April Newsletter
Autism Awareness Month
April is National Autism Awareness Month.
Autism (say: AW-tiz-um) spectrum disorder is a difference in the way a kid's brain develops. Kids with autism may have trouble understanding the world around them.
What's It Like to Have Autism Spectrum Disorder?
A kid with autism might have trouble:
- making friends or fitting in
- dealing with changes (like trying new foods, having a substitute teacher, or having toys moved from their normal places)
- dealing with loud noises, bright lights, or crowds
Kids also might move in an unusual way (like flapping their hands) or do the same thing over and over (like saying the same word).
A kid with autism may have a little trouble with these things, or a lot. Some kids need only a little bit of help, and others might need a lot of help with learning and doing everyday stuff.
How Is Autism Spectrum Disorder Treated?
There is no cure for autism, but treatment can make a big difference. The younger kids are when they start treatment, the better.
Doctors, therapists, and special education teachers can help kids learn to talk, play, and learn. Therapists also help kids learn about making friends, taking turns, and getting along.
What if My Friend Has Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Some people with ASD do not feel that they have a disorder and don't want to change. They're proud of who they are and they want to be accepted, even though they may have different strengths and weaknesses than most other people.
All people deserve respect. But kids with ASD may be teased, bullied or left out because they're different. Kids with ASD often don't understand playful jokes. You may need to be very clear when you communicate with someone who has ASD.
Try to be patient and kind. Remember how hard it might be for the person with ASD to understand how to be a friend. Stand up for classmates who are bullied. Tell adults, so they can help protect kids who are bullied.
Information Sources: Autism Spectrum Disorder (for Kids) | Nemours KidsHealth
If you want to learn more about autism, the following site offers great information: AST-2017-School-Toolkit.pdf (texasautismsociety.org)
From the Eagles Nest
Dear Doral Families,
As we enter the final stretch of the academic year, I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere appreciation for your ongoing support and dedication to your child's education at Doral Academy of Texas. As partners in the journey of nurturing young minds, your involvement and encouragement play an integral role in our collective success.
As you are well aware, the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) testing season is upon us. This crucial assessment not only measures our students' understanding and proficiency in various subject areas but also serves as a testament to their hard work, dedication, and growth throughout the academic year. I am incredibly proud to share that our students have been diligently preparing for the STAAR examinations, demonstrating unwavering commitment and resilience in the face of academic challenges. From engaging classroom discussions to collaborative problem-solving sessions, our students have consistently exhibited a thirst for knowledge and a determination to excel. At Doral Academy, we firmly believe in the potential of every student entrusted to our care. As Principal and Superintendent, I have witnessed firsthand the remarkable progress and achievements of our students, and I am filled with confidence in their ability to rise to the occasion during the upcoming STAAR testing.😀
To our students: You have worked tirelessly throughout the year, honing your skills, expanding your knowledge, and embracing every learning opportunity with enthusiasm. Remember that your hard work has prepared you well for the challenges ahead, and I have no doubt that you will showcase your talents and abilities with pride and confidence.
To our parents and guardians: Your unwavering support and encouragement serve as pillars of strength for our students, empowering them to reach new heights of academic excellence. As partners in education, let us continue to inspire and uplift our children, nurturing their love for learning and fostering a culture of achievement and success. Together, we will celebrate their accomplishments and support them every step of the way.
Thank you for your continued partnership and trust in Doral Academy of Texas. Together, we will empower our students to reach for the stars and achieve their dreams!
Warm regards,
Jennifer Desousa
Principal and Superintendent Doral Academy of Texas
Showing Appreciation to our Assistant Principal and Paraprofessionals!
Doral Assistant Principal: Ms. Garza
Para Ms. Munoz
Para Ms. Palmer
Para Ms. Dowling
Ms. Dowling seamlessly transitions between leading library classes for students and providing invaluable support within the Special Education department, demonstrating adaptability and dedication to meeting diverse educational needs.
