PfISD Employee Express

• 🗓️ Upcoming Events & Holidays
• 🔈 Benefits Brief
  
• 🔤 Pegasus Enrollment Still Open!
  
• 📣 Call for Teacher Input!
  
• 🧢 No Cap Comedy Show Fundraiser
  
• 🤝 Campus Safety and Private Citizens
  
• ✍🏻 Board Names Superintendent Lone Finalist
  
• 🎣 Are you Retiring This Year?
  
• 📝 Retirement Planning Workshop
• 🔩 CTE Corner
• 🖊️ Trustees Meeting Brief
• 👏 Recognitions

Math Awareness Month

School Library Month

Apr. 10 - College Application Process Educational Event

Apr. 16 - Parent-Teen Connection Lunch & Learn

Apr. 18 - Board of Trustees Regular Meeting

VSP – What does your plan currently cover?

Frequency: Eye exam every 12 months, Lenses every 12 months, Frames every 24 months

Copays: $10.00 Exam, $25.00 Frame/Lenses/Contact Lenses

Frame Allowance: $175.00

Contact Lenses: $175.00, Clex $60.00

Covered Lens Enhancements: Polycarbonate Lenses for Children Scratch-Resistant Coating Standard Progressives

Essential Medical Eyecare: $20.00

Kidscare - Two exams focusing on your eye and overall wellness; Same frame allowance and lens

coverage as primary benefit $25.00. An additional pair of lenses or contact lenses is up to the plan allowance when needed.

Essential Medical Eye Care - Additional exams and services beyond routine care to treat immediate issues

Retinal Screenings - $39 copay or $0 for diabetic members

Extra $20 - Additional $20 towards frame allowance for Featured Frame Brands

Laser Vision Correction - Average 15% off the regular price 5% off the promotional price

Pay $0 for select specialty medication!

Specialty medications can cost a lot of money. That’s why your plan offers a program called SaveOnSP, to lower your out-of-pocket costs to $0.

Participate in SaveOnSP and save. Over 300 specialty medications are eligible.

Over 300 specialty medications are eligible or the SaveOnSP program. If you’re filling an eligible medication, a representative from SaveOnSP will contact you to discuss the program.

You’ll pay $0 for your medication when you participate in SaveOnSP. If you choose not to participate, you’ll pay a higher cost share when you fill your medication.

Conditions covered by SaveOnSP include, but are not limited to:

• Hepatitis C

• Multiple Sclerosis

• Psoriasis

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease

• Rheumatoid Arthritis

• Cancer

Pegasus Enrollment will continue as several locations have open seats.

The purpose of the Pegasus Program is to provide onsite preschool for children of district staff members while also providing preschoolers with disabilities an opportunity to regularly interact with typically-developing peers.

Children of district employees serve as positive role models for the students identified with special needs. This research-based model benefits both groups by providing quality preschool instruction in a supportive, inclusive setting.

Pegasus is open to district employees, substitutes, Aramark employees, and relatives of all three. Visit https://www.pfisd.net/pegasus for more information or click on a link below.

For more information, please view the links below:

• Pegasus Parent Agreement 24/25
• Pegasus Application 24/25

Please contact Julie Schwarz at Julie.schwarz@pfisd.net or 512-594-0173 with any questions.

We are considering alternative professional learning platform options for SY 24-25. This focus group will showcase three possible vendors/products for consideration. Each vendor will have 30 minutes to showcase their product with Q&A. We will then debrief together for 20 minutes after listening to all three product demos.

Extra-Duty Pay: Teachers, Interventionists, and Campus Instructional Coaches who participate fully in this focus group will earn a one-time stipend of $60.00.

Topic: PD Platform Demos - Campus-Based Staff

Time: Apr 16, 2024, 04:00 PM Central Time

Join Zoom Meeting

https://pfisd-net.zoom.us/j/3491413115?omn=93054359873

Meeting ID: 349 141 3115

Passcode: ProfLearn

Join PfISD Parent & Family Engagement and Pfood Pfairness for their No Cap comedy show fundraiser on Saturday, April 13 at 6 p.m. at Pflugerville High School! 🎬

From performances by comedian Keith Terry and Pflugerville high school students!

