What an incredible energy we’ve had on campus this week! I want to take a moment to celebrate the resounding success of our first-ever pep rally dedicated to the amazing contributions of the women of McCallum. It was truly a highlight of the year to see the student section rally together, offering a massive roar of applause for every single team that took the floor.

This landmark event wouldn't have been possible without the vision and dedication of our community. A huge thank you goes to Richard Cowles and the PALs for their tireless work in making Women’s Week at MAC truly special. Your efforts ensured our female students felt seen, celebrated, and empowered.

The atmosphere was further electrified by the Samba Knights, whose performance brought a unique and vibrant flair that set the stage for an unforgettable morning. Seeing our community come together to recognize the talent, hard work, and leadership of our female students was a proud moment for all of us.

Now, a well-deserved Spring Break is finally here! Whether you are traveling or staying local, I hope every student, teacher, and family member takes this time to truly unplug and unwind from the daily grind. Please use this week to rest and refresh so that when we return, we are ready for the final nine weeks, the home stretch! Let’s finish this year with the same spirit and excellence we showed this week.

Enjoy the break, stay safe, and we will see you back on campus soon!

Calendar Highlights.

• Monday, March 16th - Friday, March 20th - Spring Break
• Tuesday, March 31st - Student & Staff Holiday - Cesar Chavez & Dolores Huerta Day
• Monday, April 6th - Campus Staff Development / Student Holiday / Easter

• Monday, April 6th - CAC meeting at 5:30 pm followed by PTSA at 6:30 pm. Both meetings are held in the library. Attendees may enter through the blue double doors.

McCallum General Information

• AB Calendar

• Bell Schedule (Updated on 8/28/25)

• McCallum Campus Map

• AISD Personal Device Policy

• McCallum Personal Device Protocols

Here are a few other items that came across my desk this week.

This past week our campus received 2 RAVE awards heralding the amazing contributions of our staff!

Sara Porsa (from a student) -  Ms. Porsa is one of my favorite teachers because her work ethic shows her genuine care for her students, along with her love to educate! I appreciate her kindness everyday, and how comfortable it is to learn in her class. She’s very easy to talk to, it’s clear to see that she nurtures the futures of all of us students.

Sara Porsa - My son was ill last month and couldn’t make it to school, so I emailed all his teachers a heads up. Ms. Porsa (English Teacher) kindly responded, as the other teachers did, wishing him well and providing a summary of what would be happening in class and how he would catch up. What was special was that, on her own, she emailed prior to the next class day checking in on my son, in case he still wasn’t feeling well and had to miss again, what the class would be learning and how he could make it up. This small gesture communicated the thoughtfulness and care she has for her students. Thank you, Ms. Porsa, for taking the time to show you care!

If a staff member has made a meaningful impact on your or your student’s life recently, please consider letting us know! You can submit a nomination through the AISD RAVE link. It only takes a moment and is a wonderful way to show your appreciation for our community.

On February 21st, twelve McCallum students competed at the Central Texas History Day competition at St. Edward’s University.  They submitted 7 research projects, including 2 research papers, a documentary, a website, and group and individual exhibits.  This is part of the National History Day competition, which has been running since 1974.

Students conducted research on a topic of their choosing related to this year’s theme: revolution, reaction, and reform.  These students worked hard analyzing and incorporating primary and secondary sources into their projects, which all included an annotated bibliography and process papers.

A special congratulations is in order for McCallum’s freshmen team consisting of Rowan Johnson, Rivers Newsum, Axel Phillips, and Ezra Printz.  This team submitted a group exhibit titled: “What’s Up with These Gray Blocks: Post-War Modernism Architecture as a Response to WWII.”  Despite a crowded field of competitors, they walked away with first place in this division!  Their efforts allow them to advance to the state competition, which will be held at UT and the Bob Bullock State History Museum on Saturday, April 11th.

A special thanks to their AP Human Geography teacher, Hana Belaouchi, who helped them get this project together through weeks of hard work.  Social Studies department chair Clifford Stanchos was in attendance to see them awarded their first place medals at St. Edward’s University.  It was a worthwhile and educational experience, and McCallum hopes to increase our number of entries next year.

Good luck to Rowan, Rivers, Axel, and Ezra at state!

Pictured above are Rowan Johnson, Ezra Printz, and Axel Phillips.