Para Ms. Amaya
Para Ms. Colina
Para Ms. Arroyo
Para. Ms. G
Para. Ms. Russian
Para. Ms Gordon
Ms. Gordon not only offers positive behavior support across campus but also consistently seeks out opportunities to assist, all while actively contributing as a member of the PTSA, enhancing our school community with dedication and enthusiasm.
Para & SAM Ms. Garcia
Ms. Garcia adeptly juggles multiple roles, seamlessly transitioning from supporting teachers in various classrooms to ensuring the safety and security of the school environment. As a dedicated student activity monitor, they maintain vigilance while fostering a positive atmosphere conducive to learning, embodying flexibility and reliability at every turn.
Calendar and Upcoming April Events
Important Dates
- Autism Awareness Month
- National Assistant Principal Week
- Paraprofessional Appreciation Day, Wednesday, April 3rd
- National Library Week (April 7-13)
- Earth Day (April 22)
School is in session April 01st (weather make up day)
April 1st to 5th: Autism Acceptance Spirit Week
- 04/01- Wear favorite sport shirt or jersey, NO JEANS, please wear uniform bottoms
- 04/02- Wear a blue shirt or blue accessories with uniform bottoms, NO JEANS
- 04/03- Bring a Rubik's Cube (Wear uniforms)
- 04/04- Wear tie dye shirt/socks/colorful accessories, NO JEANS, please wear uniform bottoms
- 04/05- Bring your favorite sensory item to school (Wear uniforms
April 5th: SWOOP Day
April 8th: Chipotle Fundraiser (4pm-8pm) PTSA
- Total Solar Eclipse In School Field Trip
April 9th-May 3rd: STAAR Testing (look below)
April 10th: Parent Academy Math & Science Workshop 5pm-6pm
April 27: Family Fun Day (12pm-4pm) PTSA
STAAR Testing Information
April means STAAR Testing for our 3rd to 7th grade Eagles!
The State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR®) is a standardized academic achievement test designed to measure the extent to which a student has learned and is able to apply the defined knowledge and skills in the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) at each tested grade, subject, and course. Every STAAR question is directly aligned to the TEKS currently in effect for the grade and subject or course being assessed.
STAAR helps to ensure that Texas students are competitive with other students both nationally and internationally. Another important function of STAAR is gauging how well schools and teachers prepare their students academically. In addition, STAAR fulfills the requirements of the federal Every Student Succeeds Act, which requires that all students be assessed in specific grades and subjects throughout their academic careers.
STAAR is an online assessment in mathematics, reading language arts (RLA), science, and social studies for students in grades 3–8 and high school and online tests in Spanish for students in grades 3–5.
Parent STAAR Information
Please see below for Doral STAAR Schedule
Believe in your abilities and embrace the opportunity to showcase your hard work and dedication during the upcoming STAAR tests. Remember, these assessments are not just about a single score, but about the progress and growth you've made throughout the year. Approach them with confidence and determination, knowing that you have the knowledge and skills to succeed. Together, students and parents, let's support each other through this journey, celebrating achievements and learning from challenges along the way.
Parent Checklist
As a parent, your goal is to help your child succeed in life. Here’s what you can do to help them do well in school and on the STAAR test: https://www.texasassessment.gov/staar-prepare
Review STAAR Content
Take a look at sample test questions and test forms to know what your child can expect long before the testing date.
https://tea.texas.gov/student-assessment/testing/staar/staar-released-test-questions
Online Practice Tests
Have your child take a practice test that shows what the online testing environment and tools will be like
https://login6.cambiumtds.com/student_core/V78/Pages/LoginShell.aspx?c=Texas_PT
SPED Updates from Mrs. Lawson
The STAAR assessment is fast approaching. IDEA requires that students with disabilities take part in state or districtwide assessments. These are tests that are periodically given to all students to measure achievement. It is one way that schools determine how well and how much students are learning. Students with an IEP are entitled to testing accommodations for these state assessments. I encourage all parents to go back to their child's IEP and review and discuss their testing accommodations for a successful STAAR experience.