Scan the QR code below to purchase tickets.🎫

Over the past two weeks there has been an individual walking and bicycling around Pflugerville with a firearm visible. While it is alarming, at this point it does not violate state law.

Our PfISD Police, along with city police officers, are aware of the situation and are actively monitoring it. They stand ready to intervene should the individual violate any laws. Additionally, as a precautionary step, the individual has received a Criminal Trespass Warning for our campuses.

As always, we ask that our campus administrators and staff members remain vigilant in monitoring our campuses and the areas around our campuses. If you notice anyone or anything suspicious, please call 911. Should we have any situations directly impacting one of our campuses, we will send a letter out to all staff and parents.

PfISD is partnering with the Phoenix House Texas to provide a Lunch and Learn Zoom series for families!

Pack a lunch, eat at your desk, and learn different ways to connect with your teenagers and strengthen your family.

Session 2- Building Communication with your family: April 16, 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.

Session 3- Effects of Vaping: April 23, 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.

Session 4- Parent-Teen Relationships: April 30, 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.

For more information, please contact:

Dana Wilcott, Family Services Coordinator

dana.wilcott@pfisd.net

The Pflugerville ISD Board of Trustees approved Dr. Quintin Shepherd as the lone finalist for Superintendent of Schools during its April 4 meeting.

With nearly three decades dedicated to public education, Dr. Shepherd brings a depth of experience and knowledge to PfISD.

Are you planning to retire at the end of the current school year?

The Community Relations Department kindly asks that you take a moment to fill out the Google Form by clicking on the following link: Retirement Survey Form.

Retirees will be honored at the upcoming PfISD Employee Recognition Banquet scheduled for May 14, 2024.

If you would like to receive an invitation, be listed in the banquet program, and receive the retirement gift, you need to submit the information on the google form no later than April 15.

Employees who plan to retire are requested to inform the Human Resources Department accordingly.

You’re invited to a live webinar to learn about important topics regarding your financial benefits as an employee of Pflugerville ISD, and what steps educators need to take to prepare for retirement!

This is a retirement planning workshop provided by our third-party administrator, TCG. This webinar will be offered to all staff.

Register today down below or scan the QR code in the flyer!

Seniors - the annual PfISD CTE Signing Day is coming and we want to recognize you!

CTE Signing Day is a statewide initiative that provides an opportunity to recognize and

celebrate graduating seniors choosing in-demand career pathways through college, direct-to-

work, or technical training after high school. Sign up before Apr 19, 2024; you’ll be notified of

eligibility in early May.

CTE Signing Day

Date: 5/15/24, 6:00 p.m.

Location: Pfluger Hall, 203 E Pecan St, Pflugerville, TX 78660

Eligibility criteria:

• A graduating senior*
• Earned industry-based certification(s) and a level 2 course in CTE program of study*
• Completed a CTE program of study (optional)
• Accepted employment with a business related to their high school CTE program of study (optional) and/or
• Accepted into a post-secondary program related to their high school CTE program of study (optional)

*required criteria

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

The Pflugerville ISD Board of Trustees approved Dr. Quintin Shepherd as the lone finalist for Superintendent of Schools during its April 4 meeting.

Click the link below to view the meeting video!

April 4 - Board Workshop Meeting

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

Below you will see messages of appreciation from parents, students, community members, and other staff members through Staff Shout Outs 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.

Sandy Stewart of Librarian (via: Jennifer C.)
Ms. Stewart is the best librarian! She does so much to inspire our kids to be lifelong lovers of reading. She has created systems that keep our library organized and accessible to our kids. Our Rockets love her because she is kind, has great book recommendations and lets them just come cozy up with a book in "the zone".

