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!
September 1, 2025
Volume 2: Issue 2
In this Issue...
Welcome Message
Important Dates
HR Reminders
Alief Intramural Pickle Ball League Info
HR FAQs
Rising Leader: Holdsworth Aspiring Superintendent
Alief Grow Your Own Spotlight!
Department Spotlight: Crossing Guards
Associate Teacher Spotlight
Sub of the Month!
TIA Updates and FAQs
ESL Certification Reminders
Alief Grows Our Own
September Wellness Tips!
Employee Referral Program
Employee Verification Process
Employee Support Links
Welcome
Dear Alief ISD Family,
As we step into September, we are filled with gratitude and excitement for the new school year ahead. The energy across our campuses and departments is inspiring, and it’s a reminder of the incredible dedication each of you brings to our district every day.
This month’s edition of The HeRald is packed with updates, resources, and celebrations designed to support and uplift our amazing staff. Whether you're a new team member or a seasoned Alief veteran, we hope you find something meaningful and helpful in these pages.
Thank you for your continued commitment to excellence, equity, and the success of every student and staff member. Let’s make this school year one of growth, collaboration, and joy.
Warm Regards!
The HR Team
Important Dates
September 2025
~National Preparedness Month~
1- Labor Day
5- National Cheese Pizza Day
6-Read A Book Day
11-National Patriot Day
13- Positive Thinking Day
14 - Grandparent's Day
15- Hispanic Heritage Month Begins (thru Oct. 15)
16 - National Guacamole Day
18- National Cheeseburger Day
25-National Cooking Day/ National Daughter's Day
25- National Son's Day
29-National Coffee Day
September Starts Hispanic Heritage Month!
Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
Be on the look out for Important Documents from HR!
To ensure compliance with the beginning-of-year requirements for the 2025–2026 academic year, all staff members are expected to complete several key tasks in August and September. These tasks are essential for maintaining operational readiness, ensuring data security, and supporting human resources processes.
September 2025
Staff will be required to review and sign their Employee Job Descriptions. This process ensures that all job descriptions accurately reflect current roles, responsibilities, and expectations.
Updated job descriptions support transparency, clarify performance standards, and help align staff duties with district goals. It is essential that each description is reviewed for accuracy, revised as needed, and submitted for approval in accordance with district procedures.
Staff is also required to complete the Cybersecurity Awareness Training, which is designed to educate employees on best practices for protecting sensitive data, recognizing phishing attempts, and maintaining secure digital environments. Completion of this training is mandatory and helps safeguard both personal and district-wide information systems.
Q: How can I get employment verification needed for loan approval?
A: If you need proof of employment or income, please have your verifier complete the process at www.experianverify.com. They will register and submit their request online.
Click the link below for details of what is needed to process this request.
Selected for Prestigious Holdsworth Leadership Program
Alief Independent School District proudly celebrates a significant milestone in district leadership: Dr. Jeannine Porter, Chief of Staff, has been selected to join the 2025 cohort of the Aspiring Superintendent Leadership Program, a highly selective initiative offered by The Holdsworth Center. This honor places Dr. Porter among a group of standout educational leaders across Texas who are being prepared to step into the superintendency with deep insight, strategic clarity, and a strong sense of purpose. “I am truly honored to have been selected for the Holdsworth Aspiring Superintendent Leadership Program,” shared Dr. Porter. “I know that this experience will be both challenging and rewarding; however, I am most excited about how my learning will positively impact the amazing work we are already doing every day for our students, families, and Alief community.”
In her role as Chief of Staff, Dr. Porter plays an essential part in the district’s leadership structure. Working closely with Superintendent Dr. Anthony Mays, she helps drive organizational strategy, align district initiatives, and support campuses and departments in fulfilling Alief’s mission. Her selection for this prestigious program reflects both her individual excellence and the strength of leadership cultivated within Alief ISD.
“We are excited for Dr. Porter’s continued growth as a leader with the Holdsworth Center, and I know that she will be leveraging her learning to help support Alief ISD to grow even stronger!”, shared Superintendent Dr. Anthony Mays.
The Holdsworth Center’s Aspiring Superintendent Leadership Program is an intensive 15-month experience designed to prepare future superintendents to lead with vision, resilience, and authenticity. Participants engage in real-world leadership challenges, collaborate closely with sitting superintendents, and receive expert coaching and feedback. The program blends immersive learning with direct application, ensuring that participants develop not only strategic and operational acumen but also the emotional intelligence and communication skills needed to lead large, complex school systems.
