I visited Holmquist Elementary recently, where every student knew the principal’s name and were all anxious to give Principal Kimberly Toney a big hug when they saw her. I was able to see differentiation being executed at a high level by each classroom instructor. I know that instruction like this does not happen by accident; it requires a strong leader with a strong instructional lens and an eye for campus culture. Principal Toney’s leadership was also reflected in the huge group of adults cheering for the students that participated in a recent video recording with me. The students were so confident as they respectfully told our cameraman what they wanted to accomplish in their recording. Their confidence and student agency is an example of the strong culture at Holmquist Elementary.

Holub Middle School hosted “Man Up” to support and encourage male mentors for our male students here in Alief ISD. Principal Renita Crutchfield had a full house as student groups led by our teacher leaders supported students being engaged in a positive way as leaders like Principal Dr. William Price taught the young men how to properly knot a tie. Thanks to Dee Jones’ support, students were able to win door prizes such as televisions and basketballs for participation. See photos from the event.

Next week, I will host my first meeting with my Superintendent’s Principal Advisory team. Please congratulate and thank these leaders for volunteering for a one-year tour of duty: Vinson Lewis of Kerr High School, Mindy Robertson of the Alief Learning Center, David Lopez of Alief Middle School, Bert Bilton of Killough Middle School, Amy Coleman of Mata Intermediate, Seymour Stewart of Miller Intermediate, Lisa Saarie of Chancellor Elementary, and Sara Caldwell of Kennedy Elementary. These leaders will serve as thought partners with me for our work here in Alief ISD.

Celebrations

Congratulations to Hastings High School senior Juanita Omeje! She was named a National Merit finalist. Omeje is one of 15,000 finalists out of 1.5 million entrants nationwide!

Alief ISD high school CTE Welding students recently brought home 12 welding certifications and earned top honors in various categories, including sweeping the entire Level 3 category at the Jersey Village High School Falcon Weld It Up Welding Competition. In total, Alief ISD students earned $44,500 in scholarships!

Sincerely,

Dr. Anthony Mays
Superintendent
Alief ISD

Looking Forward

  • March 25: Alief ISD Family U Conference – Alief Center for Talent Development, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
  • April 1: Alief ISD Girls Conference – Cummings Elementary, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
  • April 1: CIA Market Place – Taylor High School, 9:00 AM – Noon
  • April 13: Kinder Round Up – All Elementary Schools, 5:00 PM
  • April 14: Taylor HS Lion Pride Festival – Taylor HS, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
  • April 15: Teacher Job Fair – Alief Center for Talent Development, 9:00 AM – Noon