
Judson ISD Superintendent Message
April 8, 2024

Dear Judson ISD Family:
April is here and so is testing season. I want to thank you for all you do to prepare our students, not just for the upcoming STAAR and EOC tests but also for life beyond the classroom. Every person in Judson ISD has a hand in the success of our students and your hard work is appreciated.
While accountability is an important part of our work, we know that the tests students will take in the weeks to come are not an accurate measure of all you do for our students. Your impact goes far beyond what can be captured by a standardized test. Your dedication, creativity, and compassion are the driving force behind our studentsβ achievements.
Iβve seen you encouraging your students through fun videos, pep rallies and so much more. Thank you for being not only that driving force of success but also our studentsβ biggest cheerleaders.
Dancing our way to the STAAR Test!
Sharing words, dancing and fun with a motivational STAAR video that our Wortham Oaks Elementary teachers created for students!
Happy #SolarEclipse Day!
Judson ISD catching some quick glimpses between the clouds of #Eclipse2024!
Check out the incredible solar eclipse watch parties across Judson ISD! We hope our JISD students enjoyed being a part of history and making unforgettable memories with their #JudsonISDFamily.
Summer School Information
We are receiving an abundance of applications for Summer School and Programs. Thank you to everyone that has expressed an interest in working this summer. Here are a few reminders:
Applications: The approval in Eduphoria only indicates that your application has been received. It does not indicate that you have been hired for the summer. Summer School principals will hire their own staff for each of the designated sites in April.
FAQ List: I have included a list of Frequently Asked Questions and responses to address several questions sent via email. Please click the link below: FAQs for Summer School and Programs 3.20.24.pdf
District libraries strive to be a special place for all students
A stereotypical library is quiet with a bunch of dusty books and a sign that tells all to βShhhh, someone is reading.β If thatβs what you think a Judson ISD library is like, think again!
Our campus libraries are vibrant and have librarians who are not only passionate about reading but also passionate about keeping our libraries relevant to students and teachers.
A visit to the Veterans Memorial High School library where Pamela Arevalo-Thompson is the librarian is a testament to an updated approach to libraries. Making the space comfortable for all types of students encourages them to use the library when they need it for academic purposes.
βWhen kids come in they know they can use the maker space, use the game space, or the puzzle space. We have ping pong tables that we bring out on Friday. We have microwaves so kids can eat lunch here. We try to make it so that anyone who comes into the library, even if they're not a reader, can find something to do,β Arevalo-Thompson said.
And itβs not just the space that has changed. Arevalo-Thompson wants students to know that their librarian is approachable, accessible, and even fun. She is known as the Dancing Librarian and uses social media to connect with students.
The 2024-2025 Transfer list is now open!
Below is information on requirements and how to submit your transfer request. Please check that your certifications are valid.
The Transfer Request List is approved for the following positions: Teachers, Nurses, Library Media Specialists, Counselors, Academic Trainers, Academic Coaches, and Paraprofessionals. Employees can sign up beginning March 25, 2024. The deadline for employees to submit a Transfer Request will be at noon on May 31, 2024.
Please follow these steps to submit this request.
Eduphoria -> Form Space -> Submit New Form -> Human Resources Forms -> 2024-2025 PROFESSIONAL EMPLOYEE sign-up sheet
Eduphoria -> Form Space -> Submit New Form -> Human Resources Forms -> 2024-2025 PARAPROFESSIONAL EMPLOYEE sign-up sheet
Once an employee has submitted their name for the Transfer Request list, they may be contacted by a Principal about available positions at their campus. Please be aware that submitting a Transfer Request will not automatically result in a transfer to the requested campus(es).
There will also be a Transfer Fair on Monday, April 15th from 4:30-6:30 at JECA (Elementary: 4:30-5:30/Secondary: 5:30-6:30).
**All transfers are lateral, only the location will change. **
A transfer will only be completed if the following requirements have been met.
- A principal chooses to interview an employee on the Transfer Request list.
- A principal submits a recommendation for that employee to fill an approved vacancy at their campus.
- The employee accepts the offer (made by HR) to transfer to the new campus.
*Employees currently on a growth plan are not eligible to submit a transfer request.
The deadline for Principals to submit their recommendations from the transfer list will be the end of business day, June 7, 2024.
Principals will receive updated transfer lists weekly. Please reach out to Human Resources for any questions you may have.
Weekly Wins: Staff Appreciation Giveaways
Judson ISD is excited to announce this Weekly Wins Winner, Ms. Mary Chagani, from Copperfield Elementary.
Here is Ms. Chagani submission for the best thing about working at Judson ISD.
