Week Ahead
 

Week Ahead

 

DR. MAYS’ WEEK AHEAD 

An Update from Superintendent Dr. Anthony Mays

February 9, 2026

 
Dr. Mays

Hopefully everyone was able to enjoy family, and a bowl of snacks around television, during this past weekend’s superbowl competition. Preparation for the superbowl takes a lot of hard work, countless hours of study and running drills to be able to execute with perfection on game day. The coaches maintain high expectations and players give their all as they work to score and win as a team. Just like Sunday’s football game, student success takes everyone on the team, knowing their role, working hard, and doing their job at a high level. Winning, meant running every play succinctly for 4 quarters to protect one another in their efforts to make first downs and to successfully put points on the board. Everyone in Alief ISD is a member of the team and we are all working together to put points on the board and deliver for our students. It is important that we all run our respective route on the Alief ISD football field to win the game!

The Young Women's Leadership School application is now open! This is a college-preparatory opportunity that will provide additional choices for our families. Please watch this video to learn more about:

The Girls’ School Advantage

As we increase the number of choice school opportunities, our families can find more information here about what is happening in Alief ISD. 

I continue to be excited about this year! I am excited to “Be all in with Alief ISD!”

 

Black History Month

All month long, we celebrate Black excellence—past, present, and future. During Black History Month, Alief ISD honors the rich history, lasting legacy, and countless contributions of Black leaders, educators, innovators, and changemakers who continue to shape our communities and our world.

Hear from Alief Elsik High School student Alexandra Brooks as she reflects on the historical foundation of Black History Month! 

 

February is Career & Technical Education Month! In Alief ISD, our CTE programs empower students with hands-on learning, industry-recognized certifications, and real-world skills that prepare them for college, careers, and beyond.

Explore CTE pathways in Alief ISD!

 

In this episode of ImpactED, Public Relations Specialist, Li Wen Su, sits down with Dolores Arias and Brenda Castañeda, third-grade two-way dual language teachers, and Yoliani Saud, Alief Multilingual Programs Specialist, to spotlight the impact of the two-way dual language program. Learn how this innovative approach supports bilingualism, biliteracy, and academic success for students while fostering a strong, inclusive learning community.

Play 
 
Read article
 

Intermediate STEM Fair

Intermediate school students truly shined at the Alief Intermediate STEM Fair, confidently presenting their science projects to a panel of judges and sharing the curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving behind their work. It was inspiring to see students explain their ideas, answer questions, and take pride in what they created.

Following project presentations and a keynote from Dr. Jose Sanabria, Medical Director at Animal Eye Medical & Surgical Specialists, students participated in an Interest Mapping session with LevelUp Texas, where they had the chance to reflect on what they enjoy, recognize their strengths, and begin connecting their interests to future possibilities in STEM and beyond. Experiences like this celebrate student voice, build confidence, and help young learners see how what they love today can shape what comes next.

A heartfelt thank-you to the Science Leadership Team, directors, specialists, Arcadis, and all those who supported and participated in the judging process. Your dedication and collaboration made this event a meaningful and successful learning experience for everyone involved.

Alief Intermediate STEM Fair (2026)

Photos

 

Alief ISD CREST Award Winners

Excellence doesn’t happen by chance—it’s built through strong support and dedication. Thank you for championing your campus counselors, and congratulations to the six campuses honored with the CREST Award!

 

Celebrating Lunar New Year — Year of the Fire Horse

Join the International Trade Center and Alief ISD as we celebrate the 30th Texas Lunar New Year Festival! Lunar New Year marks a time of renewal, reflection, and hope as families and communities come together to welcome new beginnings. In 2026, we celebrate the Year of the Horse, a symbol of energy, strength, perseverance, and forward momentum. Those born under the Horse are often associated with leadership, optimism, and a strong sense of independence—qualities that inspire progress and determination. As we enter this new year, we wish our community good health, success, and continued growth, and we celebrate the rich cultural traditions that make Lunar New Year a meaningful and joyful occasion for all.

Volunteer Sign Up Form

 

Alief Family U Conference

Alief families, save the date! Join us for the Alief Family U Conference on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. at the Alief Center for Talent Development. Enjoy FREE adult and staff workshops, informational sessions, community resources, pre-K–8th-grade child care, food, performances, and prizes—all designed to support and empower our families.

