Your weekly guide to all things MAC |
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I hope you are all having a fantastic start to your summer break and finding some time to relax, recharge, and unwind!
Around the world and right here at home, the energy has been incredible with the kickoff of the World Cup. It has been absolutely cool to witness the fusion of cultures from across the globe. Like many of you, I’ve been thoroughly enjoying following Freddy from Germany on his epic tour through the US for the tournament. On top of that, it’s incredibly exciting to see Team USA playing so well and already punching their ticket to the knockout round!
Closer to home, I spent the other night watching the recent school board meeting. I want to extend a sincere note of appreciation to our school board and central administration. A massive amount of hard work and incredibly tough decisions went into getting us to an adopted budget, and we are grateful for their dedication to our schools.
Since my last update, we have had a couple of changes regarding our staffing allocations for assistant principals and counselors: Assistant Principals: While we had hoped to add another AP to our leadership team this upcoming year, recent changes to district allocations mean that will unfortunately not be occurring.
Counseling Team: There will be no changes to the size of our counseling team for next school year.
Finally, I want to address the ongoing conversations regarding proposed changes to AISD's attendance boundaries. One of the greatest strengths of McCallum lies within our unique attendance boundary. We are one of the only schools in Austin that pulls students from all sections of the city, our current zone extends all the way from Emma Long Park on the west end past Givens Park on the east end. Because of this unique makeup, the proposed changes will have a profound impact on McCallum. I highly encourage all of our families to review the changes and community engagement opportunities. Everything is comprehensively laid out on the district website:
AISD Boundary Information & Timelines
On this page, you will find detailed timelines, maps, and comment cards to share your feedback. To help you visualize the proposed adjustments, you can also utilize this Interactive Boundary Map.
Please take some time to look through these resources so we can stay informed and engaged as a community. |
Calendar Highlights. - Monday, August 3rd - Big MAC Day - Freshman Orientation: 1:30 pm - 5:30 pm, MAC Gym
- Tuesday, August 18th - First Day of Classes
McCallum General Information Here are a few other items that came across my desk this week. |
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Our registrar’s office has been hard at work updating student records, and we have several important updates regarding transcripts and class ranks. Transcripts and class ranks for the Class of 2026 and Class of 2027 are officially complete. For the Class of 2028, rank calculations are currently underway and are scheduled to be finalized by June 25th. Lastly, for our incoming freshman class, the Class of 2029, we will not officially calculate class rank until after the conclusion of the fall semester. We extend a huge thank you to our registrar team for their meticulous efforts behind the scenes to get these records updated for our students!
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I want to take a moment to extend a heartfelt farewell to one of our incredible campus leaders, Dr. Lavonda Loney. Dr. Loney served as an Assistant Principal at McCallum this past school year, and her dedication, support, and positive impact on our students, staff, and community will be deeply missed. While we are sad to see her leave Mac, we are incredibly excited for her as she takes the next step in her professional journey. Please join us in thanking Dr. Loney for her service to our school and wishing her the absolute best in her next adventure with Belton ISD!
- Please be aware that access to our tennis courts will be changing in the coming weeks due to ongoing campus construction. Moving forward, a new temporary entrance to the courts will be created on the Grover Avenue side of the facility. Please use caution around the construction zones, and we appreciate your patience and flexibility as we work to improve our campus facilities!
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Please note that McCallum's main office has transitioned to our summer break schedule. Throughout the summer, our campus offices will be open Monday through Thursday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and will be closed on Fridays. As a reminder for anyone visiting campus over the break, the front office is located right off of the circle drive. Just look for the flagpoles to know you are in the correct location!
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Need to request a Verification of Enrollment (VOE) form for a driver's license or get a copy of your transcript? You can take care of most of your student record needs without a trip to campus by visiting our Registrar's website. The online portal is the quickest and most efficient way to submit these requests during the summer break. Please head over to the McCallum Registrar web page to get started.
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Have ideas or feedback? Please feel free to email me directly at andy.baxa@austinisd.org.
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Since my last update, our campus received 8 RAVE awards honoring the outstanding efforts and contributions of our staff. James Hutcheson - Hutch has been a very inspiring teacher for my student this year. He’s a supportive teacher but also inspires the students to stretch and grow and he chose really interesting and thought provoking books.
Leopoldo Cavazos (from a student) - Mr. Cavazos took over my physics class a couple of weeks ago and he has been a great teacher! He is so helpful and has really turned the class around. Additionally, he makes it a goal to connect with all of the students and is very friendly.
Loren Croom - Ms. Croom has gone above and beyond in supporting my student who has faced some particular challenges this year. She is very knowledgeable and provides guidance, and at the same time she is so kind and so supportive, both of students and parents. I really can’t say enough good things about her as a counselor. McCallum is so lucky to have her!!
