Inside Aldine - Aldine Independent School District

Fall2005Vol. 28, No. 1Inside AldineDiscover News, Information and More about Aldine ISD’s SchoolsSchool SuppliesParents and guardians shouldcheck with their children’sschools to find out whatschool supplies will be neededfor the 2005-06 schoolyear. Pre-packaged schoolsupplies can also be purchasedat their schools.Carver team takes2nd at world eventOnly one point separatedCarver High School’sGlobal Enterprise Challengeteam from winningthe world title this summerin Glasgow, Scotland.The Carver team finished one pointbehind Germany, still an outstandingaccomplishment for a team thatwas competing in the event the firsttime ever, according to team sponsorBill Heeter.“I am so proud of this group, especiallyour seniors (Norma Leos,Chris Rawls and Chris Francis),” saidHeeter. “I had no idea how muchpressure this event would put thekids under, but they rose to the challengeand made me, Aldine ISD andCarver High School extremely proud.Wow, what a group of kids!”Joining the three seniors on the teamwere Danette Spencer, Brook Mc-Ginnis, April Brooks, Wendy Bartlett,Nancy Mai and Vewiser Turner.Carver competed against 21 teamsfrom around the world in the 24-hour competition. The teams werepresented with a challenge of developinga product to combat globalwarming. The Carver team developeda window using thermal chromaticfilm that would block radiantenergy from entering a home.The team toured parts of Scotland.including Glasgow, St. Andrew’sGolf Course, a number of cathedralsand a castle in Edinborough.NONPROFIT ORG.CARRIER ROUTE PRESORTU.S. POSTAGE PAIDHOUSTON, TXPERMIT NO. 5194ALDINE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT14910 ALDINE WESTFIELD ROADHOUSTON, TEXAS 77032-3099Football PreviewThe 2005 high school footballseason is right around thecorner. Inside Aldine providesa preview of your favorite AldineISD teams and providescomments from the district’sfour head coaches.Read the story on page 3Aldine opens new schoolsWhen the 2005-06 schoolyear begins in August, AldineISD will open twonew schools and an oldfriend will have a newhome as W.T. Hall Centerfor Education opens in abrand new facility.The opening of the two newschools brings the total number ofschools in the district to 65.The two new schools are Richardand Kitty Spence ElementarySchool, which is located at 1300Gears Road and will serve studentsin grades K-4. Debra Carrington willserve as Spence’s principal. SpenceElementary will be the district’s31st elementary school.Plummer Middle School, whichis located at 11429 Spears Road,will serve students in grades 7-8.Luis Pratts will serve as Plummer’sprincipal. Plummer Middle Schoolwill be the district’s 9th middleschool.Hall Center for Education willopen in August at its new location,15013 Aldine Westfield Road andwill be the home for the district’snight high school and employeeday care center. Jeannette Strahanwill continue to serve as theschool’s principal.Fun to abound at Aldine Family Scout FairIf you are looking for something the entire family can enjoy, then you want to beat the M.O. Campbell Educational Center on Saturday, Sept. 17.On that day, the inaugural AldineFamily Scout Fair will be held from9:30 a.m. until 3 p.m.The Fair is a joint recruiting effortby the Boy Scouts and Girl Scoutsto attract new members and providethose who attend with a numberof hands-on activities. Scoutingofficials are hoping to register500 to 1,000 new scouts duringthe event.Admission is free.“We want to expose kids of allages to scouting and show themhow much fun scouting can be,”said Juan Hernandez, the seniordistrict executive of the AldinePathfinder District.Hall Center for EducationSpence Elementary SchoolDuring the morning session, sixstations will be set up featuringhands-on activities such as first aid,knot tying, backpacking, cooking,map and compass reading andfire building (the cooking and firebuilding stations will be held outside).The stations will be mannedby current Boy Scouts and GirlScouts. Prospective scouts will rotatefrom one station to the next.Also during the morning session,Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts will layout a typical campsite inside thearena.After lunch, more fun will be availableas attendees can choose fromrock climbing, a pinewood derby,Plummer Midde Schoolthe rain gutter regatta or slot carracing. Additionally, State FarmInsurance will hold a bike rodeo,which will present safety tips andhow to safely ride a bicycle.The Aldine ISD Police Departmentwill also be on hand along with itsK-9 Unit and its bike patrol.Registration tables will also beset up to allow parents to signup their boys and girls to becomescouts. There is a $10 registrationfee to become a scout and financialassistance is provided.For more information, contactHernandez at (713) 756-3340 orJoAnna Harris with the Girl Scoutsat (713) 292-0337.AISD students farewell at NationalHistory FairA contingent of Aldine ISDstudents returned homefrom the National HistoryFair with a number ofawards and honors.The event was held June 12-16 inWashington, D.C.Sixteen AISD students participatedin this year’s National History Fair,whose theme was, “Communicationin History: The Key to Understanding.”Eisenhower NinthGrade studentAbigai Ochoa (inphoto) finishedfirst in the seniorindividual performancecategory.Her project wastitled, “MayanGlyphs.” Hersponsor was Stephen Martin. TheEisenhower Senior High Schoolteam of Cathy Ngo, Christy Ngo,Alyssa Cantu, Kimberly Truong andRoxanne Trujillo placed third in thesenior group performance category.Their project was titled, “ActionsSpeak Louder Than Words.” Theirsponsor was Debra Brown. EisenhowerSenior High student DanielBui finished fourth overall in thesenior individual documentary category.His project was titled, “Not forVengeance, But for Justice.” Brownalso served as his sponsor. TheEisenhower Ninth/Eisenhower SeniorHigh team of Ernesto Reyes andAustin Glamser finished fourth overallin the senior group documentarycategory. Their project was titled,“Understanding the Irish Question:Paramilitaries, Petrol Bombers andPeace.” Martin and Brown servedas their sponsors. The EisenhowerSenior High team of Rebecca Le,Eva Cheng, Ly Pham, MohamedMohamed and Nabiha Aziz finishedseventh overall in the senior groupperformance category. Brown alsoserved as the team’s sponsor.Additionally, Ochoa won the $5,000History Channel scholarship for herperformance of “Mayan Glyphs.”Prior to the National History Fair,the students competed at the campus,district, regional and state levelto qualify for the national event.

