February 2012

Austin Forms District- Charter Collaboration Compact

Austin, TX— In an effort to better provide high-quality instruction and academic opportunities for all Austin-area students, Austin Independent School District and local charter school leaders have come together to form the Austin District-Charter Collaboration Compact. Austin Compact partners are committed to providing students – especially those with the highest needs – the best possible schools, whether they are run by the district or charter operators.

AISD Board Delays Implementation of STAAR End-of-Course Exam “15 Percent” Grading Requirement

Under district policies approved by the Austin ISD Board of Trustees at its Feb. 27 meeting, a student’s score on State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) end-of-course exams taken during spring 2012 will have no effect on that student’s grades or class rank. Acting on the recommendation proposed by the AISD administration, the Board deferred the implementation of the requirement under state law that 15 percent of a student’s course grade be determined by the student’s performance on the corresponding end-of-course exam.

AISD Extends Choice Form Deadline for IDEA

Austin, TX— The Austin Independent School District today extended the deadline to submit choice forms for the IDEA program at Allan to March 9. Superintendent Meria Carstarphen released the following statement:

"From day one, our commitment has been about families having and making choices. This administration has been clear that we will continue to be flexible and will accommodate any of our families.

"I am confident that our families had information and are capable and informed decision-makers for their children.

Austin District-Charter Collaboration Compact Announcement

What: Announcement of the Austin District-Charter Collaboration Compact

Who: Program Speakers include:

Steven Epstein, Chief Academic Officer, KIPP Austin Public SchoolsJohn Fitzpatrick, Executive Director, Educate TexasVicki Phillips, Director of U.S. Education, Bill & Melinda Gates FoundationDr. Meria Carstarphen, Superintendent, Austin ISDDavid Dunn, Executive Director, Texas Charter Schools AssociationClarke Heidrick, Chair, Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce

When: Tuesday, Feb. 28, 3:00 p.m.

Statement Regarding Passing of Winn Elementary Student

Austin, TX— Austin Independent School District Director of Public Relations and Multicultural Outreach Alex Sanchez released the following statement today regarding the tragic death of a five-year-old Winn Elementary student:

"We are heartbroken by the loss of one of our students. In this time of great sadness, our thoughts are with the family.

"The district will be providing counseling services and other support to the Winn school community."

Recommendation on STAAR End-of-Course Exam “15 Percent” Grading Requirement

A student’s score on State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) end-of-course exams taken during spring 2012 would have no bearing on that student’s grades or class rank, according to policy revisions proposed by the AISD administration. The Board of Trustees is scheduled to take action on the proposed revisions at its next regular meeting on Monday, Feb. 27.

US Air Force Band of the West Holds Concert at Lanier March 19

Dimensions in Blue, the jazz ensemble from the United States Air Force Band of the West, will be presenting a free concert March 19 at 7p.m. in the Lanier High School Theater, 1201 Payton Gin Rd. The concert is free and open to the public.

The Dimensions in Blue jazz ensemble, from the United States Air Force Band of the West, generates a unique excitement through performances of America’s only original artform: Jazz.

Applications Being Accepted for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching

The National Science Foundation is accepting nominations and applications for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching program, the highest recognition a kindergarten through 12th grade mathematics or science teacher may receive for outstanding teaching. Awards may be given to mathematics and science teachers in each state and U.S. jurisdiction. Up to 108 awardees may be recognized each year.