Holdsworth leaders describe the program as a kind of residency for future district heads, providing leaders with the opportunity to practice high-stakes decision-making and refine their leadership in a supportive, rigorous environment.
Dr. Porter’s participation in this program signals more than personal advancement—it represents a win for Alief ISD and the broader public education community. Her growth through this experience will not only sharpen her leadership capabilities but also directly benefit the students, educators, and families she serves. It is also a testament to Alief ISD’s commitment to fostering leadership excellence and building a strong pipeline of future superintendents.
As she begins this journey, Dr. Porter brings with her a deep commitment to equity, innovation, and student success. Her selection to the Holdsworth program is both a well-earned recognition and a powerful opportunity to amplify her impact in public education, not just in Alief, but across Texas.
“This is a great honor to be selected and participate and represent Alief ISD. Dr. Porter has already shown a base level of knowledge of how a Board of Trustees function and govern a school district with the policies and statutes that direct boards and administrators on day to day operations.”, said Deputy Superintendent Charles Woods. “Her background in education in other areas of the state and in Alief ISD give her a primed pump for increasing her volume of leadership capacity to the next level with Holdsworth.”
In a heartwarming full-circle moment, Landis Elementary proudly welcomes back one of its own—Felecia Chatman—as a new teacher on campus. A product of Alief ISD, Felecia brings not only her educational expertise but also a deep-rooted passion for the community that shaped her.
Principal Jennifer Silva recalls her first impression of Felicia during the interview process: "It was the energy she brought. She was confident, poised, and genuinely excited—not just about getting a job, but about working here at Landis. Her passion was evident in every response, and it was clear she wanted to be part of this school specifically. That kind of enthusiasm is exactly what our students need."
(Pictured below is Felecia in the classroom library at Landis Elementary in 2002)
Felecia, who previously taught internationally, made a deliberate choice to return to Alief ISD. "It feels like a homecoming," she shares. "Walking the same halls where I was once a student is bittersweet and inspiring. I wanted to give back to the community that gave so much to me."
(Pictured on the right is Felecia with her Landis Elementary 3rd grade teacher, Dr. Tangela Hughes Beston, current Associate Superintendent of HR)
Her journey was shaped by influential educators, including her 3rd grade teacher, Dr. Tangela Hughes Beston, who still works in Alief. Felecia shared " Dr. Beston really encouraged me to reach for the stars and told me that I could do anything that I put my mind to... that really encouraged me to become a teacher and even to this day she is still encouraging and uplifting me."
Felecia’s connection to the community has deeply influenced her teaching philosophy. "I focus on creating inclusive, engaging spaces where students feel safe and seen. Learning should be fun, and it should meet students where they are. That’s something I learned as a student in Alief and now carry into my classroom as a teacher."
Her story has resonated across the district. Felecia has been featured in multiple platforms, including the Teacher Apprentice Program (TAP) and district PR initiatives, becoming a shining example of Alief ISD’s commitment to “growing our own.”
Felecia also recalls her high school biology teacher, Ms. Chandra Donald (now specialist at HNGC) "She didn’t just teach science—she taught in a way that connected to real-life. Her classroom was a safe, welcoming space where learning was engaging and personal. She made science fun and meaningful, and always encouraged us to be ourselves. That’s the kind of environment I strive to create for my students."
(Pictured above: Felecia with her students and Landis Principal, Jennifer Silva)
Principal Silva who is also an Alief ISD Alumni ( K-12 student, teacher and assistant principal) proudly notes, "Felecia Chatman’s return to Landis Elementary is more than just a new hire—it’s a celebration of community, legacy, and the power of coming home."
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Department Spotlight: Alief Crossing Guards
Click the Picture Above To See August Associate Teacher Spotlights
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Department Spotlight: Alief Crossing Guards
This month, we shine a light on the everyday heroes who help keep our students safe — our dedicated crossing guards. Rain or shine, they stand as a reassuring presence at busy intersections, ensuring safe passage and offering a friendly wave to start the day. Their commitment to safety, community, and care makes a lasting impact, and we’re proud to celebrate their invaluable contributions.
Shelley Abel
Shelley Abel works as a crossing guard at Holmquist Elementary and has been employed with Alief ISD for 6 years, which includes working during the summers, and this is what she had to say about why she loves her job:
“I enjoy greeting the children and teaching them safety when crossing the street.
