’s love for obedience and training is rewarded with playtime with her kong and light-up ball, showing how much she enjoys both work and play.
Officer Allen shares, “Holly has been a pure joy to add to the K9 unit, and she is ready to provide her services to all those in need.” This sentiment reflects the tremendous value therapy dogs like Holly bring to the school community. Their presence is more than just comforting; it’s essential to fostering a positive and supportive educational
Holly, with her boundless energy and loving nature, exemplifies the profound impact that therapy dogs can have. As she continues her work in Alief ISD, we look forward to seeing how she will continue to enrich the lives of
Hi! My name is Holly!
Innovative Paths to Protection: Rethinking School Safety for a Secure Future
School safety has been one of the highest priorities for public schools nationwide over the past decade. The Texas Legislature took notice and created House Bill 3 (HB3) last May. This measure added a new section to the Texas Education Code 37.0814 and mandated school boards determine the appropriate number of armed security officers required for each campus unless there was a valid reason for an exemption. This approach also allowed school boards to tailor security measures based on their schools' unique needs. Additionally, the bill required the presence of a security officer during school hours. The measure became effective on September 1, 2023.
Personalizing and Prioritizing School Safety at Alief ISD
HB3 relates to measures to ensure public school safety. Part of the framework for school board development is to approve a budget that maximizes resources and to approve goals, policies, and programs that ensure a safe and orderly learning environment. Dr. Darlene Breaux, Alief ISD Board President and public school advocate, believes in her and the trustees' efforts to keep students safe. “As Alief ISD Board President, I am committed to working collaboratively with the district to ensure that our students and staff are the priority when it comes to providing a physically and mentally safe place for teaching and learning,” she said.
The district budgeted roughly $7.5 million for safety and security in the general fund before any new requirements were presented for the 2023-24 school year due to HB3. This does not include any bond funds used for safety and security upgrades or general fund dollars. With HB3, Alief’s projected safety and security allotment is projected to be just over $1 million in 2023-2024, an increase of approximately $700,000. The state funding increased from $9.72 per student to $10 per student and $15,000 per campus. This increase does not fund the mandates in the bill. Due to the mandates, many Texas school districts, including Alief ISD, are struggling to meet the requirements of HB3 due to budget limitations.
The Tools We Use
Many schools need helplines for hiring officers due to increased demand. Currently, Alief ISD has officers permanently stationed on secondary campuses.
“Alief ISD has its police department and is taking steps to enhance security measures in response to the requirements of HB3,” assured Dr. Anthony Mays, AISD Superintendent. “Hiring certified police officers and providing training helps to ensure familiarity with district procedures and is a proactive approach to maintaining a safe learning environment for students and staff.”
The district prioritizes safety and proactive measures to create a secure learning environment. K9 units can significantly enhance security within the schools. K9 officers can provide a visible presence that deters potential threats and reassures students and staff.
“Patrolling 12 schools in a day with K9 units shows a commitment to comprehensive coverage and a rapid response if any security issues arise,” stated Dan Turner, Alief ISD Chief of Police. “Additionally, using K9 units trained to interact well with children and the school environment is crucial to ensure that their presence doesn't cause unnecessary anxiety or fear among students.”
Safety remains a priority for the students, staff, and families in Alief ISD. Adding the K9 unit as a safety resource is beneficial on many levels. Most importantly, it is a testament to the district’s commitment to ensuring our students and staff have a safe environment they can call home and that visitors feel welcome when they enter the doors of our facilities.
Ribbon Cutting Marks Exciting New Chapter for Crump Stadium
By: Kristyn Hunt Cathey, APR Chief of Communications
As the sun prepared to go down, a group of district and community stakeholders responsible for the newest athletic endeavor gathered before the first home football game in late August 2024. This meeting celebrated the official ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new digital scoreboard at Crump Stadium. The event marked the culmination of an extended period of planning, hard work, and collaboration, bringing together local leaders, educators, students, and supporters to witness this moment.