Inside AldineFall 2005Page 2Schools & CommunitySchool Board reorganizes:A.W. Jones (right)handed over the gavelto new President RickOgden during the June14 board meeting.Dear Parents:The new school year brings withit a wealth of challenges andopportunities for students andthe educators who are responsiblefor ensuring that learningoccurs in our classrooms.Our greatest challenge is helpingstudents meet the tougheracademic standards with statefunding that falls far short ofwhat we need. The fact is thatthe state and nation are askingstudents to learn more andmore each year. Yet, many studentsin Aldine need additionalprograms during and after theregular school day, fewer studentsin classrooms, and a varietyof special services to givethem the same educationalopportunities as students inother communities and schooldistricts. They also need highlyqualified educators and supportstaff who want to remain in ourschool district. Aldine has keptsalaries among the highest inTexas so that the best educatorswill want to come here and stay.However, if state funding continuesto fall behind our needs,we will need to make eventougher choices to continue offeringoutstanding instructionalprograms.As we meet these challenges, Iwant you to know that our bestdays are still ahead. This summerwe have worked very hardto prepare for the new schoolyear. We have plans to increasestudent performance, and improvestudent behavior and attendancewhich all impact howmuch and how quickly studentslearn. With help from our parentsin ensuring that studentscome to school everyday, ontime and make the best use oftheir time, I believe the 2005-06 school year will be a banneryear for Producing the Nation’sBest!Welcome to the new schoolyear!Sincerely,Nadine Kujawa,Superintendent of SchoolsTransportation set for 2005-2006 school yearAldine ISD’s transportation department spent the summer preparing for the new schoolyear. The district’s fleet of 649 buses is ready to roll for the first day of school, Aug. 11.Aldine ISD’s fleet remains one of thethree largest in the state of Texas,according to John Wilson, executivedirector of transportation. To meetthe transportation needs of the district,the transportation departmentpurchased, 13 new 47 passengerbuses and 20 new 71 passenger busesduring the summer. Wilson saidthe new buses were purchased todeal with growth in the district andto upgrade its fleet.Transportation officials remind motoriststo use extreme caution whendriving near a school bus or bus stop.Nearly 50 percent of the childrenkilled in school bus related accidentsdie because motorists fail to stop forthe flashing red lights which signalthat a bus is loading or unloading.Bus drivers warn motorists whenbuses are about to stop by flashingtheir yellow caution lights. Oncethe bus comes to a complete stop, aswitch on the door activates the redflashing lights. At that point, motoristsin ALL directions are to stop atleast 20 feet from the bus. At thiscritical time, students may cross infront of the bus.Motorists should also be aware thatall of Aldine ISD’s police officers willbe out in full force to ensure that achild’s trip to and from school is assafe as possible.Police officers will be on the lookoutfor school zone violators surroundingAldine’s 65 campuses. Schoolzone speed limits are set up at differenttimes throughout the day, someas early as from 7-9a.m. and others aslate as 3:45-4:30p.m. Motorists areurged to familiarizethemselveswith school zonetimes during theirtravels throughoutthe district.“Motoristsshould becareful inany situationinvolvingchildrenand schoolbuses.”Aldine ISD Police Chief Brian Allenalso has cars in the district fleet thatcan be used to pace traffic. Thesecars are calibrated with a radar unitonce a month and are used as patrolcars. An officer with a calibrated carcan follow a vehicle for three cityblocks and then issue a citation ifthat person is speeding.To crack down on speeding motorists,Allen has enlisted the help ofother law enforcement agencies- Houston Police Department, Precinct1 Constables, and the HarrisCounty Sheriff ’s Department.Another problem during the schoolyear is vehicles that pass buses whileloading or unloading students,whether on a two-lane or four-laneroad. Section 545.066 of the TransportationCode clearly outlinesguidelines for school buses stoppedto load or unload students. Whenthe bus is stopped with its red lightsflashing, motorists on both sides ofthe street must stop to allow childrento exit the bus. A violation ofthis law can include a fine up to$1,000. An exception to the law is afour-lane road with an esplanade ormedian in between opposing directionsof traffic.“Motorists should be careful in anysituation involving children andschool buses. It only takes a coupleof minutes to load or unload a busand it’s worth a short amount oftime to ensure that students aresafe,” Allen said. “Drivers shouldbegin slowing down when they seethe yellow flashing lights and thenmake a complete stop when the redflashing lights are visible. Vehiclesshould not begin moving until theschool bus has turned off its redflashing lights.”New free/reduced meal guidelines announcedAldine ISD Child NutritionServices Department administersthe federal free/reduced meal program.Both breakfast and lunchwill be available to all studentsin Aldine ISD.Aldine ISD school meals meet the DietaryGuidelines for Healthy Americansand the recommendations ofreduced fat and saturated fat levels.The U.S. Department of Agriculturerecently announced new incomepoverty guidelines. The income eligibilityguidelines for 2005-06 canbe found in the chart accompanyingthis article.Children may be eligible for free orreduced price meals without applicationif they are listed on the TexasDepartment of Agriculture’s DirectCertification Program. Families whoare direct certified will receive aletter from Aldine ISD’s Child NutritionServices Department. Thisletter tells parents or guardians thattheir children are already approvedfor meal benefits. Families receivingthis letter should not completea new application. If any school-agechildren in a Direct-Certified familyare not listed on the letter, you mustcomplete a new application.All families that were approved forfree or reduced price meals at theend of the 2004-05 school year willreceive meal service through early-September. Federal law dictates thateveryone receiving free/reducedmeals must reapply each year, un-National School Lunch and Child Nutrition Programs 2005-06 Income Eligibility GuidelinesFamilySizeFreeAnnually Monthly Twice Per Month Every Two Weeks WeeklyReduced-PriceFreeReduced-PriceFreeReduced-PriceFreeReduced-PriceFreeReduced-Price1 12,441 17,705 1,037 1,476 519 738 479 681 240 3412 16,679 23,736 1,390 1,978 695 989 642 913 321 4573 20,917 29,767 1,744 2,481 872 1,241 805 1,145 403 5734 25,155 35,798 2,097 2,984 1,049 1,492 968 1,377 484 6895 29,393 41,829 2,450 3,486 1,225 1,743 1,131 1,609 566 8056 33,631 47,860 2,803 3,989 1,402 1,995 1,294 1,841 647 9217 37,869 53,891 3,156 4,491 1,578 2,246 1,457 2,073 729 1,0378 42,107 59,922 3,509 4,994 1,755 2,497 1,620 2,305 810 1,1539 46,345 65,953 3,863 5,497 1,932 2,749 1,783 2,537 892 1,26910 50,583 71,984 4,217 6,000 2,109 3,001 1,946 2,769 974 1,38511 54,821 78,015 4,571 6,503 2,286 3,253 2,109 3,001 1,056 1,50112 59,059 84,046 4,925 7,006 2,463 3,505 2,272 3,233 1,138 1,617For each additional family member add:4,238 6,031 354 503 177 252 163 232 82 116less they are Direct-Certified. Forthose who are not Direct-Certified,and feel they need assistance for the2005-06 school year, applicationsare currently available in schools orat the central Child Nutrition ServicesOffice, located at 2112 AldineMeadows. Early completion of theapplication assures families faster,better service in the processing ofapplications. Parents or guardiansare asked to only fill out one applicationper family. Applications mustbe filled out completely and signedbefore they can be processed.In accordance with Federal lawand U.S. Department of Agriculturepolicy, this institution is prohibitedfrom discriminating on the basis ofrace, color, national origin, sex, ageMeal PricesBreakfastLunchElementary $.50 $1.25Secondary $.60 $1.50Reduced-priced $.30 $.40Adults $.90 $2.00or disability. To file a complaint ofdiscrimination, write USDA, Director,Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W,Whitten Building, 1400 IndependenceAvenue, SW, Washington, D.C.20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5964(voice and TDD). USDA is an equalopportunity provider and employer.Aldine ISD breakfast and lunchmeal prices, one of the lowest in thegreater Houston area, will remainAldine ISD enhancessecurity measuresBeginning with the 2005-06 school year, Aldine ISDwill begin annual criminalbackground checks on allemployees.Similar annual background checksconducted in other large school districtshave resulted in minimal disruptionsto school district employeesor operations. This procedure will assistthe district in making AISD evensafer for students and staff and followthe district’s implementation in September2004 of conducting criminalchecks on all visitors who enter campusesincluding parents, volunteersand staff from other school districtbuildings using Raptor, a system thatwas installed on every Aldine ISDcampus. Campus staff swipe a driverslicense or other acceptable formof identification presented by visitorsto compare identification informationagainst a data base of knownsex offenders. Employees who desireto enter campuses (go beyond thereception area) should be preparedto present a valid drivers license orother acceptable form of identificationto assist the district in this safetyenhancement program.the same as last year.Students are encouraged to use thecomputerized cash register systemin the cafeterias. Parents pay formeals in advance. Students use apersonal identification number topay for meals, which deducts fromthe account. The lines move morequickly and students maintain theirprivacy because no will know whatmeal plan they are on.

