Dear Sunset Valley Community,
As we move forward from the district’s recent approval of the consolidation plan, I want to acknowledge the very real and mixed emotions so many of us are experiencing. For some, this news has brought sadness, worry, frustration, or grief; for others, a sense of resolve or cautious hope. All of these feelings are valid. Acceptance is often the first step in moving from uncertainty to action, and together we now begin preparing to enact the transition plan outlined by the district.
While endings can be heartbreaking and new beginnings can feel unsettling, please know that I am walking this journey with you—steadily, bravely, and wholeheartedly. My hope and deepest desire is to continue serving this vibrant, united, and selfless community that makes Sunset Valley so special. If I am appointed to lead Odom Elementary, I am committed to building bridges between both communities so that we can grow into a strong, connected, and caring school family.
Thank you for your overwhelming commitment to our school and for supporting one another even through the discomfort, uncertainty, and emotion this process has brought. Your dedication to our children, our staff, and our shared values has been truly inspiring.
As we take our next steps, I invite you to review the district’s transition plan to better understand the sequence of activities and supports that will begin after the break. Below are key upcoming milestones:
What’s Next
The district has developed a transition plan overview to guide the work needed this spring and leading into the first day of school next year. Staff will also receive a staff-centered transition timeline, beginning with staffing surveys that went out today.
Upcoming Transition Milestones
- Week of Dec. 8: Superintendent Matias Segura will appoint principals to campuses in alignment with state-mandated turnaround requirements.
- Dec. 17: Enrollment and Dual Language Office Hours (3:30–5:30 p.m.)
- Members of the enrollment and dual language team will be on campus to provide individualized family support ahead of the January enrollment window.
- Questions before the event? Email DLtransition@austinisd.org
-December: Enrollment open houses for campuses undergoing programmatic changes.
- December: Mental health services available for students and families navigating this transition.
- January: Round 1 of enrollment opens (magnet, academy, admissions-based, and dual language programs).
While this work unfolds, the district will also be partnering with trustees to continue long-term planning for balanced enrollment, boundary considerations, and future consolidations.
Get Involved
Many families have expressed a desire to help through block walking, phone banking, or community-building efforts. The district is currently working with partners to organize trainings and coordinated opportunities for involvement. More information will be shared soon.
This transition will require collaboration, compassion, and a steady commitment to our shared purpose—and I am confident we will navigate it together with courage and care. I look forward to walking beside each of you and taking thoughtful, responsive steps to ensure the process is sustainable and that our students, staff, and families remain emotionally supported and well.
Thank you again for your trust, your heart, and your ongoing support of our SSV community.
With appreciation,
Elaine
