Good morning Doss Families - 

Monday, October 20th, is parent-teacher conference day, so there is no school for students. Please sign up for a conference with your child’s teacher. On Monday, AISD is observing Diwali 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. 

This Wednesday, October 22nd is Unity Day. Wear something ORANGE to show your support for bullying prevention and for students who have been bullied. Bullying can manifest in many ways, including physical, verbal, emotional, and cyberbullying. It not only affects the victims but can also impact bystanders and the overall school climate. Our goal this month (every month) is to empower students to recognize bullying, speak out against it, and support one another.

Doss H’OWL is Sunday, October 26th! For those new to Doss, this is our fall carnival and an awesome community-building tradition. Be sure to plan to attend and volunteer in your child’s classroom booth (every class is assigned a booth to run). If you have any questions, please contact the Doss PTA.  It’s a Doss family tradition, and I look forward to seeing you all there.

Please avoid parking in the Far West teacher parking lot, particularly during afternoon pick-up. This area is reserved for our two buses and students with special needs. 

As Austin ISD continues gathering input on the AISD School Consolidation and Boundary Changes Plan, we invite you to share your thoughts, feedback, and questions using this Comment Card. All responses will be carefully reviewed and considered as part of the decision-making process. The Comment Card will close October 28th. 

Have a wonderful week -
Principal Sheridan