Inside AldineFall 2005Page 3Schools & CommunityAldine ISD’snew police chief:Brian Allen.State and Aldine ISDgraduation andpromotion requirementsAldine ISD wants to make sureparents and guardians are keptinformed of what is required oftheir children to graduate and beable to participate (walk) in theirrespective graduation ceremonies.Additionally, parents alsoneed to be informed of promotionrequirements from one gradelevel to the next.With that in mind, Inside Aldinewill publish those requirementsin each edition beginning with theBack To School edition.High School LevelBelow are the state and district requirementsan AISD senior mustmeet to graduate and participate(walk) in graduation ceremonies.To receive a diploma in AldineISD, a student must:• complete all the necessarycoursework for graduation,• earn the required number ofcredits,• and pass ALL parts of the exitlevel Texas Assessment ofKnowledge and Skills (TAKS)test.The exit level TAKS includes foursubject areas: English languagearts, math, science and social studies.The exit level TAKS test is givenin the spring of the student’s junioryear (11th grade) of high school.If a student passes all parts of thetest on his/her first try, he/she willhave fulfilled his/her testing requirementfor graduation (walking).A complete list of graduationrequirements can be found in theHigh School Planning Guide or inthe counseling office at the student’shigh school campus.Elementary LevelIn order for students to be promotedat the elementary level,students must achieve an overallaverage of 70 or better in readingand math.Additionally, third-grade studentsmust pass the TAKS reading test inorder to be eligible for promotionto the fourth grade.Intermediate LevelIn order for students to be promotedfrom one grade to anotherin intermediate school, studentsmust achieve an overall averageof 70 or better in each of the followingcourses: English, reading,math, science and social studies.Additionally, fifth-grade studentsmust pass the TAKS reading andmath tests to be eligible to be promotedto sixth grade.Middle School LevelIn order for students to be promotedfrom one grade to anotherin middle school, students mustachieve an overall average of 70or better in each of the followingcourses: English, reading, math,science and social studies.Aldine’s VisionProduce the Nation’s BestOur MissionWe exist to prepare each studentacademically and socially to be a:• critical thinker;• problem solver; and• responsible and productivecitizen.FootballPreviewALDINE MUSTINGSHead coach – Bob Jones (secondyear)2004 record – 6-4 (did not qualifyfor playoffs)Returning letterman – 27Returning offensive starters – 9Returning defensive starters – 8Players to watch – QB TerranceAnderson (1,450 total yards in2004); RBs – Chris Moses and OtisWiley; WRs – Chancious Rose andTerrell Foy; OL – Charles Austin,Jeremy Johnson, Daniel Campbelland Mario Salias; DL – JuanMartinez, Terrance Garnett, TerryMallbrough and Marlin Williams;LB – Justin Brewer; DBs – CurtisThomas, Vincent Jones and DamianEdwards; K – Frank TuscanoKeys to success in 2005 – “We willneed to stay healthy and developa more balanced running gamewith Chris Moses and Otis Wiley.Terrance Anderson will providegreat leadership and will be ourgo-to guy early on. Our defensemust adjust to a new system,which means the offense will haveto carry us early,” said head coachBob Jones.EISENHOWER EAGLESHead coach – Daryl Phipps (firstyear)2004 record – 5-6 (lost in firstround of playoffs)Returning lettermen – 32Returning offensive starters – 5Returning defensive starters – 6Players to watch – QBs – FreddieBrown and Nick Cannon; RB– Frank Eugene; WRs – JamarcusCollins (42 receptions, 714 yardsand 9 touchdowns) and OnterioThomas; TE – R. Resendez andC. Amaya; DL – Kevin Lockett; LB– Teco Myer; DB – Otis Johnsonand Mister Alexander (112 tackles,6 interceptions)Keys to success in 2005 – “We havea good nucleus returning and our2005 Aldine ISD Varsity Football SchedulesAll Games Begin at 7:30 p.m. Unless Otherwise IndicatedAldine MustangsEisenhower EaglesDate Opponent Site Date Opponent Site9-3 Madison Thorne 8-27 A&M Cons. Reliant****9-9 LaPorte LaPorte* 9-2 Lufkin Lufkin9-16 Washington Delmar 9-10 Elsik Thorne**9-24 Stratford Tully** 9-24 Northbrook Thorne**9-30 Nimitz Thorne 10-1 Memorial Tully10-8 S. Woods Tully** 10-7 MacArthur Thorne10-15 Memorial Thorne** 10-15 S. Woods Tully10-21 Eisenhower Thorne 10-21 Aldine Thorne10-28 Northbrook Tully** 10-28 Stratford Thorne11-5 MacArthur Thorne*** 11-5 Nimitz ThorneMacArthur Generals Nimitz CougarsDate Opponent Site Date Opponent Site8-26 Gal. Ball Galveston 8-26 Clear Brook CCISD9-2 Conroe Thorne 9-1 Klein Klein*9-8 Klein Collins Klein* 9-9 Westside Thorne9-23 Memorial Thorne 9-23 S. Woods Thorne10-1 Northbrook Thorne** 9-30 Aldine Thorne10-7 Eisenhower Thorne 10-8 Stratford Tully**10-14 Nimitz Thorne 10-14 MacArthur Thorne10-22 Stratford Thorne** 10-22 Northbrook Tully**10-29 S. Woods Thorne 10-29 Memorial Tully**11-5 Aldine Thorne*** 11-4 Eisenhower Thorne* 7 p.m. Kickoff, ** 6 p.m. Kickoff, *** 2 p.m. Kickoff, **** 1 p.m. Kickoffseniors must provide strong leadership.We feel we could be veryspecial on defense with Lockettand Alexander, who could be twoof the best at their respective positionsin the state. We will be youngat quarterback, but we like both ofour prospects,” said head coachDaryl Phipps.MACARTHUR GENERALSHead coach – Jerry Drones (fourthyear)2004 record – 2-8 (did not qualifyfor playoffs)Returning lettermen – 23Returning offensive starters – 8Returning defensive starters – 10Players to watch – QB – AnthonyGibson; RB – Dakari Franklin;WRs – Janus Farnell and WesleyArmstrong; OL – Jermaine Martin,Michael Cantu, Dewayne Burks-Green and Matthew Noel; DL– Martin and Burks-Green, LBs– Felton McWhorter, AlexanderJohnson, Halston Higgins andTydarious Wilson; Punter/PlaceKicker – Edger MontroyKeys to success in 2005 – “We hada good spring and found somedepth, which we have lacked thelast couple of years. We will haveover 30 seniors this year, comparedto seven last year, so weshould be more experienced. Thekey to our success will be howwell our offensive and defensivelines perform. We need to avoidinjuries,” said head coach JerryDrones.NIMITZ COUGARSHead coach – David Suggs (secondyear)2004 record – 6-5 (lost in firstround of playoffs)Returning lettermen – 15Returning offensive starters – 5Returning defensive starters – 5Players to watch – QB X’ZavierBloodsaw; RBs – Cedric Johnsonand Raymond Johnson; WRs– Kendrick Blue, Arcenia Davis andColby Deal; OL – Joshua Jackson;DL – Andrew Harper and JuniousVilal; LBs – Davion Marshall andLe Thomas; DBs – Jamal Ferguson,Barry Graves and Nicholas NubinKeys to success in 2005 – “We (thecoaching staff) feel this is going to bea very interesting season. We havesome questions in the offensiveline, but if our young men preparedproperly during the summer, weshould be OK there. We have solidleadership and talent at quarterbackand that’s where it all starts,” saidhead coach David Suggs.2005-2006 School bus schedules announcedDuring the first threedays of school (Aug. 11,12 and 15), all schoolbus drivers began theirroutes according to thefollowing schedule:• high school routes begin noearlier than 6 a.m.;• elementary school routes beginno earlier than 6:50 a.m.;• and middle school and intermediateschool routes begin noearlier than 7:30 a.m.Students attending middle schoolsor intermediate schools should beaware that starting times for thoseroutes are the same and studentsmay share bus stops. Students