• 🗓️ Upcoming Events & Holidays
• ✋ Standard Response Protocols & Campus Emergency Drills
• 📖 Epic Books Update
  
• 💻 Digital Citizenship Contest
  
• 🔵 World Day of Bullying Prevention
  
• 🌷 Bloom Women's Luncheon
  
• 📄 Employment Verification Process - Certification
  
• 🌺 Hispanic/Latino Heritage Pfair
  
• 🏫 Strategic Plan Visioning Task Force
• ✍🏻 Open Enrollment is Here!
• 🎶 Fine Arts
• 🔩CTE Corner
  
• 💬 Join the Conversation!
• 🖊️Trustees Meeting Brief
• 👏 Staff Recognitions
  

Sep 15–Oct 15 : Hispanic Heritage Month

National Bullying Prevention month

National School Principal Month

Learning Disabilities Awareness Month

Oct. 3: Board Workshop Meeting

Oct. 6-12: Fire Prevention Week

Oct. 10: Hispanic / Latino Heritage Pfair

Oct. 11: Student Holiday / Staff Development Day

Oct. 14: Student Holiday / Staff Development Day

Oct. 14: Indigenous People Day

Oct. 14-18: Nat'l School Lunch Week

Oct. 14-18: Nat'l School Bus Safety Week

Oct. 23-31: Red Ribbon Week

We train our staff and students in the Standard Response Protocols (SRP); Secure, Lockdown, Evacuate, Shelter, and Hold. These five simple procedures give our staff and students the tools they need to properly initiate emergency response actions for any emergency that may occur on campus.

These SRPs are practiced regularly each school year at all campuses through drills. State law dictates that number of times each semester each drill has to be practiced.

Each week we will go over one of our SRP's that will be listed below along with a brief description of the protocol. For more information about each protocol, please visit: www.pfisd.net/srp

Get inside. Lock outside doors.

Lockdown is called when there is a threat or hazard inside the school building. From parental custody disputes to intruders to an active shooter, Lockdown uses classroom security to protect students and staff from threat.

We invite all parents, staff, and students to watch this important video about school safety measures in PfISD. The video highlights the steps we're taking to ensure a safe environment for our students, staff and visitors.

It's crucial for parents to speak with their students about the importance of anonymous reporting through our "See or Hear Something, Say Something" initiative, empowering them to report any concerns through our Anonymous Alerts system.

Additionally, the video addresses how serious the consequences will be for making threats against a school, even if intended as a joke. Threats are taken very seriously, and there will be strict disciplinary and legal actions for anyone involved in such behavior. Keeping our schools safe is a shared responsibility. We appreciate your help in keeping our schools and community safe!

We understand that many teachers and students have been using the Epic app for independent reading for several years. However, Epic does not comply with HB 900, which requires librarians to oversee the selection of all library materials. Since librarians cannot curate the content on Epic or control which books students can access, the app will no longer be available after October 1.

The good news is that teachers and students can still access thousands of eBooks, audiobooks, and read-along books through Sora! Our PfISD librarians carefully curate the content on this platform, ensuring that students only see books appropriate for their grade levels—elementary students see elementary titles, and middle school students see middle school and below.

Sora is available through Classlink in the campus library folder and can also be accessed on home devices through the Sora app or at soraapp.com.

October is Digital Citizenship Month & we're excited to launch our annual Digital Citizenship contest from October 14 through November 22!

The contest provides Pflugerville ISD students a fun, gamified way to master the skills they need to navigate the online world safely & responsibly. Winners will be announced in December. Top Elementary and Junior High Schools with the highest percentage of CIPA compliant students will win a banner to

show off their commitment to student digital citizenship! Teachers will also be entered into a raffle for a chance to win fun prizes!

Students will use Learning.com's Tech Quest (lessons at the beginning). Once completed, students will appear as compliant on school & district e-rate reports.

Students login through ClassLink to get started!

Educators please refer to the CIPA for E-Rate Guide below!

Join us in taking a stand against bullying by participating in Blue Shirt Day! 💙🌎

As part of World Bullying Prevention Day, wearing blue symbolizes unity and support for everyone affected by bullying. This global movement aims to spread awareness, foster kindness, and create safe spaces for all.

#Blue Up! Don’t forget to wear your blue shirt on October 7 and share your photos to communications@pfisd.net

Join the Pflugerville Education Foundation in partnership with the Pflugerville Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, November 14th for a celebration of inspiration, leadership, and community.

The 3rd Annual Bloom Womens Luncheon promises a day of powerful networking featuring a keynote speaker who is sure to inspire. This is an event for everyone that supports and celebrates Pfhenomenal Pflugerville Women!

All funds raised from the luncheon directly benefit Pflugerville ISD students, teachers and district programs. Since its inception in 2006, the Pfoundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, has awarded more than $2.6 million in innovative teacher grants and scholarships.

