Your weekly guide to all things MAC |
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As we head into these final weeks of the semester, I want to take a moment to shine a spotlight on the incredible individuals who serve as the backbone of McCallum High School. This past week was Assistant Principal Appreciation Week, and I cannot overstate the impact our AP team has on our campus.
Gabriel Adame, Larry Featherstone, Teri Kirby, and Dr. Lavonda Loney are an amazing group of dedicated professionals who truly care about the success and well-being of every student and faculty member. From the heavy lifting of resolving complex conflicts to the humble, day-to-day tasks of keeping our halls safe and clean, there is quite literally nothing they won't do for this school. They lead with heart and a singular focus on making MAC the best it can be. Please join me in sharing a huge "Thank You" for their tireless dedication.
April is National School Library Month, a time to recognize the vital role that school libraries play in student achievement and community building.
At McCallum, we are incredibly fortunate to have Mr. Zuniga at the helm of our library. He has transformed the space into much more than just a place for books; he has fostered an amazing community center where students feel welcome, supported, and inspired to explore. Whether he is helping a student find the perfect resource or creating a quiet sanctuary for study, Mr. Zuniga’s passion for literacy and learning is evident in everything he does. Thank you, Mr. Zuniga!
Hope everyone has a great week! Go Knights!
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Calendar Highlights.
McCallum General Information
Here are a few other items that came across my desk this week.
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Following their incredible 3rd place finish at the NASP State Competition, the McCallum Archery team is officially taking their talents to the national stage as they travel to Salt Lake City, Utah, to compete in the NASP Western National Tournament. The team is scheduled to depart on Wednesday, April 23rd, and will return on Saturday, April 25th. After proving they are among the elite in Texas, highlighted by standout individual performances from Reagan Filer, who ranked 2nd in the state, and Sophia Pedregon-Harrington, who ranked 8th, these sharpshooters are ready to face off against the best archers in the country. We are incredibly proud of the focus, discipline, and "aim" our Knights have shown throughout this season, and we invite the entire community to join us in wishing the team safe travels and straight shots as they represent McCallum on the national level. Go Knights!
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Congratulations to the McCallum Boys Soccer team for their outstanding academic success! The Texas Association of Soccer Coaches (TASCO) named Evan Herrin, Gianni Lento, Waylon DeAtley, Ben Pitts, Max Fullerton, Jackson Roberts-Bardwell, and Kalen Farley to the Academic All-State team. Further honors from the Texas High School Coaches Association (THSCA) include: Academic All-State Second Team: Kalen Farley and Max Fullerton Honorable Mention: Evan Herrin and Gianni Lento These accolades highlight the discipline and leadership our Knights demonstrate both in the classroom and on the pitch.
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The MAC Jazz Ensemble won FIRST PLACE in 5A competition at the TAMUK (Texas A&M University at Kingsville) Jazz Festival on March 28. They received FIRST DIVISIONS from all judges. In addition, they were presented the OUTSTANDING BAND OF THE FESTIVAL trophy. ALL STAR BAND recognition went to Jude DeBerry-DeLeon (trumpet), Dustin Stanley (piano) and Dash Glessner (drums). Jude DeBerry-DeLeon was named OUTSTANDING SOLOIST of the festival!
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We want to hear from you, Knights! Starting Monday, April 13, through May 28, we are opening our annual survey window to gather essential feedback on your experience at McCallum. Your voice helps us understand what we’re doing well and where we can improve to make MAC the best it can be. All students can participate by logging into the AISD Portal and using the search bar to find their specific survey: 9th–11th graders should search for the Student Climate Survey, while Seniors (Class of 2026) need to complete the High School Exit Survey. Please take a few minutes to ensure these are submitted before the May 28 deadline to help us shape the future of McCallum!
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We are bursting with pride as we celebrate our incredible students who were recently inducted into two of the most prestigious organizations on campus: the National Honor Society (NHS) and the National Art Honor Society (NAHS). Becoming a member of these societies is no small feat. It requires a steadfast commitment to scholarship, service, leadership, and character, alongside a dedicated passion for the arts. These students have proven that they aren't just excelling in their classrooms and studios, they are also leading by example and serving our community with heart. Please join us in congratulating these scholars and artists for their hard work and dedication. We can’t wait to see how you continue to use your talents to make McCallum (and the world!) a better place.
