Rachel Delafuente’s journey with Alief ISD is a story of dedication, growth, and community impact. A proud graduate of the Class of 1995, Rachel grew up in Alief, attending Chancellor, Boone, and Mahanay elementary schools, followed by Killough Middle School and Hastings High School. Her time in Alief ISD laid the foundation for the values and skills that continue to guide her professional and personal life.
Looking back on her high school years, Rachel fondly recalls her experiences in the Big Bear Band. “Every varsity football game was always a wonderful time to be a member of the band,” she says, remembering the energy, camaraderie, and sense of pride that defined her time as a student. Those moments not only fostered lifelong friendships but also taught her the importance of teamwork and dedication—lessons that would carry over into her career.
Inspired by her mother, Rachel pursued a career path that would allow her to make a meaningful impact on her community and honor the values instilled in her at home. Today, she serves as the Executive Assistant to Superintendent Dr. Anthony Mays, a role that gives her a unique perspective on the inner workings of a school district. “It’s amazing to see all the different components of how a school district operates to ensure students obtain the best education,” Rachel says. She thrives on the complexity of her work and the opportunity to support initiatives that enhance student learning and community engagement.
Rachel credits her Alief ISD education with shaping her professional skills and personal ethics. She reflects on the impact of her high school marketing class, which helped her develop a strong work ethic and the ability to collaborate effectively. Additionally, Rachel acknowledges mentors such as Walter Simmons and Dr. Stacy Frenchwood, whose guidance sharpened her leadership skills and taught her the importance of being a team player. “Great leaders help you grow and become the best version of yourself,” she notes, emphasizing how these lessons continue to influence her career today.
Her work directly impacts the community by helping ensure that families and students have access to the resources they need. “My role helps when the community feels as if the district has lost its focus. I assist with getting our community the resources they need to ensure students are receiving the best education,” Rachel explains. Beyond her professional responsibilities, she and her family stay connected to Alief ISD through volunteer work and small business initiatives that support the Alief Education Foundation, providing scholarships, clothing, and other resources to students, staff, and the broader community.
Outside of work, Rachel cherishes time spent with family and friends. She emphasizes the importance of balance and finds joy in connecting with loved ones, reinforcing the sense of community that has always been central to her life. When asked what advice she would give current students, Rachel encourages them to consider careers in education, describing it as a rewarding field where daily interactions can shape students into the young adults they become.
For Rachel, success is measured not by titles but by impact. She says, “Success is when people you don’t know seek you for the great things you’ve done and the meaningful relationships you consistently establish.” Her proudest accomplishment is the trajectory of her career within Alief ISD—starting as a receptionist, moving through various roles, and ultimately serving as Executive Assistant to the Superintendent. Her journey demonstrates that dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to serving others can lead to significant professional and personal growth.
Reflecting on her Alief ISD experience, Rachel acknowledges the district’s role in shaping the person she is today. From her early school years to her professional career, the district instilled values of responsibility, teamwork, and community engagement. Her message to current students, staff, and alumni is simple but heartfelt: “Thank you for choosing Alief.” Through her career and volunteer efforts, Rachel continues to embody the spirit of Alief ISD, serving as an inspiring example of how one individual’s journey can make a lasting impact on both the district and the community it serves.