Thursday, November 14th

Courtyard Marriott Pflugerville

10:30am-1:00pm

2024 Bloom Nominations

We encourage you to nominate someone that you know who is deserving of the following awards. The Pflugerville Chamber of Commerce will be presenting the business focused awards.

6 Categories:

• Pfantastic PfISD Alumni Award presented by PEF

• Pfabulous Community Leader Award presented by PEF

• Pfhenomenal PfISD Volunteer Award presented by PEF

• Empowerment Award for a Minority-Owned Business presented by the Pf Chamber

• Pinnacle Award for Women in Business presented by the Pf Chamber

• Young Entrepreneur Award presented by the Pf Chamber

Click here to learn more about the criteria for each category.

Click here to submit your nomination. Nominations close October 15th.

For more information visit www.thepfoundation.org/BLOOM.

Questions? Contact:

Linda Medina-Lopez

Pflugerville Education Foundation, Executive Director

linda.medina@pfisd.net

512-594-0171

www.thefoundation.org

The Pflugerville Independent School District (PfISD) has launched an inclusive and forward-thinking Strategic Planning initiative by creating a Task Force aimed at shaping the future of education within the district. This Visioning Task Force will bring together a diverse group of stakeholders, including parents, community members, business leaders, administrators, teachers, Board members, and students, all of whom will collaborate to ensure a well-rounded and community-focused vision for PfISD. The initiative centers on a comprehensive visioning process that will result in key findings regarding the delivery and support of instruction, actionable directions for achieving these goals, and a well-defined Profile of a Learner in PfISD.

To ensure the success of this visioning process, the Task Force will meet at 6 p.m. on the dates listed below.

It is crucial that all members of the committee attend each meeting, as their participation and input will be essential in shaping the outcomes. The feedback and guidance provided during these sessions will serve as the foundation for the district’s strategies and priorities in the coming years, ensuring that the educational needs of all students are met with excellence and innovation.

Meeting Dates

• October 8, 2024
• October 22, 2024
• November 12, 2024
• December 3, 2024
• December 12, 2024
• December 17, 2024
• January 9, 2025
• January 14, 2025

As part of our annual employee verification process, all staff are required to access their certifications in TEAL to ensure that all required certificates have not expired. If any certification required for your current position has expired, follow the instructions below to renew your certificate(s) no later than October 31, 2024.

A certification audit will be conducted, and staff who have not updated their required certificates

will be identified and may be subject to pay and employment implications.

Should you have any questions regarding this process, please contact Certification Specialist,

Keitra Johnson in Human Resources.

If your certification is expired, please view the following instructions:

Instructions - https://helpdesk.tea.texas.gov/EducatorCertificationandCPE/kbadetails/?id=7eae7de1-279d-4879-887a-2c219f492bcc

TEAL - https://tealprod.tea.state.tx.us/

Celebrating Pflugerville ISD's 1st Hispanic/Latino Heritage Pfair!

We’re excited to announce the first-ever Hispanic/Latino Heritage Pfair in Pflugerville ISD. This will be an unforgettable celebration of culture, history, and community! This event is a fantastic opportunity for our students, staff, and families to come together and honor the rich traditions and contributions of our Hispanic/Latino community.

This event will include cultural booths that showcases the beauty and diversity of Hispanic/Latino heritage through food, music, art, and history,

Our EMCEE is Austin's own, Salwa Yordi! We can't wait to see you there!

Employees will now be able to log in and enroll in benefits. The enrollment site will be open from October 1, 2024, through October 25, 2024. After October 25th the site will close and you will no longer be able to enroll for 2025 benefits unless you have a qualifying life event. Open enrollment is your opportunity to add, drop, or make changes to your benefits. Changes will be effective January 1, 2025.

There are important changes to the medical, dental, FSA, and HSA plans, making it necessary for employees to re-enroll to maintain coverage. Current plans will not roll over automatically.

Employees newly hired for the 2024-2025 academic year will need to re-enroll for benefits to have coverage in 2025. Your current benefits will end on December 31, 2024.

The 2025 Benefits Guide is included for your review before making your selections.

How to enroll:

• Visit www.pfisdbenefits.com and select "Enroll Online" OR
• Call the SMBO call center at 877-282-0808, Mon - Fri, 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

The PfISD Benefits Department is available to assist with any questions via:

• Phone 512-594-0026
• Email benefits@pfisd.net
• At your campus during the HR Front Porch initiative in October

In October, the HR team will visit every campus and department to assist employees with HR-related questions, such as open enrollment, leave, compensation, certification, etc.

Please note the scheduled date and time we will be at your location.

