Irving ISD Unveils the Magda A. Hernández Institute of Wellness and Professional Learning

Irving, Texas. July 26, 2024 –

Employee wellness has long been a priority for Irving ISD Superintendent Magda A. Hernández. Prior to the self-care trend, Superintendent Hernández was already advocating for its importance. Her initiative, “Self-Care isn’t Selfish. It’s Necessary,” has been instrumental in helping Irving ISD staff navigate the challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic. Superintendent Hernández has significantly expanded the district’s Employee Wellness Department, enhancing the support and resources available to staff.

Superintendent Hernández utilized Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to create a unique facility for the district and community. On February 26, 2024, the Irving ISD Board of Trustees unanimously voted to name the new professional learning and wellness center in her honor. The Magda A. Hernández Institute of Wellness and Professional Learning stands as a testament to her innovative vision and dedication to making a positive impact.

On July 24, Irving ISD hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new facility. The event featured remarks from Superintendent Hernández and representatives from WRA Architects Inc. and Lee Lewis Construction Inc. Attendees also experienced some of the services that will be available to staff in the upcoming 2024-2025 school year, including chair massages and a yoga class.

The two-story building, located alongside Singley Academy and the Elise Walker Outdoor Learning Center, features a flexible layout that highlights the nature preserve area north of the facility. Its biophilic design includes professional learning spaces, a wellness room equipped with treadmills, free weights, and medicine balls, a meditation room, flexible office spaces, meeting spaces for special events, and an outdoor patio open to events and classes. Additionally, the facility offers reservation-based complimentary wellness services such as yoga, fitness, nutrition, and financial literacy classes, all aimed at enhancing the well-being and professional growth of Irving ISD staff and integrating wellness into the district culture.

For more information about MAHI, visit IrvingISD.net/MAHI.

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