Ms. Erika Johnson of Pflugerville Middle School (via: Mel C.)
Ms. Johnson is a first-year 6th-grade English teacher at PMS, and she is FIRE. I am so grateful that my son has her for English this year. She understands her students and their different learning styles, and that is super important in this modern world. My child is Atypical, and he is thriving in her classroom and actually enjoying English/LA. Thanks, Ms. Johnson, for all you do for these kiddos!

Zack Krasuk of Weiss High School (via: Elizabeth B.)
Mr. Zack Krasuk is a phenomenal teacher that goes above and beyond for his students. He has demonstrated time and time again how much he cares about his students and their success. He is the kind of teacher that kids remember from their formative years. He truly makes a real difference in our daughter’s life. He is diligent, caring and an outstanding example of how much a teacher can touch a student’s life in an uplifting and positive way. Thank you for everything you do Mr. Krasuk!

Olivia Alvarez of Ruth Barron Elementary School (via: Josefina I.)
With it being School Library Month, I would like to recognize what an astounding job Ms. Olivia Alvarez has done this year. Filling a librarian's shoes is no small feat, but Ms. Alvarez has exceeded all expectations. She has researched and worked hard to meet the needs of every student, she has worked overtime countless times to ensure any and all library activities were successful and fun opportunities for the kids, and she has demonstrated her committed, caring, and thoughtful side to the entire community by volunteering beyond her job duties and helping in any capacity needed. I really appreciate all of your efforts and am grateful for all you do. We are so lucky to have you on our campus, so thank you very, very much.

Melvin Battle of Dearing Elementary- RES inclusion teacher (via: Ashley L.)
Every morning at drop off (I go in and walk my daughter) Mr. Battle can be met with a smiling face and a good morning greeting not just to us but everyone he passes. He goes out to do car line drop off and is always smiling. One day during the rain he was the only one out there making sure the kids were safe especially with no crossing guard! Same in the afternoon during pick up! We, I appreciate Mr Battle and his willingness to keep all the children safe during drop off and pick up!

Zack Krasuk of Weiss High (via: Ryan D.)
My student has been dealing with medical issues the entire school year. Mr. Krasuk always goes above and beyond to make sure she does not feel overwhelmed by the amount of missed classwork by working directly with her and setting attainable plans of action for her. We continue to be amazed by the level of understanding and support he provides our child!

Nancy Gross of Weiss High (via: Ryan D.)
My student has been dealing with medical issues the entire school year. Mrs. Gross always goes above and beyond to ensure she does not feel overwhelmed by the amount of missed classwork by working directly with her and setting attainable action plans for her. We continue to be amazed by the level of understanding and support she provides our child, especially for an AP course!

Chandra Brown of Mott Elementary (via: Rhonda T.)
Mrs. Brown is not only an amazing teacher but is very kind and compassionate. My son struggled in Kindergarten but with Mrs. Browns knowledge and determination my son is prepared for 2nd grade. Mrs. Brown didn't just teach my son but she helped prepare him for the future. She helped teach him important life lessons that would mold him into the kid he is today. Before Mrs. Brown my son struggled academically and behaviorally. Now my son is thriving and is respectful and kind to others.

Higgins of Murchison elementary (via: Aseel M.)
She is a great teacher. We love her and are happy to have her as a teacher for our son.

Mrs Bijal Patel of Mott elementary (kindergarten) (via: Aminah A.)
She is the best teacher someone can ask for ,very professional and informative.

I am out of words but I want to say a big thank you to her for treating our kids like hers. She is truly a gift to the world . THANK YOU MRS. BIJAL PATEL.

Mrs. Sarah Prescott of Mott Elementary School (via: Lauren K.)
My son has learned so much in Mrs. Prescott's class this year, and he always comes home with interesting things to share with us. Right now, he's excited to be growing baby chicks, and he's told us a lot of timely science and history information throughout the year. Mrs. Prescott is an excellent communicator and always fast to reply to my questions. She's clear on student expectations and it benefits my son to know what he needs to be doing in class. We are grateful to have Mrs. Prescott!

