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Clint Small Middle School
Weekly Newsletter
Week of December 15, 2025
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A Letter from Principal Bedford |
Hello Smallville!
We had a fun and jammed pack week, and I want to take a moment to highlight some of the wonderful accomplishments happening across our campus. Our fine arts winter programs were an outstanding success, our Cougars showcased their hard work, creativity, and talent. Each performance reflected countless hours of preparation, and it was evident how much pride our students and directors put into bringing our Fine Arts programs to life.
I would also like to recognize our amazing PTA for earning the Shining Star Award in honor of their remarkable increase in membership and compliance with state wide PTA requirements . This achievement reflects the strong support and involvement of our families, and it plays a vital role in the continued success of our school. We are incredibly grateful for the dedication, time, and commitment our PTA members contribute each day.
I also want to express how proud I am of those Cougars who received their perfect attendance awards. Their consistency and dedication set a powerful example for everyone. Showing up every day is a commitment that strengthens learning and builds strong habits, and we applaud their efforts.
I can’t believe we’re only one week away from winter break. This fall semester has been a lot of fun and has really flown by. I’m excited to see the energy next week as we head into the break.
Wishing you all a well rested weekend!
Stay Present,
Bedford
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Our amazing custodians work tirelessly all year to keep Small looking great, and we’d love to show them our appreciation with a holiday cash bonus. This is a tradition our teachers have cherished for years, and now we’re inviting you to join in! - Last chance, DEADLINE is this Wednesday.
You can contribute by:
Sending cash to the main office
Venmo: https://account.venmo.com/u/Jennifer-RichOG
All donations will be divided five ways and presented to our custodians along with a heartfelt holiday card.
Deadline to contribute: Midnight Wednesday, December 17th
Let’s make sure our hardworking custodians feel the love this holiday season! ❤️
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We will be hosting two winter dances this Week!
6th Grade Dance: Wednesday, Dec. 17 • 4:00–5:30 PM
7th & 8th Grade Dance: Thursday, Dec. 18 • 4:00–5:30 PM
🍕 Food is included with every wristbands! - Dance with Pizza, Candy and a Drink - $15
🎟 Tickets will be sold during lunch starting Monday.
There will be no ticket sales at the door, so make sure to grab yours early!
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It’s that time of year again—our amazing parents ask "How can we spoil our teachers!" 🎁 This year, we asked the teachers to update their Teacher Favs list, so you can see exactly what will make them smile (and maybe keep them fueled through grading 😅). Check it out and help spread some holiday cheer! |
Girl's soccer tryouts will take place every day from Tuesday, Jan 6th to Friday, Jan 9th. We will meet by the soccer fields behind the school at 4pm and end at 5:15pm. All players will need to have a physical and it should be uploaded to the Rankone portal: austinisd.rankone.com. |
Don’t Miss Out — Pre-Order Your Yearbook! |
If you’re new to Small this year, you may not know just how coveted our yearbooks are. This is something you must pre-purchase! We only print the number of books that are ordered in advance, and there is no option to print additional copies after delivery. Every year, students and parents wait until the last minute and are disappointed when they miss out — we don’t want that to be you!
Buy your yearbook before Winter Break to get the Early Bird price of $35.
After the break, the price increases to $40, and all purchases must be made by the end of February to guarantee your copy.
Order online at: 2026 Small Josten's LInk
Our yearbooks are created by our Yearbook classes, who spend the entire school year capturing the memories, moments, and magic of Small. Their work is truly something special!
Check out the artwork this year designed by one of our yearbook students because she said "Each student is a piece of a puzzle and at Small they can always find where they fit in"
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Attention 8th Grade Parents |
Calling all proud 8th grade parents
If you would like to purchase ad space in this years yearbook to congratulate your 8th graders middle school success, You can buy your add here: Josten Yearbook Ads
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Supporting Your Teen’s Mental and Physical Well‑Being During the Holidays |
As we enter the holiday season, I want to take a moment to acknowledge how meaningful—and sometimes overwhelming—this time of year can be for teens. While the holidays bring joy, connection, and celebration, they can also disrupt routines, increase social pressures, and heighten emotions. To help your teen stay grounded, healthy, and emotionally safe consider reinforcing the following:
Maintain a steady sleep rhythm: Teens need consistent rest to function well. Encourage a reasonable bedtime and morning routine, even on days off.
