| 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.
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October 1, 2025 Volume 2: Issue 3 |
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| Welcome Message Important Dates Hands Off, Words On! Coping during "Darktober" Alief Benefits Open Enrollment!
HR FAQs TEA Spotlight! Stefan San Miguel Associate Teacher Spotlight
Teacher Apprenticeship Program Dept. Spotlight: Purchasing and Warehouse TIA Updates and FAQs
Teacher Appraisal Process 101 Teacher Incentive Allotment ESL Certification Reminders
National Depression Mental Health Month Employee Referral Program Employee Verification Process
Employee Support Links
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Dear Alief ISD Family,
As October arrives, we celebrate the momentum we've built together during the first weeks of school. The dedication, creativity, and care you bring to our students and colleagues continue to shine across every campus and department.
This month’s edition of The HeRald is filled with stories of impact, helpful resources, and moments of celebration that reflect the heart of Alief ISD. Whether you're guiding students through their first milestones or supporting our mission behind the scenes, your contributions make a lasting difference.
Thank you for your unwavering commitment to excellence, equity, and the well-being of every learner and team member. Let’s continue to grow, connect, and inspire—together. Warm Regards! The HR Team |
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| October 2025
~Breast Cancer Awareness Month~ ~National Book Month~
1- International Coffee Month/ Pumpkin Spice Day
2 - National Custodial Worker Day 3- World Smile Day 4 - Alief Goes Pink National Golf Day
National Taco Day 5- World Teacher's Day
8- Texas Public Schools- HR Professionals Day
10- World Mental Health Day
12- National Gumbo Day 16 - Bosses Day
17- National Pasta Day 22- National Nut Day
24- United Nations Day 27- National Tell a Story Day
31- Halloween |
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Hands Off, Words On!
Redirect and Guide with Respect! |
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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. |
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Coping during Darktober!
Let YOUR Light Shine! |
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As the days grow shorter and the skies darker, many of us begin to feel the effects of what some affectionately call “Darktober.” This seasonal shift—marked by less sunlight, cooler temperatures, and the ramp-up of the school year—can bring about fatigue, stress, and even a dip in morale. For educators and staff who give so much of themselves every day, it’s important to recognize these changes and take proactive steps to maintain well-being.
Here are some practical strategies to help you thrive through the season: 1. Lighten Your Environment Natural light is a powerful mood booster. Try to: Open blinds and sit near windows when possible. Take short walks outside during daylight hours—even 10 minutes can help.
Consider using a light therapy lamp if you’re sensitive to seasonal changes.
2. Prioritize Mental Wellness October can be emotionally demanding. Support your mental health by: Practicing mindfulness or meditation for a few minutes each day.
Using district-provided Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) for counseling or support. Journaling or reflecting on daily wins—no matter how small.
3. Stay Connected Isolation can creep in during darker months. Combat it by: Scheduling regular check-ins with colleagues or friends.
Joining a wellness challenge or staff group activity. Attending district events that foster community and connection.
4. Fuel Your Body Wisely Nutrition and movement are key to energy and mood: Eat seasonal fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
Stay hydrated—dehydration can mimic fatigue. Incorporate movement into your day, even if it’s stretching between meetings.
5. Set Boundaries and Rest Burnout is real, especially in education. Protect your time by: Setting clear work-life boundaries. Saying “no” when your plate is full.
Prioritizing sleep and rest—your body needs it more than ever.
6. Celebrate the Season Find joy in the little things: Decorate your workspace with fall colors or cozy touches. Host a “Warm Beverage Wednesday” or “Fall Fest Friday.”
Share gratitude notes with colleagues to lift spirits.
You’re Not Alone Remember, “Darktober” is temporary—but your well-being is essential year-round. The Human Resources team is here to support you with resources, encouragement, and a listening ear. Let’s take care of ourselves and each other as we move through the season together.
Employee Assistance Resources: Employees and members of their households can arrange services all right at your fingertips and available 24 hours a day at guidanceresources.com. For those on the go, we have the GuidanceNow mobile app, offering many of the same features right from a smartphone.
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Q: When does employee benefits enrollment begin/ end? Will my benefits rollover from last year? |
| A:Benefits DO NOT rollover, you must enroll or reenroll for the 25-26 SY
Start Date: October 1, 2025 End Date: October 31, 2025 All changes must be submitted by the deadline—no exceptions. |
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Q: How do I access my pay stubs and W-2 information? |
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Meet Stefan San Miguel – A Champion of Growth, Communication, and Collaboration
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We’re proud to spotlight Stefan San Miguel, a passionate educator and visionary leader whose dedication to student success and teacher empowerment has made a lasting impact across multiple school districts over the past 15 years. With a strong foundation in mathematics and physics, Stefan has taught in three different districts, consistently inspiring excellence in the classroom.
Most recently, Stefan served as the AP Statistics teacher and Math Department Chair at Kerr High School, where his leadership and instructional expertise helped foster a culture of inquiry and achievement. His commitment to academic growth was recognized with a TIA Exemplary Designation, awarded for outstanding Algebra I STAAR growth scores. |
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Now serving as Alief ISD’s TIA Project Manager, Stefan has taken his passion for celebrating educators to a new level. His mission is clear: to recognize and reward the outstanding efforts of teachers who are making a difference in the lives of students every day. Under his leadership, Alief has expanded TIA eligibility to hundreds of additional educators, including ALC teachers, interventionists, and dyslexia specialists. He has also developed innovative scorecards and interactive calculators that help teachers set meaningful growth targets and drive instruction with clarity and purpose.