areencouraged to look for schoolsigns in the front passenger sidewindshield of the buses that willindicate the school they will attend.The only exception to this startingtime schedule may be specialeducation, bilingual/ESL routesor magnet school routes. Theseroutes may start slightly earlier.The bus driver picks up all studentsalong the route during thefirst three days of school. After thefirst three days, drivers are authorizedto set designated bus stops.At this point, the driver may alsoelect to change the starting timesdepending on traffic patterns,route length, and the number ofstudents on the route.For more information, call eitherthe east side transportation officeat (281) 985-6628 or the west sitetransportation office at (281) 878-7800.Questions and AnswersWe hope you enjoy this editionof Inside Aldine. If you havequestions or comments aboutinformation included in this issue,our schools or operations,please call 713-756-7855 or visitwww.aldine.k12.tx.us/feedback/.Footballtickets availableFans of Aldine ISD’s fourvarsity football programscan purchase tickets nowto see their favorite teamsin action during the 2005season.Tickets can be purchased throughthe Aldine ISD Athletic Department,located in the M.O. Campbell EducationalCenter, located at 1865 AldineBender Road. Advance tickets(to home games at Thorne Stadium)are $4 in advance and $5 at the gate.Student tickets are $2 in advanceand $5 at the gate.The season begins the weekend ofAug. 26-27. For more information,contact Daryl Wade, AISD directorof athletics, at (281) 985-6100.Important EventsAugust11 First Day of School16 School Board Meeting18 Summer Graduation, MOCSeptember5 Labor Day Holiday13 School Board MeetingOctober1 Science Pipeline, MOC6 College Night, MOC18 School Board Meeting22 Make a Difference Day23-31 Red Ribbon WeekThe Aldine Independent School District offerscareer and technology education in agriculturescience, business education, career orientation,family and consumer science, health sciencetechnology, hospitality services, marketing education,technology education and trade andindustrial technology. Admission to these programsis based on ability, aptitude, interest, gradelevel and class size. It is the policy of the AldineIndepen dent School District not to discriminateon the basis of race, color, national origin, sex,or handicap in its vocational programs, services,or activities as required by Title VI of the CivilRights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of theEducation Amendments of 1972; and Section504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.It is the policy of the Aldine Indepen dentSchool District not to discriminate on the basisof race, color, national origin, sex, handicap,or age in its employment practices as requiredby Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, asamended; Title IX of the Education Amendmentsof 1972; the Age Dis crimination Act of 1975, asamended; and Section 504 of the RehabilitationAct of 1973, as amended. Aldine IndependentSchool District will take steps to ensure that lackof English language skills will not be a barrier toadmission and participation in all educationaland vocational programs.For information about your rights or grievanceprocedures, contact the Title IX Coordinator,Dr. Wanda Bamberg, assistant superintendentof curriculum and instruction, 14910 AldineWest field Road, at (281) 985-6318, and/orthe Section 504 Coordinator, Charlotte J. Davis,director of guidance and counseling and at-riskstudents, 14909 Aldine Westfield Road, at (281)985-6403.Aldine Independent School District does not discriminateagainst persons because of race, creed,national origin, age, sex, disabilities, economicstatus or language disability in employment,promotion or educational programming.Any complaints or grievances that cannot besolved at the campus level through the principalmay be submitted in writing to Dr. WandaBamberg, assistant super in ten dent of curriculumand instruction, 14910 Aldine Westfield Rd.,Houston, TX 77032.Inside Aldine / Noticias de Aldine, August 5, 2005,is published quarterly by Aldine Independent SchoolDistrict, 14910 Aldine Westfield Road, Houston, TX77032-3099, Issue Vol. 28, No. 1, Spring 2005.

Inside AldineFall 2005Page 4Schools & Community2005-06School CalendarTraditional CalendarAug. 4-5Building Staff Development DaysAug. 8-10District/Building StaffDevelopment DaysAug. 11First Day of SchoolSept. 5Labor Day HolidayOct. 7Staff Development Day(Student Holiday)Oct. 10Columbus Day HolidayNov. 21-25Thanksgiving HolidaysDec. 15End of first semesterDec. 16Staff Dev. Day (Student Holiday)Dec. 19-30Midwinter BreakJan. 2Staff Dev. Day (Student Holiday)Jan. 3Beginning of second semesterJan. 16Martin Luther King Jr. HolidayFeb. 17Presidents’ Day HolidayMarch 13-17Spring BreakApril 13Staff Dev. Day (Student Holiday)April 14Good FridayMay 25End of second semesterLast Day of SchoolMay 26Staff Development Day(Student Holiday)May 29Memorial Day HolidayShould inclement weather force school to becanceled during the 2005-06 school year,those days will be made up May 30-31.Hall (Night High School) CalendarJuly 25Building Staff DevelopmentJuly 26-28District Staff DevelopmentJuly 29Building Staff DevelopmentAugust 1First Day of SchoolSept. 5Labor Day HolidaySept. 26-30IntersessionOct. 3First Day of Second TermOct. 10Columbus Day HolidayNov. 21-25Thanksgiving HolidaysDec. 14End of First SemesterDec. 15-16Building Staff Development(Student Holiday)Dec. 19-30Midwinter BreakJan. 2District Staff Development(Student Holiday)Jan. 3Beginning of Second SemesterJan. 16Martin Luther King Jr. HolidayFeb. 17Presidents’ Day HolidayMar. 13-24Spring BreakApril 13Building Staff Development(Student Holiday)April 14Good Friday HolidayMay 26-29Memorial Day HolidayMay 31End of Second Second SemesterLast Day of SchoolJune 1Building Staff DevelopmentImmunization Requirements for Aldine StudentsThis information serves as a reference for enrolling students and reflects revisions ofthe Texas Department of Health’s Minimum Vaccine Requirement for Texas childrenfor the 2005-2006 school year. Please consult the school nurse or the programdirector of health services for questions or special circumstances not covered.All studentsThe tuberculosis (TB) skin test is requiredfor any student determinedto be at risk for TB according tothe Texas Department of Healthguidelines. Parents are encouragedto consult their physician for recommendationsfor skin testing aspart of their child’s annual physicalexam. A student with positive skintest results only and no symptoms ofactive TB must show proof of eithera negative chest X-ray with evidenceof ongoing or completed preventivetherapy as indicated or proof of anappointment for a chest X-ray. If astudent fails to provide documentationas indicated or fails to keep theappointment for the chest X-ray, heor she will be excluded from schooluntil the requirement is met.3-year-olds• DTP/DTaP: Four (4) doses• Polio (OPV/IPV): Three (3) doses• Measles or Rubeola, Mumps andRubella (MMR): The three vaccinesare given together as oneimmunization. One dose shouldbe administered on or after thefirst birthday. a, 1• Hib: One dose of the Hib vaccineon or after 15 months of age, unlessa primary series and boosterhas been completed. d• Hepatitis A: Two (2) doses• Hepatitis B: Three (3) doses• Varicella (chickenpox): One dosea, b, 1on or after the first birthday.