2 New Athletes, 2 Holes in One this Season for MAC Golf

In four years of coaching McCallum’s golf program together, Coach Salazar and Coach Stanchos competed in no tournaments where their athletes had a hole-in-one.  This season, the McCallum Knights have two holes-in-one at tournament play - both by new members to the team.  On February 9th, Freshman Julian Buchanan had an ace on hole #2 at Jimmy Clay in South Austin.  This past Wednesday, Senior Jack Casey had his first hole-in-one on #14 at Morris Williams.  Coach Stanchos was there to witness the celebration with his teammates, who were playing best ball at the time.  Julian was there to congratulate Jack on the green.

“Both Julian and Jack have been a great addition to the team this year,” said Coach Stanchos.  The McCallum boys teams will be competing at Morris Williams once again at the end of the month for district. 

Pictured above are Freshman Julian Buchanan, and Senior Jack Casey after each made a hole in one.

McCallum Girls Golf Teams win 1st and 2nd in Last Tournament before District

This past Wednesday, the McCallum Knights girls golf teams competed in a scramble hosted by their rival, Anderson High School.  After a considerable downpour and lightning delay, a beautiful day and some superb golf emerged.  The varsity team consisting of Ivey O’Dowd, Marlowe Walsh, Marin Manning, and Elaine Yasumoto earned first place after shooting even par together.  The second girls varsity team consisting of Lola Guerrero, Natalie Cross, Poppy Kyle, and Teagan Dillon earned second place, after winning a tie-breaker with Anderson’s team.

The girls teams will travel to Colovista in Bastrop for district competition on March 25th and 26th.  There they hope to beat Anderson once again to improve their chances of advancing to regionals.

Good luck to the McCallum Knights golf teams at their district tournaments!

Pictured below are Lady Knights front row (left to right): Poppy Kyle, Natalie Cross, Marlowe Walsh, and Teagan Dillon. Back row (left to right): Lola Guerrero, Marin Manning, Ivey O’Dowd, and Elaine Yasumoto.

Our McCallum Dance Troupe recently returned from an incredible experience at the national dance festival, where 16 of our talented students joined over 1,500 dancers from elite Fine Arts high schools across the country. It was a week filled with growth, world-class artistry, and life-changing opportunities.

The talent of our dancers was undeniable during the audition process. Ten of our students auditioned for prestigious colleges and summer intensives, and we are thrilled to announce that every single one of them received at least two offers for admission and scholarships!

Our faculty also shared their expertise on a national level: Ms. Nat led high-energy classes in Tap. Coach T guided students through the creative process in Improvisation.

The troupe also had the inspiring opportunity to view a performance by the world-renowned, Philadelphia-based contemporary ballet company, BalletX.

To top off an already stellar trip, a huge congratulations goes to Harper Binfield-Maxwell, who was selected to perform her adjudicated solo at the historic Chrysler Hall. This is a massive honor and a testament to the caliber of artistry we have here at MAC.

We are so proud of our dancers for representing McCallum with such grace and excellence!

Are you a high-achieving leader looking to make a difference in your school community? We are excited to announce the launch of the Advanced Academics Student Ambassador Program, a premier leadership opportunity for students to represent the district’s most rigorous educational pathways. As an Ambassador, you will serve as a peer advisor and community liaison, helping fellow students and families navigate the exciting world of advanced learning.

AISD is seeking 10th and 11th-grade students who represent various campuses and backgrounds across the district. Ideal candidates are currently enrolled in at least two advanced academic courses, such as AP, IB, Dual Credit, OnRamps, Advanced CTE, or AVID, and feel confident and comfortable with public speaking to both peers and adults.

In addition to gaining invaluable leadership experience, Ambassadors will receive an exclusive graduation cord, be eligible for letters of recommendation from district coordinators, and enhance their college applications with a unique leadership distinction. Don’t miss your chance to be the face of excellence in our district. Applications must be submitted by midnight on April 4, 2026.

The countdown is officially on! Herff Jones will be on campus Thursday, April 2nd, to deliver everything you need for the big day. Whether you’re looking for that iconic cap and gown, your custom invitations, or your celebratory graduation swag, this is the time to grab it.

Don’t miss out, come pick up your orders and get ready to cross that stage in style!

Because we love our kids, our school, our teachers and staff, it is time to GIVE BACK TO MAC. This is our school's annual hassle-free fundraising effort that allows the PTSA to enrich the McCallum experience for our entire community.

Click here to donate: 

https://givebutter.com/givebacktomac26

This once-annual fundraising campaign helps supplement the AISD budget provided to McCallum, which only covers the minimal needs of our school. Our PTSA seeks additional funds because we strive to go above and beyond to provide exceptional support for our students and staff. This year we have had a lot of needs, so we need quick charitable action so we can adequately fund all of our commitments. We do a lot, and with your help, we can continue to do good things for our school. Some of Mac PTSA’s completed and ongoing projects are:

Gifted each teacher $100 to prepare their classroom so they don't have to spend their own money.