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It was a historic week for the McCallum softball team as they reached two major milestones on the diamond. The celebration began on Tuesday during a momentous Senior Night, where the Knights not only honored their veteran players but also secured a victory that marked Coach Whatley’s 350th career win as a high school coach. The momentum continued through Friday night in a high-stakes showdown against Ann Richards, where the Knights battled to a 6-4 victory to officially claim the district title. This impressive stretch of wins highlights the team’s skill and determination as they head into the postseason with a championship in hand.
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McCallum High School invites you to a special photo exhibit celebrating the 10th anniversary of the WRKxFMLY project. This landmark display showcases the talent of current and former student journalists who have captured the intersection of work and family life over the last decade. Because of our program's immense success, the Working Assumptions foundation is featuring our students' work on their national website and has generously provided a grant to fund the physical installation on campus. You can explore the collection now across all MacJournalism platforms before the official exhibit opening on April 23rd. Join us in honoring ten years of powerful storytelling and artistry!
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It’s time to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our students! Please mark your calendars for McCallum’s Awards Knight, which will be held on Tuesday, May 12th. This special evening is dedicated to recognizing the hard work, talent, and dedication our Knights have shown throughout the school year. From academic excellence and department awards to special honors, we look forward to coming together as a community to applaud the success of our scholars. Stay tuned for more specific details regarding the start time and location as the date approaches. We can’t wait to see you there to honor the Class of 2026 and our underclassmen! Go Knights!
- Got ideas or feedback? Don’t hesitate to share! Email me at andy.baxa@austinisd.org.
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Staff Shout-Outs: Share Your RAVES! |
This past week we received 5 RAVES highlighting the amazing contributions of our staff.
McCallum Counselors - The McCallum counselors do an amazing job referring to Garza. Students being referred are need based, informed, and the result is student success. From student and family reports, it is evident that the McCallum staff care and take the time to value relationships. I very much appreciate their partnership through team AISD as we work for our at-risk-youth together.
Teri Kirby - Ms. Kirby epitomizes the caring, committed, diligent professional. She is thoughtful, inclusive, and genuinely cares about students’ well-being as well as their academic achievement. She goes the extra mile, taking the time to talk with students and parents to make sure they are set up for success.
Shelley Goldstein - Ms. Goldstein is absolutely the best counselor for whom we could hope. She is an advocate, a cheerleader, and a problem solver. Her support and guidance have allowed my daughter to find her path despite having been in and (now) out of homebound due to an extended illness. She continually makes the difference that changes students’ lives.
Ben Slamka (from a student) - Though I do not go to McCallum (yet) he was very welcoming and I immediately felt at home in his room. He was really nice in the interview, and he said he really enjoyed my audition movie. He wasn’t upset when I wanted to stay after and talk to him in the three times I’ve met with him, and he gave some really good feedback on the audition I was going to turn in to make sure I had as high a chance as possible to get in. He said he thought I was a great fit for the Cinematic Arts Major at McCallum and I’m really excited to hopefully have him as my teacher next year.
Vic Ike - My kid has usually dreaded PE, so much so that at his middle school he made a deal with the PE teacher that he could walk the track rather than participate in the group activities. PE with Coach Ike has really changed this for him, so much so that he is thinking about playing some rec soccer since he is enjoying it in PE so much. Thank you Coach Ike for helping my kid like exercising and playing sports with others again.
If a staff member has made a meaningful impact on you 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.
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Second Week of STAAR EOC Testing |
It has been an incredible week at McCallum High School, and we want to extend a sincere thank you to our entire student body and faculty for the remarkable flexibility shown as we navigated our new STAAR EOC testing schedule. Transitions like these require patience and a communal spirit, and our Knights have truly risen to the occasion.
We are especially proud of our students for showing up ready to work and for taking these important exams with the seriousness and focus they deserve. Your dedication to your academic growth does not go unnoticed, and it is a testament to the culture of excellence we strive to build together every day.
As we look toward the coming days, please remember that we have two additional EOC exams scheduled for this week on Tuesday and Thursday. We encourage everyone to continue this positive momentum as we finish out the testing window strong. Parents and students are encouraged to review the adjusted bell schedule provided below to ensure everyone knows exactly where to report during these modified instructional blocks.