• Pneumococcal Conjugate (PCV 7):One dose on or after 24 monthsor completed primary series [twoor three doses depending onthe age administered (each doseshould be two months apart) plusa booster (administered on or after12 months and at least twomonths from the last dose)].4-year-olds• DTP/DTaP/DT/Td: Four (4) doseswith last dose received on or afterthe fourth birthday. c, 1• Polio (OPV/IPV): Three (3) doseswith last dose received on or afterthe fourth birthday. c, 1• Measles or Rubeola (includedin MMR): Two (2) doses. Bothdoses must be on or after the firstbirthday and no less than 28 daysapart. a, 1• Mumps and Rubella (included inMMR): One dose on or after thefirst birthday. a, 1• Hib: One dose of the Hib vaccineon or after 15 months of age, unlessa primary series and boosterhave been completed. d• Hepatitis A: Two (2) doses• Hepatitis B: Three (3) doses• Varicella (chickenpox): One doseon or after the first birthday. If achild has had chickenpox, no vaccineis required but the parentwill need to sign a Chickenpoxa, b, 1Exemption form.• Pneumococcal Conjugate (PCV 7):One dose on or after 24 monthsor completed primary series [twoor three doses depending onthe age administered (each doseshould be two months apart) plusa booster (administered on or after12 months and at least twomonths from the last dose)].5- and 6-year-olds• DTP/DTaP/DT/Td: Four (4) doseswith last dose received on or afterc, e, 1the fourth birthday.• Polio (OPV/IPV): Three (3) doseswith last dose received on or afterthe fourth birthday. If any combinationof four doses of OPVand IPV was received before fouryears of age no additional dose isrequired. c, 1• Measles or Rubeola (includedin MMR): Two (2) doses. Bothdoses must be on or after the firstbirthday and no less than 28 daysapart. a, 1• Mumps and Rubella (included inMMR): One dose on or after thefirst birthday. a, 1• Hepatitis B: Three (3) doses• Varicella (chickenpox): One dosea, b, 1on or after the first birthday.7-year-olds and older• DTP/DTaP/DT/Td: Three (3) doseswith last dose received on or afterc, e, 1the fourth birthday.• Polio (OPV/IPV): Three (3) doseswith last dose received on or afterthe fourth birthday. c,e, 1• Measles or Rubeola (includedin MMR): Two (2) doses. Bothdoses must be on or after the firstbirthday and no less than 28 daysapart. a, 1• Mumps and Rubella (included inMMR): One dose on or after thefirst birthday. a, 1• Hepatitis B: Three (3) doses arerequired for grade levels kindergartenthrough 11th.• Varicella (chickenpox): One doseon or after the first birthday forgrade levels kindergarten throughfifth and seventh through 11th.Two doses will be required if thechild was 13 years old or older atthe time the first dose of varicellaa, b, 1was received.Notes:a) A four-day grace period beforethe first birthday is allowed forthe MMR and varicella vaccines. 1b) If a child has had chickenpox, novaccine is required but the parentwill need to sign a ChickenpoxExemption form.c) A four-day grace period beforefourth birthday is allowed forDTP/DtaP/DT/Td and OPV/IPV. 1A booster is required within thelast 10 years for students 14 yearsof age or older. A polio vaccine isnot required for students 18 yearsof age or older.d) A complete Hib series consists oftwo or three doses, depending onthe vaccine type. They should begiven two months apart. The seriesalso includes a booster doseon or after the first birthday andreceived at least two months afterthe last dose.e) DPT/DTaP/DT/Td and polio (OPV/IPV) immunizations requirementsfor students in grade levels 2-12received prior to April 1, 2004and administered within the calendarmonth of their fourth birthdaywill satisfy this requirement.1) The four-day grace period shouldnot be encouraged when schedulingfuture vaccination visits. Itshould be used primarily for reviewingvaccine records.Documentation: Any immunizationdocument is acceptable provideda physician or public healthpersonnel validated it. The month,day and year that the vaccine wasadministered must be recorded.Medical and Religious Exemptions:The school nurse or program directorof health services should confirmthese exemptions.Vaccine Intervals: Final acceptanceof the vaccine status is contingentupon specific intervals between vaccinedoses. The school nurse willnotify parents if there is a discrepancyin the intervals of vaccines.Selective Service System: A duty to registerThe law requires virtually all male U.S. citizens, and male immigrants residing in theU.S., to register within 30 days of their 18th birthday.For more information contactyour high school SSS registrar, visitwww.sss.gov, call (847) 688-6888 orwrite to the following address:Selective Service System, Regis-tration Information Office, P.O. Box94638, Palatine, IL 60094-4638Failure to register is a felonypunishable by up to five years inprison and a fine of up to $250,000.Numerous states have made registrationa requirement for securinga variety of opportunities such asfederal student loans, jobs, and U.S.citizenship for male immigrants.ImmunizationSites and ClinicsW.T. Hall Education Center4-6:30 p.m., CafeteriaEnter through back parking lot.September 6, 2005 February 7, 2006October 4, 2005 March 7, 2006November 1, 2005 April 4, 2006December 6, 2005 May 2, 2006January 3, 2006Aldine Senior High School4-6:30 p.m., LibraryEnter West Road parking lot.August 16, 2005 February 21, 2006September 20, 2005 March 21, 2006October 18, 2005 April 18, 2006November 15, 2005 May 16, 2006January 17, 2006Operated by Harris County PublicHealth & Environmental Services(PHES) Humble Health Center.Harris County Public Health &Environmental Services,Antoine Community Health Center5668 W. Little York Road (@ Antoine) •Suite 260 • (281) 447-2884Immunization Hours:Mon., Wed., Thur., Fri. from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.Tue. from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.Houston Department of Health &Human Services, Northside Clinic8523 Arkansas • (713) 696-5900Immunization Hours:Monday from 10:15 a.m.-8 p.m.Tuesday-Friday from 7 a.m.-5 p.m.Note: Numbering system utilized atall times.Harris County PublicHealth & Environmental Services,Humble Health Center1730 Humble Place Drive • (281) 446-4222Immunization Hours:Mon.-Tue. from 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m.Wed.-Thur. from 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.Friday from 7:30-11:00 a.m.Northwest Assistance Ministries(Operated by Harris County PHES– Antoine Health Center)15555 Kuykendahl (south of FM 1960)• (281)885-4630Immunization Hours and Dates:Every second and fourth Thur. eachmonth from 9-11 a.m. and from 1-3p.m.Cost: See Harris County PHES feeschedule below.Incarnation Health Center8230 Antoine • (281) 445-8815Hours: Call for hours andappointments.Note: Immunizations will only begiven to children between the ages of11 and 19.Cost: FreeHarris County PHES FeesFee: $15 or $4 or no charge (slidingfee scale)Fees are based upon number in familyand gross monthly income. ValidMedicaid letters accepted including TXHealth Network and Amerigroup HMOsonly. Valid CHIP letters accepted fromAmerigroup only.Houston Department of Health &Human ServicesCost: $3 per visitMedicaid and Medicaid HMO ptsaccepted, but must have a writtenreferral from your primary doctor.• Due to special storage requirements,the varicella vaccine may not beavailable at vaccination sites andhealth centers.• Sites may use a client numberingsystem which will change the hoursof operation. It is recommendedthat you call the clinic in advanceto help you plan your arrival time.• Please bring all availableimmunization records. An adultover the age of 18 must accompanyall children.

