Message From the Superintendent, Jan. 12, 2021

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Dear Aldine Community,

Many are still talking about the events that unfolded in our nation’s capital last week. The images are still imprinted in our minds. While I do believe in the importance of reflection, we cannot get stuck reliving the past. We have to look to the future with hope and move forward. 

In Aldine, we are committed to creating a culture of belonging for all students and families. Our students will learn about the important values and principles of our American democracy.

This week, as we continue to usher in the new year and a new way forward, let’s start with a few celebrations:

• Last week, we launched our All the Things: The Aldine ISD Podcast. The podcast is AISD’s newest communication channel, highlighting new programs, people, and district initiatives. The first episode is available for you to download on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Google Podcast, Breaker, Pocket Cast, or Radio Public. I enjoyed being the inaugural guest! It was a fun way to share what is happening in our district. 
• January is School Board Recognition Month! Our school board members are volunteers who shoulder critical responsibilities and often make difficult decisions for our district. Their goal is always focused on the best interests of our students and staff. Join me in celebrating these Aldine champions throughout January.

Here are a few important reminders for the week ahead:

Attendance and Grades
Students counted as present is not the same as students completing assignments and keeping their grades up. It is important that all students — whether learning at home or on campus — engage with their lessons and complete assignments, quizzes, and projects. All grades, for At-Home and On-Campus learners, for the second nine weeks will be uploaded to the Home Access Center on Tuesday, January 12, 2021. If you do not have a Home Access Center (HAC) account, please sign up via the Home Access Center website.  

Inclement Weather
Several districts north of Aldine closed their schools on Monday. Aldine families and students took to social media to see what the district would do. Please know that Aldine ISD closely monitors weather systems that are forecasted to affect our area. Our decision to open, delay, or close schools and facilities in inclement weather is based on a careful analysis of all relevant factors such as road safety, weather conditions, weather predictions, and more. In the event of district closing, early dismissal, or delayed opening, the district will notify staff and families about changes to the requirements for engagement, attendance, and working remotely. 

Please update your contact information via Home Access Center (HAC) to ensure you receive the most updated information. If you need to create an account, visit our HAC web page. Additionally, bookmark AldineISD.org. The district will communicate updates and changes as they arise via our district website, social media channels, and our mass notification system, Blackboard Connect. Local media will also be alerted.

FAFSA/TASFA Deadline
The Texas FAFSA/TASFA priority deadline is this week. Encourage your senior students to apply for financial aid through the Federal Application for Student Aid (FAFSA), which opened October 1, for high school grads planning to attend college during the 2021-2022 school year. The Texas priority deadline for the FAFSA to be completed is January 15, 2021. 

Curbside Meals/Weekend Meal Bundles
Free school meals are available for all children 18 and younger. Additionally, free breakfast and lunch will be provided to all Aldine ISD students learning on campus. Details can be found on our website.

Evening Meals 
Aldine ISD will offer free evening meals to students at all middle schools, ninth grade schools, and high schools. These schools offer after-school educational enrichment programs for students, which enable the district’s At Risk Evening Meal Program to be provided by the Child Nutrition Services Department. Please contact your campus for more information. 

COVID-19 Testing Sites in Aldine Area
Drive-thru rapid COVID-19 testing is available for all Aldine ISD students and staff learning and teaching on-campus at the M.B. Sonny Donaldson Child Nutrition Services Building, 1802 Aldine Bender Rd., Houston, TX 77032. Please note that online registration is required. You can access the online form by clicking here.

The positivity rate in the Houston/Harris County area is more than 17%. Please continue to remain safe by wearing your mask, watching your distance, and frequently washing your hands. Families can always check the COVID-19 dashboard for an overview of the active cases by school. 

Be well and be safe.

With Aldine Pride,

Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney
Superintendent