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Senior Panoramic Photo on Monday! |
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2nd Annual MAC Art Party! |
ART PARTY!
Bring the whole family for an afternoon of art, music, and community while supporting the McCallum Visual Arts Program. Enjoy live music by McCallum guitar majors, a silent auction, and complimentary light bites and drinks. Don’t miss the chance to explore and purchase incredible artwork created by our talented students, parents, and teachers!
When: Saturday, April 18, 2026
Where: Skyline Gallery Artist Studios and Helios Fused Glass Studio, 705 Wallingford Bend, Austin, TX 78752
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Austin PBS’s High School Quiz Show - The Knights Win! |
Our McCallum High School Quiz Show team is officially moving on! After a thrilling battle of wits against St. Michael’s, the Knights have claimed victory and secured their spot in the semifinal round of Austin PBS’s High School Quiz Show.
We are incredibly proud of the hard work, quick reflexes, and deep knowledge these students displayed on the big stage. They’ve proven that MAC brainpower is a force to be reckoned with!
Don't miss the next round of action as the Knights continue their quest for glory. You can watch the broadcast on Austin PBS at the following times:
Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 8:00 PM
Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 6:00 PM (Encore)
Let’s keep the momentum going and show our school spirit from home. Huge congratulations to the team, and best of luck in the semifinals! Go Knights!
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Blue Brigade Spring Show April 17th and 18th! |
Join the McCallum Blue Brigade for this year’s Spring Show, a dance celebration of 36 years of Blue Brigade excellence under the direction of Nancy "Honey" Honeycutt Searle, who will be retiring at the end of this year. From award-winning BB routines to show-stopping performances, this is a show you won’t want to miss! Come and help us celebrate Honey's incredible legacy on April 17th or 18th! Tickets at bluebrigade.ludus.com/index.php?show_id=200520320
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Upcoming Girls Basketball Camps |
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Give Back to Mac - The Goal is Insight! |
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!
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Mick Koffend Earth Day Festival |
The Mick Koffend Earth Day Festival will take place on Sunday, April 19, from 2–4 pm at the Hill Elementary School park. This is a free, family-friendly community event that brings together neighbors, students, local organizations, and businesses to celebrate caring for our planet. Activities are geared toward students and families, and we typically welcome about 250 community members.
This year’s global Earth Day theme is “Our Power, Our Planet,” and the event will include hands-on activities, booths, and opportunities for kids and families to learn about environmental stewardship in a fun, welcoming setting.
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School Health Advisory Committee (SHAC)
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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 April 15, 2026 (English)
SHAC Agenda April 15, 2026 (Spanish)
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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.
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ATTENTION SENIOR PARENTS: IMPORTANT INFO CLASS OF 2026 |
WE ARE 56 DAYS FROM GRADUATION & WE HAVE 107 SENIORS SPONSORED OUT OF A CLASS OF 471. WE REALLY WANT TO PUT ON AN AMAZING EVENT FOR OUR SENIORS!!!! HELP US GET TO 100% OF THE CLASS SPONSORED. IF YOU HAVE NOT DONATED, PLEASE DO SO HERE….
https://macprojectgrad.square.site/
PROJECT GRAD IS A NON-PROFIT FOCUSED ON SENIOR ACTIVITIES. WE HAVE AWESOME EVENTS PLANNED FOR OUR KNIGHTS. THE SENIOR CARNIVAL CONSISTS OF RIDES, GAMES, HUGE RAFFLE PRIZES & FOOD. WE ALSO PUT ON THE SENIOR BREAKFAST, HELP ORGANIZE BACCALAUREATE, AND FUND UBER VOUCHERS FOR PROM & GRAD NIGHT.
HUGE THANKS TO ALL PARENTS, GRANDPARENTS & COMMUNITY MEMBERS THAT HAVE DONATED ALREADY. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SHARE WITH FAMILY & FRIENDS. WE ARE SO GRATEFUL FOR YOUR SUPPORT.
