A Message From Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney

Disponible en: Español

Dear Aldine Community,

The Thanksgiving break is almost here! The weather has turned cold, and everyone — especially the host or hostess — is likely planning their holiday menu. When talking with staff members, some opt for turkey and fixings, while others go the tamale route. For those of you who joined us at the turkey giveaway during our Annual Health Fair on Saturday or at yesterday’s event with the Houston Astros Foundation and Cheniere Energy, you likely already have your bird if turkey’s on your menu! Before we take some well-deserved time to celebrate with our families and friends next week, I want to share some good news.

Congratulations
Congratulations to MacArthur High School’s Academic Decathlon® team! For the fifth consecutive year, the Generals have emerged as District Champions, scoring an impressive 26,547.7 points. This remarkable feat, which saw them finish 8,800.5 points ahead of the second-place campus, is a testament to their hard work and dedication. Nine team members will advance to the regional competition in January, carrying the Aldine community’s pride.

A big round of applause also goes to the students in the HEAL Program at Nimitz High School, who earned their medical scrubs last week! Seventy-six ninth graders marked this milestone at the inaugural Commitment to HEAL Ceremony: From Classroom to Care, hosted by Memorial Hermann educators. I am deeply grateful for everyone’s commitment to providing high-quality education and career opportunities for our students.

The Davis High Falcons and Nimitz High Cougars represented AISD in the Class 6A state football playoffs. Under head coach Kelvin Chatam, now in his second year, the Falcons faced Conroe High School in bi-district play last Friday. The Cougars, led by head coach Cornelius Harmon, competed in bi-district play, taking on The Woodlands.

Opportunities
Continuing with the theme of gratitude, I want to thank the Family and Community Engagement Department and HOPE Worldwide for celebrating their second year of partnership at Caraway Elementary School. Their SPARK (Special Program for Arts Resiliency for Kids) Academy initiative, which uses fun activities to teach students character traits that enhance resilience and reduce stress, has profoundly impacted our students. Thank you to the volunteers who have made meaningful connections with our students and helped them develop these essential life skills.

This week, we celebrate the creation of a college-going culture during College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) Week. Our students graduate with opportunities and choices for their futures. Activities span all grade levels — from inspiring prekindergarten students to dream big to helping older students plan their next steps toward a bright future.

It Takes An Army of People Supporting Our Children
When we think of education support, teachers often come to mind first. However, it’s important to remember that an entire army of people supports our children every step of the way. Education Support Professionals (ESPs) — including clerical workers, custodians, food service staff, paraeducators, and transportation workers — play a vital role. Whether inside or outside classrooms, they offer emotional and social support to students. Their contributions often go unnoticed, but their impact is undeniable. Today, we honor these professionals who ensure our schools run smoothly and students stay safe, healthy, and ready to learn. As Rev. Jesse Jackson has said, “Children need all school workers.”

We also close American Education Week by recognizing substitute educators. These dedicated professionals step in with little notice, maintaining learning continuity in teachers’ absence. Substitutes often adapt to new subjects and classrooms weekly, demonstrating resilience and flexibility. They are the bridge between full-time educators and students, ensuring progress remains uninterrupted. Their commitment enriches our schools and helps sustain high educational standards.

Before I close, visit AldineISD.org, follow us on social media, read the Aldine Connection newsletter for the latest updates, including Bond 2023, and tag your good news with #AldineImpact.

I want to express my gratitude to the entire Aldine community. Your unwavering support and students make our students’ achievements possible. Your collective efforts, whether big or small, contribute to the success of our schools. Thank you for all that you do. Stay safe on the roads if you are traveling, and I hope everyone has a fantastic Thanksgiving break with family and friends.

With Aldine Pride,

Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney
Superintendent of Schools