Austin Independent School District, TX
Recent News About Austin Independent School District, TX
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Stetson & Associates audit reports issues in special education
Issues in special education persist despite significant systemic improvements, as revealed in an audit conducted by Stetson & Associates for the Austin Independent School District (AISD). The audit highlighted the progress made in enhancing special education services for students, while also pointing out areas for further improvement in climate, culture, staff efficacy, data management, and shared responsibility for all students with disabilities.The audit was a result of the Texas Education Agency (TEA) Order aimed at addressing necessary enhancements in special...
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'Maestro en Casa' announces 1000th graduate in Austin ISD
The Austin ISD celebrated its 1,000th graduate from the Maestro en Casa program since its inception in 2015. Participants in the program attend classes at their children's schools to enhance their English skills, navigate common scenarios, and grasp key vocabularies in various essential areas.
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District of Innovation exemption to support students with nicotine e-cigarettes
A new District of Innovation exemption regarding HB 114 will allow the district more flexibility in supporting students found in possession of nicotine e-cigarettes, as campuses may now provide educational resources instead of immediate alternative education placement. These resources aim to keep students at their home campus while educating them about the harm of nicotine e-cigarettes.In August, Texas House Bill 114, which banned e-cigarettes in public schools and events, was discussed. The bill mandated that students violating the law be placed into a District...
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Salute Finalists announced for Annual Staff Celebration
Salute, an annual staff celebration, is three weeks away and for the first time, we’re expanding our recognition categories and celebrating even more of our incredible team members. In a recent statement, the organization emphasized the importance of acknowledging the collective effort that goes into providing students and families with a stellar educational experience.Among the finalists in various categories, Paola Arroyo-Forteza from Harris Elementary School, Jill Stockton from Brentwood Elementary School, Coleen Azeez from Webb Middle School, and Cameron Daniel from...
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After School Activities Moved Indoors Due to Tornado Watch in Austin ISD
After a tornado watch was issued by the National Weather Service for Austin ISD until 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 9, all after school activities have been moved indoors as a precaution. In a message to families and staff, the district emphasized the importance of safety protocols in place during such weather events."We are under a tornado watch from the National Weather Service until 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 9. This means that a tornado is possible but not imminent, so we are prepared and monitoring the forecast," stated the district communication.The district further...
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District Safeguards Classrooms As It Seeks To Cut Spending
In an effort to navigate financial challenges, the Austin Independent School District (AISD) has unveiled a preliminary budget for the 2024-25 school year, featuring significant cuts to non-campus based expenses amounting to $30 million. The district's focus remains on safeguarding classrooms amidst cost-saving measures.According to a statement from AISD, "Though we must make difficult cuts, we committed to finding savings in areas that protect the classroom as much as possible." This commitment underscores the district's dedication to preserving the quality of education...
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Important Reminders: Solar Eclipse Event on Monday, April 8
Austin ISD is gearing up for the much-anticipated solar eclipse event happening this Monday, April 8th. In preparation for this celestial phenomenon, the district has issued some important reminders to ensure the safety and educational experience of students and staff.According to Austin ISD, all bus routes will run on a normal schedule on Monday, although delays are possible in the afternoon due to increased traffic. Families are encouraged to monitor the arrival time of their buses using the district's website.To maintain a focused learning environment, Austin ISD has...
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Exciting Return of the American Indian Education Program to Austin ISD
The American Indian Education Program (AIEP) has made a welcomed return to Austin ISD, with a primary focus on supporting American Indian and Alaskan Native students and their families in their academic pursuits.Students at Austin ISD who identify as Native American or Alaskan Native during enrollment are encouraged to "Join AIEP," as stated by the American Indian Education Program. The program aims to provide tailored academic support to meet the unique needs of these students, in collaboration with Student Support Services.The AIEP, in partnership with Great Promise...
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ACC Announces Free Tuition for 2024 Graduates
Austin Community College (ACC) has made a groundbreaking decision to offer free tuition to high school graduates of 2024. The initiative, presented by ACC Chancellor Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart, aims to remove financial barriers and provide educational opportunities for more students."The five-year program will begin with the class of 2024," stated a representative from the institution. Additionally, it was highlighted that "There are no GPA requirements or income restrictions," making the program inclusive and accessible to all aspiring students. The ultimate goal is to...
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Austin ISD Teacher of the Year finalists announced
Four educators from Austin ISD have been named as finalists for the prestigious title of Austin ISD Teacher of the Year. The finalists are Paola Arroyo-Forteza from Harris Elementary School, Jill Stockton from Brentwood Elementary School, Coleen Azeez from Webb Middle School, and Cameron Daniel from LBJ Early College High School.These outstanding teachers were selected for their exceptional dedication and contributions to the education community. Ms. Arroyo-Forteza was recognized for her ability to establish trusting relationships and advocate for every student. Ms....
