When families arrive in The Woodlands, Conroe, Tomball, and surrounding areas, one of their first concerns is adapting to their new environment. The lack of information about procedures, schools, and processes can be overwhelming, especially for those coming from other countries. This is where the invaluable work of a Hispanic woman like Itzya Cárdenas, a social liaison for immigrants, comes into play: offering support and guidance to those who need help adapting to this new way of life. While we regularly assist Hispanic families, we also help people from all nationalities. The Hispanic community, in particular, often requires assistance in understanding the education system and school zoning.

In the United States, students are required to attend the school corresponding to the zone in which they live, something that may differ from other countries. In Conroe ISD, for example, it is mandatory to provide proof of residence, along with other documents such as a birth certificate, vaccination records, and report cards. This process often confuses families, especially when the misunderstanding arises between “proof of residence” and “legal residency.” Proof of residence, in this context, refers only to the address, not immigration status.

Unfortunately, at times, some people attempt to use fake proof of residence to enroll their children in schools outside of their designated zone. This can have serious consequences, such as losing college scholarships or facing legal penalties for providing false information.

In addition to offering assistance with educational matters, Itzya Cárdenas was also the founder of Asociación Amiga, created 11 years ago with a clear mission: to help migrant families, especially women, integrate effectively into the community. We know that women are the pillar of the family, and if they adapt, the whole family will follow. Through our network, we provide support for them to find everything from doctors to churches that align with their beliefs, creating bridges between newly arrived families and those who have been here for a while.

Our goal is for each new family to feel supported and able to adapt without feeling alone, thus becoming an active and happy part of the community.