Employee wellness has been a focal point of the superintendence of Irving ISD’s leader, Magda A. Hernández. Long before self-care became a trending buzzword, Superintendent Hernández was already pushing for it. Her “Self-Care isn’t Selfish. It’s Necessary.” initiative played a crucial role in empowering Irving ISD staff to overcome the challenges that came with COVID. She has also been intentional about growing the district’s Employee Wellness Department, exponentially increasing the support and resources made available to staff.
With Tax Increment Financing (TIF) available and specific parameters limiting its use, Superintendent Hernández maximized the opportunity to create something truly unique for the district and her community. Her vision wasn’t just about constructing a building. It was about creating a space that supports and uplifts all Irving stakeholders. At its February 26, 2024, meeting, the Irving ISD Board of Trustees voted unanimously to name the Irving ISD Professional Learning and Wellness Center in her honor. The Magda A. Hernández Institute of Wellness and Professional Learning is a direct result of her innovative thinking and commitment to making a difference.
On July 24, Irving ISD hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the one-of-a-kind facility. Attendees heard from Superintendent Hernández, as well as representatives from WRA Architects Inc. and Lee Lewis Construction Inc. In addition, guests had the opportunity to experience some of the many services that will be offered to all staff beginning in the 2024-2025 school year, including chair massages and a yoga class.
Sharing a site with Singley Academy and the Elise Walker Outdoor Learning Center, the two-story building features a flexible layout that emphasizes the nature preserve area north of the facility and a unique biophilic design. The spaces consist of a professional learning spaces, a wellness room (equipped treadmills, free weights, medicine balls, etc.), a meditation room, flexible office spaces, meeting spaces for special events, an outdoor patio open to events and classes and reservation-based complimentary wellness offerings (yoga, fitness, nutrition, financial literacy classes and more), all aimed at enhancing the well-being and professional growth of the Irving ISD family and incorporating wellness into everyday life and the district culture.
View photos from the ribbon-cutting event at IrvingISD.net/photogallery.
For more information about MAHI, visit IrvingISD.net/MAHI.