As the ribbon was cut, applause filled the air, symbolizing the start of a new era for Alief ISD. The scoreboard sits prominently at Crump Stadium and can be seen by passersby daily. Alief ISD graduate and Athletic Director Marla Brumfield-Lewis was beyond excited to see this dream come to fruition. As a former student and college athlete, she understands how important it is for the crowd to be entertained by the athletes and the overall experience.
“This new technology is set to play a pivotal role in enhancing the entertainment experience at any event at the stadium,” she said. “This new scoreboard is equipped with state-of-the-art features that our CTE student workers will help to manage throughout the season. It’s a win-win for all of us!”
A group of eager Marshall CTE students was trained on the scoreboard platform and are supervised by district employees Robert Goetsch, Digital Design
instructor at the Marshall CTE Center; Mike Alvarez, Multimedia Production Specialist; and Taylor High School teachers Gerald Brewer and Jason Chastang. The students are receiving real-world experience that will prepare them for careers in the sports entertainment industry.
The completion of the digital scoreboard is the result of a collaborative effort between several district departments. In addition to athletics, the facilities and construction team played a pivotal role in getting this project off the ground and to completion, and the athletic parent committee’s input was also integral to the project’s success.
Notable attendees at the event included the Alief ISD Board of Trustees, Athletic Parent Advisory Board members, students, and the Chamber of Commerce. Many spoke about the importance of the new facility and what it represents for the future of Alief ISD.
As the ribbon fluttered to the ground and guests admired the new scoreboard, there was a sense of excitement and anticipation for what lay ahead. The latest technology promises to be a beacon of progress, fostering community engagement for future generations.
"Today’s ribbon cutting marks the beginning of something special for our students and our community,” said Dr. Anthony Mays, Superintendent of Schools. “This scoreboard will give our guests an elevated experience they will never forget.”
ParentSquare
Simplifying Communication in One Platform
By Kristyn Hunt Cathey, APR - Chief of Communications and PR
Alief ISD appreciates the variety of communication apps and platforms available to connect with families, but too many choices can lead to confusion. To streamline our communications effots the District is excited to announce the adoption of a new form of school-to-home communication called ParentSquare. This platform will unify all school and District communications, and is designed to keep parents and guardians informed and encourage greater engagement and connection with our families. ParentSquare will replace SchoolMessenger and Remind.
The platform provides safe, two-way communications for district administrators, school principals, teachers, staff, and parents to:
Send and receive school and class information
Share pictures and files
See calendar items
Register your account
Schedule parentteacher conferences
Sign up to volunteer and much more… all in one centralized place!
Parents will receive an activation email for their ParentSquare account. Those who do not register will still receive text, email, and phone notifications. Parents who do create an account can interact by viewing photos, downloading attachments, leaving comments, messaging teachers, signing permission slips, and managing their communication settings and preferences.
As we prepare for the launch of the platform, we encourage our families to view the training video. The District will roll out the platform in phases, beginning with staff and administrators by Aug.12 and families by Sept. 4.
SCAN TO VIEW TRAINING VIDEO
Alief ISD Receives $8M to Power Clean School Buses!
EPA Announces Clean School Bus Funding of Nearly $8 million for Alief ISD as Part of the Investing in America Agenda
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that Alief Independent School District is receiving $7.9 million through EPA’s Clean School Bus Grant Program. This significant award, which is made possible through President Joe Biden’s Investing in America agenda, will help the school district purchase 20 electric emission-free school buses to replace diesel operated school buses.
EPA Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance joined Representative Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07), Superintendent Dr. Anthony Mays and Alief ISD Chief Communications & PR Administrator Kristyn Cathey to celebrate the award and highlight how
the program will reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save school money, and better protect children’s health.
“I’ve seen firsthand the advantages of the zeroemission school buses, and I am glad to see another school district will experience the benefits of cleaner air for students, teachers and the community,” said Region 6 Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “With continued funding from the Biden-Harris Administration, we can protect children’s health by providing green alternatives for school districts like Alief ISD. I would like to thank Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher and Dr. Anthony Mays for their support and participation in this announcement.”