Provided holiday bonuses for custodians

Revamped the teachers' lounge to provide a relaxing, comfortable, useful communal space for our teachers and staff. 

Host quarterly staff appreciation luncheons for over 100 teachers, staff and administrators. 

Provide volunteers in the school and at the homecoming dance to lend an extra helping hand.

Support families, teachers, and staff in our vertical during times of hardship and need through Mac Cares

Offer McCallum Scholarship opportunities to seniors who wish to apply for money for college or trade school. 

Create a forum for parents and caregivers to come together and address important issues and challenges within the school.

Donate funds to ensure a successful Homecoming Dance for all and Project Graduation for seniors.

Your generosity makes a huge difference to our beloved school and donations at every level count! If everyone participates, we will exceed our $26,000 goal. Additionally, if offered by your employer, we encourage seeking matching donations. Every bit counts!

Thank you for including Give Back to Mac in your charitable giving this year. We appreciate you!

The School Health Advisory Committee (SHAC) is a school board appointed advisory group of individuals who represent different segments of the community. By law, a majority of the members must be persons who are parents of students enrolled in the district and who are not employed by the district. The AISD SHAC is made up of parents, community members, students, and school staff working together to improve the health of all students and families through coordinated school health programs. Texas law requires all school districts to have a SHAC. The SHAC holds monthly meetings on the third Wednesday of every month with the exception of December and July. The meetings are from 6:00PM to 7:30PM. The meetings are held either on the 2nd floor of the AISD Headquarters Building located at 4000 S. I-H 35 Frontage Rd. Austin, TX 78704 or virtually.  

SHAC Meeting Dates and Locations

SHAC Agenda March 25, 2026 (English)

SHAC Agenda March 25, 2026 (Spanish)

Thank you to all our parents, students, and staff for taking the time to read this week’s edition of the Weekend Update. I appreciate your continued support and partnership in making McCallum a great place to learn and grow.

It’s important you know your student’s support team - their Assistant Principal and Counselor. We have a few changes to our team this year.  

Principal of McCallum - Andy Baxa: andy.baxa@austinisd.org

Students not in the Fine Arts Academy - List of Assistant Principals

Last Names A - GO Gabriel Adame (Assistant Principal): gabriel.adame@austinisd.org 

Last Names GP - PA Larry Featherstone (Assistant Principal): larry.featherstone@austinisd.org 

Last Names PE - Z Lavonda Loney (Assistant Principal): lavonda.loney@austinisd.org 

Students not in the Fine Arts Academy - List of Counselors

Last Names (A-E) Loren Croom: loren.croom@austinisd.org 

Last Names (F-LH) Nicollette Muller: nicollette.muller@austinisd.org 

Last Names (LI-RN) Mindy Croom: mindy.croom@austinisd.org

Last Names (RO-Z) Marc Garcia: marc.garcia@austinisd.org

All Students in the Fine Arts Academy:

Teri Kirby (Associate Principal): teri.kirby@austinisd.org

Shelley Goldstein (Counselor): shelley.goldstein@austinisd.org

Additional Supports:

• 504 Coordinator - Jennifer Padron - jennifer.padron@austinisd.org 

• College and Career Counselor - Jodi Denyszyn - jodi.denyszyn@austinisd.org

• AP/PSAT Coordinator - Lisa Gorzell - lisa.gorzell@austinisd.org

• Principal’s Admin Assistant - Bonnie Baker - bonnie.baker@austinisd.org 

• Guidance Secretary - Tonya Moore  - tonya.moore@austinisd.org

Call for Art Submissions – ART PARTY Fundraiser Students and parents are invited to submit artwork for the ART PARTY Community Show & Fundraiser supporting the McCallum Visual Arts Program. The event will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Helios Fused Glass Studio.

Artwork will be priced between $25 and $150.

Using a standard industry split:

60% of the sale price goes directly to the artist

40% supports the Visual Arts Booster Club

All mediums are welcome.

Showcase your work, support the program, and earn money at the same time!

Submit artwork by April 3 here: https://docs.google.com/forms/u/1/d/e/1FAIpQLSeRZIGn2alb3vQ788WC3T5J1yK9MKQA7SPyY9_Dn0nRWUioKw/viewform Links to an external site.

Event details:

ART PARTY

Saturday, April 18, 2026

Helios Fused Glass Studio

705 Wallingford Bend Austin, TX 78752

https://macvaboosters.org/art-party-2026

Get ready to dance under the "City of Stars!" Tickets for the 2026 McCallum High School Senior Prom are about to go on sale, and you’ll want to grab yours early to catch the best price.

