McCallum High School

Weekend Update

Your weekly guide to all things MAC

Principal's Corner

The start of football season is always one of my favorite times of the year, and Thursday night was a powerful reminder of why football games are truly community events. It’s not just about the action on the field; it’s about the energy, pride, and spirit that surround it. From our incredible cheer team, the Blue Brigade, and the MAC Band, to the passionate students who bring their energy and fandom to every game, the support in the stands was electric. And the enthusiasm doesn’t stop with our students. I love seeing our parents, alumni, and future Knights come out to cheer on the team. It’s moments like these that truly show what it means to be part of the Knight community.

The action on the field matched the energy in the stands. Though the rivalry now carries a new name, the Shoal Creek Showdown, the intensity and tradition between our two schools remain just as fierce. Our Knights left everything on the field, battling with heart and determination until the final whistle. Though we ultimately came up short against a tough Anderson Trojans team, we couldn’t be prouder of their effort and resilience. The season is just getting started, and we’re already looking ahead to next week’s big matchup; the Battle for the Bell against Travis!

Shout out to our Knights Volleyball team for an impressive sweep of LBJ on Friday night! They’ve had a strong start to their season and are building momentum heading into district play. They’ll finish their non-district schedule this week before opening district play with a road game at Navarro, followed by a big home match on Friday, September 12th vs. LASA. Let’s pack the gym and show our support!

I also want to take a moment to commend our students for how well they’ve adjusted to the new phone policy. I know going without phones during the school day is a big shift and can be difficult, but we’re already seeing positive changes in our school culture and classroom engagement. Our hallways are buzzing with actual conversations, a sound that’s music to any educator’s ears, and students are more present during instruction without the distractions of constant notifications.

Parents, please help us by continuing to talk with your students about this shift in policy and behavior expectations. All personal communication devices, including phones, Bluetooth headphones, and smartwatches, must remain out of sight from 8:55 a.m. to 4:35 p.m. each day. Your partnership in reinforcing this expectation is critical and greatly appreciated.

Please don’t forget to complete the consent forms listed below. These forms are essential for ensuring students have access to a wide range of services and supports throughout the year.

Consent forms must be completed and returned by Sunday, August 31st.

  1. Mental Health-Related Services
    The district must notify parents of staff services related to school counseling and give parents the opportunity to opt out before those services are provided to their child.

    1. https://forms.gle/VP38VDwCwuuhKi1W6 

  2. Physical Health-Related Services
    Certain school-based health services, such as non-emergency medical screenings or treatments, now require your written permission.

    1. https://forms.gle/dLdWxfxBSxEdiXSo7

  3. Participation in school-sponsored Student Clubs
    If your child wishes to participate in school or district-sponsored clubs or organizations, parental approval is required. 

    1. https://forms.gle/2aBfvSKt2iGj4HDM8

You can read more about SB 12 and the changes by clicking here.

Wishing everyone a safe, restful, and fun Labor Day weekend. As we enjoy the extra day off, let’s also take a moment to reflect on the contributions of American workers and the value of hard work in shaping our nation.

Go Knights!

LD

Calendar Highlights

  • Monday, September 1st, Student Holiday.

  • Tuesday, September 2nd, College 101 Knight

  • Monday, September 8th, First CAC and PTSA meeting

  • Tuesday, September 9th, High School 101 Presentation

  • Monday, September 22nd - Student Holiday, Staff Professional Development

  • Tuesday, September 23rd - Student Holiday, Staff Professional Development

McCallum Calendar and Bell Schedule

  • AB Calendar

  • Bell Schedule (Updated on 8/28/25)

  • McCallum Campus Map

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

  • Shoutout to Our Students! The concessions crew working the game Thursday shared how impressed they were with McCallum students. They noted how polite and respectful everyone was, using kind words like “please” and “thank you”; even during the rush of a busy night. Students, your kindness didn’t go unnoticed and truly reflected the best of what it means to be a Knight. -Thank you!

  • Speaking of the game, we have to talk about the pep rally — wow! That was the biggest crowd I’ve ever seen at a MAC pep rally. It was incredible to see so many students come out to support our student groups and show their school spirit. That said, I also understand the high-energy environment may have felt overwhelming for some. Please remember that attending the pep rally is optional. Students are always welcome to stay back with one of our teachers if they prefer a quieter space.

