Cougar News

Smallville-

At a meeting of every principal in AISD on Wednesday, I had the opportunity to stand with a few select others as Small was recognized for receiving two TEA Distinctions. For those curious, distinction designations are awarded for achievement in several areas. They are based on performance relative to a group of campuses of similar type, size, grade span, and student demographics. We were placed in a group of 40 campuses in the great state of Texas and finished in the top 25% of the following two categories: Comparative Academic Growth and Comparative Closing the Gaps.

To be considered for a TEA Distinction, Small had to receive a grade of D or higher on the State report card. Seeing as how we received a B (a high B at that…B plus is more like it), we were eligible for the distinction.

With all the talk of report cards and accountability, I decided it was time to give ourselves grades on things we here in Smallville value most. So, without further adieu, here is our report card for the first 13 weeks of this school year.

Note: click on the report card to see it bigger.

Here are the things about these grades; they’re not set in stone. This is not a post-mortem report. We can still improve and know that the high grades we receive can also be lower if we do not constantly work on maintaining high standards. We do not rest on our laurels and do not take anything for granted.

We are thankful for the opportunity to work with your student and for your support.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Matthew Nelson

Principal

matthew.m.nelson@austinisd.org

(512) 841-6705

We have some happy teachers and staff heading out for their fall brake with a sweet treat! Smallville PTA and parents ROCK!!!!!! Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Dearest Parents and Guardians,

During the two weeks prior to Christmas break the Science department will be presenting the district Human Sexuality and Responsibility curriculum to our students.

We have sent letters home that need to be returned and emails with google forms for you to fill out that need a response. Please check your email or Childs backpack for the letter from your students science teacher.

This year you will have to “Opt In” for your child to receive the information. If you would rather not have your child receive the information, then you will need to let us know you are Opting them out so we can plan for alternative lessons.

If you would like to view the curriculum before deciding, you can see it here: https://www.austinisd.org/pe-health/health-education/hsr

Which ever you decide, we will need the information as soon as we get back from Thanksgiving break.

If you have any questions, please contact your child’s Science teacher.

Have a great break!

Sylvia Brown

Science Department Chair

Our yearbook is a full color celebration of everything that makes Small special; it's a great fun way to preserve all your student's fond memories of Small. The book is $35 before the holidays. The price goes up to $40 in January. Get your yearbook today!

Click here for the easy link: https://www.jostens.com/apps/store/productBrowse/2369067/Small-Middle-School/2023-Yearbook/2022092615150740089/CATALOG_SHOP/

If you have any yearbook questions, please email Mr. Shoptaw at thomas.shoptaw@austinisd.org.

National Junior Honor Society Applications are open as of Wednesday, 11/16, for current 6th and 7th grade students. This is a national organization that focuses on promoting the values of scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship. Students selected for NJHS membership will need to maintain an 85% average GPA, complete 20 hours of community service per year, and attend at least two meetings per semester. Above all, NJHS members must be outstanding school and community members. The link to the application is available to the students through the Counselor's BLEND page, as well as here: NJHS Application Applications are due by December 9th at midnight. Please contact Ms. Hargrove with any questions: lindsey.hargrove@austinisd.org

The Small Counseling department is looking for donations to help our families in need this holiday season. We would love your support and are grateful for anything that can you can contribute. Please see the image for details.

It is almost MAROON AND WHITE NIGHT TIME!

Plan to attend the highly engaging Maroon and White Showcase Night at Austin High on Thursday, December 1st!

This one-of-a kind event will allow future Maroons to explore all of the amazing programs that Austin High has to offer. Tour the Culinary Arts Kitchen, our Film Studio, or learn more about the exciting opportunities in sports and clubs. Visit with teachers and students about our Academies and learn about their signature experiences.

The event will begin at 6:00pm in the Austin High Performing Arts Center, with a special performance featuring the many award-winning programs that Austin High has to offer. Families will then have time to visit with teachers and students representing all aspects of Austin High academics, electives, sports, and clubs.

Mark your calendars for this exciting night!

The event will be ending at 7:30pm.

Every chromebook comes with 1 charger. If your student loses that charge, you must purchase a new one. We do not have extra chargers in the office to loan or give out.

Click here to purchase or see what charger you need for the school chromebooks.

Home of the Cougars and the Green Tech Academy!

Email: jennifer.newell@austinisd.org
Website: https://small.austinschools.org/
Location: 4801 Monterey Oaks Boulevard, Austin, TX, USA
Phone: 512-841-6700
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057069836221