April 2021

Metz-Sánchez Elementary School Community Meeting

Curious about what the new, modernized campus will mean for your students? We are just a few months away from the completion of the construction and we invite you to join us! Please join us on Tuesday, May 4, at 6 p.m. for the Metz-Sánchez Elementary School Community Meeting.

Learn about:
(a) Academic programs and offerings for the next school year
(b) Ideas for the grand opening
(c) How modernized spaces make learning exciting

$2,500 Scholarship Available for FAFSA Social Media Video Contest

It’s never been this exciting to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form before! 

Austin ISD, in partnership with the Austin Chamber of Commerce, invites our high school seniors to participate in the 2020-21 FAFSA Social Media Contest. The goal is to encourage FAFSA submissions and help students qualify for college scholarships.

High school seniors who participate will have an opportunity to win a $2,500 scholarship from the Austin Chamber of Commerce.

2021 Assessments

2021 Assessment Reports

In 2021, Austin ISD underwent a facility condition assessment (FCA) and educational suitability assessment (ESA) process as part of its long-range planning. The results of the 2021 assessments—along with other data, community input and planning strategies—were used to support the development of the AISD Long-range Plan and 2022 Bond program.

Students

What can I do in an emergency?

Regardless of how old you are, the best thing that you can do in an emergency is stay calm and listen to those in authority. Follow instructions from your teachers or first responders and do exactly as they’ve asked. It’s important to take drills seriously and report any security concerns to school administrators. If you see something, say something! If you see a social media post which is unsettling to you, or hear an alarming statement made by another student, report it immediately.

Parents

Austin ISD is committed to the safety and security of all students, staff and visitors. A District Wide Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) is in place and reviewed annually. Campuses conduct  various emergency drills such as fire drills, severe weather drills and intruder drills throughout the school year to prepare students and staff for an emergency. All campus employees and administrators have received Critical Incident Training that is updated yearly.

Drills

(En español)

Why do we complete drills?

The more we drill and practice how to respond to an event, the better prepared we will be in an actual emergency. Drills create muscle memory, which can be life saving in a crisis situation by allowing people to react quickly and rely on their training, and not have to think about what to do. Drilling also allows us to see what works well and how to make plans even more effective.

Emergency Management

Mission

To ensure the safety and well-being of students, staff, and the community during various types of emergencies and crises. This mission encompasses a range of activities and strategies aimed at preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation. 

 

Preparedness

  • Develop and implement emergency plans and procedures tailored to the unique needs of the schools.
  • Conduct regular drills and exercises to train students, staff, and first responders on how to respond to different types of emergencies.
  • Establish communication systems and protocols for alerting and notifying stakeholders during emergencies.
  • Maintain updated contact information for students, staff, parents, and emergency contacts.
  • Secure necessary resources, such as emergency supplies, equipment, and facilities.

 

Response

  • Activate the emergency response plan when an incident occurs, whether it's a natural disaster, a security threat, a health crisis, or any other emergency.
  • Ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff by providing immediate medical care, evacuation if necessary, and shelter.
  • Coordinate with local emergency services, such as police, fire, and medical personnel, to respond effectively to the situation. 
  • Communicate with parents and guardians to keep them informed about the situation and the status of their children.

Recovery

  • Assess the impact of the emergency and begin the process of recovery, which may include repairing facilities, addressing emotional and psychological needs, and resuming educational activities.
  • Provide support services and counseling for students and staff who may have been affected by the emergency.
  • Work with local, state, and federal agencies to access financial resources and assistance for recovery efforts.

Mitigation

  • Identify and address potential hazards and vulnerabilities in school facilities and operations to reduce the risk of future emergencies.
  • Develop and implement strategies to promote a culture of safety and preparedness within the school community.
  • Continuously evaluate and update emergency plans and procedures based on lessons learned from past incidents and changes in the threat landscape.

 

Community Engagement

  • Foster collaboration with parents, community organizations, and local government agencies to strengthen the overall emergency response and preparedness efforts.
  • Educate students, staff, and the community about emergency procedures and the importance of being prepared.
  • Encourage the development of partnerships and resources that can support emergency management initiatives.

Compliance

  • Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations related to emergency management and school safety.
  • Stay informed about emerging threats and best practices in emergency management to adapt and improve preparedness efforts.

 

New Name for Eastside Up For Consideration as Historic Bond Project Nears Completion

(Lea esta historia en español.)

By Anne Drabicky & Ali Ghilarducci

As part of the district’s 2017 Bond Program, Eastside Memorial Early College High School and International High School—both currently located at the Johnston Campus—will soon move to a new permanent site. 

On Thursday, trustees will consider whether to officially approve the new name proposed by the school’s campus advisory council: Eastside Early College High School.