Inside AldineFall 2005Page 5Business PartnershipsEducationis Everyone’s BusinessJoin our currentbusiness partnersABITIBI RECYCLING CORPA’BSIDIAN ENTERPRISESACADEMY SportsACOSTA’S SERVICE STATIONACRES HOME PUBLIC LIBRARYACRES HOME YOUTH ASSOCIATIONAIRLINE SKATEALDINE BENDER AUTO SALESAldine DentalALDINE GREENSPOINT YMCAALDINE YOUTHALDINE YOUTH CENTERALL STAR VENDINGALPHA KAPPA ALPHA SORORITYAMERICAN LEGION POST 578AMERIFUND MORTGAGE CORPAMSTAR MORTGAGE CORPANIXTER FASTENERSARMSTRONG RELOCATIONATSERBaird’s BreadBAKER CONCRETE CONSTRUCTIONBARNES & NOBLEBAYOU CITY WINGSBE AN ANGEL FUND, INC.BELTRAN BROTHERSBEST DRIVING SCHOOLBLACKIE’S MACHINE SHOPBOLTS-N-NUTS PLUSBOOKS ARE FUNBOY SCOUTS OF AMERICABROOKSIDE FUNERAL HOMEBROWN AND GAYENGINEERS, INC.BURGER KINGC/S SOLUTIONS,INC.CAJUN STUFFCALDWELLWATSONREAL ESTATEGROUP, INC.CAR-RINGTONTOURSCELEBRATIONSTATIONCENTERPOINTENERGYCHASE BANKCHEDDAR’SCASUAL CAFÉCHIC-FIL-AChicago TitleChina BorderCHURCH’SCHICKENCICI’S PIZZACITY VIEWAPARTMENTSCITY VIEW/LINCOLNPROPERTY COMPANYClear Channel/BroadwayCLEMENTS, O’NEILLO, PIERCE,WILSON & FULKERSON Law FirmCOLLEGE BOOK STORECOMPONENT SALES & SERVICENadine KujawaAldine ISDSuperintendent of SchoolsBecoming aBusiness PartnerTell me about Aldine ISD.Aldine ISD has approximately 56,000 students. Seventy-sevenpercent are economically disadvantaged and 24 percent (mobilityrate) move from one campus to another or to another districtduring the course of the school year.Tell me about the quality of Aldine’s educationprogram.Aldine has earned seven Recognized ratings for academicachievement from the Texas Education Agency, andwas one of five national finalists for the Broad Prize forUrban Education in 2004 and 2005.Considering the demographics and quality ofAldine’s educational program, is there a needfor business partnerships?Absolutely. Aldine needs additional assistance to help all ofour students perform at the same academic levels as studentsfrom more affluent communities. Business partnershelp Aldine neutralize the impact of poverty and mobility.From Aldine’s point of view, education is everyone’s business.How can businesses help Aldine ISD remain ahigh performing school district and continueto improve in the delivery of educational services?Many campuses express the need for mentors, tutors, assistancewith special projects, Texas Scholars and Career Daypresenters, and assistance with school supplies.How can our company get involved?Contact any principal or Ben G. Wilson, assistant superintendentof community and governmental relations, at 281-985-6202 or send an E-mail to bwilson@aldine.k12.tx.us.Coney IslandCONGRESSMAN GENE GREENConn’s (Willowbrook)CONSULTANT SETH SHARRCONSUMER CREDIT COUNSELINGCONTINENTAL AIRLINESCRACKER BARRELCRIMESTOPPERSDCSC CLEANERSDENNY’SDOMINION EXPLORATION &PRODUCTIONDOMINO’S PIZZAeBUSINESS1EHRLICH ENTERPRISESExpressEXPRESS TIME DELIVERYEXXON-MOBILFajita WilliesFallas ParedesFAMILY DOLLAR STOREFIESTAFincher Motor CompanyFirestoneFirst Service Credit UnionFive Star Teacher SupplyFlowers Baking Co.FMA Alliance, Ltd.Friendly Mark #1FRITO-LAY/GAMESA, INC.FRY’S ELECTRONICSG&G DEMOLITION, INC.Gallery FurnitureGAYLA CORPGen X Uniform CompanyGirl Scouts of San Jacinto CouncilGodfather’s PizzaGotcha KoveredGREATER GREENSPOINT MANAGEMENTDISTRICTGREENSPOINT MALLGRIME’S BAKERYGULSHAN ENTERPRISES INCHalf Price BooksHALLIBURTONHarris County Dept. of EducationHarris County Pct. #3HARRIS COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPT.Harris County Utility District #15HARTFORD INSURANCEIn this editionNew Teacher welcomeluncheon .......Page 2Aldine hostsback-to-schoolpep rally for texaseducation...... Page 4Mattress macaddresses newteachers ....... Page 4YMCA steps up tothe plate tocoordinate schoolsupply drive.... Page 4Aldine volunteersspotlight ...... page 4

Inside AldineFall 2005Page 6Business PartnershipsFor more informationon student internshipprograms, call FranklinHiggins Director ofcareer and technologyeducation, at 281-985-6650.HAWES HILL & ASSOCIATES, L .L. P.HCDEHenderson Engineering CompanyHewlett PackardHinesHOLIDAY INN INTERCONTINENTALHOLLYWOOD VIDEO-CORPORATE ONLINEHOLY BEARS, INC.HOME DEPOTHOME FRAGRANCE HOLDINGSHOTEL SOFITELHOUSE OF ROQUEHouston Academy TaeKwonDoHOUSTON AIRPORT SYSTEMHouston Area Urban LeagueHouston Community BankHouston Fire Dept Station #4Houston Food BankHouston Police DepartmentAldine Community StationHOUSTON TAE KWON DO ACADEMYHouston Urban LeagueHUMAN RESOURCES-A.I.S.D.HYATT HOTEL AIRPORTIHOPINNOVA RealtyInvesTex Credit UnionJ& B TechnologiesJan Manchee’s Church GroupJC OFFICE SOLUTIONSJed’s Ace Home CenterJED’S HARDWAREJim Wise, CPAJOHN HENRY FOODJunior AchievementKahn EnterprisesKids Future NowKROGERLAND SEA & SKYLaStradaLEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETYLIBERTY TAX SERVICELIGHTING COMPONENTS CORPLove Energetic Exercisesfor KidsLuby’sLuther’s Barbeque(Willowbrook)MAC Jr. STEEL ERECToRSMCDONALD’SMCI LOCALMelcon VendingME’N MY PAL PORTRAITSMISSION GREENSPOINTMOGUS INDUSTRIES, INC.Monterey’s Little MexicoMunicipal Camera SystemsNASANationwide InsuranceNesbit’s CleanersNew Age CreationsNORTH HARRIS COLLEGENORTH HOUSTON BANKNORTH HOUSTON GREENSPOINTCHAMBER OF COMMERCENorthside KarateOffice DepotOTECOPan Riko BakeryCommissioner of education, business communityroll out welcome wagon for AISD’s new teachersTexas Commissioner of Education Dr. Shirley Neeley and the North Houston Greenspoint Chamber of Commerceand its members rolled out the red carpet to welcome Aldine ISD’s 425-plus new teachers to the district and communityat the annual New Teacher Luncheon, held Aug. 2 at the Wyndham Greenspoint Hotel.Aldine ISD’s newest educators weretreated to a delicious lunch, plentyof fellowship, encouragement anddoor prizes at the luncheon, whichwas not only attended by the State ofTexas’ No. 1 educator, but membersof Aldine ISD’s Board of Education,district administrators, principalsand members of the North Houston-Greenspoint business community.The event’s major underwriter wasthe North Houston GreenspointChamber of Commerce. Businessesand organizations which servedas table sponsors were the AldineGreenspoint YMCA, Aldine ISD,the Aldine Improvement District,Brookside Funeral Home & MemorialPark, Caldwell Watson Real EstateGroup, CenterPoint Energy, theGreater Greenspoint ManagementDistrict, InvesTex Credit Union,Kerr-McGee Oil & Gas Corp., NorthHarris College, North Houston Bankand Texas Southern University.Serving as teacher sponsors wereDeerbrook Forest Chrysler-Jeep,InvesTex Credit Union, Magoo’sPrintShop and Wynhaven at Hollister.Door prizes were donated byBrookside Funeral Homes & MemorialPark, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, HolidayInn Intercontinental Airport,InvesTex Credit Union, Kerr-McGeeOil & Gas Corp., Satori’s Knotty toNice and Weekenders USA.The Aldine Council of PTAs alsocontributed financial support to theluncheon.Marilyn Bayless, president of theNorth Houston-Greenspoint Chamberof Commerce, served as masterof ceremonies during the luncheon.Aldine ISD’s new teachers werealso treated to a performanceby the Aldine Dance Companyprior to hearing inspiringwords from Aldine ISD SuperintendentNadine Kujawa andDr. Neeley, who prior to beingappointed Commissioner ofEducation by Gov. Rick Perryin January of 2003, served assuperintendent of GalenaPark ISD.Mrs. Kujawa welcomed thenew educators and thankedthe North Houston businesscommunity for showingtheir support for AISDand education by hostingthe event.