The event will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM at the Etter-Harbin UT Alumni Center.

Ticket Sale Schedule

Tickets will be sold exclusively during lunch on the following dates:

March 23 – 27: Available in Room 122 ($35)

March 30 – April 3: Available in Room 102 ($40)

April 6 – April 10: Available in Room 122 ($45)

Important Details

Pricing: Tickets start at $35 and will increase by $5 each week.

Payment: Please bring cash or check only.

Location: Etter-Harbin UT Alumni Center at 2110 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX.

Don't miss out on the biggest night of the year, mark your calendars and get your payment ready!

The MAC PTSA Scholarship applications for the 2025-26 school year are now officially open! This is a fantastic opportunity for our students to get support for their future endeavors. Please see the MAC PTSA 2025-26 Scholarship Flyer below for more information on the application process and requirements.  

The Gullett Elementary Alumni scholarship has been established to recognize former students who have excelled in their academic endeavors, supported their community through various service projects and/or participated in extracurricular activities, and proven they possess the drive to further their education. By granting this $1,000 Scholarship, we encourage students to pursue their educational goals, and we hope to continue the relationship between Gullett and its Alumni. Completed application packages must be submitted no later than May 4, 2026.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1irz-mgkCYs10gveajRLtJTuzORS_FjFy/view?usp=drivesdk

Parent U is back this spring! This districtwide initiative is designed to support families as they help guide their students through their postsecondary journey. With over 100 families attending each session, Parent U continues to be a valuable resource for our community.

Upcoming sessions will focus on college entrance exams, first-year college transitions, college exploration opportunities, and student mental wellness. We’ve partnered with organizations like Advise Texas and Breakthrough Central Texas, and we’re excited to welcome the College Board for our January session.

When: First Wednesday of each month
Time: 6–7 p.m.
Where: Virtual

Remaining 2025–2026 Sessions:

Jan. 7, 2026: Testing for College — SAT, ACT, TSIA2 & AP Explained

Feb. 4, 2026: What Comes Next? First-Year College Prep for Families

Mar. 4, 2026: College Bound: Don’t Miss These Exploration Events

Apr. 1, 2026: Thriving Through Transitions: Mental Health & School Changes

Register here: https://bit.ly/AustinISDParentU

The simplest way to check your student out of school is to send a written note to the front office before the school day begins.

The note must include:

• Student's full name

• Student ID number

• Date and time of early dismissal

• Parent/guardian name and phone number

• Parent/guardian signature

Your student should bring the note to the office before school. They’ll receive a pass to leave class at the designated time and can head straight out—no waiting required.

With ongoing construction, limited parking, and our large campus, this method is the most efficient option.

No note? A parent/guardian (or someone listed on the student’s pickup list) must come to the office with ID to check out the student. Please allow extra time for the student to be called from class.

Returning the same day? Students must check back in at the front office.

Reminder: Pickup notes do not excuse absences. For full attendance information, visit:
https://mccallum.austinschools.org/department/attendance

This spring, Mac United Against Homelessness is hosting another donation drive! This time we are accepting donations for new and unopened hygiene products, specifically the following:

1. liquid laundry detergent

2. Fabuloso

3. Suave hand soap

4. deodorant (men’s and women’s)

5. toothpaste (adult and children’s)

The drive will begin on February 23rd and run until April 17th, with donation bins available in the front office, the library, the fine arts building, and the Mac Theatre. 

All donations will go directly to Saint Louise House, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting women and children experiencing homelessness. Saint Louise house doesn’t just provide stable housing, it is an individualized program that empowers single women to reach their own goals and guides them towards a lifetime of self-sufficiency. A very important aspect of this program is providing reliable access to basic needs such as a food pantry, hygiene products and other household necessities. You can learn more about Saint Louise House at saint louise house.org. 

Every donation is appreciated! By donating even just one item, you can ensure that a family doesn’t have to choose between going to the doctor and buying toothpaste.

Mental Health Consent Form- https://forms.gle/2zngVCjz5wjac3nk9 

Club Consent Form - https://forms.gle/iWNj24Er5PfsmLiu7

Physical Health Consent Form - https://forms.gle/3kgQb5NQkReLUyT56

Elevate your high school experience by becoming a part of our Parent-Teacher-Student Association (PTSA). As a member, you'll empower students with enriched programs and resources, advocate for their needs, build a supportive community, and stay informed. Join us to make a direct impact on education, foster connections, and shape a brighter future for our students – your involvement truly matters!

Click here to join today!