Happy Lunar New Year to everyone. Every year, we celebrate our Lunar New Year in partnership with the International Management District at our Bill Marshall Center. This gives us a wonderful opportunity to celebrate this signature holiday as a community! This year is the year of the Fire Horse! Thank you to Mr. Wea Lee and the International Management District for being a good partner for Alief ISD.

As we celebrate Black History Month and all of the historical figures who are important to American history, I am grateful for the shoulders of the giants we stand on! Leaders such as the late Jesse Jackson marched and organized to ensure everyone had equal rights and opportunities. Our stalwarts, such as Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, have paved the way for other future leaders to grow their sense of advocacy and community. Or Booker T. Washington, who promoted confidence and belief that we are all more than capable of taking care of ourselves when we have education and resources.

As we commemorate these historical figures and their sacrifices, let’s remember that our community still needs leadership to advocate for those in need!

The Young Women’s Leadership School application is now open! This is a college-preparatory opportunity that will provide additional choices for our families. Please watch this video to learn more about:

The Girls’ School Advantage

As we increase the number of choice school opportunities, our families can find more information here about what is happening in Alief ISD.

I continue to be excited about this year! I am excited to “Be all in with Alief ISD!”

On Tuesday we celebrated new beginnings, hope, and the rich cultural traditions that make our Alief ISD community so vibrant. May this new year bring prosperity, good health, and success to all our students, families, and staff. Wishing everyone a joyful and prosperous year ahead!

Alief Independent School District affirms and supports our students from all faith backgrounds. We have many students, families, staff, and community partners who participate in the spiritual month of Ramadan.

For 2026, Ramadan is being observed from February 17th to March 19th.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar year and is an annual celebration practiced by Muslims around the world. The obligation to refrain from eating or drinking from dawn to dusk during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. After sunset prayers, fasting is broken with a meal shared among families and friends.

We encourage our students and staff to remain mindful of those who are participating in Ramadan this season.

All month long, we celebrate Black excellence—past, present, and future. During Black History Month, Alief ISD honors the rich history, lasting legacy, and countless contributions of Black leaders, educators, innovators, and changemakers who continue to shape our communities and our world.

February is Career & Technical Education Month! In Alief ISD, our CTE programs empower students with hands-on learning, industry-recognized certifications, and real-world skills that prepare them for college, careers, and beyond.

Explore CTE pathways in Alief ISD!

The Alief ISD Board recognized Career and Technical Education Month and its impact across the district. From hands-on learning to real-world experiences, our CTE programs prepare students for college, careers, and beyond. Thank you to our dedicated educators and business partners who help make these opportunities possible—your support is shaping the future, one student at a time.

In this episode of ImpactED, Kristyn Cathey, Chief of Communications, sits down with Tamara V. Albury, Founding Principal, to revisit The Young Women’s Leadership School. Together, they reflect on the school’s vision, growth, and lasting impact, highlighting how it continues to empower young women through leadership, academics, and community.

Congratulations to the following MVP Award recipients! The selected employees exemplify positive culture, communication, and caring relationships at all times!

Stephan San Miguel – Human Resources

Tracy Bonay – Special Services

Bryan Ramos – Miller Middle School

Christopher Lacy – Youngblood Intermediate School

Amanda Hidalgo – Klentzman Intermediate School

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Alief ISD has reached an exciting milestone in its ongoing efforts to enhance district facilities. The press box at Alief Crump Stadium has officially been demolished, marking the start of a major reconstruction project made possible through the voter-approved bond program.

This transformation reflects the district’s continued commitment to providing modern, safe, and high-quality facilities for students, staff, and the broader Alief community. The new press box will offer upgraded functionality and improved amenities to support athletic events, student programs, and community gatherings.

Construction is underway, and the district looks forward to unveiling the brand-new press box, scheduled for completion by August. This project represents another step forward in investing in spaces that elevate student experiences and community pride.

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We hosted our first Realtor Breakfast Meeting, bringing together district leaders, realtors, and community partners. Guests received an overview of our Strategic Plan, followed by a thoughtful Q&A session. A special shout-out to the Kerr High School orchestra for providing the background music and to our talented Culinary students who prepared and served breakfast!

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We are proud to celebrate our incredible teachers recognized as the 2026 HAABSE Outstanding Teachers of the Year. Your passion, dedication, and commitment to student success continue to inspire excellence across Alief ISD. Thank you for making a lasting impact in our classrooms and community. This honor is well deserved!

The Alief community came together in a vibrant celebration of culture, tradition, and unity during this year’s Lunar New Year festivities, held at the Marshall Center for Advanced Careers and the Chinese Community Center. Families, students, staff, and community members gathered to welcome the Year of the Horse, a symbol of strength, perseverance, and new beginnings.

