Irving Independent School District (ISD) Superintendent Magda A. Hernández recently presented her innovative approach to enhancing student and employee wellness at the International Organization Development Association (IODA) Conference in Mexico City, marking a milestone for the district. Her strategies, which promote well-being as a foundational element of educational success, have captured global attention and set a new standard for educational environments.
Superintendent Hernández's journey from paraprofessional to district leader provided a personal backdrop to her presentation, where she emphasized the need to create a nurturing environment for both staff and students. Noting that teachers experience nearly twice the job-related stress of other professionals, as indicated by RAND Corp. research, Hernández shared how Irving ISD has worked to address these challenges through a comprehensive wellness campaign introduced in 2020.
In response to educator stress, Irving ISD launched initiatives focused on mental health, physical fitness, and accessible wellness resources. Virtual counseling services through MDLive, made available to all employees, provide 24/7 support, ensuring staff can access help when needed. Additionally, partnerships with Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Cigna, and local fitness organizations have enabled the district to offer a robust set of wellness programs, from stress management workshops to yoga and fitness classes designed to encourage self-care.
At the heart of Irving ISD's wellness efforts is the newly established Magda A. Hernández Institute of Wellness and Professional Learning (MAHI), a 2024 addition developed in collaboration with architect Robert Ramirez of WRA Architects. Located adjacent to the district’s Outdoor Learning Center, MAHI offers a serene, nature-connected environment with spaces for exercise classes, nutrition workshops, and wellness coaching. The center also hosts professional development sessions, merging educational growth with wellness. This thoughtfully designed facility has become a hub for well-being, with its natural surroundings and flexible layout aimed at fostering a sense of calm and connection.
Among MAHI’s most anticipated features is a planned community garden, which will support hands-on learning for students through farm-to-table projects in partnership with the district’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) horticulture and culinary programs. This initiative is expected to teach students valuable life skills while enhancing their understanding of healthy food sources and sustainable practices.
In collaboration with the City of Irving and Baylor Scott & White, Irving ISD has also committed to integrating Blue Zones principles into the community, a global initiative aimed at fostering healthier lifestyles by transforming environments to encourage better food choices, physical activity, and overall well-being. Superintendent Hernández underscored how this partnership will expand wellness beyond the school walls, benefiting the entire Irving community.
During her presentation, Hernández and Ramirez inspired attendees by discussing the thought and intentionality behind MAHI’s design, illustrating how every element was crafted to embody the district's wellness mission. Many in attendance expressed admiration for Hernández's authentic commitment to well-being and the practical, adaptable model Irving ISD has created. “Irving ISD’s approach has connected wellness to educational success in a way that feels transformative,” noted one participant. Another attendee remarked, “Superintendent Hernández’s energy and dedication were palpable—she’s not just setting standards for Irving ISD but creating a framework that any organization can adopt.”
Following the presentation, attendees sought to connect with Hernández and her team, hoping to learn more about Irving ISD’s model and explore implementing similar strategies within their own organizations. The conference ended with a renewed commitment among educational leaders to prioritize well-being, drawing inspiration from Irving ISD's proactive, supportive approach.