 

Deborah Brown Alexander Adventurer Award

The "Friends of Deborah Brown Alexander Elementary" will be providing (3) $1,000 scholarships for Alief ISD graduating Seniors that will be pursuing a degree in Education. The application deadline is April 7, 2026, and winners will be announced on May 7, 2026.

Link to the scholarship application

 

Enrollment Now Open for the 2026-2027 School Year

Enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year is now open for students entering grades K-12. We are excited to welcome both new and returning students to Alief ISD! Visit our Enrollment page to explore the wide range of academic opportunities available across our district, designed to meet the needs and interests of every learner. https://aliefisd.net/enroll

Why Apply Now?

•Get a head start on the school year

•Ensure timely placement and scheduling

•Access innovative programs and specialized pathways

 

The Young Women’s Leadership School

Choosing a school for your daughter is one of the most important decisions you will make. At The Young Women’s Leadership School (TYWLS) of Alief ISD, we are building more than a school, we are creating a place where every girl is seen, heard, supported, and challenged to reach her full potential. We can't wait to welcome you to our campus! Apply today through the Alief ISD district webpage, the TYWLS website, or https://choice.aliefisd.net/the-young-womens-leadership-school/ 

Join us February 25, 2026, for an in person informational session. We will also be available to help with completing the application online. Please bring a recent report card to aid in the process. 

Applications for teaching positions are now available for internal employees of Alief ISD. If interested, apply today!

 

Schools of Choice Applications

We believe every student has the potential for greatness, and our diverse choice programs are designed to provide the perfect pathway to future success for learners looking to chart their own course.

Schools of Choice applications are opened. Families interested in STEM at Horn or Olle, or PVAA at Rees, Miller, and Albright, or Kerr and Alief Early College High School are encouraged to explore program details at: http://choice.aliefisd.net

 

Alief ISD Special Education Services can begin when your child turns 3! Have concerns regarding your child’s development? Contact our Early Childhood Assessment Team at (281) 498-8110 ext. 28715.

 
Link to register
 

International Management District – Community Grants

We encourage staff to explore the International Management District’s Community Grants, designed to support innovative projects that enhance learning and community engagement. By diversifying applicants, we aim to ensure teachers have the opportunity to access these valuable funds for new initiatives that directly benefit students. 

Click here for more information and application details: International Management District Community Grants Policy and Application form.

Multi-Cultural School Bus Tours

 
 
 

Alief ISD Transition Fair

Join the Alief ISD Special Education Department Saturday, March 21, 2026 for its Transition Fair! This free event is an opportunity for students and families of children with disabilities (ages 3-22) to meet with agencies and organizations in our community.

 

Save the date! The Alief International Parade & Taste of Alief is happening on April 25! Celebrate the diversity of Alief with a vibrant parade, delicious food, and community fun—all for FREE! Don’t miss out! 

 
 
 

Alief ISD Education Foundation News

 

Congratulations to our Innovative Teacher Grant Winners!

Best Elementary - Caressia Grooms

Boone Elementary - Petra Riley

Horn Elementary - Luisa Villalpando-López

Rees Elementary -  Enyi Rosa Gómez

Smith Elementary - Ritu Gandhi

Hastings High School - Victoria Tarkington

Chancellor Elementary - Vashonda Newsome-James

Holmquist Elementary - Cathy Parks

Alexander Elementary - Brianna Miller

Alief Middle School - Andrea Condell Stewart

Elsik High School - Olanrewaju Kayode

Liestman Elementary - Jennifer Ozturk

Sneed Elementary - Jessica Bellard 

Alief Early College High School - Brian Stephenson

Smith Elementary - Brenda Larios & Ritu Gandhi

Alief Learning Center - Brien Jefferson

Landis Elementary - Ana Gonzalez

Martinez ELC - Janeth Montalvo

Cummings Elementary - Jennifer Evans

Kerr High School - Lashonda Cameron

Olle Middle School - Stephanie Bennett

Read article
 

Innovative Teacher Grants

In this episode of ImpactEd, Public Relations Specialist and Board Liaison, Li Wen Su, sits down with Clarence Anderson, Secretary and Grants Committee Chair of the Alief Education Foundation, along with grant recipients Janeth Montalvo, Pre-K teacher at Martinez Early Learning Center, and Vashonda Newsome-James, coach at Chancellor Elementary. Together, they discuss innovative teacher grants, how these funds are transforming classrooms, and the lasting impact they have on both educators and students. From creative learning tools to expanded opportunities for student success, this conversation highlights the power of investing in teachers and education. Don’t miss this inspiring look at how teacher grants are making a real difference in our schools.

