It has been a few years since Hector Balazar, Sergio Garcia, and Eliezer Guillen won a contest to design a bus shelter, and recently, many gathered at Eisenhower High School for the ribbon cutting of the beautiful new bus shelter that will forever be a part of the community. The students started this project back in 2018, but due to the pandemic, the ribbon cutting ceremony was placed on hold.
The Aldine Independent School District (AISD) partnered with METRO on this project so that students would have a real-world experience through STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. The vision was brought to Metro by Brad Kaplan, a Digital Learning Specialist who recently retired from the district after 33 years, who pitched the idea to Tom Lambert, CEO of Metro. He stated, “This innovation challenge empowered our students to apply academic content to solve a relevant problem in their community.”
These three students worked on their proposal for months before presenting their proposal to a board of judges on April 23, 2019, at Metro headquarters. Teachers assisted them with their project, but majority of it was student led. There were eight AISD teams who presented their proposal, and they also competed against hundreds of other students, but only one design could win.
Only two of the students were able to attend the ceremony, but they were amazed and excited to not only be back at their alma mater, but to see their work in person firsthand. Balazar stated, “It felt amazing knowing that our bus shelter came to life. It feels really good coming back to the school and seeing the results from our project.”
Guillen mentioned, “This project is meaningful because it’s very big to the community and it’s something that we contributed ourselves and we can see it in person. At first it was an idea and now finally seeing it and seeing all these people here and giving you recognition, it makes you feel proud.”
This project was also important for all students so that they can be motivated and inspired to want to do more projects such as this one. The advice that Balazar has for students is to “communicate and work together.” He mentioned that “Even though you are sometimes competing against bigger schools, if you work together, anything is possible.”
Guillen stressed how everyone has their own path stating, “Compare yourself to who you were yesterday and not to who someone else is today. As long as you discipline your-self and follow what you want to do, you will see the proof. It will play out.”
Dr. LaTonya Goffney, Superintendent of Aldine was very proud of what the students achieved stating, “I truly believe that participating in meaningful projects and having students recognize that what you start here in high school can truly have an impact on generations. The students started this four years ago and are about to graduate from college. That is powerful, and this will have a lasting impact on the community.”
This project is just one example of what a classroom should look like. Projects like these expose students to real life opportunities where they can learn skills that they can carry with them long after they leave the classroom.
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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
