Welcome to the Alief ISD HR Newsletter,

Your go-to source for important updates, insights, and resources related to our district’s human resources information. Each edition is designed to keep you informed about new policies, upcoming events, professional development opportunities, and other key information that impacts our staff and schools. Whether you’re looking for updates on benefits, tips for enhancing your workplace experience, or information on district-wide initiatives, our newsletter has you covered. Stay engaged and informed with the latest HR news and resources tailored specifically for our district’s needs.

HR NEWS AT A GLANCE!

October 1, 2024

Volume 1: Issue 2

Happy October!

As we step into this vibrant month, we embrace the changing seasons and all the opportunities they bring. October is not just a time for cozy sweaters and pumpkin spice; it’s also a moment to reflect on our growth and achievements as a team.

This month, we’re excited to share district initiatives and refocus you with strategies for well-being and professional development. Look out for upcoming activities, and wellness resources designed to support you both personally and professionally.

Let’s also take a moment to recognize the hard work and dedication each of you brings to our organization. Your contributions are what make our workplace thrive, and we’re grateful for your commitment.

Wishing you a productive and inspiring October!

Warm regards,

Alief HR Department

Alief Goes Pink!

ESL Certification Important Reminders

TExES Exam Info

• English as a Second Language Supplemental exam-#154

• Find test dates and registration information at www.tx.nesinc.com

Alief ISD Staff Development Sessions Offered

• Region 4- ESL Exam Review Sessions (November - April)

• Retest Support Options (monthly)

Eligibility Guidelines for the ESL One-Time $500 Stipend

• Teachers must take and pass the ESL certification exam

• Teachers must add ESL to their existing standard certificate

• Teachers who already have ESL certification are not eligible

• Bilingual certified teachers are not required or eligible

Written Request Required for Payment of Stipend

After meeting the criteria a written request for payment is required.

Include name, employee ID# and school/dept. to Lety Shelley, Certification Specialist, Alief HR
Contact Lety Shelley at 281-988-3456 x29147 or at Lety.Ocampo-Shelley@aliefisd.net for details or questions

ALIEF ISD is

Check out some of our GYO partners...

Alief Climate and Culture Survey

Window is Open October 1 - 8!

Teacher Appraisal Process 101

Please review all due dates as associated with T-TESS. You can find those dates

T-TESS Due Dates 24-25.docx

The following tasks should be completed in the first semester.

GPSD
1st SLO submission
Observation 1

In Texas, school districts are required to implement T-TESS or a locally adopted system for teacher appraisals which provides a specific framework and timelines to evaluate teacher performance. The following steps are required annually for T-TESS:

Orientation: Schools must provide an official orientation to the T-TESS appraisal process for all teachers new to the district. All returning teachers should be provided a brief review of the process. This year, districts should include orientation to Alternate Domain I (when applicable). All teachers should receive the appraisal calendar and procedures during orientation or review.
Goal setting: The goal setting and professional development (GSPD) plan is integral to the T-TESS appraisal process. For returning teachers, discussion of the GSPD plan should have occurred at the prior year’s summative conference. For teachers new to the district, the GSPD plan must be discussed with the appraiser and submitted within six weeks after T-TESS orientation.
Observations: Observations provide meaningful feedback and should occur frequently for all teachers during the school year. The observation format can either be informal (coaching) or formal. All observations require a written summary, provided within 10 business days following the observation, and formal observations require both a pre- and post-conference with the teacher. The frequency and type of observations conducted are typically dictated by district procedures.
End-of-year conference: The summative conference must be held in person, and a written summary must be provided to the teacher no later than 15 working days prior to the final day of instruction. At this conference, discussion should include next year’s GPSD plan and any professional development activities that should occur over the summer.

The T-TESS appraisal framework is vital to implementing the appraisal process with fidelity.

REMINDER!

Don't forget to take a look at TIA Tuesdays, our monthly newsletter for all the latest updates about TIA in Alief!

Teacher Incentive Allotment

Please take a look at the September edition of the TIA Tuesdays Newsletter. This month, we highlight one of our very own TIA-designated teachers, discuss what lies beyond the 2023-2024 Data Capture Year, share updates to the 2024-2025 TIA Handbook, and deep-dive the Classroom Instruction component of Alief ISD's TIA system.

https://aliefisdtx.edurooms.com/engage/alief-isd-teacher-incentive-allotment/newsletters/tia-tuesdays-september-2024

Employee Benefits UPDATE

Effective January 2025, Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) will replace AETNA as our medical insurance provider.

No changes to dental and vision.
Open Enrollment begins October 1. ALL employees must re-enroll to keep benefits for 2025.
Open Enrollment ends October 31.

Don't Let DARKtober Get You Down!

ALIEF EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE LINK

https://www.aliefisd.net/page/employee-assistance-program-alief-resources-for-living

As we move into October and the days get shorter, it's easy to feel a bit down. Some employees may now be traveling to and from work in the dark, losing the benefit of the added sunlight and vitamin D intake.

In schools, the newness of the year has started to wear off as challenges in the classroom have revealed themselves. The energy felt at the beginning of the school year has waned, and both teachers and students begin to feel the fatigue of the academic cycle while waiting for a break that is still far away.

During October, the strain of classroom challenges, fatigue from fewer daylight hours, and the interruption of classroom routines due to testing and district breaks is a challenge for teachers and students alike. It’s natural to feel the stress of the season and to experience the October slump known as Darktober.

Remember, it’s okay to feel the weight of the season, but together we can foster a supportive and positive environment. Let’s make this Darktober a time for growth and connection!

Here are some quick tips to help us stay positive and energized during this month:

Embrace the Light: Open windows and let in natural light whenever possible. A little sunshine can brighten our spirits!
Stay Active: Incorporate short movement breaks into your day. Even a quick walk can boost your mood and energy levels.
Connect with Colleagues: Take time for casual chats or coffee breaks. Sharing a laugh can make a big difference.
Practice Gratitude: Start or end your day by jotting down a few things you’re grateful for. It helps shift focus to the positive.

Set Small Goals: Break tasks into manageable steps. Celebrating small wins can keep motivation high.
Mindfulness Moments: Take a few minutes each day for deep breathing or meditation. It can help clear your mind and reduce stress.
Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge both your own and your students' successes, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement can uplift everyone.