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Celebrating 2023-24 Volunteers of the Year
In a heartwarming display of community recognition, the Austin Independent School District (AISD) is celebrating the Volunteers of the Year for 2023-24. These individuals have been acknowledged for their exceptional dedication and support to their respective schools.From Allison Elementary to Zilker Elementary, volunteers like Jessica Herrera and Tomas Ruedas from Allison Elementary, Maria del Carmen Ruiz and Reyna Cruz from Andrews Elementary, and many others have been shining examples of selflessness and commitment to the betterment of their communities.Reflecting on...
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Board to discuss Texas Academic Performance Report
The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has released the Texas Academic Performance Report (TAPR) for the 2023-24 school year. The TAPR contains a wealth of performance data and information about districts and schools in the state. As part of the report, performance on the State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness (STAAR) for students in grades 3–12 is highlighted, along with student and staff demographic information, enrollment, attendance, and graduation rates, as well as indicators of postsecondary readiness.However, due to ongoing litigation, the TEA did not release...
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Annual Spring Climate Survey Launched by Austin ISD for Valuable Feedback
Austin Independent School District (AISD) has announced the launch of their annual spring climate survey, inviting parents and guardians to share their feedback until April 12.According to AISD, "Your insights provide invaluable perspectives on the educational climate, culture, and engagement within Austin ISD." The district emphasizes that "The district does not have access to individual responses or any personal data that could be used to identify a respondent."With a target of achieving an 80% completion rate across all campuses, AISD stresses the importance of...
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Austin ISD Police Department Introduces Motorcycle Unit for Enhanced Campus Safety
The Austin ISD police department has unveiled its first motorcycle police unit, a move aimed at significantly improving school safety and community involvement."With the support of our board, our Austin ISD Police force will more than double in size, allowing us the flexibility with scheduling and supporting special events," said Wayne Sneed, Austin ISD police chief.The department's decision to establish the motorcycle unit comes in response to the introduction of Texas House Bill 3 last year, which mandated certain measures to ensure compliance with state regulations...
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Critical Reminder about School Bus Safety
In the wake of a tragic bus accident in Bastrop County, the Austin Independent School District is emphasizing the importance of school bus safety. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, in 2022, seven people lost their lives and 51 were seriously injured in crashes involving Texas school buses.One of the main factors contributing to these accidents was driver inattention and speed. In response to concerns about bus safety, the Austin ISD confirmed that all 551 of their buses are equipped with seatbelts, with 91 having lap belts and 460 having lap and...
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SB 4 Immigration Law Once Again Blocked from Enforcement
The latest developments regarding the controversial SB 4 immigration law have once again stirred debate and uncertainty. The law, which grants certain powers to local and state law enforcement officials to arrest individuals suspected of entering the state without documentation, faced a new setback as a federal appeals court blocked its enforcement.In a report by , it was highlighted that the U.S. Supreme Court had initially allowed SB 4 to go into effect, only to be met with swift opposition from the federal appeals court. The law, if enforced, would criminalize...
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Austin ISD Board Considers Budget Cuts Amidst Legislative Funding Standstill
The Austin ISD Board of Trustees recently met to address potential budget cuts in light of the ongoing legislative inaction on school funding. With a looming $60 million deficit if spending remains the same as last year, the district is facing tough decisions.Despite Texas's significant $33 billion budget surplus, there has been little to no additional per-student funding approved during the last legislative session. This lack of funding increase, coupled with a 17% rise in inflationary costs, has put a strain on Austin ISD's financial situation.Last fiscal year, Austin...
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Schools in Austin to Remain Open for Solar Eclipse Viewing
In preparation for the upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8, Austin Independent School District (AISD) has announced that schools will remain open to allow students and staff to witness this historic event firsthand."We’re keeping schools open so we can embrace this historic moment and ensure all students have the opportunity to see the eclipse," stated an unknown spokesperson. Austin is in the path of totality for the eclipse, a phenomenon that is not expected to occur again for more than 300 years.The decision to keep schools open was made in collaboration with...
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Celebrating Youth Art Month at Austin ISD
Art is the heartbeat of expression, and at Austin ISD, we're excited to celebrate our incredibly talented students and the powerful impact of art in our schools. In a statement, the Council for Art Education emphasized the importance of championing the power of creativity in education.The Districtwide Student Exhibition, hosted at the Performing Arts Center until March 30, is showcasing a diverse range of artwork from paintings to sculptures, inviting everyone to come and be inspired by the students' creativity.Thanks to the support of sponsors like Reagan Outdoor...
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Austin ISD Celebrates Pride Week
Austin ISD Pride Week is a time to highlight the district's commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for all. Promoting an attitude of acceptance supports a positive environment where students can show up as their full selves and focus on learning. This year's week-long celebration is March 18-23, 2024, which aligns with the National LGBT Health Awareness Week.June is National Pride Month and takes place during our summer break. The Austin Pride Parade is a local city event that takes place in August before students have returned to campus....