Community News

January 13, 2025

We are delighted to share with you some of our recent highlights. We continue our dedication to challenging and engaging students, building individualized relationships, and upholding the principles of Respect, Integrity, Students First, and Excellence. We value your partnership and involvement, and encourage you to stay informed about the latest developments in our District. Together, we are shaping the future of Fredericksburg ISD!

Dr. Joe Rodriguez, Superintendent of Schools, shared an update reflecting things happening throughout the school district.

Celebrating Board Appreciation Month

Dr. Rodriguez took a moment to recognize Board Appreciation Month, emphasizing the dedication and commitment of the Fredericksburg ISD School Board. He expressed gratitude for their leadership, vision, and support, stating, "We truly have the best School Board, and I couldn’t be more thankful for the work they do every day to guide our school district."

Board members were applauded for their efforts in ensuring student success, supporting staff, and fostering a culture of excellence in the District.

Celebrating Milestones

• Charli Mullen achieved her Master’s Degree in December, marking a significant academic and professional accomplishment.
• Mike Alonzo received an A+ Certificate, a testament to his dedication to technical and professional growth.

Recent Highlights Across the District

Dr. Rodriguez noted a variety of events that showcase the vibrant and engaged spirit of the school district:

• Performing Arts Excellence: Both the Band and Choir hosted spectacular concerts that highlighted the talent and dedication of students and directors.
• FPS Winter Wonderland: Fredericksburg Primary School created a magical event to engage families and foster a sense of community.
• Student Advisory Council: Meetings continue to provide critical insights and student perspectives, reinforcing the importance of student voices in decision-making.
• Budget Bootcamps: Administrators participated in strategic sessions to better understand financial challenges and explore innovative solutions for the school district.
• Graduate Luncheon: A recent gathering with FHS graduates allowed for honest, impactful conversations, offering valuable feedback to improve the educational experience.
• Active Shooter Training: A collaborative effort between administrators and first responders to enhance safety and preparedness across all campuses and within the community.

Dr. Rodriguez expressed pride in the District’s collective efforts to excel, emphasizing that these achievements are only a glimpse of the progress being made in Fredericksburg ISD.

Please come to our Board meetings or visit our website to see monthly presentations.

Click here to see the presentation...

Fredericksburg Middle School Principal Dalen Kirchner shared an enthusiastic update on campus life, highlighting the incredible strides staff and students have made as they prepare to transition to a new campus.

Points of Pride

• "We Are One" Motto: This unifying theme fosters a sense of community and shared purpose across the campus.
• Improved Attendance: A focus on student engagement and well-being has contributed to increased attendance, showcasing the positive school environment.
• Community and PTO Support: Collaboration with local churches, parents, and the PTO has been instrumental in providing resources and opportunities for students.
• Fun Incentives: Creative rewards for academic and behavioral success motivate students to strive for excellence.
• Safety First: Officer Casas diligently monitors campus safety, ensuring doors and gates are secure and providing peace of mind for students and staff.

Mr. Kirchner emphasized the importance of continuous improvement, highlighting the school’s focus on accelerated instruction and academic progress. While a potential "B" accountability rating is a step forward, the campus remains determined to achieve an "A" through innovative strategies and student-focused efforts.

Upcoming Events

• Caritas Watch Dogs Meeting, January 21, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. - This is a valuable program that fosters father involvement in schools.
• Public Highlight Walk: On January 22, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., the campus will showcase its achievements and plans throughout the school year.

Student representative Aven Ottmers delivered another engaging report that highlighted activities and accomplishments across the district:

• Stonewall Elementary: The campus will be hosting its annual Science Fair, where young scientists will showcase their innovative projects and creative thinking.
• Fredericksburg Primary School: Families are invited to attend the Bilingual ESL Parent Night, an opportunity to celebrate diversity and provide resources for multilingual families.
• Fredericksburg High School:
  • The cheer team is preparing to compete at the State Championship, departing this Friday with high hopes and spirited enthusiasm.
  • FCCLA students are headed to Corpus Christi on January 31st to represent FHS in statewide competitions, demonstrating their leadership and career-readiness skills.
• Community News: The Pioneer Memorial Library is organizing the community’s first-ever Book Festival, celebrating literacy and bringing readers of all ages together for an enriching experience.

Aven’s report underscored the many ways Fredericksburg ISD continues to shine through student involvement, academic opportunities, and community engagement.

Fredericksburg High School Principal Chris Weirich and Director of Elementary Schools Leslie Durst presented the Profile of a Billie Graduate, a visionary framework designed to ensure FISD students graduate with the skills, values, and resilience to thrive in the future.

Purpose and Vision

This initiative reflects the collective aspirations of the Fredericksburg ISD community. By aligning with the district’s mission and beliefs, the Profile of a Billie Graduate establishes a roadmap for cultivating well-rounded, community-minded, and academically prepared students.

Core Attributes

The Profile focuses on five key areas:

1. Academic Excellence and Preparedness: Promoting a lifelong pursuit of knowledge through high expectations, critical thinking, and adaptability.
2. Character and Personal Development: Instilling kindness, accountability, and resilience to develop respectful and responsible individuals.
3. Civic and Community Involvement: Encouraging students to embrace heritage, foster community values, and engage in volunteerism.
4. Leadership and Social Responsibility: Nurturing servant leaders who embody positive engagement and social responsibility.
5. Pride and Tradition: Celebrating personal and collective achievements while honoring the traditions that define Fredericksburg ISD.

The Profile was shaped by valuable input from the FISD Parent Advisory Committee, including Brittany Horton, Ashley Fitzsimmons, Helen Whittington, Lindsay Constantine, Marty Harkleroad, Brittney Hagendorf, Carrie Watson, and Paige Findley. Their dedication and insights were instrumental in creating this comprehensive vision for FISD graduates.

Dr. Joe Rodriguez, Superintendent of FISD, expressed his gratitude to the Parent Advisory Committee for their involvement and highlighted the District’s commitment to upholding high standards while striving to exceed expectations.

Email: rachelm@fisd.org
Website: www.fisd.org
Location: 234 Friendship Lane, Fredericksburg, TX, USA
Phone: 830-997-9551
Facebook: facebook.com/FISDBillies
Twitter: @FISDBillies