The educators are classroom all-stars that make a difference in the lives of students and their communities.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney seen lauding teachers at the All-Star Celebration.

More than 150 elementary teachers for across the district were honored for their role in impacting student achievement at an All-Star Celebration held Friday, April 26. The event, which was baseball-themed, complete with ballpark treats including hotdogs, nachos, popcorn, peanuts, and cracker jacks, also served as an information session about teaching opportunities at the district’s Accelerating Campus Excellence (ACE) Demonstration Schools.

“You guys are the best of the best. As we roll out the ACE model next school year we need the district’s top draft picks teaching our students at Goodman and Worshman,” said Aldine ISD Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M.Goffney.

Teachers were selected by looking at various data points including the district’s teacher evaluation system, Invest, and student growth on state and local assessments. Classroom observations were also part of the evaluation. Those that met the district’s criteria were invited to the event and encouraged to apply for positions at ACE campuses.

Each attendee walked away with a plaque, two tickets to an upcoming Houston Astros baseball game and several other giveaways.

“I didn’t know exactly what to expect when I received the invitation. But it is such an honor to have been recognized by our superintendent. Never did I think that in just my three years of teaching I would receive such rank,” said Hambrick Middle School English as a second language (ESL) and English language arts (ELA) teacher Abisag Hurtado.

The ACE model, which has been applied in several districts throughout the state including Dallas ISD, Fort Worth ISD, Garland ISD, and Richardson ISD, is designed to bring educators with a proven track record for success to struggling schools. Along with effective leadership, other pillars of the model include instructional excellence, an extended school day, social and emotional supports for students and staff and increased parent and community partnerships. Financial incentives to attract and retain highly-effective educators, along with specialized training and extra professional development for campus leaders and teachers are also part of the ACE model.

This fall Goodman and Worsham elementary schools will begin with new campus leaders, teachers, and staff as well as increased focused support from district leaders and departments. These two campuses, called ACE Demonstration Schools, will be used as models to significantly increase student achievement across Aldine ISD.

During the All-Star Celebration, teachers interacted with both principals and learned more about their leadership philosophies and campus needs. Sandra Doria, the new principal of Worshman Elementary School, explained that students always come first in her eyes.

“This new initiative is going to be a challenge but everything we will do will be all about our students. We get to demonstrate all that we can do when we focus on students,” said Doria.