BACKGROUND

During the 2007-08 school year, a team of principals, counselors, district officials, parents and students analyzed district demographics, student data and current college access programs.  The team held two focus groups for parents and students, and conducted a district-wide survey for high school students to gain input on effective practices.  Results from this effort indicated that students and parents wanted more information regarding college and financial aid and one-on-one help with post-secondary preparation. 

INITIATIVE OVERVIEW

Aldine ISD is focusing efforts on schools in two feeder patterns that send students to Aldine and Nimitz Senior High Schools, with the overall goal of increasing college entrance rates of first-generation and low socio-economic students.

In the summer of 2008, a peer mentor group called "The Dream Team" was formed on each high school campus.  "The Dream Team" is made up of students who will help motivate and assist their peers with the college application and financial aid process.  In the 2008-09 school year, the district hired a College Access Advisor to work one-on-one with students and families on both campuses.  Three faculty members on each campus will be paid stipends to work directly with students in the area of college preparation and readiness.   Aldine ISD also is working to create a college-going culture throughout the district, to help implement the goals of the Preparing to Dream initiative.

PARTNERSHIPS

Aldine ISD has a strong relationship with the Lone Star College System, Texas A&M University, and Sam Houston State University. We will work with our community partners such as the YMCA, Greenspoint Chamber of Commerce, Aldine Improvement District, Aldine Optimist Club, First and Goal Inc., and Aldine Scholarship Foundation Board to identify areas where they can assist with program initiatives.

OBJECTIVES

• Increasing student enrollment in college preparatory classes (Honors, AP, Dual Credit) in the two focus schools, Aldine and Nimitz
• Increasing the number of Aldine and Nimitz students completing the FAFSA and scholarship applications
• Increasing college entrance exams of Aldine and Nimitz students
• Increasing the number of Aldine and Nimitz students enrolling in postsecondary education

TEAM MEMBERS (click here to see the full list)

TEAM REFLECTIONS

"I was afraid about the thought of going to college, but now I am ready after the summer college trip and being a part of the Dream Team."

            - Olivia Wiley, Aldine High School Student

"I am thankful to the supporters of this initiative.  As a parent, I am grateful to have one-on-one help and someone I can go to that will help me with the college application and the FAFSA."

            - Mrs. Natalie Powell, Parent

"This is an awesome opportunity for students.  We are excited about the potential impact this initiative will have on out school district while preparing students for a successful future."

            - Angela Whorton, PTD Committee Member

MORE INFORMATION

Contact Twiana Collier
Coordinator of Student Financial Aid, Aldine ISD
(281) 449-1011 or tccollier@aldine.k12.tx.us