Aldine ISD Winter 2024-25

AISD NEWS

FEATURE

AISD SUPPORTS HOMELESS STUDENTS WITH FOOD PANTRY, CLOTHING ACCESS, AND HEALTHCARE PARTNERS

Aldine ISD’s Guidance, Counseling, and Student Support Services is champi oning student well-being through its Transition Office. The department has taken a proactive step in establishing a food pantry explicitly designed for stu dents experiencing homelessness. This initiative, funded by grants, highlights the power of community service to put students first, which aligns with the district’s strategic plan, Accelerate. The program aims to secure ongoing part nerships and funding to keep the pantry well-stocked and operational now and in the future. Staff members from across the district pick up prepared food boxes and give them to the students in need. This initiative has made a significant difference in the lives of many students, 91 and growing, providing them with a sense of security and stability. Another significant stride is the part nership with Clothed by Faith, a non profit organization providing school-ap propriate clothing for students in need. This collaboration is a crucial step in removing barriers for students expe riencing homelessness, ensuring they can participate in school activities without fear of stigmatization. It’s about creating a more inclusive and under standing environment for all students. Another essential collaboration is with HOPE Clinic, which offers displaced students free vaccinations and other A new school year brought new awards for a couple of Aldine ISD campuses. Grantham and Reece Academy both received distinctions from Magnet Schools of America, by earning Nation ally Certified Demonstration Magnet School status. To be awarded these certifications, the campuses had to meet rigorous qualifications. There are only five other schools in Texas who have achieved this national certification. The qualifications are all tied to a grading rubric based on standards of excellence and five pillars

Pictured: Twyla Lee, a CYS worker

“Our homeless students and their families can rest assured that their well-being is our unwavering priority,” said Dr. Efraín Uribe, program director of elementary guidance, counseling, and student support. “This commitment is a testament to our dedication to pro viding the resources they need to thrive academically and personally. You can trust our support, knowing we are here for you and your children.” Families can contact AISD at Displaced Students@AldineISD.org or the District Homeless Office at (281) 985-6472. Community members can also make a difference by contributing to the food pantry. Pictured: Kim Christian, a counselor from Odom Elementary School only did we attain the National Recog nition status, but we were also awarded the Demonstration Magnet School sta tus, the highest certification available,” Hepworth said. Reece Academy Principal Natalie Andrus also shared a mutual sentiment with her team. “I know what a great accomplishment this is for our school, and I’m so proud of the wonderful culture we have created here for our students, staff and teachers,” Andrus said.

low-cost medical services. By ad dressing healthcare needs, Aldine ISD ensures that vulnerable students can focus on their education in good health. The HOPE Clinic has multiple locations across Houston, including two sites within Aldine ISD (2112 Aldine Meadows Rd. and 3000 Aldine Mail Route Rd.). Odom Elementary School will host both the food pantry and clothing distribution services. Principal Ricardo Pequeño and Kim Christian, the school counselor, have been instrumental in designating and organizing the storage space for clothing and non-perishable food items. Their dedication under scores Aldine ISD’s commitment to supporting its students. that are used to critique the campuses. Those five pillars are: Diversity, Inno vative Curriculum and Professional Development, Academic Excellence, Leadership and Family and Community Partnerships. Grantham Academy Principal Ivan Hepworth said he was proud of his team for their hard work in achieving this national status. “I am so excited that we met the criteria to be recognized as a Nationally Certi fied Demonstration Magnet School! Not

ALDINE ISD CAMPUSES RECEIVE MAGNET SCHOOL AWARDS

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