Katie Liesmann - My son does not enjoy math and usually struggles. With Ms. Liesmann as his teacher, he actually enjoys going to call. He’s learned so much this year and his grades have gone up! She does a great job engaging the kids and they like her. She’s also very responsive to emails/phone calls and gives great feedback. We’ve been so lucky to have her for our son’s first year in High School. Ms. Liesmann has been one of our favorite teachers thus far! Thank you! Eric Wydeven - My daughter loves Mr. Wydeven’s film class. She has learned to think deeply and thematically about sophisticated films and I appreciate the opportunity for her to study the art with a great teacher.
Jada Stewart - Jada Stewart has made a tremendous impact on my sophomore daughter this school year as her Algebra 2 teacher. She creates such a welcoming and positive environment where students feel comfortable and valued. She is always kind, sweet, and genuinely cares about every student in her class. I appreciate that she takes the time to listen to her students’ opinions and thoughts and makes them feel heard. She builds strong relationships with her students and creates a sense of trust in the classroom. She also does an excellent job explaining difficult math concepts in a way that students can understand. My daughter has truly enjoyed being in her class this year and has felt supported in her learning. We are thankful for the care, dedication, and enthusiasm Ms. Stewart brings to her students every day!
Maria Priebe - Maria Priebe has had a tremendous impact on my daughter this year as her AP World History Teacher. Ap classes can be challenging and overwhelming because of the amount of information students are expected to learn, but Ms. Priebe makes it manageable. She is incredibly organized and presents large amounts of information in a way that is clear, structured, and easy for students to digest. My daughter struggled at the beginning of the year and felt overwhelmed by the course expectations. However, Ms. Priebe’s organization and teaching style helped make the class doable and helped build my daughter’s confidence. My daughter now feels that she did well on her AP exam and had a positive experience in the class overall. Ms. Priebe is also very kind and supportive of her students. While she has many wonderful qualities, I believe her exceptional organizational skills are one of her greatest strengths and play a huge role in her students’ success.
Jame Hutcheson - Mr. Hutcheson has made a meaningful impact on my daughter this year as her Advanced English 2 teacher. What makes him especially remarkable is the personal connection he builds with his students. He genuinely wants to know how they are doing and takes an interest in their lives beyond academics. High school can be a difficult time for many students, and he truly cares about his students’ personal wellbeing and supports them through challenges they may face. He creates an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and know they will be heard. He is always willing to provide help and support with assignments whenever students need it. He also has a wonderful sense of humor that makes the class engaging and enjoyable. My daughter has truly appreciated having a teacher who cares so deeply about both his students’ success and their overall wellbeing.
Even though it is the summer, I would still love to hear about the staff members who made an impact in your or your studnet's life. Please take a moment to recognize their contributions using this link; AISD RAVE. |
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Important Update: Yearbook & Senior Portraits for 2026–2027 |
McCallum High School is transitioning to a new photography vendor for the upcoming school year.
We will be using Photo Texas Photography for all yearbook portraits during the 2026–2027 school year.
We will no longer be using CADY Photography. Information for Seniors (Class of 2027) Upcoming Dates: Stay tuned for future announcements regarding portrait dates and signup opportunities hosted directly at McCallum.
Studio Booking: If you want to get a head start, seniors can already book free yearbook portraits as well as full portrait sessions directly at the Photo Texas studios. For more information or to book a studio session, visit the Photo Texas Photography Website.
Already booked with CADY? If you have already scheduled or taken an appointment through CADY Photography, please note that those photos will not be included in the yearbook. To ensure your portrait is included, you must book an appointment through Photo Texas or sign up for the on-campus senior sessions once they are announced. Information for Underclassmen Underclassman Photos: School photo dates will be scheduled for next fall. These sessions will take place on-campus in the library. More details will be shared when the school year begins. |
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The Stage is Set for Summer 2026! |
Austin ISD's Summer Theatre Series is back for its 11th anniversary, and this year's lineup is absolutely spectacular! From magical blockbusters to witty comedies, our talented local students are ready to blow you away at the Austin ISD Performing Arts Center. 2026 Performance Lineup: "The Witch's Princess" by Don Zolidis
Location: AISD PAC Black Box Theater Thursday, June 25 @ 7:00 PM Friday, June 26 @ 7:00 PM Saturday, June 27 @ 2:00 PM & 5:00 PM Disney's "Frozen: The Musical"
Location: AISD PAC Main Hall Thursday, July 23 @ 7:00 PM Friday, July 24 @ 7:00 PM Saturday, July 25 @ 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM Sunday, July 26 @ 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM Support our incredible young actors, technicians, musicians, and designers.
Get Tickets Here!
Follow the journey and see behind-the-scenes magic:
Instagram: @austinisdsts
Facebook Group: @aisdsummertheatreseries |
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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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McCallum High School Athletics: 2026 Summer Speed & Strength Camp |
Get ready for the upcoming athletic season! McCallum High School is hosting its 2026 Summer Speed & Strength Camp to help student-athletes stay in peak condition, build strength, and connect with teammates over the summer break.
Camp Details Dates: * Week 1–4: June 1st – June 25th Off-Week (No Camp): June 29th – July 3rd Week 5–6: July 6th – July 16th
Schedule: Monday through Thursday each week, 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM (No camp on Fridays!) Location: McCallum High School Fieldhouse Eligible Athletes: All incoming 7th through 12th graders who plan on attending McCallum High School.
