High school students newly arrived in the U.S. from non-English speaking countries or with limited English proficiency — will receive intensive English language learning instruction, core academics, and support services at the new, innovative program set to launch in fall 2021.
Aldine ISD continues to develop programs that give all students access to high-quality schools and learning experiences that prepare them for the future. All means all, including those new to America, also known as newcomers. The latest choice school, La Promesa, aligns with the district’s strategic goal that ensures all Aldine ISD students learn in an environment that is safe, welcoming, and supportive.
Newcomers come to the school district with special needs, like learning a new language, adapting to a new culture, and adjusting to a new school system. The school is the latest initiative from Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney. She believes this environment will support them so that they can succeed.
La Promesa, which translates to “the promise” in Spanish, will focus exclusively on students who are new to the U.S. and come from non-English speaking countries or with limited English proficiency. The curriculum will address their unique needs and provide a rigorous, academic college-readiness education and a strong support system. La Promesa promises to develop students’ knowledge and skills to lead and thrive anywhere. Staff will also work with students and families to create a strong sense of community with Six Core Outcomes for La Promesa Students — Resilience, Growth Mindset, Social Awareness and Respect, Agency, Biliteracy, and Technological Literacy.
Every course will have English learning instruction embedded in its lessons. The intent will be that students are working to improve their English literacy skills all day, every day. In addition to English as second language services, Aldine ISD will address students’ social-emotional needs.
A Choice School
Families and their children have choices in Aldine ISD. They can choose from Aldine’s various unique academic programs — known as Choice Schools from throughout the district. Students do not need to be zoned to Choice Schools. Choice Schools are open to Aldine ISD students that meet the criteria, but they must apply.
La Promesa, a Choice School, will be housed within Aldine High School, where it will have an entire wing dedicated to the program. In the 2021-2022 school year, La Promesa will only serve ninth graders. It will add a grade level each year until becoming a 9th-12th grade campus. During the second year, 2022-2023, La Promesa will implement two Career and Technology Education (CTE) pathways. While a decision has not been announced, Aldine ISD has a tradition of selecting CTE pathways in fields that are in high demand. What does all this mean for La Promesa students? The students at La Promesa will have the opportunity to obtain industry certifications and associate degrees. They will also be earning college credit while in high school as well as completing their degree sooner.
La Promesa is opening in collaboration with the Partnership with Internationals Network.
Why choose a Choice School? — A Best-Fit School for Your Child
All children are unique. Each learns in different ways, has aspirations for different careers, and is interested in different subjects. The more options there are that better suit a student’s interests, the better for the student. The district believes that if all students can attend a high-quality school that matches their interests, they will achieve their academic potential.
Students don’t need to be zoned to a Choice School, but due to their popularity and limited space, they do need to apply.
If La Promesa is the School for You, Enroll TODAY!
The program is available to Aldine ISD families, but seats are limited. To ensure your child’s spot, apply today!
To enroll https://enroll.aldineisd.org/login.
To select another language to fill out the online enrollment form, click on “Select Language” at the top of the page.
Would You Like to Learn More About La Promesa and Meet the Principal?
Leading La Promesa as its principal is Ana Fernanda Flores-Bolívar. Originally from México, Flores-Bolívar has worked in education for more than a decade. She started her teaching career as a bilingual teacher in Aldine ISD in 2006 before taking on leadership roles at the campus level. Her most recent position was serving as the principal at Orange Grove Elementary School. She holds a master’s degree in education from St. Thomas University. Flores-Bolivar has a law degree from Universidad Iberoamericana, one of the most prestigious universities in Mexico City.
Principal Flores-Bolívar will be hosting virtual recruitment tours for Aldine ISD families interested in learning more about La Promesa and the application process. Families can visit the links below to learn about the new Choice School option.
Virtual Information Sessions
If you are interested in joining a virtual meeting, please click here to complete the short four-question form online to select one of the dates.
Thursday, April 29 at 3:30 p.m.
Saturday, May 1 at 9 a.m.
Families that complete the online form to attend one of the sessions will receive more information on virtually joining the sessions. Organizers will provide information in multiple languages.
Do You Have Questions?
If you can’t join the sessions, families can call (281) 448-5237 and send emails to newcomerschool@aldineisd.org. You can visit La Promesa’s website and also follow the school on Twitter @LaPromesa_AISD.