Thursday Oct. 3: 2:30 - 4:00 NWES 2:30 - 4:00 WDES

Friday, Oct. 4: 3:30 - 5:00 HHS 2:30 - 4:00 RBES

Monday Oct. 7: 3:30 - 5:00 OC 2:30 - 4:00 CWES

Tuesday, Oct.8: 3:30 - 5:00 PHS 3:00 - 4:30 PMS

Wednesday, Oct. 9: 2:30 - 4:00 CES 2:30 - 4:00 WES

Thursday, Oct. 10: 2:30 - 4:00 ROES 3:00 - 4:30 DMS

Friday, Oct. 11: 9:00 - 11:00 Transportation 2:30-5:00 SSV/Tech

Monday, Oct. 14: 3:00-4:30 PACE/H&S/EDP/Police 2:00 - 4:00 Admin

Tuesday, Oct. 15: 2:30 - 4:00 RES 2:30 - 4:00 HPES

Wednesday, Oct. 16: 2:30 - 4:00 BHES 3:00 - 4:30 CMS

Thursday, Oct. 17: 2:30 - 4:00 DES 2:30 - 4:00 VMES

Friday, Oct. 18: 2:30 - 4:00 JCES 3:00-4:30 KLMS

Monday. Oct. 21: 2:30 - 4:00 PES 2:30 - 4:00 DRES

Tuesday, Oct. 22: 3:00-4:30 PCMS 3:30-5:00 CHS

Wednesday, Oct. 23: 2:30 - 4:45 MES 3:30 - 5:00 WHS

Thursday, Oct. 24: 2:30 - 4:00 RLES 2:30 - 4:00 PLES

Friday, Oct. 25: 2:30 - 4:00 WLES 3:00-4:30 BMS

Thank you to everyone who helped make the 21st Annual Pfestival of Bands a success!

Our band students truly shone, thanks to the hard work and dedication of many. We are especially grateful for our supportive community. A big thank you goes out to the band directors, volunteers, community relations team, athletics department, art teachers and students, transportation department, PHS AV team, custodians, grounds crew, safety department, police, and everyone who attended to support our students!

If you missed it, you can still check out the digital program and jumbotron art show here!

Be sure to follow the Fine Arts Department on Facebook and Instagram to see more photos and learn about upcoming events!

See the full album of Pfestival photos on the PfISD Facebook Page Here!

Students in the Health Science Theory course at Pflugerville High School experienced the advanced simulation lab at the ACC Highland Campus, and toured the Make It Center where they explored careers in hands-on activities and virtual reality. ACC staff also shared a presentation on college admissions, financial aid services, and college life.

Healthcare Therapeutics is one of more than 20 career and technical education (CTE) programs

in PfISD. Students in these programs gain advanced knowledge and skill in high-demand occupations, learn about careers and career pathways, and participate in work-based learning experiences that prepare them for postsecondary success to both enter further education and the workforce. Most programs offer students an industry certification and many award college credit.

Learn more about CTE programs, including career academies and P-TECH academies

here or contact cte@pfisd.net.

We invite you to be a part of the district's next Strategic Plan by participating in Dr. Shepherd's 100-Day Listening and Learning Tour.

Dr. Shepherd is excited to begin his role as Superintendent with a 100-day plan called "Discovering Pflugerville." He will focus on engaging with the community through a listening tour, gathering insights to shape our district’s future, and fostering a transparent and inclusive administration. Dr. Shepherd is eager to hear from you about what’s working well and where we can improve—your feedback is essential to our shared success.

This is your chance to share your insights, ideas, and feedback to help guide the direction of our schools and community. Your voice matters in shaping the future of our district!

👇Click below and let us know what you feel is working well in the district, and what you think the district needs to improve on in the survey below!

Get the inside scoop on all things PfISD! This section of the newsletter is your go-to spot for the latest on upcoming board meetings and easy access to past board meeting minutes.

Reminder: Upcoming Board Meeting - October 3

Did you miss the September 19 Board of Trustees Special Meeting? Watch below!

September 19, Board Workshop Meeting

If you would like to subscribe to receive agendas when posted, please visit the Agendas and Minutes page and scroll to the bottom to complete the subscription form. Stay connected and stay informed!

Pflugerville ISD has launched a new Administration Report to promote transparency and ensure that stakeholders are informed about administrative decisions, board meetings, and district-wide initiatives. This comprehensive resource supports student success and community trust by keeping everyone engaged and informed.

To see the most recent Administration Report, visit www.pfisd.net/administrative-report.

Welcome back to our Staff Shoutout and Pfamily Kudos section! In the coming weeks, you will see messages of appreciation from parents, students, community members, and other staff members through Staff Shoutouts and Pfamily Kudos.

Thank you to our amazing PfISD staff members for everything they do for our students and community!

Want to recognize a staff member who goes above and beyond? Click here to submit your Pfamily Kuddos for the google form.