"I have had many opportunities to work with students who struggle with confidence. Seeing them grow out of their shell and use bravery to approach new situations is always a huge moment for me. It reminds me of the power of encouragement and joy of witnessing potential realized.
Teaching is a profession that leaves lasting imprints. Witnessing the "aha!" moment when a student grasps a concept, or the spark of inspiration that ignites a lifelong passion, creates powerful memories for both the educator and the student. These moments solidify the impact teachers have, shaping not just knowledge, but the very course of a student's life."
Get ready for your chance to win another Judson ISD Swag Bag! You can submit by sharing a photo with your favorite JISD Employee! Tell us how they make Judson ISD feel like home! Deadline is Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at 11:59 PM.
Upload a photo of you (preferably in your classroom or campus) to social media using our hashtag: #JudsonISDFamily. Feel free to post your submission(s) on Instagram, Facebook, and/ or Twitter. Be sure that your account is public so our communications team can find your submission on social media! You can also enter your submission via email to media@judsonisd.org.
Stay tuned until next Monday to discover who our lucky winner is. We are excited to read everyone's responses, good luck!
What's Happening Around Judson ISD
If you would like to be featured please fill out the Judson ISD Media Request form!
Hopkin Hawks!
After six hard fought games, the Joseph Hopkins Elementary School Hawks came out 2nd place in the iPlay Basketball tournament! Congratulations Hawks!
Elolf at Natural Bridge Caverns
Elolf STEAM Academy first grade enjoyed a wonderful field trip to Natural Bridge Caverns!
Their memorable added treat was having Mr. Miller, the music teacher, join them and share the book he wrote about Neeon the duck. Neeon is a remarkable duck that visited the caverns and realized how special it was to uniquely be himself.
Garden Time!
Franz Leadership Academy Kinder students are working in the garden! The students are learning about planting and growing their own flowers and plants. It was a hands on activity that teaches students the importance of taking care of our earth!
We've got the magic!
Do you believe in magic? The Paschall Elementary School Tigers sure do! They celebrated their hard work in the classroom with a STAAR and Science themed magic show kicked off by the Paschall Tiger Spirit Team.
Judson Education Foundation Golf Tournament
Don't miss the fun, sign up early to the Brown & Brown Insurance Annual Golf Tournament, benefiting the Judson Education Foundation, held at the historic Brackenridge Golf Course! Grab your buddies, coworkers or family members, have a great time on the links, and help JEF raise funds for student scholarships and teacher grants!
Wagner High School Jazz Band at Victoria ISD Jazz Festival
On Saturday, April 6, Wagner High School Jazz Band 1 and Jazz Band 2 traveled to Victoria, Texas to compete in the Victoria ISD Jazz Festival. Both bands had stellar performances and earned 1st place in their category!
WHS Jazz Band 1 was selected as the GRAND CHAMPION band of the festival and Joseph Marchan, senior and Lead Tenor Sax, was selected as the BEST SOLOIST among all performers. Joseph also earned the opportunity to play a solo with the guest band of the night, the TCCR Band. The song was "Sweet Home Chicago" from the Blues Brothers movie and Joseph ROCKED his solo. We could not be more proud of how he represented our community!
After each band performed, students had an opportunity to hear immediate feedback from the judges with an on-stage clinic. The judges were very complimentary of the performances by each band and offered great insight and knowledge to help them take their musicianship to the next level.
Town Hall on Discipline
Join board members, district administrators and staff to learn and share at the Town Hall on Discipline.
Hope to see you all there!
Town Hall on Discipline
Thursday, Apr 25, 2024, 06:30 PM
Judson Early College Academy, Palisades Drive, Universal City, TX, USA
Judson ISD Superintendent Student Advisory Council Meeting
The Judson ISD Superintendent Student Advisory Council (SSAC) held its final meeting of the year! Thank you to all the students who have contributed their insight and ideas throughout this year. Their dedication to improving their school community is inspiring!
The Judson ISD Superintendent Student Advisory Council (SSAC) is comprised of sophomores, juniors, and seniors from each high school. The SSAC works directly with the Superintendent and District Administrators, providing an opportunity for District personnel to have a focus group of people who represent and provide a voice for all students in Judson ISD. It also offers students an opportunity to express what they think is important regarding their education and what could be improved, enabling students to receive an equitable education in a safe learning environment and be inspired to discover and develop their unique abilities, talents, and voice.
Survey Question of the Week!
If you could have educator superpower what would it be? π¦Έπ€©
Upcoming Events Around Judson ISD
April: Month of the Military Child, Stress Awareness, Autism Acceptance and Library Month
April 7-13: National Library Week
April 14-20: National Volunteer Week
April 15: Tax Day
April 22: Earth Day
April 24: Administrative Professionals Day
April 24-30: Administrative Professionals Week