This celebration was more than an event—it was a reflection of Alief’s commitment to honoring cultures, building connections, and bringing people together. Thank you to all the partners, volunteers, and community members who helped make this Lunar New Year celebration a memorable and meaningful experience for everyone involved.

Here’s to a joyful, prosperous Year of the Horse for the entire Alief community!

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Alief ISD was proud to be part of the Harris County Precinct 4 Black History Month Luncheon hosted by Commissioner Lesley Briones. This meaningful event brought community leaders together for powerful reflections, uplifting performances, and a dynamic “Voices of Change” panel. We are especially proud of our Superintendent, Dr. Anthony Mays, who joined distinguished leaders like Representative Dr. Alma Allen in a thoughtful discussion on leadership, impact, and the future of our communities. Together, we continue to honor the past while shaping a brighter tomorrow!

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The Alief ISD Board recognized our Alief Education Foundation Grant Winners for their innovation and dedication to enhancing student learning. These grants bring creative ideas to life in our classrooms, providing meaningful opportunities that support student success across the district. Congratulations to all of our recipients, and thank you for going above and beyond for our students!

CREST recognizes exemplary programs in Texas based on the Texas Model for Comprehensive School Counseling as adopted by TEA in 2018. The award indicates campus and counselor leadership and advocacy for serving students and the school community.

Those schools include: Hearne Elementary, Hicks Elementary, Holmquist Elementary, Klentzman Intermediate, Taylor High School, and Alief Learning Center. Congratulations, Counselors!

Elsik NEXT Gen students proudly represented our community at City Hall during today’s Black History Program. The students wore commemorative shirts sponsored by Councilwoman Tiffany Thomas, and were joined for a group photo by Controller Chris Hollins and Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans—making the experience both meaningful and memorable.

Alief families, save the date! Join us for the Alief Family U Conference on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. at the Alief Center for Talent Development. Enjoy FREE adult and staff workshops, informational sessions, community resources, pre-K–8th-grade child care, food, performances, and prizes—all designed to support and empower our families.

Join us for the Alief Elementary Honor Choir as 24 Alief elementary schools come together for an unforgettable performance!

Come support our talented young singers in this annual showcase of music and harmony!

The “Friends of Deborah Brown Alexander Elementary” will be providing (3) $1,000 scholarships for Alief ISD graduating Seniors that will be pursuing a degree in Education. The application deadline is April 7, 2026, and winners will be announced on May 7, 2026.

Link to the scholarship application

Enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year is now open for students entering grades K-12. We are excited to welcome both new and returning students to Alief ISD! Visit our Enrollment page to explore the wide range of academic opportunities available across our district, designed to meet the needs and interests of every learner. https://aliefisd.net/enroll

Why Apply Now?

•Get a head start on the school year

•Ensure timely placement and scheduling

•Access innovative programs and specialized pathways

Choosing a school for your daughter is one of the most important decisions you will make. At The Young Women’s Leadership School (TYWLS) of Alief ISD, we are building more than a school, we are creating a place where every girl is seen, heard, supported, and challenged to reach her full potential. We can’t wait to welcome you to our campus! Apply today through the Alief ISD district webpage, the TYWLS website, or https://choice.aliefisd.net/the-young-womens-leadership-school/

Join us February 25, 2026, for an in person informational session. We will also be available to help with completing the application online. Please bring a recent report card to aid in the process.

Applications for teaching positions are now available for internal employees of Alief ISD. If interested, apply today!

We believe every student has the potential for greatness, and our diverse choice programs are designed to provide the perfect pathway to future success for learners looking to chart their own course.

Two weeks remain to apply for Alief ISD Schools of Choice! Learn more about the STEM, PVAA, and other specialized programs and apply before February 28 at http://choice.aliefisd.net!

Alief ISD Special Education Services can begin when your child turns 3! Have concerns regarding your child’s development? Contact our Early Childhood Assessment Team at (281) 498-8110 ext. 28715.

Join us as we kick off Spring semester in our Alief Family Centers! Free adult workshops and resources. Find a school near you!

International Management District – Community Grants

We encourage staff to explore the International Management District’s Community Grants, designed to support innovative projects that enhance learning and community engagement. By diversifying applicants, we aim to ensure teachers have the opportunity to access these valuable funds for new initiatives that directly benefit students.

Click here for more information and application details: International Management District Community Grants Policy and Application form.

Multi-Cultural School Bus Tours

Join the Alief ISD Special Education Department Saturday, March 21, 2026 for its Transition Fair! This free event is an opportunity for students and families of children with disabilities (ages 3-22) to meet with agencies and organizations in our community.

