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.

November 3, 2025

Volume 2: Issue 4

• Welcome Message

• Important Dates

• Hands Off, Words On!

• Alief Smug Mug
• Veterans Day 2025
• Teacher Mini Grant Application
• HR FAQs
• Associate Teacher Spotlight

• Teacher Apprenticeship Program

• Dept. Spotlight: HR Hiring Team

• Substitute of the Month

• TIA Updates and FAQs

• Teacher Appraisal Process 101

• Teacher Incentive Allotment

• ESL Certification Reminders

• Gratitude is the Best Attitude!

• Employee Referral Program

• Employee Verification Process

• Employee Support Links

Alief Family,

Welcome to November —As the leaves fall, we’re reminded that change is in the air. Soon we will have cooler temps, cozy sweaters, and the annual tradition of wondering how Thanksgiving snuck up on us again.

It’s also the season of gratitude, and here in HR, we’re thankful for YOU — the heart and hustle behind Alief ISD.

As we settle into the season of thankfulness, we want to take a moment to appreciate the everyday magic happening across our campuses and departments — we see you, and we’re grateful.

This month, let’s celebrate the small wins: a student’s smile, a lesson that lands, a meeting that ends on time. Let’s lift each other up, laugh a little louder, and lean into the warmth of our shared purpose.

Enjoy a dive into this month’s HeRald! It’s packed with updates, celebrations, and a few HR-friendly reminders to keep your spirits high.

Warm Regards, 

The HR Team

November 2025

~Native American Heritage Month~

1- Alief Proud

2 -Daylight Savings Ends (Fall Back)

4- 8 National School Psychology Week

4- Election Day

7- Elsik 50th Anniversary

8- National STEM/STEAM Day

8- Alief Holiday Market

11-Veterans Day

19-Education Support Professionals Day

22-Substitute Educators Day

24- 28 Thanksgiving Break

27 - Thanksgiving Day

28 - Black Friday

30- Small Business Saturday

Hands Off, Words On!

Redirect and Guide with Respect!

Prioritize Verbal Communication

Educators should use calm, clear verbal instructions instead of physical gestures to guide student behavior.

• Hands-on redirection must be a last resort and only used when a student’s safety is at risk. 

• Always attempt verbal redirection, proximity, and visual cues first.

•  Use calm, clear, and consistent language to guide behavior.

•  Reflect on proactive strategies that can prevent escalation.

Respect Cultural Sensitivities

Recognizing diverse backgrounds, verbal guidance respects students’ cultural differences and sensitivities.

Promote Positive School Climate

Using words first supports a trusting, safe environment and teaches appropriate social behaviors.

The Alief ISD Education Foundation Innovative Grant Program is designed to spark creativity and enhance the learning experience in classrooms across the district. Rather than focusing on standardized test performance, this program empowers educators to bring fresh, engaging, and imaginative ideas to life.

Each year, the Foundation awards grants to educators who develop innovative classroom projects that inspire students, foster curiosity, and encourage critical thinking. Successful proposals feature well-designed implementation plans and creative approaches that make learning both meaningful and memorable.

By supporting innovation, the Foundation helps teachers turn great ideas into powerful educational opportunities — ensuring that Alief students are prepared to dream big and achieve even more.

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!

First and foremost, we extend our deepest thanks to all Alief ISD staff who are U.S. military veterans. Your courage, sacrifice, and dedication — both in service to our country and now to our students — inspire us daily. Veterans Day, observed on Tuesday, November 11, is a time to honor your legacy and thank you for continuing to serve with heart and purpose. We salute you!

Quick Facts about Veterans Day

Veterans Day is a national holiday in the United States that honors all military veterans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. It’s a time to recognize their courage, sacrifice, and dedication.

What Is Veterans Day?
Originally called Armistice Day, it was first observed on November 11, 1919, marking the end of World War I. In 1954, it was renamed Veterans Day to honor all American veterans, living and deceased.

When Is Veterans Day 2025?
Veterans Day is observed annually on November 11. In 2025, it falls on Tuesday, November 11. Federal offices and many organizations will observe the holiday on that day.

A Brief History
The holiday traces back to the armistice signed on November 11, 1918, ending World War I. In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially designated it as a day to honor all U.S. veterans.

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Q: Who do I contact for questions about TRS (Teacher Retirement System)?

A:Primary Contact Information

Member Services Phone: 1-800-223-8778
Available Monday–Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST

Email for General Questions:
comments@trs.texas.gov
(Do not include private information like your Social Security number.)

Q: Where can I find the district’s dress code policy for employees?

A: Alief ISD employees can find the district’s staff dress code policy in the Employee & Staff Handbook for the 2025–2026 school year.

📘 Where to Access It:

Visit the Alief ISD Handbooks and Policies page.

Scroll down and click on “Employee & Staff Handbook 2025–2026” to view or download the document.

