Published On: January 28th, 2020By

AEF Basketball Event Elevates Education

The Aldine Education Foundation (AEF) hosted its first Sports Spectacular for Scholars fundraising event on Wednesday, January 22 at M.O. Campbell Educational Center. The basketball show featured the Harlem Wizards battling the Aldine All-Stars, a newly-formed team for the event that showcased the basketball skills of Aldine ISD teachers, coaches, and even Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney. Celebrity player Harris County Precinct One Constable Alan Rosen also joined the contest on the court.

Aldine ISD Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney, center, and the Aldine-All Stars got revved up to take on the Harlem Wizards in a charity basketball game benefiting the Aldine Education Foundation on Wednesday, Jan. 22 at the M.O. Campbell Educational Center.

The Harlem Wizards have a unique mission: create awe-inspiring events throughout the country to help communities raise funds for important causes. Their tricks, hoops, and ally opps definitely delivered; the event raised more than $20,000 for AEF programs that support Aldine ISD students and educators.

More than 1,000 guests laughed as the Wizards enlisted audience participation and taunted their teammates and the Aldine All-Stars with tricks, fancy passes, and aerodynamic athleticism. The hi-jinx and hilarity continued during halftime entertainment and post-game picture opportunities.

The family-friendly fun was underwritten in part by Title Sponsor Aldine Noon Optimist Club. They were joined by scholarship sponsor Texas Children’s Health Plan, which helped AEF award $2,500 in college funds; MacArthur High School junior Naomi Mays was the lucky winner of the drawing for that award. Inspired by the excitement, Constable Alan Rosen added to the winnings by donating another

scholarship. Aldine High School junior Jessica Picaz’s name was drawn for that $1,000 award.

The community event definitely scored a WIN for all involved – fun for families, scholarships for students, and loads of laughter across all of Aldine.

Aldine Education Foundation (AEF) is a non-profit organization providing community-based support to the Aldine Independent School District in pursuit of excellence in teaching, innovation in the classroom, and superior learning opportunities for all students, in our classrooms and beyond. The event will raise funds for AEF’s Student Scholarships, Educator Grants, Foundation Scholars Honors, and Educators of the Year Awards, all benefiting Aldine ISD’s students and educators.

About the Author: Mike Keeney

Director of Public Information Aldine ISD