Safety First! From Ms. Garza 🚧✋🛑
Arrival Procedures
Arrival Procedures
Doral Academy is a Hands Free Zone while driving on campus
School Speed Limit on Fire Cracker Dr- 20 MPH
School Speed Limit on Campus- 5 MPH
School Hours for Students are 7:25 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
School Office Hours are 7:15 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Arrival
Parents should enter the south gate and follow the L around to the north gate. Please do not BLOCK the gate prior to 7:25am to allow for teacher entry. No student should enter the side door into the building prior to 7:25 a.m. as there is no supervision for his or her safety until after that time. Students may enter the building at 7:25 a.m. It is very important for all students to come to school on time every day. Students should be in their seats and ready to learn by 8:00 a.m. Parents are encouraged to let children enter the school building independently.
A crossing guard is stationed at the crosswalk from 7:25 am - 7:50 am. Please be aware of our crossing guard, Ms. Donaldson when she is crossing students/parents.
Instructions for Drop Off
Parents should follow the following procedures when dropping off his or her child(ren):
- The teachers on duty will direct the flow of traffic and the drop off zone.
- Cones are placed to show 2 drop off lanes.
- Students should not exit the vehicle unless an adult comes up to the car door.
- Parents should follow the direction of teachers on duty in pulling up to the drop off zone.
- Parents should not exit their vehicle. The teachers on duty will open car doors for students.
- The teachers on duty will not unbuckle seat belts.
- Parents should wait to be directed to move forward and/or continue after your child has exited the car.
- There will be no idling and/or parking in the drop off lanes. If you need to enter the school with your child(ren), please park in the front of the school. Please DO NOT park along the FIRE LANE.
*PARENTS MUST PRESENT A PHYSICAL COPY OF I.D. IF PICKING UP YOUR STUDENT EARLY*
Club Pick Up Announcement!!!!
Please see below. If you have any question, please reach out to your Club Teacher.
Re-Enrollment is Open!
Thank you to everyone who has already re-enrolled!
Re-enrollment is now OPEN for current families Kindergarten-8th grade for the 2024/2025 school year! 🏫🎒✏️
Don't miss your chance to secure your student's spot!
Re-enrollment will be done on Parent Portal:
https://portals13.ascendertx.com/ParentPortal/login?distid=105804
Onsite help will be available in the main office Mondays to Fridays from 8:30am to 1:30pm to provide personalized assistance.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Ms. Arriaga at iarriaga@doralacademytx.com or 512-436-3881 ext. 103
Doral PTSA Announcements
PTSA Chipotle Fundraiser
Chipotle in Kyle from April 8th 4pm-8pm
April 5th is SWOOP Day
Please look out for teacher updates!
Board election meeting on 04/24
PTSA is taking nominations for President, Secretary and Treasurer- who do you want as a candidate for 24/25?
April 27th- Family Fun Day!
art show, family picnic, 3 on 3 basketball, pie in the face, bounce houses, plant stand.
Club and Program Updates
4-H with Ms. Piche
Our coop building continues! We are looking for help at buying and building gardens to go around the coop. If you're willing to donate, please feel free to purchase a broiler from the store, and all proceeds go towards building/maintaining that area.
Run Club with Coach Morris
Run Club is for 4th to 7th graders!
Register at the School Store $75 registration fee
Gifted and Talented with Ms. Piche
Families confirming or requesting Gifted and Talented testing need to turn in their paperwork as soon as possible. By 3/28, if I don't have their paperwork and permission form, they will be ineligible for testing until Fall of 2024. If students are confirmed for services this Spring, they will not officially begin services until the first day of the new school year, but I will work with families wishing to begin some services sooner on a case-by-case basis. All current Gifted students are identified for life, and will continue to receive services with no additional testing.
Spirit Squad with Ms Colina & Ms Rivera
Our Spirit Squad Eaglettes have had a wonderful year. Our students, ranging from kinder to 3rd are the heart of Doral! We are preparing for our spirit rally performance!
