From Stories to Futures: UHD Bilingual E-Library Empowers District Families to Lead, Learn, and Dream Bigger

Disponible en: Español

Pictured (l-r) are Shely Rodríguez, UHD reading manager; Illiana Sontay, UHD leader mom; Yessica Gómez, UHD leader mom; Wendy Durán, UHD leader mom; Amelia Reyes, UHD leader mom; Aida Ulloa, UHD technology manager; María Isabel Rocha, UHD leader mom; and Marina Villarino, UHD reading manager.

When María Isabel Rocha watched her son’s grades climb from failing to flourishing, she didn’t see a miracle — she saw possibility. What began as evenings of reading bilingual stories together at home has led to confidence, curiosity, and academic growth. For Rocha and dozens of Aldine ISD families, the University of Houston-Downtown’s (UHD) Bilingual E-Library was more than a program. It was a doorway.

That doorway — opened through a three-year partnership between Aldine ISD’s Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Department and UHD — was celebrated Dec. 11 during a culminating recognition event at Lone Star College–East Aldine. The gathering marked both a milestone and a moment of reflection for families, educators, and partners who witnessed firsthand how literacy, technology, and authentic family engagement can change lives.

“This project showed us what happens when families are trusted, supported, and empowered,” said Iván Tamayo, Aldine ISD FACE specialist. “Parents didn’t just participate — they led, created, and transformed their own futures and the futures of their children.”

Led by Dr. Maria Bhattacharjee, UHD Bilingual E-Library director, the initiative was designed to strengthen reading, writing, and digital skills among bilingual families across seven Aldine ISD campuses, while honoring families’ voices, cultures, and aspirations.

The project unfolded in two intentional phases. In the first, parents became authors of their own stories — writing narratives about family, school experiences, goals, and dreams. Those stories were illustrated by parents and students from UHD and Aldine ISD, with some participants even exploring artificial intelligence as a creative tool. Published in both English and Spanish through the UHD Bilingual E-Library, the stories became accessible to families around the world.

Aída Ulloa, UHD Bilingual E-Library Project technology manager, talks to parents about artificial intelligence.

The second phase expanded those stories into interactive learning experiences. Families added fluency and comprehension games, digital features, and AI-powered tools that deepened engagement. Parents also participated in literacy workshops — both in person and virtually — building skills that extended far beyond reading and writing.

Along the way, something powerful emerged: confidence.

“Language is power,” Tamayo said during the event. “These women showed us what parent involvement truly looks like.”

That power was evident in the voices of the parents recognized during the celebration — many of whom served as UHD Bilingual E-Library leaders on their campuses.

Illiana Sontay, who supported families at Black Elementary School, described the experience as transformational. “This project changed my future,” Sontay said. “I strengthened my technology skills, learned to work with families and students, and now my goal is to work as a paraprofessional. My long-term dream is to validate my degree and become a social worker.”

At Marcella Elementary, Amelia Reyes shared how working alongside UHD and Aldine ISD helped her better understand how schools operate — and how she could support her own children’s learning.

“It was impresionante (moving),” Reyes said. “I gained confidence, technology skills, and a clearer vision for my future in education.”

Jessica Gómez, who supported families at Caraway and Hill elementary schools, said the initiative strengthened her ability to communicate with empathy and patience. “Some moms couldn’t open a computer. Some couldn’t read or write,” Gómez said. “But with the support from Aldine ISD and UHD, doors were opened. Now my dream is to become a teacher.”

For Wendy Durán, the journey came full circle. Once a participant herself, Durán went on to serve as a UHD leader mom — and recently got offered a paraprofessional position that she applied for at a school. “I am very happy and proud,” Durán said. “I learned leadership, technology, and confidence. Most importantly, I want to be a role model for my children.”

María Isabel Rocha, introduced by UHD reading manager Marina Villarino as her “Robin (to her Batman),” shared how the project impacted her family at home. Her son’s language arts grade improved from a 57 to a 90 after using the Bilingual E-Library, and both she and her son are now published authors.

“UHD taught us that there are no limits,” Rocha said. “The only limits are the ones we place on ourselves.”

Throughout the three years, families were also invited to guided visits to UHD, Lone Star College, and the Mexican Consulate, expanding their understanding of higher education opportunities — not only for their children, but for themselves as lifelong learners. During the Dec. 11 event, Lone Star College leaders shared information about certificate and associate degree pathways available to Spanish-speaking students, as well as financial aid options.

Sheila Adams, Aldine ISD Chief Communications Officer, thanked the families for their dedication and leadership. “This partnership would not be possible without UHD, our FACE Department, and the families who showed up and believed in what was possible,” Adams said. “As you continue your education or pursue new opportunities, please know Aldine ISD is cheering you on.”

The project’s impact reached beyond campuses and classrooms. One group of parents even collaborated internationally with families in Guatemala who are now exploring how to replicate the model in their own communities.

Although the UHD Bilingual E-Library project will formally conclude in January 2026, its legacy will continue. Participating schools — Black Elementary, Bussey Elementary, Marcella Elementary, Griggs EC/PreK/K School, Ogden Elementary, and Caraway Elementary — plan to sustain many of the practices through continued family engagement efforts.

Ultimately, the initiative offered more than books or technology. It demonstrated what authentic family engagement looks like when families are empowered to lead, create, and grow.