Save the date! The Alief International Parade & Taste of Alief is happening on April 25! Celebrate the diversity of Alief with a vibrant parade, delicious food, and community fun—all for FREE! Don’t miss out!

We are excited to announce an upcoming Pickleball Fundraiser Event in support of the Alief Independent School District! This event is designed to bring our community together for a day of fun, fitness, and philanthropy—all while supporting programs that make a difference for our students.

The tournament is intended for doubles and mixed doubles. Singles will be assigned to doubles teams. Mixed-age teams may compete in the youngest age division.

Date: March 28th

Time: 10 AM -2 PM

Location: Alief Hastings High School South Gym

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, and this event is a great opportunity to enjoy friendly competition while contributing to a meaningful cause. We would be honored to have you join us and help make this event a success. To register or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please visit:

Sponsorship Registration Form

Player Registration Form

Your participation will help us raise funds for our teachers and students.

Register to play in the tournament

Sponsor a team or court

Make a donation to support the event

Thank you for your continued support of Alief ISD and our mission to empower students through education and community engagement.

Volunteer Registration Form

Alief ISD Education Foundation – Pay It Forward Campaign

Dear Alief ISD Team,

The Alief ISD Education Foundation’s Pay It Forward Campaign supports our students and teachers by automatically giving a seamless donation directly from your paycheck.

Click here to complete the Pay It Forward Form

For more information on this campaign, please visit our website or contact [email protected].

Thank you for supporting the mission of the Alief ISD Education Foundation. Together, we can make a lasting difference in our community!

For fundraiser opportunities, contact [email protected].

Teacher Grants Article

Teacher Grants Podcast

We’re proud to celebrate our Papa John’s Teacher of the Month from Landis Elementary, Juvenal Villegas, whose dedication and passion for teaching truly shine in the classroom! As a special reward, their class earned a FREE pizza party—a well-deserved treat for an amazing teacher and hardworking students. Thank you for inspiring excellence every day and making learning something to celebrate. Enjoy the pizza and the applause!

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Show your appreciation by nominating your favorite teacher in Alief ISD.

Papa John’s Nomination Form

Do you have a special celebration or achievement you’d love to share? Submit your celebration here and let us highlight the amazing moments that make Alief ISD so special!

Explore the Alief ISD SmugMug photo gallery and relive unforgettable moments from school events, celebrations, and achievements. Browse through vibrant snapshots capturing the spirit, talent, and dedication of our students and staff. Check out the gallery here!

Join the Alief Alumni Influencer Association and Stay Connected! Be a part of something bigger by joining the Alief Alumni Influencer Association—a network of proud graduates making a difference! Whether you want to reconnect with old classmates, mentor current students, share your success story, or give back to the community that shaped you, this is your chance to stay involved. Join today and continue making an impact!

Alief ISD MVP 2025-2026 Awards Nomination Form

Each month, one student, two teachers, and two support staff will be selected as an MVP Award winner by their peers.

These winners are chosen based on evidence of their support of customer service and positive climate and culture in Alief ISD, and they will be celebrated during our next regular board meeting.

We encourage our stakeholders to submit the MVP Award Submission.

Salute to Nurses 2026 nominations

Colleagues, parents, and students are invited to nominate Alief ISD nurses that have made an impact on their lives and outstanding nursing students who will serve as the next generation of nurses. Nominations are open from January 5 through March 1.

Visit Chron.com/SaluteToNurses to nominate.

Vype Winter 2025 Magazine

Achieve Winter 2025 Magazine

Revista Achieve Invierno 2025

Looking Ahead

February Athletic Calendar

February: Career & Technical Education Month

February: Black History Month

February 23-27: Public Schools Week

February 26: Talk About it Thursday

February 28: Alief Family U Conference

March: Women’s History Month

March: National Nutrition Month

March 2: Read Across America Day

March 1-7: School Social Worker Week

March 1-7: Educational Diagnostician Week

March 2-6: National School Social Worker Week

March 2-6: National School Breakfast Week

March 6: Maintenance Worker Appreciation Day

March 8: International Women’s Day

March 8: Daylight Savings Time Begins

March 14: Pi Day

March 17: National Social Worker Day

March 21: Special Education Transition Fair

March 25: Crossing Guard Appreciation Day

March 28: Inaugural Alief ISD Education Foundation Pickleball Tournament

April 11: Taiwan YES Festival

April 25: International Parade & Taste of Alief

May 28: AECHS & Kerr HS Graduations @ Houston Christian University

May 29: Elsik HS Graduation @ Merrell Center

May 30: Taylor HS & Hastings HS Graduations @ Merrell Center

September 28: 22nd Annual Alief ISD Education Foundation Golf Tournament