For many students, school is more than a place to learn — it is where identity, purpose, and lifelong goals begin to take shape. For Jacqueline Avalos, that experience became the foundation for a career dedicated to supporting future generations of students.
After moving to Alief during one of the most formative stages of her life, Jacqueline joined Alief Independent School District in eighth grade at Holub Middle School. The transition to a new district and community was challenging at first, but quickly became life-changing. She described Alief as a place where she felt supported, seen, and encouraged during a period when many students struggled with change. She later attended Taylor High School, graduating in 2016. Looking back, she says Alief ISD became more than just her school district — it became the foundation that helped shape her identity, values, and future career goals.
During her time at Taylor High School, she became involved with the Crimson Cadets, where she served as a program manager. Rather than feeling disconnected from the performance side of the organization, she found a sense of belonging and family within the program. She recalled that she never felt “less than,” instead feeling included, respected, and cared for. The program fostered a sense of community, making school feel like a safe space. Those experiences taught her the importance of teamwork, community, and having mentors who genuinely invest in students’ success beyond academics.
Her career path into education was deeply influenced by two mentors she met during her time in Alief ISD. She credits her science teacher, Ms. Cisneros, with showing her that compassion and high academic expectations can coexist. According to her, Ms. Cisneros did more than teach curriculum — she taught students that their education mattered and that their futures were worth investing in. She also credits Crimson Cadets instructor Ms. Taylor for shaping her understanding of leadership and mentorship. Ms. Taylor treated every student like family, creating an environment built on trust, discipline, and unconditional support. Seeing these educators invest so deeply in their students inspired her to pursue education so she could provide the same encouragement to future generations.
She currently works as a library aide at Olle Middle Citgo Innovation Academy while pursuing her bachelor’s degree in education. Working in a middle school setting is especially meaningful to her because she believes middle school is a critical developmental stage for students. She works closely with counselors to help students understand the importance of selecting courses and academic endorsements that align with their interests and long-term career goals. Helping students approach education with intention and purpose is one of the most rewarding parts of her job. She enjoys being part of the guidance process that helps students feel more confident and prepared for their futures.
Her experiences in Alief ISD helped her develop resilience, perseverance, and an understanding of the power of supportive relationships in education. She believes education is not only about academic achievement but also about compassion, patience, and believing in students even when they struggle to believe in themselves. Those values guide how she interacts with students every day as she works to build confidence and academic direction.
Outside of work, she enjoys crafting and hands-on creative projects. Her role allows her to combine creativity with education by helping students use tools like the Cricut machine to design custom shirts, stickers, cups, and other projects. She enjoys watching students become excited as they create something of their own. The ability to blend technology, art, and learning helps make the library a dynamic space for student exploration and creativity.
Working within Alief ISD is her way of giving back to the community that helped shape her life. She believes being present in schools, supporting students, and helping them navigate important decisions allows her to invest directly in the same community that invested in her.
She encourages students considering careers in education to remember that teaching is a career rooted in the heart and purpose. She tells students that education careers are not always easy but are deeply meaningful. She encourages students to pursue helping professions if they care about supporting others’ growth and success, and she reminds them not to let obstacles or delays discourage them. She also wants students to know their journeys do not have to look like anyone else’s to be meaningful or successful.
To her, success means growth, resilience, and staying committed to purpose despite challenges. One of her proudest accomplishments is becoming a first-generation college student. Although circumstances did not allow her to attend college immediately after high school, she eventually returned to pursue her education and continue working toward her dream of becoming an educator. She credits Alief ISD with providing the encouragement, resources, and support she needed to continue her academic journey.
She believes her education in Alief shaped both her academic and personal character. The teachers and mentors she encountered helped her realize how powerful it is when an educator truly cares about students as individuals. Their influence is the reason she strives to show patience, empathy, and encouragement to every student she works with today.
To current students, she shared that their path does not have to be perfect to be meaningful. She encourages students to stay curious, take their time, and never be afraid to ask for help. To staff and alumni, she offered gratitude for continuing to uplift and inspire students, emphasizing that words and actions can have a lasting impact on a student’s future.