It is extremely important to watch the traffic making sure everyone is obeying my stop sign. Keeping the children safe is my number one priority.
I do enjoy working for Alief ISD. I came out of retirement and was only going to do this for a couple of years but seeing the children each day brings me such joy. I also love the outdoors, so I’m ready for whatever the elements may be.”
Larissa Flores
Larissa Flores works as a crossing guard at Landis Elementary and has been employed with Alief ISD for 20 years. This is what she had to say about what she loves about her job.
“I’ve been a crossing guard for Alief ISD for twenty years, Mrs. Regina and Mrs. Mary have been such a big help, always ready to answer my call when I need support and quickly stepping in to resolve any situation. Their teamwork makes all the difference.
What truly makes this job special is seeing the smiles on the faces of the children and parents when I greet them in the mornings. I enjoy listening to their stories, too.
One day, a child told me, [I’d rather be at school than listen to my sister cry.] I asked, Is she sick? and he replied, [No, she just likes to cry every second!] I couldn’t help but laugh. 😂
It’s these simple moments that remind me why I love what I do. Helping families start their day with a smile or a laugh is such a rewarding part of my job. I may be one small part of their routine but knowing that I can make their day a little easier or brighter means a lot to me. I’m grateful for the trust the community places in me.”
Here is what staff had to say about Greg Alexander:
Coach Greg Alexander is more than a substitute—he’s a beloved and integral part of our campus community. Always punctual, dependable, and professional, Coach Alexander consistently follows sub plans, maintains excellent classroom management, and ensures students stay on track. His warm personality and genuine care for students and staff have earned him deep respect and admiration.
He builds meaningful relationships, knows students by name, and creates a safe, welcoming environment wherever he goes. Teachers feel at ease knowing their classrooms are in capable hands, and students cheer when he walks through the door. Whether stepping in for a class, helping in the cafeteria, or simply offering a kind word, Coach Alexander goes above and beyond with excellence and heart.
We are proud to nominate Coach Greg Alexander as Substitute of the Month—he truly embodies dedication, compassion, and community spirit.
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.
CLICK THE LOGO ABOVE TO TO CHECK OUT THE TAP LAUNCH VIDEOS
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
TIA Updates
The TIA changes for the 2025-2026 school year are reflected in the updated TIA Teacher Handbook which is available here.
Revised SLO Student Growth Tracker and T-TESS tasks
Most dyslexia and interventionist teachers will be TIA-eligible.
Changes to the Schoolwide STAAR calculation.
Changes to the T-TESS observation calculation.
The addition of Circle and iStation to PreK teacher scoring.
Teachers will need to check the SLO Expectations and Timeline for a list of steps that should be completed in September. Completion of these tasks is required to maintain TIA eligibility. View all SLO information on our SLO OneNote Guide linked below.
🛡️ National Preparedness Month: A Quick Guide for School District Staff
September is National Preparedness Month, a time to raise awareness and promote action around emergency preparedness. Schools play a vital role in ensuring the safety of students, staff, and the broader community. This month is a great opportunity to review plans, strengthen communication, and build a culture of readiness.
📌 Why It Matters
Protects Lives: Being prepared can save lives during emergencies like natural disasters, fires, or security threats.
Minimizes Disruption: Effective planning helps schools resume operations quickly after an incident.
Builds Confidence: Staff, students, and families feel safer knowing there’s a plan in place.
✅ Key Actions for Staff
Review Emergency Plans
Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes, lockdown procedures, and reunification plans.
Ensure your contact information is up to date.
Participate in Drills
Take drills seriously—practice makes preparedness.
Encourage students to stay calm and follow instructions.
Update Classroom Emergency Kits
Check supplies like first aid items, flashlights, and water.
Ensure kits are accessible and clearly labeled.
Know Your Role
Understand your responsibilities during different types of emergencies.
Ask questions if anything is unclear.
Promote Awareness
Share preparedness tips with students and families.
Use bulletin boards, newsletters, or social media to spread the word.
Stay Informed
Sign up for district alerts and local emergency notifications.
Monitor weather and news updates during high-risk periods.
💬 Final Thought
Preparedness is a shared responsibility. By taking proactive steps this September, we strengthen our schools' ability to respond effectively and keep everyone safe.
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.