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HR Hiring Team Spotlight: Powering Our Workforce Behind the Scenes

This month, we’re proud to recognize the incredible efforts of our HR Hiring Team—the dedicated professionals who ensure quick and efficient onboarding for all new hires. Thanks to their hard work, we’ve celebrated several recent hiring successes, with exceptional educators and support staff arriving at their campuses and departments ready to make a meaningful impact.

Beyond recruitment, this team manages the essential clerical processes that make onboarding seamless—from verifying credentials and preparing documentation to coordinating start dates and ensuring every new hire feels welcomed and supported. Their attention to detail and commitment to excellence help keep our district running smoothly and our schools staffed.

Join us in applauding the HR Hiring Team for their behind-the-scenes work that makes a big impact every day!

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Angela "Angie" Gutierrez

What I value most about Alief ISD is the unwavering support, dedication, and the meaningful events that unite our community, staff, and students, bringing hope and encouragement to those who need it most. My 31-year journey with Alief ISD has been truly rewarding in many ways shaping who I am today. I've learned that generosity and commitment go hand in hand—both are essential to building a strong and compassionate work environment. Some of the most fulfilling moments have come through integrating technology to support student success, such as helping families access online job resources and using digital platforms to organize events that connect our staff and community. Since 1995, we’ve come a long way.

My favorite moments in Alief ISD are the beautiful memories shared with our dedicated staff and the holiday celebrations that bring warmth to our hearts, creating a stronger sense of community and connection.

Mariza Longorria

What I love most about working in Alief ISD is that it truly feels like home. I grew up in this district, and it played a major role in shaping the person I am today. The community, the culture, and the values here are deeply rooted in my heart. I’ve always felt a strong connection to Alief, and now, being able to give back through my work is incredibly meaningful. Having been part of the district for five years, I can honestly say that every day reminds me why I chose to stay. One of my favorite memories was during my freshman year of high school, when Brian Cushing, former linebacker for the Houston Texans, surprised one of our teachers on campus to show appreciation for their hard work. The energy and excitement that day were unforgettable, it was a powerful reminder of how much our educators are valued and how strong the sense of community is in Alief. Moments like that make me proud to be part of this district. I see myself growing old here, continuing to serve and support the place that raised me. 

Guadalupe Morales-Ortuno

I have worked for Alief for four years, beginning as an ESL aide at Martin and then AP Secretary at Budewig. What I value most about working in Alief is the collaboration. No matter what role we play, everyone contributes and supports one another to make a difference. My favorite moments have been in HR working with my incredible team sharing moments of fun, laughter and hard work that make it feel like family. Also, one special full-circle moment has been working with Dr. Sha again.  She was the one who first welcomed me into Alief when I started at Martin, and now we have crossed paths again in HR, this is always a daily reminder of how connected and special Alief truly is.

Lety O'campo-Shelley

What I value most is witnessing the journey of up-and-coming teachers. They often begin their careers feeling excited, overwhelmed, and a bit unsure—but over time, it’s inspiring to see those feelings evolve into confidence and growth, much like the transformation we see in students. I’m currently in my 36th year with Alief, with 25 of those years spent in the Human Resources Department. One of my favorite moments each year is attending the Service and Retirement Banquets. I truly enjoy the camaraderie and celebrating staff members who have shown unwavering dedication to Alief over the years.

The Teacher Apprenticeship Program job posting is currently closed. It will reopen in February 2026. Stay tuned!! 

In the meantime, we would like to capture your contact information so that we can reach out to you once the job posting is posted. We ask that you kindly fill out our TAP interest survey by either using the QR code or click HERE to fill out our form.

Check out what's happening with the Teacher Apprenticeship Program (TAP) in Alief ISD. September highlights are just a click away!

TAP October Newsletter

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Alief TIA News and Updates

What is the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA)?

TIA is a program created by the Texas Legislature as part of House Bill 3 to provide increased compensation for our most effective teachers and to help attract and retain highly effective teachers at traditionally hard-to-staff schools. TIA will help us to identify top teachers here in Alief by looking at a variety of measures of instructional excellence, including student learning and classroom observations. When looked at in combination, these measures will help recognize and reward highly effective teachers, some of whom will be eligible for increased compensation. The exact amount available to each teacher is dependent on a formula determined at the state level, which also takes into account the number of students who are economically disadvantaged. You can learn more at TIA Texas.

Alief ISD is proud to offer a fully-approved Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) system where almost all certified teachers in all subjects can earn distinctions at a recognized, exemplary and master level. Each of these distinctions comes with an associated monetary allotment and bonus payment for teachers who have earned the recognition. Currently 183 teachers in Alief ISD hold a TIA designation. TIA-designated teachers in Alief ISD will generate a TIA bonus allotment between $3,000 and $32,000, based on their designation level and campus.

The average TIA bonus payment in Alief ISD per designation level for the 24-25 school year was:

• Recognized - $6,199

• Exemplary - $11,913

• Masters - $21,175

TIA Updates

Alief ISD's TIA handbook provides detailed information regarding our local TIA designation system. Click here to view the 2025-2026 TIA Handbook.