“An event such as this justreinforces the fact thatthe business community in Aldineis an integral part of this district andwe appreciate them so much,” shesaid.Dr. Neeley welcomed Aldine’s newteachers and thanked them forchoosing teaching as their careers.“Teaching is a true calling and likeyour T-shirts say, it’s a work of theheart,” Dr. Neeley said. “In the daysand weeks and years to come, youwill touch minds and heart strings.I commend you for choosing teachingas a profession. It’s a thrill forme to be here today to see so muchexcitement on your faces and somuch diversity in this room.”The Commissioner also applaudedthe new teachers for choosing AldineISD to begin their careers andshe challenged them to remain withAldine ISD for years to come.“I hope you will think of Aldine asPictured (l-r): Marilyn Bayless, President of the North Houston-Greenspoint Chamberof Commerce; Nadine Kujawa, Aldine ISD’s Superintendent of Schools; Dr. ShirleyNeeley, Commissioner of Education, Texas Education Agency; and Ray Shotwell,Chairman of the Board, North Houston-Greenspoint Chamber of Commerce.a lifetime commitment,” she said.“You chose one of the most recognizedschool districts in the stateand nation to begin your careers. Icommend you for choosing AldineISD. You made a great choice. AldineISD is on the cutting edge ofeducation in Texas and the nation.In Aldine, they never lower the bar,they raise the bar and let me tell youfrom first-hand experience, peoplein education do stand in awe of AldineISD.”She also encouraged the new groupto begin their career with a positiveoutlook on their profession.“Don’t let the naysayers steal yourjoy,” Dr. Neeley said. “Sure, we arefacing challenges in education, butwe will deal with them head-on.”Dr. Neeley also shared a little insightof how she felt the first day shebegan her teaching career 33 yearsago.“Let me tell you something, I wasjust as nervous and excited as youare today 33 years ago when I startedout. You may be new to this profession,but don’t be afraid to sharenew ideas with your colleagues.”The Commissioner also thanked theChamber and its members for takingthe time to welcome Aldine’snew teachers and for their overallsupport of the district.“You can tell the business communityis a strong advocate of this districtand knows of the many accomplishmentsand honors it has received.That’s so important and commendable,”she said.

Inside AldineFall 2005Page 7Business PartnershipsEducationis Everyone’s BusinessBusinesses and organizations thatsponsored the new teacher luncheonAldine ISD would like to thank the followingbusiness partners for their generous supportin helping us welcome our new teachers.Major UnderwriterNorth Houston-Greenspoint Chamber of CommerceTable SponsorsAldine-Greenspoint YMCAAldine ISDAldine Improvement DistrictBrookside Funeral Homes & Memorial ParkCaldwell Watson Real Estate GroupCenterPoint EnergyGreater Greenspoint Management DistrictInvesTex Credit UnionKerr-McGee Oil & Gas CorpNorth Harris CollegeNorth Houston BankTexas Southern UniversityChamber Chairman and AISD business partner Ray Shotwell visitswith a group of teachers during the New Teacher Luncheon.New teacherssalute AISD’sbusiness partnersFollowing the AldineISD’s New TeacherLuncheon, several newteachers commentedconcerning the strongrelationship that existsbetween AISD andits business partners.“I think it was a great idea to havelocal businesses sponsor the luncheonbecause it gave businessesinsight into the responsibilities andthe operations of Aldine ISD. It alsogave the business community the opportunityto publicize their servicesto new members of the district. Theluncheon made a positive impacton me. It was a great way to demonstratehow supportive the businesscommunity is of Aldine ISD.”Greta Tate, Houston“I think having the business communityinvolved in the new teacherluncheon is a wonderful exampleof how it plays an active role insupporting education and AldineISD. The luncheon demonstratedto me the effective partnerships thedistrict has made with the NorthHouston business community. I ama firm believer in a village playingan active role in raising its childrenand Aldine’s business partners playa role in helping to develop childrenby taking an active role in theeducation system here.”Jabari Ingram, Atlanta, GA“I was impressed by the variety ofbusinesses and the support theyshowed to Aldine’s new teachers.There was a nice mixture of bigand small businesses who workedtogether on the luncheon and youcould tell that they really wantedto make all of us feel welcomedto our new district. I was very impressedby the pride the businesscommunity here has for Aldine ISD.I am very proud to be a part of theAldine family and the local businesscommunity has helped makeme feel right at home.”Lauren Hornsby, Lubbock, TX“I was very pleased to see thearea business community investingin our future, the children ofthis school district. The luncheonproved there is a lot of support fromthe business community toward theschool district. That’s so refreshing.I am so glad I chose to teach in AldineISD.”Karen Whitley, Port Arthur, TX“I think that it was very lovely anda great show of support on thepart of the business community (tosponsor the luncheon). It showed usthat we have the full backing of ourlocal business partners who trulysupport our school district. AldineISD is definitely a family.”Joycelyn Clifton, HoustonBlack Elementary principal Terry Ross poses with a group of newteachers during Aldine ISD’s New Teacher Luncheon.Aldine ISD Deputy Superintendent Dr. Archie Blanson, center,greets North Harris College’s Dr. Bennie Lambert, as businesspartner Jerry Lowery looks on at right prior to the start of AISD’sNew Teacher Luncheon.Aldine