Counselor's Corner
Ensuring Your Child's Safety on the Road from Ms. Eyhorn
As we prioritize the safety of our students both in and out of the classroom, it's crucial to highlight the importance of car seat and seatbelt safety. Properly installed car seats and seatbelts significantly reduce the risk of injury in the unfortunate event of a car accident.
Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
Choose the Right Car Seat: Make sure your child is in the appropriate car seat for their age, weight, and height. There are different types of car seats available, including rear-facing seats for infants, convertible seats for toddlers, and booster seats for older children.
Installation Matters: Ensure that the car seat is installed correctly according to the manufacturer's instructions. If you're unsure, many local fire departments or car seat clinics offer free inspections and assistance.
Buckle Up Every Time: Whether it's a short trip to the grocery store or a long road trip, make it a habit for everyone in the vehicle to wear their seatbelt properly. Lead by example—your children will follow your actions.
Educate Your Child: Teach your child about the importance of seatbelt safety from a young age. Explain why they need to stay seated and buckled up during car rides, even if they're just going a short distance.
For more detailed information and resources on car seat and seatbelt safety, we recommend visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's website at www.nhtsa.gov/carseats. They provide comprehensive guides, videos, and tools to help ensure your child's safety on the road.
Let's work together to keep our children safe on their journeys, whether it's to school, extracurricular activities, or family outings. If you have any questions or need assistance with car seat safety, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
Texas Guidelines: Seat belt and car seat guidelines (txdot.gov)
Need a carseat? Car Seat Information for Parents | Texas DSHS
Safe travels!
April SEL Theme is Peace
From Ms. Burns, SEL Coordinator
Peace: Proving you care more about each other than winning an argument. I can share.
“Peace is a condition in which individuals, families, groups, communities, and/or nations experience low levels of violence and engage in mutually harmonious relationships”. Dr. Roberto Parada
Articles on the relationship of Social Emotional Learning and Peace:
Social Emotional Learning and Peace (unesco.org)
creativeassociatesinternational.com/insights/teaching-peace-the-importance-of-social-e
motional-learning-in-schools/
Youtube Channel geared towards SEL
(7335) Peace Love Learn - YouTube
Activity–Peace Circles:
Peace Circles | Blended & Personalized Learning Practices At Work
The Love Light Activity:
Try This Powerful Social Emotional Activity: The Love Light (brightlittleowl.com)
🌳🌷🌍 Speaking of peace....April 22nd is Earth Day!
Every year on 22 April, Earth Day is celebrated around the world in over 192 countries. But this annual event is much more than a celebration – it’s an important day to raise awareness about looking after the environment.
If we want to keep our planet clean and safe for years to come, we need to reduce the amount of pollution we produce and fight against climate change. That’s why on Earth Day, over a billion people take part in activities to make the world a healthier place – from conferences and street marches, to art displays and beach clean-ups!
Learn about Earth’s incredible places, the environmental problems we need to tackle and the wonderful wildlife that need our help…
A look at what our Eagles have been working on! - Ms. Meyer
Ms Hamer's class- Diffusion!
Ms Tovar's class- Simple machines!
Ms. Avery's class- Animal Environment Models
Ms. Fleming's class: Solar Systems
Ms. John's class: Wind socks & Recording Weather
Ms. Haley's class: Animal Habitat Research
Texas Charter School Academic & Athletic League Art Festival Competition!
Congratulations to our Doral students who placed at the TCSAAL Visual Arts Competition!
1st Place Elementary Sculpture: Keira B.
1st Place Elementary Painting: Stetson A.
3rd Place Elementary Painting: Annmarie C.
2nd Place Middle School Mixed Media: Shoshanna B.
A Special Shout out to our Doral Art Teacher, Ms. Donaldson!
February Teacher of the Month
Congratulations Ms. Mican!
Ms. Mican, an exemplary middle school math teacher, fosters an inclusive classroom environment where every student feels valued and capable. Her innovative teaching methods and genuine passion for mathematics inspire her students to not only understand mathematical concepts but also to develop a lifelong love for the subject.