Play 
 

Inaugural Pickleball Tournament

We are excited to announce an upcoming Pickleball Fundraiser Event in support of the Alief Independent School District! This event is designed to bring our community together for a day of fun, fitness, and philanthropy—all while supporting programs that make a difference for our students.

Date: March 28th

Time: 10 AM -2 PM

Location: Alief Hastings High School South Gym

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, and this event is a great opportunity to enjoy friendly competition while contributing to a meaningful cause. We would be honored to have you join us and help make this event a success. To register or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please visit:

Sponsorship Registration Form 

Player Registration Form

Your participation will help us raise funds for our teachers and students.

Register to play in the tournament

Sponsor a team or court

Make a donation to support the event

Thank you for your continued support of Alief ISD and our mission to empower students through education and community engagement.

Volunteer Registration Form

 

Alief ISD Education Foundation - Pay It Forward Campaign

Dear Alief ISD Team,

The Alief ISD Education Foundation’s Pay It Forward Campaign supports our students and teachers by automatically giving a seamless donation directly from your paycheck.

Click here to complete the Pay It Forward Form

For more information on this campaign, please visit our website or contact li.su@aliefisd.net.

Thank you for supporting the mission of the Alief ISD Education Foundation. Together, we can make a lasting difference in our community!

For fundraiser opportunities, contact li.su@aliefisd.net.

 

Nominate Your Favorite Teacher

Show your appreciation by nominating your favorite teacher in Alief ISD. Your nomination could earn their class a pizza party!

Papa John's Nomination Form

 

Do you have a special celebration or achievement you’d love to share? Submit your celebration here and let us highlight the amazing moments that make Alief ISD so special!

 

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!

 

Join the Alief Alumni Influencer Association and Stay Connected! Be a part of something bigger by joining the Alief Alumni Influencer Association—a network of proud graduates making a difference! Whether you want to reconnect with old classmates, mentor current students, share your success story, or give back to the community that shaped you, this is your chance to stay involved. Join today and continue making an impact!

 

Alief ISD MVP 2025-2026 Awards Nomination Form

Each month, one student, two teachers, and two support staff will be selected as an MVP Award winner by their peers.

These winners are chosen based on evidence of their support of customer service and positive climate and culture in Alief ISD, and they will be celebrated during our next regular board meeting.

We encourage our stakeholders to submit the MVP Award Submission.

 

Salute to Nurses 2026 nominations

Colleagues, parents, and students are invited to nominate Alief ISD nurses that have made an impact on their lives and outstanding nursing students who will serve as the next generation of nurses. Nominations are open from January 5 through March 1.

Visit Chron.com/SaluteToNurses to nominate.

 

Vype Winter 2025 Magazine

Achieve Winter 2025 Magazine

Revista Achieve Invierno 2025

 

Looking Ahead

February Athletic Calendar

February: Career & Technical Education Month

February 12: Alief ISD Realtor Breakfast

February 14: Lunar New Year Celebration at Marshall Center for Advanced Careers

February 17: Lunar New Year

February 23-27: Public Schools Week

February 26: Talk About it Thursday

February 28: Alief Family U Conference

March 1-7: School Social Worker Week

March 1-7: Educational Diagnostician Week

March 6: Maintenance Worker Appreciation Day

March 21: Special Education Transition Fair

March 25: Crossing Guard Appreciation Day

March 28: Inaugural Alief ISD Education Foundation Pickleball Tournament

April 11: Taiwan YES Festival

April 25: International Parade & Taste of Alief

May 28: AECHS & Kerr HS Graduations @ Houston Christian University

May 29: Elsik HS Graduation @ Merrell Center

May 30: Taylor HS & Hastings HS Graduations @ Merrell Center

September 28: 22nd Annual Alief ISD Education Foundation Golf Tournament