Aldine ISD Honors Legacy of Three Former Trustees

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Aldine ISD leaders, staff, families, and community members gathered March 31 at the Aldine ISD Community Center to celebrate the extraordinary service and lasting legacy of three former trustees: Rose Avalos, Connie Esparza, and Steve Mead.
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The reception was more than a recognition of years served, it was a celebration of impact. Together, these leaders helped shape a district grounded in student success, community advocacy and a deep commitment to public education.
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Superintendent Dr. LaTonya Goffney reflected on their leadership and the role each played in shaping Aldine ISD since she first joined the district in 2018.
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“Because of your leadership, Aldine ISD is stronger,” she said. “We’re in a better position for the future. Your fingerprints are everywhere, in our schools, in our programs and in the lives of students we serve. While your time on the board has come to a close, your impact will continue to shape this district for years to come.”
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Avalos, Esparza, and Mead helped guide the district through major bond initiatives, crisis response efforts, and continued advocacy for public education. They supported strategic plans such as A New Way Forward and Accelerate, helping bring the Portrait of a Graduate to life, a commitment to ensuring every Aldine student graduates with choices and opportunities.
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Through their collective commitment to governance excellence, the board achieved a milestone in which 100% of its members earned the Texas Association of School Boards (TASB) Master Trustee designation, a rare achievement. The board was also honored with TASB’s Inaugural Legacy Award.

Each former trustee brought a unique perspective and deep personal connection to Aldine ISD.

Avalos, an Aldine native, dedicated more than 30 years to the district as an educator and nearly two decades as a trustee. She was elected to Position 3 in May 2006. A graduate of MacArthur High School, she served Aldine ISD as a teacher, counselor, program director, assistant principal and principal. She led MacArthur for several years and was named the Principal of the Year in 2002 and 2003.
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“It’s been a wonderful experience, a wonderful journey,” Avalos said. “The only thing I ever wanted was to make a difference. I hope that I have and want to continue to do so.”

Esparza, a longtime Aldine resident and retired Houston Community College Northeast educator, brought a strong voice for families and the community. She was appointed to Position 4 in February 2017 and consistently advocated for bilingual learners, parent engagement and equitable opportunities for all students.

“I’ve always sat on the board with the intention of being a voice for the people I serve,” Esparza said. “I am very blessed, I am very humbled and overwhelmed by what has been said about me.”

Mead, a graduate of Aldine High School and local business owner, has dedicated more than 50 years of service to the community. He was first appointed to Position 5 in January 2004 and was known as a steady, thoughtful leader who brought the perspective of a parent, neighbor and advocate.

​“My philosophy in life has always been not to run from things, but to try to change things,” said Mead. “That’s what I’ve tried to do with my time on the board. We’re so fortunate to have the board we have, and we’re really so fortunate to have our Superintendent, Dr. Goffney.”​

Throughout their service, all three leaders remained grounded in a shared belief: putting students first. Speakers reflected on the influence each trustee has had not only on board decisions, but across the district and in the lives of students, families, and staff.​

“This is not a sad occasion because they are able to hear us give them their flowers.,” said Board President Dr. Kimberley N. Booker. “This is a celebration to thank them in person for everything they have done, for all the nights, and to thank their families for sharing them with us. We appreciate your hard work and dedication.”
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Each honoree received gifts from the Aldine Police Department, a commemorative plaque signed by attendees, and proclamations from several local and state leaders. State Rep. Armando Walle attended in person, while representatives from the offices of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia, Sen. Carol Alvarado, and State Rep. Charlene Ward Johnson presented proclamations on their behalf. A proclamation from Harris County Commissioner Adrian Garcia’s office was also read, naming March 31 as a day in honor of Rose Avalos, Connie Esparza and Steve Mead in recognition of their lasting contributions to the Aldine community.
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While their time on the board has come to a close, their influence will continue to be felt across the district, in its schools, programs, and in the lives of the students they supported.

Click here to view photos from the reception.