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Stefan’s work has garnered attention at the state level. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) recently interviewed him for a spotlight feature in their statewide TIA newsletter, praising Alief ISD’s strong communication practices and noting the remarkably low number of teacher inquiries—a testament to the district’s transparency and support. TEA has also invited Stefan to serve as a guest panelist at two statewide TIA trainings, where he shared best practices on topics such as identifying end-of-year skew and designing effective pre- and post-tests for new TIA districts.
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Stefan believes in the power of collaboration, investigation, and personal growth—not just for students, but for educators as well. He proudly acknowledges the incredible work being done by teachers across Alief ISD, celebrating their efforts to make a meaningful difference every day. His personal motto, “Don’t limit yourself. Diverge towards infinity!”, reflects his belief in limitless potential and the transformative power of education. |
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Department Spotlight: Purchasing and Warehouse
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Behind every smoothly running school and every well-equipped classroom is a team of dedicated professionals working tirelessly to make it happen. This month we proudly shine a spotlight on our Purchasing and Warehouse staff, whose commitment, precision, and efficiency keep Alief ISD moving forward.
From sourcing essential supplies to managing inventory and ensuring timely deliveries, this team plays a vital role in supporting our students, teachers, and campuses. Their attention to detail, collaborative spirit, and unwavering dedication help ensure that every dollar is spent wisely and every resource is where it needs to be—when it needs to be.
They are the backbone of our behind the scenes operations and their impact is felt across the district every single day. We appreciate you! |
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| Gabriela Almazan Arzate
Gabriela Almazan Arzate is a dedicated professional with over a decade of experience in administrative and operational roles. She began her career 9 years ago in 2016 as a cook helper at Taylor High School, later serving as Receptionist at Budewig Intermediate. From 2018 to 2024, she held multiple key positions at Hastings High School before joining the Purchasing Department in 2024 as Purchasing Secretary.
Gabriela brings empathy, resilience, and a strong work ethic to every role. She values the opportunity to contribute to the Alief ISD community and takes pride in supporting its mission. As a proud mother of three, she appreciates the district’s support for work-life balance and professional growth. Gabriela looks forward to continuing her journey with Alief ISD—growing, learning, and making a difference.
#AliefProud #AliefStrong |
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| Brian Downer
Brian Downer has been a dedicated member of the Alief ISD team for 34 years, bringing decades of experience, collaboration, and commitment to the district. Throughout his tenure, Brian has worked closely with departments across the organization, building strong relationships and contributing to a culture of teamwork.
Brian values his time in Alief ISD and the opportunity to connect with staff members from all areas of the district. He appreciates the district’s structured work hours, which allow him to maintain a healthy balance between his professional responsibilities and personal life. He is proud to be part of the Alief ISD community! |
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| Tim Hollis
Tim Hollis has been a dedicated employee of Alief ISD for 25 years. Having grown up in Alief and attended Alief ISD schools from kindergarten through 12th grade, working for the district was a natural and meaningful choice for him. It became his way of giving back to the community that shaped him and supporting every student who walks through Alief ISD’s doors. Tim deeply values the district’s rich diversity, which he believes is the essence of what makes Alief truly special. That same community spirit even led him to meet his wife. For Tim, Alief isn’t just where he works—it’s home.
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| Michael Penn
Michael Penn has proudly served Alief ISD for 15 years, building strong relationships and fostering collaboration across the district. What he loves most about his role is the daily interaction with campus secretaries and administrators at the campuses. Michael’s commitment to Alief ISD is rooted in a deep appreciation for the people who make the district thrive, and he takes pride in contributing to a culture of excellence and support. |
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| Joseph Petry
Joseph Petry has been a proud member of Alief ISD for 15 years. A product of the district himself, Joseph was raised in Alief and graduated from Alief Taylor High School, Class of 2005. His deep-rooted connection to the community fuels his passion for the work he does every day. What Joseph cherishes most about Alief ISD is its vibrant culture, authenticity, and the family-oriented atmosphere that surrounds the district. For him, working in Alief ISD isn’t just a job—it’s a part of who he is. The district is woven into the fabric of his life!
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Adan Zugarazo Garza has been a valued member of Alief ISD for 3 years. Drawn to the district by its rich representation of Houston’s diverse cultures. He believes that Alief is home to great students who deserve strong, guidance—and he’s committed to being a positive influence in their lives. For Adan, Alief ISD is more than just a workplace! |
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The Teacher Apprenticeship Program
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Check out what's happening with the Teacher Apprenticeship Program (TAP) in Alief ISD. September highlights are just a click away! TAP September Newsletter |
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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.
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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.
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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
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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 Tuesday Newsletter - September 2025 |
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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: |
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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.
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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.
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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. |
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Check out some of our GYO partners... |
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National Depression &
Mental Health Screening Month!
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October is National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month, a time to raise awareness about mental health, reduce stigma, and promote early intervention. As educators and staff, we play a vital role in fostering a supportive environment where students and colleagues feel safe, seen, and heard. Why This Matters
Depression affects millions of Americans each year, including children and adolescents. Early screening and open conversations can make a life-changing difference. This month, we encourage all staff to take a moment to reflect on their own mental wellness and help students access the support they need. District Resources Available
Alief ISD offers a range of mental health support services through our Risk Management Department and Mental Health Support Team. Risk Management:
Employees and members of their households can arrange counseling services all right at their fingertips and available 24 hours a day at guidanceresources.com. For those on the go, we have the GuidanceNow mobile app, offering many of the same features right from a smartphone.
It includes: Confidential counseling and referral service Work-life services - resources to help you with needed services Resources and referral service on a variety of life balance topics
Mental Health Support Team:
Visit the Mental Health Support and Resources page for more information.
Let’s continue to build a culture of care and connection across our campuses. Thank you for all you do to support the emotional well-being of our Alief ISD community. |
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Employment Verification Process |
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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.
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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.
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