Celebrating Future Educators
In a lively event at the Center for Talent Development, Alief ISD marked the beginning of the Teach Alief Program, an innovative initiative aimed at inspiring and preparing the next wave of educators. The atmosphere buzzed with music, laughter, and the excited conversations of students, parents, and educators, all gathered to honor the inaugural cohort of Teach Alief students. Photo booths captured the joyous moments, while balloons added a festive flair to the celebration.
Introducing Teach Alief
Spearheaded by the visionary Dr. Brandi Brotherton, Director of Advanced Academics, alongside Andrea Lotsu from Alief Taylor High School, Erin Newman from Elsik High School, and Tracy Shakes from Hastings High School, the Teach Alief Program is set to kick off in the 2025-2026 school year. This initiative provides high school students a unique opportunity to embark on their teaching careers while earning college credits through a partnership with Houston Community College.
"Good morning, future educators!" Dr. Brotherton began her speech, encapsulating the spirit of the occasion. "Today, we celebrate a powerful moment—the launch of something special…YOU. You are the first cohort of Teach Alief students, pioneers who have chosen not just a career, but a calling."
A Unique Pathway to Education
The Teach Alief Program distinguishes itself with its dual credit system, enabling students to collectively earn approximately 1,050 college credit hours in the next school year alone. This pathway not only provides an academic head start but also demonstrates that passion and purpose are ageless.
"By earning dual credit, you’re not only advancing academically, you’re proving that passion and purpose have no age limit," Dr. Brotherton emphasized. "You’re stepping forward as leaders, dreamers, and difference-makers in our schools and beyond."
Andrea Lotsu shared her excitement for the program's new identity: "While this program has been in place for the last decade, I love the new name! It is simple yet catchy enough to help us attract new students and clearly illustrates our mission to recruit and retain the best teachers for Alief!"
Erin Newman added, "I'm thrilled to be incorporating dual credit into this program, as we recognize the students' hard work and now, they will earn the credit they deserve."
Tracy Shakes expressed her enthusiasm by saying, “I am honored to contribute to welcoming the new generation of educators in Alief ISD. Teaching is genuinely a labor of love, as reflected in the accomplishments we observe. My aim is to serve as a conduit of resources and support for all students.
A Vision for the Future
The Teach Alief Program is more than just an educational initiative; it represents a movement to cultivate leaders who will inspire and shape the future. Students in the program are not only receiving tangible gifts like polos and t-shirts but are also gaining invaluable experiences that will empower them to give back to the Alief community.
"Alief is proud of you. And the world is waiting for the kind of educator only you can be," Dr. Brotherton concluded. "Keep believing. Keep growing. And never forget, the best classrooms begin with bold hearts like yours. Congratulations!"
As Alief ISD anticipates the 2025-2026 school year, the Teach Alief Program is poised to leave a lasting impact on students and the community, nurturing a new generation of educators ready to make a difference in the world.