Mrs. Jessica McCrary of Mott Elementary School (via: Lauren K.)
My son has loved having Mrs. McCrary for third grade. Third grade was a big change with the STAAR test. Mrs. McCrary has prepared my son well, while also keeping him motivated and interested in other subjects. He's really enjoyed the special projects (solar system) and hands-on learning opportunities. You can tell how much Mrs. McCrary cares about my son's progress and I've appreciated her partnership so I can support him at home as well. I'm grateful my son has Mrs. McCrary!

Jordan James of Kelly Lane Middle School (via: Tiffeny V.)
she lights up the room

Mrs. Amy Swetnam of Rowe Lane elemetary (via: Prasanna P..)
She is really awesome. Always goes above and beyond too help kids. My kid really learned a lot under her guidance

• Lacey Ajibola of Dessau MS (via anonymous): Ms. Ajibola is a positive, supportive, and caring leader. She is all about her campus, and it shows! Thank you, Ms. Ajibola!
• Marissa Posada of Theodor Timmerman Elementary (via Tammy Camp): Ms. Posada is a very thorough librarian. She keeps our library current and modernized with interesting books for our students. She has an inviting and welcoming environment for the students to experience when coming into the Library. She is very efficient with the check in-check out expectations and the students flow within those expectations. Not only does she supply the needs of the students, but at anytime a teacher needs a resource, she is able to retrieve it from our Library or direct them to where to get the resource. I really appreciate her efficiency! Thank Ms. Posada.
• Patricia Ansley of Weiss HS English (via Jennifer Herber): Mrs Ansley teaches my son for his senior English class. I know my son should be much more independent and responsible than he is (sigh teen boy). However, Mrs. Ansley consistently communicates with me when he begins to struggle to stay the course and get to graduation. When he falls asleep in class- she is letting me know. It would be easy for her to say that this is his own issue. But she is amazing and keeps me in the loop so that I can stay on him and make sure he graduates! As a teacher, I know how hard it is to maintain that level of commitment- particularly when they should know by now. Thank you for helping me keep up with my son and make sure he has what he needs to be successful! It means the world to me.
• Jordan James of kelly lane middle school (via ines griffin): they have been working very hard to make us the best students we can be and you can see that through the class.
• Matt Bovolick of HVAC (via Cele Team): Matt always is respectful and attentive, and this week he provided an immediate fix to an ongoing problem and potentially saved our campus thousands of dollars. Thank you for going the extra mile, Matt!
• Deidra Raney + Mary Nweke of ELA (via alicia de leon-heller): These ladies keep our staff's bellies full. They work tirelessly for our students and bless us along the way. Thank you for your love and warmth!
• Rochelle Castro of Registrar (via Anon): This is her very first year as a registrar and her growth is tremendous. Always an admirable attitude as she goes above and beyond in her duties and as a coworker. Such a pleasure to work with!
• Stephanie Acosta of PLES (via Anon): She is new to all things LPAC and 504, but you cannot tell from her paperwork! She takes pride and ownership in all she does, from her specific tasks to her many other duties as assigned. Always bringing smiles to peoples faces just because. Thank you for all you are!
• Leticia Garcia and Amelia Chapa of HLES (via Anon): These ladies are ALWAYS just a call a way from lending a helping hand to their previous home. Constantly going the extra mile to serve, not only their campus, but their community. Thank you both for al you are!
• Monica Martinez, Irene Morales, Kris Bridges and Anjali Doshi of PLES (via Anon): Exceptional, unwavering, consistent resilience to every single hat, curve ball, challenge and opportunity that crosses their path. The walking definition of "see a need, fill a need". Unsurpassed ingenious to make opportunities be happenings. All done with selflessness and compassion that inspires just that. Thank you for all you are.
• Lesley Roberts of Pflugerville MS (via anonymous): Ms. Roberts is always friendly and professional. She takes pride in her work, and is doing a terrific job as campus testing coordinator. Thank you for all you do!
• Bianca Becker of Tech Integration Services (via Jennifer Harrell): Bianca has gone above and beyond to meet our multilingual learners' needs all over the district as quickly as possible! We wouldn't be able to do our jobs without her.