ISD Board of Education President Rick Ogden and TexasCommissioner of Education Dr. Shirley Neeley welcome newteacher Kasi Williams to Aldine ISD during the district’s NewTeacher Luncheon.Texas Commissioner of Education Dr. Shirley Neeley shares alaugh with AISD business partners Mark Hecker, left, Ray Shotwell,AISD Superintendent Nadine Kujawa and AISD Board VicePresident Marine Jones prior to the New Teacher Luncheon.PanchosPappadeauxPappasPARADISE CEMETERIESPEPSI BOTTLING GROUPPHEIDO ADVERTISINGPHOENIX FASTENER & SUPPLY, INC.Photo PlusPRINT MAILERS, INC.Proline MarketingPROSPERITY BANKRandall’s #1034Reclycle RewardsRITE GroupROSS & BARUZZINISam Houston State UniversitySam’s ClubSCHOLASTIC BOOKS, INC.SERGIO’S AND DESCOSEVERN TRENT ENVIRONMENTALSERVICESShady Acres Baptist ChurchSHELL OILShowcase AwardsSMITH INTERNATIONALSonicSouth Trust BankSOUTHWEST TEACHER SUPPLYSpaghetti WarehouseSPECIAL OLYMPICSSRASTAKS Office SupplySTATE REP. SYLVESTER TURNERSteege KingstonStewart & StevensonSubwaySummit Dental CenterTAMU - College StationTARGETTejas Realty GroupTexas A&M MSC Lead ProgramTexas Children’s Health PlanTexas Executive WomenTexas Parks & Wildlife -Sheldon Lake EnvironmentalEducational CenterTexas Southern UniversitySPORTS USAThe Visualization ProgramTOMS FOOD, INC.Toys’R’UsTriten CorporationTuttle Development CompanyUniversal Essentials GymnasticsUniversity of Houston DowntownUniversity of Phoenixurbancampus.comValicVIVIAN DISCOTECAW & W EMSWaldenbooksWALGREENSWal-MartWASHINTON MUTUALWells Fargo BankWhat-A-BurgerWILLIAMS SMOKEHOUSEWORLD SERVICEYMCA

Inside AldineFall 2005Page 8Business PartnershipsFor more informationon student internshipprograms, call RobertThomas programdirector of business/education partnerships,at 281-985-7230.Aldine partnerSpotlightAldine is site ofBack-To-SchoolPep Rally forTexas EducationAldine ISD’s M.O.Campbell EducationalCenter was the site ofa back-to-school peprally, sponsored byFriends of Texas PublicSchools and businessesacross Texas.Scott Milder, left, founder of Friendsof Texas Public Education, receiveda proclamation from Houston MayorBill White lauding his and theorganization’s efforts in promotingthe good things that are happeningin public education in the state.Linda Clarke, a former AISD principal,who now works in the mayor’soffice, made the presentation whileLarry Payne with Houston Habitatfor Humanity looked on.Mattress macAddresses newteachersLocal business man laudsnew teachers.Jim Mattress “Mac” McIngvale spoketo Aldine ISD’s new teachers thefirst day of their three-day in-service.He applauded them for choosingteacheing as their profession andencouraged them to be life-longlearners.YMCA steps up to the plate to coordinate school supply driveThe Greenspoint YMCA was one of 35 Houston-area YMCAs who stepped up tothe plate to touch the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of Aldine ISD studentsthis school year.The local YMCA, one of AldineISD’s business partners, was partof the Y’s “Operation Backpack,”which included area churchesand other partners who collectedbackpacks and school supplies forAldine ISD students.Aldine ISD and 30 other Houstonareaschool districts benefited fromthe Y’s effort to collect thousandsof school supplies for childrenwho might otherwise have goneback to school unprepared.“Students need the necessarytools to reach their academic goalsand those tools are pencils, paper,pens rulers and other school suppliesthey need to get the job donein the classroom,” said Aldine ISDSuperintendent Nadine Kujawa,who represented Houston-areaschool districts at a press conferenceheld July 12 to kickoff “OperationBackpack” at the Post OakYMCA. “On behalf of Aldine ISDand other area school districts, weapplaud the YMCA’s efforts in assistingus in seeing that studentshave the necessary tools they willneed when school begins. We havealways had a strong working relationshipwith the GreenspointYMCA and we are so glad to seethem being a part of this importantendeavor.”Operation Backpack began July 18and ran through Aug. 18 and collectednew backpacks filled withschool supplies, which were laterdistributed to Aldine ISD studentsand other Houston-area students.The Greenspoint YMCA and otherYMCA facilities in the Houstonarea served as collection sites todrop off backpacks and supplies.From time to time wewill feature partnersfrom the North Houstonbusiness communityin Inside Aldine’sBusiness Partnershipsection.This edition’s featurestory is on ExxonMobiland Linda Araiza.Linda Araiza has been volunteeringin Aldine ISD schools since 1987.Araiza, a land technician in the propertytitle analysis group with Exxon-Mobil said she enjoys the time shespends working with students in thedistrict.“I think it’s important to get acrossto the students the importance ofeducation and how important it isto read, participate in class activitiesand after-school tutoring,” shesaid. “I encourage students to askfor help when they don’t understandsomething so they can avoidany setbacks in the classroom. I tellstudents they can do anything theywant to do. Although my childrenhave graduated from AISD, I planto continue volunteering at AldineHigh School or where I can be ofassistance.”Araiza is one of six ExxonMobil employeeswho volunteer in the district’sScience Ambassador Program.She added other employees serveas mentors, work with the district’sfour high school bands, serve aschaperones and read to Aldine ISDstudents.The Science Ambassador Program isin place at Bethune Academy, StovallAcademy, Francis Elementary, BlackElementary, Aldine High School,Nimitz High School, EisenhowerHigh School, and Teague MiddleSchool.She said she enjoys working for acompany that places a high premiumon education.“ExxonMobil strives to be a goodcorporate citizen in all the placesthe company operates worldwide,”Araiza said. “To the company, thatmeans being a trusted neighborand looking for ways to enhance thequality of life in communities wherewe have a significant presence. Tothat end, ExxonMobil encouragesemployees to actively contributetheir time and talents to Aldine-areaschools. Education is a top priorityfor ExxonMobil and we contributeto education initiatives that fosterlearning, improve teaching andstrengthen academic standards inscience, technology, engineeringand mathematics. We view this asinvesting in the most promisingnatural resources we know – ourstudents of today and leaders of tomorrow.”In addition to volunteering in AldineISD schools and her professionalresponsibilities with ExxonMobil,Araiza also serves on the Board ofthe Science Education Ambassadorprogram at Brookhollow.