AUGUST 2025

From cheering on our Houston Astros to visiting our beautiful Precinct 4 parks and community centers, this summer has been most memorable because of the quality time spent with my family. Now, as we look ahead to a new school year, I’m excited to help my three daughters — and all of our students — embrace a season full of learning.

As a mom and former teacher, I know how important the start of a new school year is for students, parents, and families. That’s why my team and I are committed to ensuring every child has a strong start to the school year through our exciting back-to-school events; I hope to see you there!

• Back-to-School Resource Fair at Bayland Community Center
• Saturday, August 2 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• Budget Town Hall, Backpacks, & Ice Cream at Freed Community Center
• Monday, August 4 | 4:30 – 7 p.m.
• Back-to-School Bike, Walk, Stay Safe at Mary Jo Peckham Park
• Wednesday, August 6 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Back-to-School Festival & Milkshake Roadshow Finale at Burnett Bayland Community Center
• Saturday, August 9 | 9 – 11 a.m.

Visit our website to see the full list of back-to-school events.

Our children’s success depends on all of us — parents, teachers, local government, and community partners. Together, let’s give them the support they need to achieve their dreams.

All my best,

Lesley Briones

Get ready for back-to-school with these 9 events

Students in the Precinct 4 area will return to school across Harris County on August 12. The lead-up to the first day can be busy for families, often filled with errands, supply lists, and appointments. To help ease the transition, Precinct 4 is providing assistance to families in their preparation.

Precinct 4 unveils painted 3D soccer ball inspired by the community ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Precinct 4’s Burnett Bayland Park will soon provide temporary housing for dozens of children

Children lacking stable guardianship and at risk of entering the foster care system will soon have a temporary home at Burnett Bayland Park. On July 10, Commissioners Court approved an $8 million grant from the Texas Health and Human Services Commission to build Harris County’s first Crisis Respite Facility for Children Without Placement.

La Tiendita: A little shop is offering big hope in Gulfton

Located steps away from Precinct 4’s Bayland Community Center, La Tiendita (The Little Shop, in Spanish) offers food assistance, nutrition education, social services, counseling, and resource navigation to families and neighbors throughout the Gulfton and Sharpstown region.

Where Cycling Meets Community

Boasting more than 450 members, the Northwest Cycling Club is one of the largest and most active cycling clubs in the Greater Houston area. The group holds weekly rides, with many beginning at Harris County Precinct 4’s Zube Park and the Hockley Community Center.

Budget Town Halls

August 4 | 4:30 -7 p.m.

Freed Community Center

6818 Shadyvilla Lane, Houston

August 5 | 4:30 -6:30 p.m.

Tracy Gee Community Center

3599 Westcenter Drive, Houston

You will hear from Commissioner Lesley Briones and have the opportunity to share your input on how funds are invested in your community.

Kleb Night Out: Science Night

August 8 | 6-8 p.m.

Kleb Woods Nature Preserve

20605 FM 2920, Hockley

Explore the wonders of nature and science at Back-to-School Science Night! Precinct 4 Naturalists will guide participants through a variety of easy, hands-on experiments designed to sharpen observation skills. Learn the basics of the scientific method—from making predictions to testing ideas—while practicing essential lab safety.

Community Programs Manager Shawn Peoples is helping children shape their futures

Meeting Shawn Peoples feels like reconnecting with a lifelong friend. He greets you with a warm smile and a welcoming attitude. He loves what he does, and it shows. To many of the children he’s inspired, he’s a coach, but his official title is Community Programs Manager for Precinct 4.