At the heart of Alief ISD’s commitment to student well-being are dedicated school nurses whose compassion, experience, and advocacy shape healthier futures for children and families. Among them are Fay Martinez of Alexander Elementary and Rita Fiakpui of Cummings Elementary—two professionals whose journeys reflect both deep personal purpose and a shared mission to serve their community.
Recently being recognized as one of the 2026 Top 10 School Nurses in Houston, Fay Martinez has devoted 26 years as a full-time school nurse at Alexander Elementary, following an additional year serving as a substitute nurse in the district. Her path to Alief ISD was not initially planned. After spending 11 years working at a rehabilitation center across from Alexander Elementary—eventually serving as a director of nursing—she found herself inspired by a different calling. Watching students from across the street during school activities sparked a desire to serve children. That moment of reflection led her to apply to Alief ISD, where she began substituting before being hired as the school nurse by then-principal Chuck Lang. Looking back, Martinez views her journey as fate, expressing deep gratitude and honor for the years she has spent serving the district.
Throughout her career, Martinez has emphasized that community health begins with individual responsibility. She consistently encourages families to take simple but impactful steps—such as practicing good hygiene, staying home when sick, and keeping up with regular check-ups. To her, nursing extends beyond treating illness; it is rooted in prevention, education, and compassion. She reminds families that support is always within reach, noting that as Alexander Elementary’s school nurse, she is only a phone call away. Her message is clear: no family is alone, and together, the community can build a safer, healthier environment for every child.
Similarly committed to student care and community partnership is Rita Fiakpui, who has served in Alief ISD since 2019 at Cummings Elementary. With seven years in the district, Fiakpui has already made a profound impact, recently being recognized as one of the 2026 Top 10 School Nurses in Houston. She views this honor not as an individual accomplishment, but as a reflection of the collective effort within the Alief community. She credits the support of staff, families, and fellow nurses for making her work both meaningful and successful.
Fiakpui expresses deep appreciation for her colleagues, particularly highlighting the encouragement of fellow professionals and mentors such as Dr. Dawn Williams. She values the collaborative environment that allows her to effectively care for students, especially those with complex medical and emotional needs. Her work is driven by a strong belief in advocacy, equity, and compassion—principles she finds fully supported within Alief ISD.
For Fiakpui, choosing to work in Alief ISD is rooted in the district’s commitment to student well-being and community. She appreciates the opportunity to work alongside a team that prioritizes safety, growth, and inclusivity. This environment enables her to not only provide care but also to champion the needs of every student she serves.
Together, Fay Martinez and Rita Fiakpui exemplify the dedication and heart that define school nursing in Alief ISD. Their stories highlight the importance of care that extends beyond the clinic—into classrooms, homes, and the broader community. Through their service, they continue to strengthen the foundation of a healthier, more connected future for all.