Good morning Doss Families - 

Today is the UN International Day of Peace and yesterday a group of 30+ Doss students from various cultures and backgrounds, ranging in age from kindergarten to 5th grade, came together as a choir to sing at the Capitol Peace Concert, “Together for a Peaceful World.” The message of peace shared through music by our students was both beautiful and moving. It reminds us of our shared purpose - to love, to protect, and to teach peace and kindness.

Enjoy the extra long weekend as there is no school Monday and Tuesday, Sept. 22 & 23. Monday is a district professional development day for staff and Tuesday students will not attend classes for the observance of Rosh Hashanah. Rosh Hashanah is the celebration of the Jewish New Year. The central observance of Rosh Hashanah is blowing the shofar (ram’s horn) on both mornings of the holiday. This normally takes place in the synagogue as part of the day’s services. Families enjoy traditional food such as round challah bread, apples dipped in honey, and other foods that symbolize hopes for a sweet year. It is also customary to light candles, attend synagogue, and have meals with family and friends.

If you would like to learn more about this important holiday, please review these resources:

• This video from the Jewish Educator Project reviews key aspects of the holiday.

• This printable book from The Little Compass contains activities and games to teach young children about the holiday.

As you have heard, Austin ISD is in the process of consolidating schools – combining campuses to create stronger, more fully resourced schools with robust staffing, strong programs, and rich opportunities for every student. Consolidation involves school closures, boundary changes, changes to transfer policies, and repurposing facilities. This work is not just about closing buildings, it’s about aligning our resources to better serve all students. The survey asks about your understanding of the final consolidation rubric and provides space for open-ended feedback. 

A friendly reminder that the School Consolidation Phase II Survey: Rubric Release is open through Sept. 26 and more information on the consolidation process at www.austinisd.org/consolidate.

Have a wonderful weekend -
Principal Sheridan