Aldine ISD Highlights PFE Clerks’ Role in Growing Parent Engagement

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The district continues to grow its volunteer culture, supported by parent and family engagement clerks.

November is National Parent Engagement Month, and Aldine ISD is proud to recognize the families, caregivers, and volunteers who strengthen student success every day. The national observance takes place on Nov. 20 with National Parent Involvement Day, a reminder of the powerful role families play in creating thriving school communities. A group of staff members at the heart of that work are the district’s parent and family engagement (PFE) clerks.

Together, families, volunteers, and PFE clerks help build the welcoming, supportive campus environments where students feel connected, valued, and ready to succeed.

Launched in 2024, this campus-based initiative ensures that every family has a friendly, accessible point of contact for involvement and support. Aldine ISD deeply appreciates the dedication and impact of these team members, who help connect school and home in meaningful ways.

Campus PFE clerk earns recognition for her work with families.

The PFE clerk’s role is pivotal in ensuring that Aldine’s families are informed, supported, and empowered. They are instrumental in assisting families with required online updates, such as the annual student enrollment, ensuring that all student information is accurate, up-to-date, and ready for the new school year. In many instances, they serve as the first point of contact for parents and guardians, guiding them, answering questions, and providing resources to make sure families have the support they need. Their work directly contributes to student success.

Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney said family engagement is central to Aldine ISD’s vision for student achievement.

“Families are a child’s first and most important teachers,” Goffney said. “When they feel informed, connected, and empowered, students do better — academically, socially, and emotionally. Our PFE clerks play a key role in strengthening those school-home partnerships, and we are grateful for everything they do to support our families and our #AldineStory.”

Small Steps, Big Impact

The district’s Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Department emphasizes that involvement does not require attending every event or being on campus daily. Instead, it often begins with simple, consistent actions at home. These small, everyday actions, when done consistently, can have a significant impact on your child’s academic, social, and emotional development.

“Getting involved doesn’t have to be overwhelming,” said LaTashia Abrams, AISD executive director of FACE. “It can be as simple as talking with your child about what they’re learning, building routines that support schoolwork, or staying connected with teachers. Those small steps have the greatest impact.”

Abrams encourages families to communicate regularly with teachers through TalkingPoints, attend conferences or family nights when possible, and explore free classes offered through the district’s Family and Community University.

Families who wish to volunteer can also connect with their campus PFE clerk, who helps match them with opportunities such as assisting during morning arrival, supporting events, or helping behind the scenes. All volunteers must complete a district criminal background check. This critical measure protects students and reinforces trust between schools and families.

“The primary goal of our PFE clerks is to ensure every family, no matter their background or experience, has the tools and confidence to take an active role in their child’s education,” Abrams said.

The People Who Make School Communities Thrive

Principals across the district say volunteers bring immeasurable value to daily school operations.

“Volunteers allow administrators, teachers, and school personnel to actually do their jobs,” said Gregory Castille, principal of Ogden Elementary School. “It frees us up to delegate responsibilities so we can be effective in our daily operations.”

At Lewis Middle School, Principal Dr. Isaac Carrier said volunteers enhance the sense of community on campus.

“It’s important to have volunteers serving on campus because they are part of the school community,” Carrier said. “They provide vital support for what educators and students need. They’re simply invaluable and greatly appreciated.”

PFE clerks see that support firsthand.

“Parent volunteers strengthen our school community and bring families and staff together,” said Fara Urtecho, PFE Clerk at Lewis Middle School. “Their presence shows students that their families and community care about them. When parents are involved, students feel valued and inspired to do their very best.”

Families Say Involvement Brings Connection and Pride

Parents say volunteering allows them to build stronger relationships with their children’s schools — and with the people who support their learning.

“Being present on campus allows me to stay connected with my son, support his growth, and contribute to the environment where he spends so much time,” said Casey Coleman, a Lewis Middle School parent. “Every moment I spend on campus is an investment in not only my child’s success, but in the success of every student walking those halls.”

Volunteering not only benefits the school and students but also provides parents with a sense of fulfillment and a deeper understanding of their child’s educational environment. It’s a way to show your child that you value their education and are willing to invest your time and effort in their success.

For Lewis Middle School parent Isis Carrillo, volunteering has provided clarity, community, and confidence.

“As the mother of an autistic child, I want to understand his environment more closely so I can support him,” Carrillo said. “It’s our responsibility as parents to work hand in hand with the school team. The staff has been incredibly kind to me, giving me a place where I feel useful, can learn a lot, and feel happy and motivated.”

Building the #AldineStory Together

Aldine ISD encourages families to reach out to their campus PFE clerk on National Parent Involvement Day — and throughout the year — to learn how they can get more involved, whether through small, everyday actions or volunteer opportunities.

“Every partnership, every conversation, and every step families take to support learning helps shape our students’ futures,” said Goffney. “Parent involvement is not just a part of our #AldineStory, it’s a crucial chapter that we’re writing together.”

With families, volunteers, and PFE clerks working side by side, Aldine ISD continues building strong campus communities where every student can thrive.