The Allen ISD Leadership Academy recently gathered at the Lowery Freshman Center for a meeting focused on the various support systems and mentorship programs that drive student success across the district. During the session, members engaged with campus and district leaders to understand the programs designed to meet the academic, social, and emotional needs of every student.
Jill Stafford, Principal of Lowery Freshman Center, opened the meeting by highlighting several campus-specific initiatives, including the use of the Minga platform. This digital tool is utilized for hall passes and a student incentive program where students earn points for positive behaviors, such as participating in dress-up days or attending school activities. These points can later be used for "Minga parties," which include activities like pancake breakfasts, ice cream socials, or outdoor games. Stafford also detailed the campus’s participation in Red Ribbon Week, which involves community outreach, food drives, and the Eagle Gift Day.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the PALS (Peer Assistance and Leadership) program. Garrett Daniels, the PALS coordinator at Lowery, explained that the program involves a rigorous application and interview process for students in grades 8-12. The program emphasizes mentorship, with PALS students working one-on-one with younger peers at elementary campuses.
"PALS is an opportunity for students to learn and for students to mentor," said Allie Wright, a PALS student. "We help with communication, problem solving, self-awareness, understanding behavior, attentive listening, and facilitation decision making.".
The leadership academy also heard about the "WINGS" program, which stands for "We Inspire the Next Generation to Soar." These high school mentors are trained to work within "connections" classes at Lowery, helping to bridge the transition between the freshman center and the main high school campus. Additionally, the Hope Squad was highlighted as a student-led mental health organization dedicated to suicide prevention and promoting a positive campus environment.
Beyond campus-level programs, the academy received briefings from district leadership regarding specialized services. Dr. Teresa Taylor, Executive Director of Special Services, emphasized the importance of community partnerships, such as the 18+ program that helps students with disabilities gain independence through local business placements.
"It means that we're doing right by kids, and that's what's most important," said Taylor. "We've targeted additional areas of support that are needed because of the number and needs of dyslexia therapy, for example, we have a team going out to train and support general education teachers.".
Anthony Arnold, Principal of the Dillard Special Achievement Center, discussed the district’s approach to alternative education. He detailed proactive approaches that aim to provide students with the necessary support to avoid future incidents.
The meeting concluded with a presentation from the School Leadership and Support Department, which oversees principal development and mental health services across the district.
To learn more about the Allen ISD Leadership Academy, visit https://www.allenisd.org/leadershipacademy
View a full photo gallery from the day at https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCPGMh
