Community leaders, educators, and advocates discuss challenges and opportunities for local youth.
The East Aldine Management District (EAMD) united educators, nonprofit leaders, policymakers, and after-school advocates at the “2025 State of the Youth Symposium” on July 31. This collective effort was aimed at a shared goal: investing in the future of the Aldine community by supporting the next generation. Everyone’s involvement is integral to this process.
Dozens of community stakeholders gathered for the inaugural symposium held at the EAMD Office. The event featured presentations on youth development, public education, and the role of after-school programming in creating opportunities for children and families. The symposium was part of the district’s continued efforts to elevate dialogue, share resources, and foster strategic partnerships that can benefit local youth.
Richard Cantú, executive director of EAMD, opened the symposium with remarks about the district’s long-standing commitment to youth. He highlighted several local initiatives supported by EAMD, including partnerships with community organizations, workforce development programs, and investments in public safety and neighborhood improvement.
“We are committed to creating a community where young people can thrive — not just academically, but socially and economically,” said Cantú. “It takes all of us, working together, to build that future.”
The Power of Partnerships
Dr. Chara L. Bowie, executive director of operations for Harris County Precinct 2, delivered remarks on behalf of Commissioner Adrian García. Her message, titled Investing in Our Community: The Power of Partnerships, called attention to the long-standing challenges underserved communities face and emphasized the need for creative solutions.
“No one is coming to save us,” Bowie said, challenging attendees to take ownership of their communities’ futures. She introduced the Revive2Thrive initiative and shared how Precinct 2 is reimagining health outcomes and economic development through grassroots partnerships. Bowie also spotlighted Precinct Together, a campaign celebrating 45 years of community impact.
Bowie, a licensed counselor and social justice advocate with more than 25 years of experience in mental health and criminal justice, urged attendees to shift from reactive responses to proactive collaboration.
Aldine ISD Superintendent Shares Data-Driven Progress
Aldine ISD Superintendent Dr. LaTonya M. Goffney presented new results from the spring 2025 State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) and emphasized that while the district is making encouraging gains since 2023, the work is far from over.
“Our students are showing growth, and our teachers are leading the way with purpose and passion,” said Goffney. “We are seeing improvements, and that’s something to celebrate,” she said. “But we also know the work is not done. We must continue investing in our students and families — with high expectations, targeted support, and strong community partnerships.”
Goffney’s presentation included the most recent STAAR results between 2023 and 2025 to provide a clear picture of current student achievement in Aldine ISD. She emphasized the district’s continued investment in early childhood education, literacy, safe learning environments, and college and career readiness as part of its long-term vision. She also noted that Aldine ISD continues to use data to guide decisions and allocate resources for the most significant impact and to ensure all students have opportunities for growth and success.
Children at Risk and Local Leaders Offer Additional Perspectives
Caroline Roberts, general counsel and senior director of public policy at Children at Risk, a nonprofit research and advocacy organization, presented findings on educational inequities across Texas. While the data shared by the group was based on prior years, it helped contextualize persistent systemic challenges affecting children in economically disadvantaged areas.
Afterschool and OST Leaders Share Regional Data
Dr. Lisa Caruthers, senior director for the Center for Afterschool, Summer and Enrichment (CASE for Kids) at the Harris County Department of Education, shared insights from the 2024 Out-of-School Time (OST) survey, a comprehensive study that highlighted both the strengths and the challenges facing afterschool programs in the region. Survey respondents cited inadequate funding (60%), lack of staffing (39%), and the need for curriculum and materials (34%) as key barriers to program expansion.
Caruthers underscored the role of OST intermediaries in building a stronger youth development workforce and using data to drive sustainable change. A White-Riley-Peterson Afterschool Policy Fellow and a recognized leader in the field, Caruthers encouraged attendees to work collaboratively and advocate for resources.
“We need buy-in from other organizations, elected officials, businesses, and funders,” Caruthers said. “When we come together to share perspectives and strategies, we’re better positioned to create lasting impact.”
Empowering Families/Empowering Youth
Rocio Witte, senior director of community development at BakerRipley, emphasized the importance of wraparound supports that address families’ social and economic needs. She shared how BakerRipley’s programs empower youth and parents alike, providing educational opportunities, enrichment programs, and pathways to stability.
Other speakers at the symposium also discussed access to mental health resources, food insecurity, job pathways, and the need for stronger public-private partnerships. Attendees were encouraged to share insights and ideas for strengthening community outcomes.
Looking Ahead: A Unified Vision for Change
The symposium concluded with a shared commitment to continued collaboration across sectors. East Aldine Management District leaders said they plan to follow up with additional community conversations and resource-sharing initiatives.
“The goal is to bring people together — education, public health, law enforcement, and families — and align our efforts,” said Cantú. “This symposium was just the beginning.”
