Community Connection

No School Friday, November 1st!

A reminder that students will not attend classes on November 1, 2024 for the observance of Diwali. Diwali is known as the Festival of Lights. Diwali is a Hindu observance celebrated throughout the world. Festivities include the illumination of lights, candles, firecrackers, and diya (clay lamps) to symbolize the victory of good over evil, inner light over spiritual darkness, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is a time for gathering with loved ones, celebrating life, and committing to making the right decisions in life.

If you would like to learn more about this important holiday, please review these resources:
-5 Things to Know About Diwali- This resource from the Hindu American Foundation provides key information about this important holiday.
-This video from PBS Learning Media shows a reenactment of the event that most Hindus observe as the inspiration for Diwali: Lord Rama’s return from exile.

Monster Mash RSVP

RSVP for the Monster Mash here! The Monster Mash will take place Thursday, October 31 on the blacktop.
3rd-5th grade: 2:00-2:30
Pre-K-2nd: 2:30-3:00

We are expecting a long line this year. To skip the line, submit the RSVP form and then you will also RSVP via the Visitor Check-in Mobile App. If you are interested in RSVP'ing via the mobile app, we will need your phone number. Here are instructions to download and set up your RSVP.

Picture Day - October 29

School photos will be taken on Tuesday, October 29. Order forms were sent home with your student.

You can pay via cash, check, or online. Go to www.1stphototexas.com, click on School AH25, and enter the online code 501724F48.

Mix-it-Up Lunch Day - October 30

Mix It Up at Lunch Day is a special event where kids get to sit with different classmates during lunch. The goal is to promote diversity, friendship, and understanding among students. It's a fun way for kids to break out of their comfort zones, learn about others, and promote kindness!

We will have conversation topics and activities to help break the ice and start conversations. As a parent, you can support this event by encouraging your child to participate and be open to meeting new friends!

One School, One Book

We're excited to be reading our One School, One Book selection to our Zilker Panthers, Legends of Lotus Island: The Guardian Test. Students received a copy of the book this week, as well as a calendar with important dates and resources for reading the book schoolwide.

10/28 Finish chapters 1-3
10/30 Finish chapters 4-6
11/4 Finish chapters 7-9
11/6 Finish chapters 10-11
11/8 Finish chapters 12-14
11/11 Finish chapters 15-17
11/13 Finish chapters 18-20
11/15 Finish chapters 21-23
11/18 Finish chapters 24-27
11/20 Finish the book, Family Night at Book People 5-7 PM

QR code for chapter recordings — QR Code for listening to the book by Zilker teachers and staff!

QR code for family activities — QR Code for Family Activities for our book!

Next week is Love Your Brain Week! Students and staff will participate in activities to promote mental and physical wellness!

MONSTER MASH DANCE - PRE-K - 5TH GRADE
We have begun rehearsing for our annual Monster Mash event on Thursday, October 31st. All students will dance to 3 songs on the blacktop. Here is a page to view tutorials and practice at home!

CAP10K UPDATES & FEE SCHEDULE:
We now have 89 registered members on our school team, Zilker Panthers! Here is a current roster (updated October 25th) to check for your names. I can add anyone who registered as an individual to our team. Send me an e-mail and I'll add you! Thanks to all for committing to this event. The registration price is now $45 through November 24th. See the fee schedule below for future rates. You can click here to join!

Gifted and Talented

If your child has been referred for Gifted and Talented, please see attached for more information on testing.

The Recognizing All Valuable Employees or RAVE Program was created to honor those who take the extra steps to provide equitable and exceptional experiences. If you had an exceptional experience interacting with an Austin ISD employee, please nominate that staff member by completing this form.

AISD Family Empower Hour Sessions

AISD is Austin's home for inclusive learning: high expectations for all children and high outcomes for every student. We prepare every student with the knowledge and skills to thrive in college, career, and life.

AISD is providing sessions over various topics which provide valuable information and support regarding Special Education and 504 services. Click here to learn more!

Want to Volunteer?

We are excited to announce that our school is now using Voly, a new volunteer management system! If you are interested in volunteering on campus, please visit austinisd.voly.org to complete a quick background check.

This process is required for all volunteers, field trip chaperones, etc. and will help us ensure a safe and secure environment for our students. Thank you for your support and participation!

Upcoming Events!

October 29 - Picture Day
October 31 - Monster Mash
November 1 - Student Holiday
November 5 - Student Holiday
November 6 - Priority Registration Opens
November 7 - CAC Meeting
November 20 - Family Fundraising Night @ Book People
November 21 - PTA Meeting @ 7:45
November 25-29 - Fall Break