Dr. Alma A. Allen has been a member of the Texas House of Representatives since November 2004, representing District 131. Her background is deeply rooted in education, serving in various roles within the Houston Independent School District for nearly four decades. This includes being a teacher, assistant principal, and principal before retiring. Dr. Allen's commitment to education extends beyond her administrative roles; she has also worked as an adjunct professor at both Texas Southern University and Prairie View A&M University and continues her impact as a motivational speaker and educational consultant.

Dr. Allen's educational accomplishments include a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Education from Texas Southern University, along with a Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Houston. She has received several awards throughout her career, acknowledging her significant contributions to education in Texas. Dr. Allen is married to Lawrence A. Allen, Sr., and they have two children and five grandchildren.

In the legislature, Dr. Allen is an active member of several committees, which influence key aspects of public policy in Texas. She serves on the Public Education Committee, where she plays a critical role in shaping educational legislation. Her other committee memberships include Corrections, Appropriations, and the Select Committee on Government Efficiency and Accountability, reflecting her broad interests in public welfare and accountability.

Throughout her legislative career, Dr. Allen has sponsored and co-sponsored several significant bills. Notably, she introduced House Bill 772, which aimed to prohibit corporal punishment in public schools, advocating for the well-being of students and aligning disciplinary practices with contemporary educational standards. The bill, while receiving strong support from child advocacy groups, ultimately failed to pass as it could not move past engrossment.

Another important piece of legislation was House Bill 775, which sought to enhance retirement benefits for teachers, reflecting her commitment to educators' welfare and addressing their financial security post-retirement. This bill received positive feedback from educators and unions but has not yet progressed to the floor for a full debate.

Dr. Allen also sponsored House Bill 2570, focusing on providing supplemental instruction to public school students struggling with academic assessments, showcasing her dedication to improving educational outcomes. The bill, which received a supportive response from the educational community, emphasizes individualized learning plans to help students meet state standards.

Dr. Allen's political leanings can be characterized by her focus on education reform, equity in student treatment, and enhancing the welfare of educators and students alike. Her legislative actions reflect a strong commitment to social justice and educational advocacy, highlighting the importance of a supportive framework for both teachers and students across Texas. Her views resonate with contemporary progressive educational approaches, emphasizing student support and mental health initiatives, as seen in her backing of bills addressing mental health research funding and Medicaid expansion for maternal health.

Her engagement in criminal justice reform through her role in the Corrections Committee also underscores her broader commitment to societal issues, aiming for a fairer justice system and rehabilitation-focused policies. Her diverse affiliations with organizations such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Women's Chamber of Commerce further reflect her dedication to inclusivity and representation.

In summary, Dr. Alma Allen's biography paints her as a committed public servant, educator, and advocate for progressive policies that advance the rights and welfare of Texans, particularly in the realms of education and social justice.