“As we begin a new school year, I was glad to join Dr. Nance, Superintendent Mays, and Alief ISD leaders to highlight $7.9 million in federal
funding to purchase 20 electric school buses to modernize Alief ISD’s school bus fleet,” said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher. “These electric school buses will lower emissions, meaning cleaner air for students, bus drivers, and community members. This investment in our community is a direct result of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which I was glad to work on and to vote for, and is also a result of the dynamic, collaborative partnership and leadership in the community I am so proud to represent. I am grateful to the Biden-Harris administration for investing in our future, and to Dr. Nance and the EPA for coming to Alief to make this important announcement.”
Alief ISD consists of 46 schools and serves over 40,000 students, many of whom take buses to school. With these zero-emission school buses, Alief ISD can protect children’s health and provide healthier and cleaner air for communities.
“This $7.9 million grant from the EPA will make a major difference in our district and our community,” said Dr. Anthony Mays, the Alief ISD Superintendent of Schools. “Without it, the district would not have
been able to afford these buses. They will greatly benefit our students who suffer from asthma-related illnesses and thus, reduce absenteeism. This is a win for our district and community!”
The Clean School Bus Program is having far-reaching effects across school districts and their surrounding communities. Air pollution from older diesel engines is linked to asthma and other conditions that harm students’ health and can cause them to miss school. Phasing out these older diesel engines, which disproportionately affect communities of color and Tribal communities, ensures cleaner air for students, bus drivers, school staff working near bus loading areas, and the communities through which the buses drive each day. To learn more about the Clean School Bus Program, applicant eligibility, selection process, and informational webinar dates for future rounds of funding, visit the Clean School Bus Program website: epa.gov/cleanschoolbus/cleanschool-bus-program-awards.
Connect with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 on Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), or visit aliefisd.net.
PORTRAIT
OF A GRADUATE
The Alief ISD Portrait of a Graduate represents the skills and attributes students should acquire by graduation that will prepare them for future success.
EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATOR
A graduate who excels as a communicator and possesses strong social skills, adeptly articulates thoughts and opinions with respect and positivity, and demonstrates empathetic listening abilities, fostering meaningful connections and understanding in various contexts.
GROWTH MINDED
A graduate with a growth mindset, characterized by their accountability, adaptability, independence, self-reliance, strong social and emotional skills, and confidence, embracing challenges as opportunities for learning and consistently demonstrating resilience in navigating new and evolving circumstances.
PROBLEM SOLVER
A graduate who exhibits perseverance and resilience while navigating challenges and employing effective conflict-resolution skills to achieve innovative solutions in diverse situations.
GLOBAL CITIZEN
A graduate who is committed to making positive contributions to society, actively engaging in community initiatives, and collaborating effectively with diverse groups of people, fostering understanding and cooperation across cultural boundaries for collective progress.
FUTURE READY
A graduate who embodies a strong work ethic, possesses essential career and technical skills, has explored diverse post-secondary paths such as college, career, military, and trades, and is financially literate. Our graduates have the educational foundation necessary to navigate and succeed in the dynamic landscape of tomorrow’s opportunities.
OF A LEADER PORTRAIT
The Alief ISD Leader is the key to a safe, productive, and engaging learning environment for all students, teachers and stakeholders. The Alief ISD Leader is...or is a(n):
EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATOR
A skilled listener and articulate speaker who fosters collaboration with empathy and professionalism. They create a respectful environment where clear and timely communication is essential for success.
PEOPLE ORIENTED
Focused on fostering open communication and building positive relationships with students, staff, and the community, creating a supportive and inclusive environment.
SYSTEMS THINKER
A strategic problem solver who makes data-informed decisions, communicates clearly, and utilizes protocols and processes to meet expectations.
DATA DRIVEN
Consistently collects and analyzes data to inform decisions, sets clear goals, monitors progress, and adjusts instruction as needed.
STRATEGIC VISIONARY
Possesses the abilities and knowledge to design and implement strategies that impact student achievement effectively.