  • Some parents have asked about when students will receive school IDs. Students will receive their ID when they take the school pictures in September.

  • Our school cafeteria will open for breakfast each morning by 8:30 am. There is a food cart selling breakfast outside the World Language hallway.

  • The McCallum High School online store is your go-to spot for paying class fees, club dues, and other select school-related items. It's a quick and convenient way to stay on top of student expenses without needing to send cash or checks. The site will be updated weekly, or at least bi-weekly, so be sure to check back regularly for new items and updates. Visit the store here.

  • Our counseling team is continuing to accommodate as many schedule change requests as possible. Please remind your student to check their schedule before coming to school.

  • We are aware of the ongoing AC issues in some parts of our building. We are working with the AISD facility maintenance group to address the issues with our HVAC system.

  • We will continue to follow our modified advisory schedule again next week. Our Round Table lessons are embedded into our 2/6th period during the last 25 minutes of class. 2nd/6th period will start at 10:41 this week.

  • Beginning on Wednesday, September 10th MAC F.I.T. sessions will return. For a reminder F.I.T, time is designed to assist students with their academic classes. New this year, students are expected to be in a class during each FIT session.

Need to Pick Up Your Student During the School Day? Make It Easy!

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.

Please note: Our front office is temporarily relocated to the library. Parents can access this space through the double blue doors in the circle drive.

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

College 101

Hey Mac families! Don't miss out! College 101 Knight hosted by our College Counselor, Camille Nix, will be held September 2 at 6:30 pm in the cafeteria. What is College 101 and who is its intended audience? This session is geared mostly for senior parents who need the "nuts and bolts" of the application process, want information on the college application process, letters of recommendation, strategies for choosing a college, how to use Naviance in the college application process and the FAFSA. Of course, anyone is welcome!We will transition to our regular weekly bell schedule starting Tuesday, September 2nd.
For this week only, 2nd and 6th periods will begin daily at 10:41 AM.
Students who have 1st block off should plan accordingly to arrive on time for their classes.

High School 101

Are you the parent or guardian of a freshman student or new to AISD?

If so, High School 101, presented by the McCallum Counseling Team, is the perfect event for you. This informative session will take place on Tuesday, September 9th at 6:00 PM in the McCallum Cafeteria. Our counselors will guide you through everything you need to know to help your student navigate high school successfully—from four-year academic planning to practical tips for supporting your student and much more. It’s a great opportunity to get your questions answered and feel more confident about the high school journey. We hope to see you there!

SENIOR INFORMATION - CLASS OF 2026

SENIOR INFO CLASS OF 2026

Senior year is here for the class of 2026.  Parents~ here is your to-do list!

*Follow the Mac Class of 2026 Parents on Facebook.

*Order a sign.  Senior Yard Signs are on sale now!  Order by Sept 5 to get in the first delivery. 

*Support Project Graduation:

  • Donate $126 per student

  • Sponsor additional seniors.

  • Share donation requests with family & friends

  • Help find business sponsors to donate

Project Graduation is a series of safe, inclusive activities and events for our 2026 McCallum Seniors. It is made possible by generous donations from parents and businesses in our community. Our goal is to raise $35,000 to cover all costs for the Senior Carnival, incredible prizes, Uber codes, the Senior Breakfast and more.

Buy your sign & donate here: macprojectgrad.square.site/

Your 2026 Project Graduation Board is:

 Bria Cirkel, Tracey Mitchell, Laura Beck, Nisha Rocap & Susanna Butler

If you would like to volunteer or have any questions, please email me at bria@parksideprojects.com!

RAVE all about it!

As we begin a new school year, I want to invite you to take a moment to celebrate our incredible McCallum faculty and staff who go above and beyond to support our students. The AISD RAVE award program offers a wonderful opportunity to recognize their dedication and outstanding contributions. If you’ve witnessed exceptional moments or extraordinary commitment from our teachers and staff, we encourage you to share your appreciation through this program. Your acknowledgment not only boosts morale but also highlights the remarkable work happening in our school community. Let’s come together to shine a spotlight on the amazing abilities of our staff and show them how much their hard work is valued!

Click here to submit a RAVE Award.

Your Mac Support Teams

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) Cristela Garcia: cristela.garcia@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 - Camille Nix - camille.nix@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

whiteboard

Join the MAC PTSA

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!


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.

Have a wonderful week ahead, and as always: Go Knights!