Austin Independent School District (AISD) released its latest news update for January 16, highlighting recent achievements and upcoming events within the district. The episode features recognition for two educators, a significant development at Mendez Middle School, and information about community events.
Alasin DeVeny from Joslin Elementary and Megan Vasquez from Becker Elementary were named finalists for the 2026 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards. According to the announcement, “We celebrate Alasin DeVeny (Joslin Elementary) and Megan Vasquez (Becker Elementary), who were surprised in their classrooms as finalists for the 2026 H-E-B Excellence in Education Awards. We discuss their categories and the well-deserved recognition they’ve received for their dedication to Austin students.”
The update also addresses changes at Mendez Middle School. After achieving a B rating following an academic turnaround, the school will return to direct district oversight beginning with the 2026-27 school year. The announcement states, “Following a remarkable academic turnaround and achieving a B rating, Mendez Middle School is transitioning back to direct district oversight for the 2026-27 school year. Learn about the next steps for community engagement and the future vision for the campus.”
A special education transition workshop is scheduled for Saturday, January 17 at LBJ Early College High School. The session will focus on using the Texas Transition and Employment Guide to help students prepare for life after graduation: “Details on this Saturday’s (Jan. 17) info session at LBJ Early College High School, focusing on the Texas Transition and Employment Guide to help students prepare for life after graduation.”
Additionally, AISD reminds families of Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, January 19.
AISD manages 116 diverse school communities across Texas, serving more than 72,000 students with over 5,000 classroom teachers according to its official website. The district supports a multicultural environment where over 100 languages are spoken by students and provides instruction in multiple languages. Established in 1881 and ranking among Texas’ largest districts, AISD maintains a graduation rate of 93.3 percent and works closely with families and communities to equip students with skills needed beyond high school.