Note: Athletes will be separated into groups based on age, gender, and experience to ensure safe and appropriate workouts. What to Bring & Requirements Athletic Attire: Closed-toe athletic shoes and exercise clothing appropriate for both indoor and outdoor activities. It is highly recommended to bring cleats, a personal water bottle, and a towel. Physical & Medical Forms: * Athletes with a valid physical on file with AISD for the '25-'26 or '26-'27 school year are already covered.
All other athletes must submit a completed AISD physical form and the required online participation forms prior to camp. Paperwork must be uploaded through the AISD Athletics Forms Portal. Please do not mail or drop off physical forms.
Registration & Fees Cost: $75 for the entire six-week camp. Payment Methods: You can register and pay electronically by scanning the QR code on the physical flyer, or bring a check made out to McCallum Football Boosters on the first day of camp.
Partial or weekly payments are not accepted. Fee waivers are available for participants who qualify for free or reduced lunch. Please request a waiver form if needed. Questions? For any additional questions regarding the camp schedule or registration, please contact Coach Tom Gammerdinger directly at Thomas.Gammerdinger@austinisd.org.
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A Message From Our Registrar |
McCallum Class of 2026 Diploma Pick Up
Diploma pick up dates and times:
Monday June 8th 2pm-5pm A-L alpha only
Tuesday June 9th 2pm-5pm M-Z alpha only
Wednesday June 10th ALL
Please complete this form ONLY if you authorizing someone other than yourself to pick up your diploma. The person must be 18 years of age or older. Do not send an email.
***Must present DL, Texas State ID, or McCallum high school ID when picking up diploma. This is a legal document and can not be released with out verification process.
This form will close on Sunday June 7th at 9pm.
NO EXCEPTIONS!
Mass Transcription:
Transcripts for Class of 2026 will be available after June 18th
Monday Madness Enrollment Events Need help with registration? We’ve got you covered! Join us in the Front Office from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM on any of the following dates for our Monday Madness Enrollment Events: July 13th & July 27th August 3rd, August 10th, & August 17th
These in-person sessions are specifically designed to support families who have not yet completed their student's registration for the upcoming school year. Our dedicated staff will walk you step-by-step through the enrollment process and assist you with uploading all necessary documents. Stop by and let us help you cross registration off your summer to-do list! Respectfully,
Sonia J. Perez, Registrar
McCallum High School |
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Interested in a U.S. Service Academy? Congressional Nominations Are Open! |
Are you a leader looking to serve your country and earn a world-class education?
Congressman Lloyd Doggett is currently accepting application packets for Congressional Nominations to the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and U.S. Military Academy (West Point).
To compete for an academy appointment, a congressional nomination is a critical first step. If you live in Texas’s 37th Congressional District and have a strong academic record, leadership potential, and grit, you are highly encouraged to apply. Deadlines & Submission Info Hard Deadline: Friday, September 11, 2026 (By Close of Business). Late applications will not be screened. Where to Submit: Packets must be mailed or hand-delivered to the Austin District Office: Congressman Lloyd Doggett ATTN: Academy Nominations 300 East 8th Street, Suite 763 Austin, TX 78701 Dropping it off in person? Students are welcome to hand-deliver their packets, but please call the office ahead of time to give them a heads-up on your arrival date and time.
Check Your District: Not sure if you live in TX-37? Type in your home address here to verify.
Checklist: Required Application Documents Your completed application packet must include the following: [ ] Application Form (Available through the Congressman's office/attached). [ ] Two Small Photos (Maximum size: 3 ½” x 3 ½”).
[ ] Resume/List: Your special honors, extracurricular activities, and achievements. [ ] Essay: A 1-to-2-page statement covering your interests, goals, and why you want to attend a service academy. [ ] Official Transcripts: High school transcripts (and college transcripts, if applicable).
[ ] Official Test Scores: Use the codes below to submit your scores: SAT Code: 7350, ACT Code: 8233 [ ] Letters of Recommendation: A minimum of three (3) letters from teachers, counselors, coaches, academy alumni, or employers. Note: Physical letters must be in a sealed envelope. Alternatively, your recommenders can email them directly to the office.
Pro-Tips for a Strong Application The "All-in-One" Rule: Send all of your documents together in a single packet to ensure everything is processed quickly. Skip the Staples: Please leave your pages loose. DO NOT use staples anywhere in your packet.
Make Your Essay Count: Focus on your long-term career goals, why you want to be a leader in the active services, and what internally motivates you. Show Your Grit: You can submit more than three letters of recommendation. Find recommenders who can explicitly speak to your determination, resilience, and ability to handle tough challenges. Contact Information If you have any questions about the process or need guidance on putting your packet together, reach out directly to the Field Representative handling academy nominations: Contact: Nya Jones Phone: (512) 916-5921 (Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM) Email: Nya.Jones@mail.house.gov |
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Upcoming Girls Basketball Camps |
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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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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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