Mathews Weekly
Week of August 28, 2017
From Grace
Speaking of weather related changes, Mathews has had some flooding in classrooms and hallways over the weekend. I am working with the district to resolve these issues. Because of this, we'll relocate some classes tomorrow:
- Ms. Briceno's class will meet in the library.
- Mr. Egge's class and Ms. Langford's class will meet together in Ms. Bach's room.
- Ms. Bach's class will meet together with Ms. McGuire's class in Ms. McGuire's room.
Should any other classes be relocated, we will make sure to let people know in the morning. Please check the Austin ISD website at www.austinisd.org as well as your email or twitter for any weather related updates.
The First Week of School:
What an amazing first week of school we had. From the eclipse on Monday to our first school-wide assembly on Friday, the week was full of new experiences and new memories. I think one of my favorites was the sound of one of our students singing her heart out in the bathroom, filling every nook and cranny with her enthusiastic voice. In each classroom I visited (and I saw them all), students were engaged in meaningful learning, actively participating, and figuring things out. I saw students in morning meetings, designing towers, building teams, creating lip sync performances, reading, writing, and engaged in scientific inquiry. All of this, with first week procedures and routines being woven in to the lessons.
I am so impressed with the thoughtful way our teachers and staff have planned out instruction and care for our students and just can't wait to see the learning that takes place throughout the year. Speaking of staff, I've included a new section below, Get to Know our Staff, that highlights one talented staff member each week. I hope you enjoy learning a bit more about the talented people who work each day to provide a rich and meaningful experience for our students - whether that's in the classroom, in the office, the hallways, or the cafeteria. Our Mathews team is super!
And, as our community, that makes you a part of our Mathews team too! Thank you to all of you who have made sure our students get to school on time, who are making arrival a sweet goodbye building confidence and independence in our students, who are taking the time to drive around the block and keep everyone safe, rather than make a U-turn in front of the school. Here's to everyone making sure our students get enough rest and have the things they need for school. We appreciate your support!
Here's to an equally awesome second week of school! It's going to be busy but a lot of fun. Have a happy and safe rest of your weekend and we will hopefully see everyone in the morning!
*If you happen to know of a family who isn't getting these weekly email messages, please let them know they can opt in to messages in the parent cloud at: my.austinsid.org
Important Information
Back to School Night
As soon as we have selected new dates, I will let everyone know. Thank you for your understanding!
AISD Bond
- Districtwide improvements to technology for teachers and students and transportation,
- Improvements to address overcrowding and critical needs, and
- Reinvention programs for 21st century learning.
I encourage you to read more information about the bond here: https://www.austinisd.org/bond
Staff Spotlight
Vivien Carson, 4th Grade Writing, Science, and Social Studies Teacher
What is your favorite thing about teaching?
One of my greatest fears is that there will be a time in my life when I'm not learning something new. There are so many wonderful things and passions I want to impart to our children. There is so much to learn about, to know of, to be a part of. I want to be an example of that. I went to Egypt three years ago and I now love Egyptology. When I developed an interest in Mayan history, I was able to serve as a volunteer archaeologist for five years. There are so many options for everyone. I want students to find their passion - it's important! No one should feel that their life will be stagnant. The world is so full of possibilities and everyone can find something to be passionate about. I want my students to be passionate about learning and discovery! I want to be their model for learning.
What is your favorite book?
I can't say I have one favorite book as it's ever evolving. I have collections of books I like to read with the children. Wonder is one, Number the Stars is another. Both of these books focus on compassion and gently teach lessons of empowerment. Children have more power than they're aware of. All of the books I choose for read aloud share this in common. Personally, I love historical fiction and am currently interested in books set in Egypt around the turn of the century.
What is your favorite Mathews tradition?
Teachers offering something to do with kids at the Octoberama auction. It's a bonding activity and everyone shares something they like - lunch and laughter, jewelry making, playing sports. Whatever it is, it's a bonding experience and I think it's really neat.
Anything else you'd like us to know?
I believe experiences are worth 10 times more than any possessions. I am always looking forward to the next trip and want to encourage everyone to experience life to the fullest!
Wednesday Folders
Octoberama!
The Week at a Glance
Monday, August 28, 2017 - C Day
- Kinder - 2nd Grade Back to School Night - 5:30 pm - Various Locations - POSTPONED
Tuesday, August 29, 2017 - A Day
- 3rd-6th Grade Back to School Night - 5:30 pm - Various Locations - POSTPONED
Friday, September 1, 2017 - A Day
- School-wide Assembly - 7:50 pm - Gym - All
Upcoming Events:
- Labor Day Holiday - September 4
- Fire Drill - September 14
- Principal Coffee - September 15
- CAC Meeting - September 25
- CATCH the Spirit of Kindness Family Night - September 28
- Mathews Meeting - September 29
About Us
Website: mathews360.com
Location: 906 West Lynn Street, Austin, TX, United States
Phone: 512-414-4406
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mathews360/
Twitter: @mathews360