Aldine ISD’s Brooke Martin Named One of K-12 Dive’s 2025-26 Rising Leaders

National recognition highlights Martin’s impact on expanding career and technical education opportunities for thousands of students.

Aldine ISD Executive Director of Career and Technical Education (CTE) Brooke Martin has been named one of K-12 Dive’s 2025-26 Rising Leaders, a national recognition honoring emerging district leaders who are making a significant impact in public education. Martin is one of only 10 assistant principals and district leaders selected across the country for this year’s list.

Now in her third year leading Aldine ISD’s CTE programs — and her ninth year with the district — Martin has overseen extraordinary growth in student participation and access to hands-on, career-focused learning. Under her leadership, enrollment in Aldine’s more than 45 CTE programs, 117 dual credit courses, and 46 industry-based certifications has reached approximately 20,000 students districtwide.

“Brooke’s leadership is transforming what’s possible for our students,” said Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney, Aldine ISD superintendent. “She has helped ensure that every student graduates with a plan and a purpose — whether that means enrolling in college, enlisting in the military, or earning industry credentials that lead directly to high-demand careers.”

Among the most notable achievements during Martin’s tenure is the launch of HEAL (Health Education and Learning) Program at Nimitz High School, which opened in summer 2024 in partnership with Memorial Hermann Health System. The campus focuses on preparing students for careers in healthcare fields, demonstrating the district’s commitment to diverse career paths. It is expected to expand to serve about 760 students by 2029.

When student interest and community data revealed a strong demand for healthcare pathways, Aldine ISD responded boldly. With $32 million in funding from Bloomberg Philanthropies, Aldine became one of only 10 sites nationwide selected to redesign the high school experience around healthcare education. The HEAL Program now provides students with access to advanced coursework, hands-on clinical experiences, and partnerships that open doors to future careers or postsecondary medical programs.

“Aldine is in what we call a healthcare desert,” Martin said. “Through our partnership with Memorial Hermann and the generous support from Bloomberg Philanthropies, we’re ensuring our students don’t just learn about healthcare — they experience it. We believe in the whole student and strive to deliver impactful, meaningful opportunities that will stay with them long after graduation.”

Martin has also prioritized equitable access to CTE opportunities. Working closely with Aldine’s Multilingual Services Department, she has strengthened support for English learners, ensuring that all students can participate fully in career programs and earn valuable certifications.

Her collaborative approach, which extends to partnerships with CTE providers such as iCEV, has helped Aldine ISD enhance course offerings, provide real-world learning experiences, and better prepare students for the workforce.

Earlier this year, Aldine ISD was named a 2025 CTE District of Distinction by the Career and Technical Association of Texas (CTAT). This prestigious recognition reflects the district’s ongoing commitment to preparing every student for life after graduation.

“Being recognized by K-12 Dive is an incredible honor, but this achievement truly belongs to our teachers, administrators, and partners who work every day to support Aldine students,” Martin said. “Together, we’re helping students discover their passions and realize that they can achieve unlimited possibilities.”