TIA Updates -We’re moving full speed ahead! TIA scores from the 2024–2025 data collection year are currently being calculated, and we’re working as quickly and efficiently as possible to get them finalized. These scores are crucial in determining which teachers qualify for TIA designations, which will be submitted to TEA by mid-October for approval.

We’re excited to share that teachers will receive their individual TIA scorecards the first week in October! These scorecards are designed to help educators reflect on their performance and identify key areas for professional development.

Please note: While the scorecards will show performance scores, they will not indicate whether a teacher has met the criteria for a TIA designation. That information will be shared in February once we get the green light from TEA.

We appreciate your commitment to growth and excellence—your hard work is what makes Alief shine!

TIA Spending Plan -New and returning TIA-designated teachers who complete a creditable year of service during the 2025–2026 school year will receive their TIA bonus on the last paycheck in August 2026.

• This adjustment from the previous May payout is part of Alief ISD’s strategic effort to retain our most effective teachers and ensure continued support for student achievement.

• To be eligible for the bonus, teachers must be returning to Alief ISD for the 2026–2027 school year, with the exception of those teachers who are retiring.

• Thank you for your dedication to our students and for being a vital part of our mission to help every child reach their full potential!

TIA Tuesdays

To learn more about TIA in Alief ISD, see our TIA Tuesdays Newsletters that are sent out the third Tuesday of each month.

TIA Newsletter October 2025

T-TESS Appraisal Process Overview

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

1. Orientation: Schools must provide an official orientation to the T-TESS appraisal process for all teachers new to the district. Returning teachers should receive a brief review. Orientation should include Alternate Domain I when applicable, and all teachers should receive the appraisal calendar and procedures.

2. Goal Setting: The Goal Setting and Professional Development (GSPD) plan is integral to the process. Returning teachers discuss the GSPD plan at the prior year’s summative conference. New teachers must submit the plan within six weeks after orientation.

3. Observations: 3 in total (2 walkthroughs, 1 full 45 minute eval) Observations should occur frequently and may be informal or formal. All require a written summary within 10 business days. Formal observations require pre- and post-conferences. Frequency and type are dictated by district procedures.

4. End-of-Year Conference: This summative conference must be held in person with a written summary provided no later than 15 working days before the final day of instruction. It includes discussion of next year’s GSPD plan and summer professional development activities.

The T-TESS process ensures a structured and consistent approach to evaluating teacher performance across Texas school districts. By following the outlined steps—orientation, goal setting, observations, and end-of-year conference—districts can maintain fidelity to the framework and support teacher growth and development throughout the academic year.

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Alief ISD requires ESL Certification for all campus based teaching positions.

Alief teachers are eligible for a one-time $500 stipend after passing the ESL exam and adding it to their TEA certificate

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

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

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Teaching Pathways in Alief ISD: Cultivating the Next Generation of Educators

Alief Independent School District offers a dynamic and inclusive range of teaching pathways designed to attract, develop, and retain high-quality educators from diverse backgrounds. These programs reflect the district’s commitment to educational excellence and community empowerment.

Click this link to learn more about teacher_pathways.pptx.

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Check out some of our GYO partners...

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Why Gratitude Matters: 

Boosts Morale: Expressing gratitude can lift spirits and motivate teams, leading to increased productivity and satisfaction.

Strengthens Relationships: Recognizing the efforts of others cultivates a sense of belonging and trust within teams.

Enhances Well-Being: Gratitude is linked to lower stress levels and improved mental health, making it essential for a thriving workplace.

Ways to Practice Gratitude:

Acknowledge Efforts: Take a moment to thank a colleague for their hard work or support.

Share Positive Feedback: Encourage team members to recognize each other’s contributions during meetings.

Create a Gratitude Board: Set up a space where employees/ colleagues can post notes of appreciation for their peers.

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Employment Verification Process

To streamline the process for handling employment verification inquiries, please follow the steps listed below. For detailed instructions, you can visit the Reference Document linked at the top of the image or refer to the information available on our district website Human Resources department page. All inquiries are processed through www.experianverify.com.

Attention: Submitting Loan Forgiveness Documents:

We are currently experiencing technical issues with receiving the Docusign forms from the Department of Education. We have notified them and they are working to rectify the issue. Human Resources can complete a hard copy for you, but please understand your verification may be delayed.  Please submit it electronically to:  leoliza.carbonella@aliefisd.net or hr@aliefisd.net.

 Please fill out the first page of application with your information (name, full SSN, current mailing address and phone number), scan, and upload it. This provides us with updated contact information in case of emergency (Especially if you are no longer employed with AISD), as well as ensuring accuracy in verifying your identity. There might be more than one employee with the same/similar name. Once your loan forgiveness application has been received, our turnover time is typically 2-4 days. Upon completion, we will return a digital copy via email (which can be uploaded to the website as a PDF) and hard copies will be mailed via US Postal Mail. Alief CANNOT submit the application to the Department of Education for any applicants under any circumstances.

Click here To learn more about the Math and Science Scholars Loan Repayment Program

Click here for the Loan Forgiveness Application