Last year, the Aldine Independent School District (AISD) launched its all-girl school called Aldine’s Young Women’s Leadership Academy. This fall, AISD will be launching the all-boy school called Impact Leadership Academy (ILA). According to Jonathan Kegler, who will serve as Principal of ILA stated that, “The purpose of ILA is to provide more choices and opportunities to families in AISD.” Most schools in an all-boy sector start their students in all gender schools in middle and high school. What makes ILA unique is that they’re providing this opportunity for students starting in first grade.
The exciting part about ILA is that any student who wants to attend can enroll. They are currently accepting students from AISD as well as students from the greater Houston area. The staff of ILA are diligently calling prospective parents and letting them know about the campus and what they can expect from the academy. There are already a few students outside of AISD that are expected to attend in the fall.
One of the elements that students will learn from ILA is leadership. Principal Kegler stated, “We want to provide an opportunity for people to be leaders. We truly believe that everyone has a leader within them, and we want to provide the environment that’s going to be conducive for that to happen.” Students of ILA will also be exposed to the college environment as ILA has partnered with Prairie View A & M University (PV). Students will have the opportunity to visit PV, sit in a classroom, “and begin with the end in mind.” Principal Kegler wants them to see the end result of where they want to be.
Additionally, one of ILA’s leadership strands is entrepreneurship, so aside from college, students will be exposed to the different aspects of entrepreneurship. “You get to pick and choose what you want to do, and we’re going to supply you with the skillset so that you can choose wisely.”
Since the school is launching for the first time, students will be able to attend first, second and sixth grade for year one, and by 2025-2026, the academy will serve grades one through eight. “We are projecting 125 students per grade level, however, if we have more than that, of course we are going to take them in. Our campus can hold 1400 to 1500 students…As they come, we’re going to build it,” he mentioned.
One thing that parents, students, and the community can expect from Principal Kegler is “dynamic leadership,” and how he believes in “no box thinking.” He stated, “A lot of times we think outside the box, but when the conformity of the world and the pressures come, and it doesn’t’ work, we’re forced back into the box. We struck the match threw it in the box and burned it a long time ago.” Principal Kegler made it clear that they’re going to find the method and the solution that works for each student. Having a son who is a rising sophomore gives Principal Kegler the great advantage of knowing what students may need.
Impact Leadership Academy will be a great opportunity for our young men. They will learn important universal skills that they will be able to rely on long after they leave the academy. Principal Kegler wants this new opportunity to be a collaborative effort between students, parents, and the entire community. “It’s about us, not about me, or the staff, but all of us coming together.”
Impact Leadership Academy will open its doors on July 22nd from 4-7pm for uniform fittings for those enrolled, and there will be an enrollment fair for those who would like to enroll. On August 5th, there will be a block party where everyone can have a good time and celebrate the new school and the new school year. This will also be another day where students can enroll.
Principal Kegler and his staff are ready to get the school year started and are excited to work with their students. For the first day of school, Principal Kegler has a vision of 100 men. He wants to have 100 men to be present at ILA to greet students on the first day of school. He sends this challenge to men from all walks of life so the students can see what the end looks like. In closing he said, “We want to create a positive impact so they can in return change the world.”
Search our archive of past issues Receive our Latest Updates
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.