Ms. Lydia Ramirez brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our campus. As an EA, she goes beyond standard data documentation and assistance of our special population students. She motivates and rewards (all) students for participation, effort, and academic excellence. Ms. Ramirez also advocates for her students, gives valuable advice to classroom teachers, and makes suggestions to make learning more meaningful for students who have learning challenges. DMS is lucky to have such an experienced EA. Kudos!

Irma Mansilla of Spring Hill Elementary (via: Spring Hill Admin Team)

Irma has stepped up and taken over announcements for our campus. This has had a positive impact on our campus. Kids are excited to participate in the process and are learning so much. Thank you Irma!

Frances Vargas of Multilingual Department (via: Anon)

The staff of DES truly appreciate all that Frances is doing to support our teachers this year. She has continually been a faithful and committed partner in helping our school find success. We're not quite sure what we would do without her.

Stephanie Christian of WMS (via: Anon)

Ms. Christian is an outstanding teacher-leader. She is always positive, helpful, and hard-working. People notice the amazing things you do, ma'am!

Dessau Elementary Kickball (via: Westview Kickball) They played a great game, shared some amazing memories, and were gracious host's!

Mario Brothers!!! of Plumbing Department (via: MES Office)

We can't ever send enough kudos for this department! They are staying on top of their work orders and are always here in record time! They are also willing to go out of their way and do the research to really find out what is wrong and how do we fix it for sure! We know how busy you guys are and appreciate all that you do for our campus!

Keith Jones of Bohls Middle School/Math Teacher (via: Tia Birt)

Keith volunteered at our main entrance crosswalk Wednesday, September 25th. He showed up and took the stop sign from my hand and welcomed families across the driving lane. Keith has a big smile and an even bigger heart for all students.Thanks for the surprise!

The Benefits Department (via: Anon)

The Benefits Department did an amazing job of hosting a benefits baby shower for expecting families or those planning to expand their families. There was great information shared, and the snacks and door prizes were a lovely treat! Thank you for a wonderful event!

Jessica Brown of Kelly Lane Middle School (via: Michael E.)
She is the absolute best english teacher ever

Kelly Williams of Pfisd kelly lane 7th grade adv english (via: Victoria E.)
She is very kind and understanding.

Ms. Patton of Windermere Elementary (via: Anonymous)
Ms. Patton is such an asset to Windermere! While she does many things to help, so many of us appreciate her helping direct traffic in the morning so drop off goes smoother. Thanks, Ms. P!

Miss Carmen Bessire of Parmer Lane Elementary school (via: Kenia M.)
Quiero agradecer y reconocer a miss bessire por ser una excelente maestra, por desempeñar su trabajo con tanta, paciencia, empatía, amabilidad y sobre todo con amor que se puede notar en tan pocas semanas atrás vez de los niños, que mi hijo va feliz y contento a su escuela sin ningún miedo ni inseguridad y sobre todo se nota el trabajo de la maestra que en tan poco tiempo ha aprendido muchísimas cosas!! Gracias miss bessire por hacer que yo como mamá esté súper tranquila de que mi hijo asista a la escuela !! ❤️❤️❤️❤️

Jeffrey Brooks of Kelly lane middle school history teacher (via: Mia Z.)
I really appreciate the time he takes to put in our lessons and how he presents them. He put in a lot of effort on our lessons about the Salem witch trials and I enjoyed it a lot.

Garfield Harrison of Journalism (via: Anon )
Mr. Harrison does his best to keep the students engaged in what we're learning and he's also really funny, and my favorite teacher! One of the reasons I chose Journalism was because he was teaching, and if he hadn't been then I wouldn't have picked it. I love you Mr. Harrison!

Ms. Grollman of Rowe Lane Elementary Music Teacher (via: Rachael S.)
This is Ms. Grollman's first year at Rowe Lane and she has hit the ground running, taking on the planning of the school musical and grade level performances. Her communication with parents has been excellent and the students are excited to participate! She also came to my daughter's basketball game to cheer her on. We are so lucky to have her join the Rowe Lane campus.

Becca Erickson of Riojas Elementary (via: Amanda D.)
Ms. Erickson has been such a positive influence on my daughter this year! First, my daughter comes home rattling off decimal math facts like it’s something she’s known for years. Second, she is such a good role model for my daughter. She communicates with us when necessary and always provides age-appropriate solutions in the classroom. Thank you for nurturing my daughter!

Shelly Valmores of Connally High School (via: Anon)
She is a really great teacher. Her teaching method is amazing and I am never scared of asking for help. She has a great personality and I am always excited to go to her class.

Mr. Adams (4th Grade) of Rowe Lane Elementary (via: Nicki A.)
Mr. Adams is doing a fantastic job of engaging his class in science. My daughter comes home every day talking about what her class did in science and how fun the science experiments are. She has even started doing experiments at home. Thank you Mr. Adams for all you do to provide a fun and engaging learning environment for your students.