May 2021

Let’s Talk Question of the Week (En español)

Will all children (vaccinated or not) have mask choice next year without restrictions such as distancing or plexiglass?

Answer: Restrictions such as distancing and plexiglass will depend on recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Austin Public Health at that time. We’ll communicate with our families about those procedures and any changes over the summer.

District Reforms PTA Funding Role

To create a more equitable situation for its schools, Austin ISD announced in a recent community meeting that PTAs would no longer be able to fund positions, and that if campuses have a demonstrated staffing need, the district will meet it.  For the 2020–21 school year, PTAs at 11 Austin ISD elementaries funded 31 full- and part-time positions that included library clerks, tutors and a Spanish teacher. This decision ends that practice.  

Sadler Means YWLA introduces new spaces and programs while honoring namesake

Families got their first view of new features and programs at the Bertha Sadler Means Young Women’s Leadership Academy’s open house May 15. The new Bertha Sadler Means Read and Reflection Center was christened via a special ceremony commemorating its namesake. The center is an open, furnished space along the main hallway near the school’s entrance.