Balance activity with downtime: Holiday events are exciting, but too many commitments can drain energy. Build in quiet days for recovery.
Support healthy habits: Nutritious meals, hydration, and movement—whether it’s a walk, sports, or dancing in the living room—help stabilize mood and energy.
Limit late-night screen time: Devices can interfere with sleep and increase stress. A gentle wind‑down routine can make a big difference.
Create space for open conversation: Ask how they’re feeling about upcoming events, family gatherings, or social expectations. Listen with curiosity, not pressure.
Respect their need for independence: Teens often recharge through alone time. Allowing them space is not a sign of disconnection—it’s part of healthy development.
Watch for signs of stress: Irritability, withdrawal, or sudden changes in behavior can signal that they’re overwhelmed. A calm check‑in can help them feel seen.
Encourage healthy coping outlets: Creative activities, journaling, music, or physical movement can help them process emotions in a positive way.
Avoid overscheduling: It’s okay to decline events if your teen needs rest or space.
Include them in decisions: Let them help choose traditions or activities. Feeling heard strengthens their sense of belonging.
Model balance: When teens see adults managing stress, setting boundaries, and taking care of themselves, they learn to do the same.
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Spirit Night THIS MONDAY!
Bundle up your Cougar spirit and join the Clint Small Middle School PTA at Waterloo Ice House for a cozy holiday Spirit Night!
Bring the whole family out on Monday, December 15th from 5–9 PM to the Waterloo Ice House at 9600 Escarpment Blvd. Dine in or grab takeout, mention Small, and Waterloo will generously donate 10% of your order back to Small Middle School PTA to support our students and staff.
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Save the Date- 9th Grade Next Steps Night
Join the discussion for academics, campus life, and insider tips for rising 9th graders and their families. Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 5:30 PM in the Clint Small Middle School Cafeteria for a special PTA meeting featuring representatives from Bowie High School and Crockett High School. We’re planning to provide refreshments and would really appreciate your RSVP so we can plan food and seating.
Panelists will answer questions about unique academic programs and electives, clubs and sports for freshmen, student support services, important deadlines and forms, and their best advice for incoming 9th graders and parents.
Austin High Families: If your student is headed to Austin High, this panel night will focus on Bowie and Crockett only. Austin High will host a separate event just for Small families. Small Course Selection Parent Night for Austin High will take place at 6:00 PM in the Austin High Library on Thursday, February 19. Please mark your calendar for that date as well.
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Staff Luncheon
Thank you Smallville for stepping up and filling all the sign up needs! We are excited to host our Staff Luncheon on Monday and couldn't do it without the support of our community. If you signed up to donate items, don't forget to drop them in the office by Monday morning. Thanks!
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Cougar Cage 2026 Dates
January and February dates have been added to the Cougar Cage sign up. This is a fun volunteer opportunity if you love to observe middle school students in the wild!
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Cougars Traveling the World |
Educational Travel Programs at Small
At Clint Small Middle School, we are proud to have multiple teachers who sponsor Educational Travel Programs each year. These programs are structured group trips for students, organized in partnership with professional travel providers. The providers take care of the big details—like flights, hotels, meals, guides, and safety—while our teachers lead the learning side of the experience.
What is an Educational Travel Program?
An Educational Travel Program is more than just a trip. It’s an opportunity for students to step outside the classroom and experience history, culture, and language firsthand. Whether exploring another U.S. city or traveling abroad, students gain independence, confidence, and a deeper understanding of the world.
Why might families be interested?
Students experience hands-on learning tied to classroom topics. Travel builds maturity, problem-solving, and independence. Professional travel companies provide safety, structure, and support 24/7. Payment plans and group arrangements make these experiences more accessible than traveling on your own.
👉 With multiple teachers sponsoring programs, families can choose from a variety of destinations and opportunities that best fit their student’s interests.
Here is a list of upcoming opportunities
Trips in 2026
Trips in 2027
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Info from AISD High Schools |
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