SENIOR 2026 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
SATURDAY, APRIL 25TH 8PM-11PM - ETTER HARBIN UT ALUMNI CENTER
MONDAY, MAY 18TH @ 7:30AM ELEMENTARY GRADUATION WALKS
MONDAY, MAY 18TH FROM 6-8PM BACCALAUREATE @ COVENANT 3003 NORTHLAND DR. 78757
FRIDAY, MAY 22ND 8AM- SENIOR BREAKFAST IN MAC LIBRARY
WEDNESDAY, MAY 27TH 1:30PM - 4PM - SENIOR CARNIVAL @ MCCALLUM
FRIDAY, MAY 29TH @ 4PM - GRADUATION @ BURGER STADIUM (INSIDE)
BE ON THE LOOK OUT IN THE NEXT SEVERAL WEEKS FOR SIGN-UPS GOING OUT FOR THE SENIOR BREAKFAST & THE SENIOR CARNIVAL.
PLEASE REACH OUT TO ME WITH ANY QUESTIONS at bria@parksideprojects.com or 512-565-7412
THANKS SO MUCH ~ PROJECT GRADUATION 2026
Thank you to our business sponsors! We are so grateful for your support!!!
PALOMA EFRON Design & Interiors https://www.palomaefrondesign.com/
Harper Phinn Jewelry https://harperphinn.com/
The Gravette Family
If you have a business or know of someone who does please contact Valerie Foohey @ valeriedromero@gmail.com for sponsorship opportunities
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CONTRIBUTE TO THE SHIELD’S ANNUAL FUNDRAISER |
The Shield is a national award-winning newsmagazine and website run by students in McCallum’s journalism program. Throughout the year, student reporters and editors cover school sports, fine arts, special events, and breaking news in the community.
In the model of a professional newsroom, our students pitch and report their own stories, conduct interviews, and produce regular podcasts and news videos. Students also run the MacJ Instagram account, which recently won Best Social Media Reporting in the nation from the National Scholastic Press Association.
This year, our student reporters have expanded their coverage to include regular Spanish-language content, in the hopes of including and reaching more members of the McCallum community. They have also taken a trip to the past with their new darkroom, which allows them to shoot, develop, and print with analog film.
To support our students in these activities, our program must purchase materials, pay to enter and travel to contests, and pay for our website and print editions. To help do this, we are asking for community support. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation to the hard work our student journalists do!
DONATE TO MACJOURNALISM HERE: https://mccallumwebstore.myschoolcentral.com/(S(mvjffymtuhpzgvxktneqxzjx))/Index.aspx#/22558/product/1863
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Bulldog Alumni Senior Walk: A Homecoming Celebration! |
Calling all graduating Class of 2026 Seniors, it’s time to come home to Brentwood Elementary! On Monday, May 18, we invite our former Bulldogs and their families to participate in the Bulldog Alumni Senior Walk.
Please assemble in the Gym (entrance now located at 6703 Yates Ave) at 7:45 AM to prepare for the walk at 8:00 AM. Don your cap and gown (or your favorite tie-dye!) and get ready to walk the halls to the cheers of 700 current Bulldogs. It’s a morning for memories, photos, and catching up with old friends over coffee and donuts afterward. We can't wait to celebrate your journey from elementary school to graduation! For any questions, please reach out to Laura Beck at 512-786-1098.
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NATIONAL WINS for McCallum Visual Arts! |
We’re proud to celebrate 4 National Medalists in the 2026 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards!
Out of 110,000+ students and 335,000+ submissions nationwide, less than 1% earn a National Gold or Silver Medal.
Congratulations to our award-winning artists:
1. Mia Gonzalez — Silver Medal, “Norene”, Linoleum Print
2. Jane McKenna — Gold Medal, “Ouroboros”, Linoleum Print
3. Mira Patel — Gold Medal, “A Thousand Saffron Threads”, Mixed Media Painting/Sculpture
4. Paulina Chandler — Gold Medal+American Visions Award, “Online Insides”, Found Object Sculpture
Selected by leading professionals for originality, technical skill, and personal voice, these artists are representing McCallum on the national stage.
National Medalists will be honored at Carnegie Hall this June. We are Incredibly proud of these artists and this moment for our program!
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Gullet Scholarship Application is Open |
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
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Reminder: Spring 2026 Parent U Sessions |
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
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Need to Pick Up Your Student During the School Day? Make It Easy!
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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
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Mac United Against Homelessness: Donation Drive |
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.
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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!
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