MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 13, 2013
MFABC and Mustang Football Kickoff Event June 23rd

Fans of the Mustangs are looking forward to this year's Marble Falls Athletic Booster Club's 2 nd Annual Golf and Tennis Tournament, Sunday, June 23rd, at the Lakecliff Country Club in Spicewood. In addition to the tournament action, participants will enjoy BBQ, a silent auction, and a free concert performed by Cory Morrow and sponsored by Lee Hoffpauir Chevy Buick.

"I would like to invite everyone from Marble Falls and the surrounding areas to come on out and join us for the 2 nd annual MF Athletic Booster Club Golf and Tennis Tournament," said Head Football Coach and Mustang Athletic Coordinator, Todd Dodge. "This is our big kick off for the 2013 football season, so all of my coaches will be out there to visit with our Mustang fans."

The annual Golf and Tennis Tournament is a favorite with football fans from around the area. It's a great opportunity to enjoy good food, good sports, and some great music. The event is also a terrific time to get to know the Mustang coaches and talk Texas high school football.

Laurie Hill-Chapman with the MFABC reports that there are still golf and tennis slots as well as sponsor opportunities available. For more information, go to

www.mfabc.org

Registration Packet

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 12, 2013
HB 5 has EOC Summer School Students Scrambling

Following news from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) today, parents of Marble Falls High School Students needing remediation for End of Course (EOC) Exams to meet graduation requirements may be wondering if their student will still be required to begin accelerated instruction scheduled to begin at Marble Falls High School, Monday, June 17 th. MFISD is urging students who are scheduled for EOC accelerated instruction to report to MFHS Monday morning, June 17th , at 8:00 so their personal graduation plan can be reviewed to help assure that their testing and accelerated instruction requirements are met under the new standard of House Bill 5 (HB 5).

Under House Bill 5, passed by the 83rd Texas Legislature and signed by the Governor, high school students are now required to pass only five State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR®) end-of-course exams to meet the new graduation requirements. Students scheduled for EOC accelerated instruction in subjects not required under the new graduation plan may need to still pass the EOC(s) depending on whether their current graduation plan or the new plan under HB 5 best meets their needs.

Information from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) is attached on HB 5, the transition of graduation plans, and the new requirements in a press release from the TEA dated June 12, 2013. To assure that your student receives the required instruction to meet his or her graduation plan or to appropriately revise his or her graduation plan, please help assure that your student reports to Marble Falls High School Monday, June 17t h , at 8:00 a.m.

TEA announces initial assessment requirements under HB5

Additional Information Regarding STAAR

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 10, 2013
Free Summer Math and Reading Tutoring 

Parents of 3rd through 8th graders in Marble Falls ISD can help their student avoid the summer slide by encouraging them to work on two to three math and reading lessons per week on Think Through Math and Istation. These two programs are the State's free Reading and Math STAAR aligned interactive tutoring programs designed to help students who are in Grades 3rd - 8th be successful all year long. MFISD students can log on from home, a public library, or anywhere you have internet to access the free tutoring systems.

If a student doesn't remember their log in information, parents can contact the student's home campus. The free log on issued from the school helps track each student's work over the summer and can be used by his or her teachers at the next grade level to determine how to best meet your child's individual math or reading needs at the start of school.

IStation is an interactive reading program with animation from Disney and Pixar. It engages students in the reading lessons and encourages them to read and learn. Think Through Math is also an interactive program. It uses incentive points to encourage students to work through the math lessons. Both programs analyze where a student is in their learning and assign individualized lessons that are tailored to meet the child's specific learning needs. Because the systems are adaptive, a student can accelerate his or her learning by completing just two to three lessons per week over the summer.

Through the State-funded TexasSuccess.org project, students will continue to have access to free tutoring all summer long. For more information about Texas' free summer on-line tutoring programs, Istation, and Think Through Math, go to TexasSuccess.org or contact your campus.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
C oordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 10, 2013
MFISD Students Show Positive Results on STAAR

MFISD's focus on aligning lessons to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) has produced positive results in several subjects on the most recent administrations of State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) tests. Out of the five End of Course (EOC) subjects MFISD tested in 2012 and 2013, MFISD students showed growth in three subjects, Algebra I, Biology and World Geography.

"Our students have another opportunity to take and pass the STAAR tests at the end of June and in July," said Director of Secondary Academics, Eric Penrod. "We look forward to increasing those numbers after the retest. To highlight a few of the bright spots, on the Algebra I EOC, 92% of MFHS students demonstrated mastery and on the Biology EOC 95% demonstrated mastery."

Third through eighth grade students in MFISD also demonstrated improved performance on STAAR. When compared to the initial STAAR scores from 2012, MFISD students showed impressive growth. In reading, MFISD's third through eighth grade students improved in all but one tested grade level. 92% of District eighth grade students mastered STAAR reading. In math, third through eighth grade students improved in all grade levels, with 92% of fifth graders and 95% of eighth graders showing mastery. Writing improved in fourth grade while losing only one percentage point in seventh grade. Student passing rates also improved in fifth and eighth grade science and eighth grade social studies.

Starting with the 2012-13 year, the State is gradually phasing in tougher passing standards to increase to the currently planned final standard by 2015 - 2016. This phase in of passing standards is intended to allow students and educators time to adjust to the difficulty level of the STAAR exams. MFISD's TEKS based assessment results indicate that our teachers' focus on the State curriculum, or TEKS, were predictive of our results on STAAR. Moving forward, MFISD staff will use the current STAAR results to focus learning opportunities in those subject areas and for those students who have room for additional growth.

"MFISD's preliminary results from the STAAR assessments are encouraging overall with students performing as expected or better in most areas," said Penrod. "The growth in STAAR performance is attributed to the hard work of MFISD teachers to design and implement the District's Focused Curriculum Project."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 6, 2013
Marble Falls High School Changes Bell Schedule for 2013-2014

Throughout the school year, the MFHS campus leadership team has been receiving input about the current High School bell schedule, and making observations on how it impacts instruction. A formal survey was given to the staff earlier in the spring semester to garner overall staff satisfaction with the current bell schedule and the plans for the high school bell schedule in the future. Here are the findings from that survey:

•  Almost all of the staff does NOT want to continue with the current bell schedule (a mixture of 48 minute class periods and 90 minute class periods in a school day).

•  A majority of staff (approximately 80 percent) feel that the appropriate amount of instructional time for a class period is 45-60 minutes.

•  A majority of staff (approximately 75 percent) are in favor of a late start day once per week for time to meet for collaborative planning.

Inequity in the amount of time for scheduling and instruction was one of the biggest reasons to revisit the schedule. Even when teachers only taught one subject area (for example Algebra 1), the teachers found it very difficult to keep lessons instructionally consistent each week between short and long class periods. Also, some teachers did not have the benefit of conference periods daily. The lack of this period effected planning, scheduling of meetings, and the flexibility to deal with any changes that came up during the day.

Other bell schedules were also reviewed, but each caused problems for scheduling of advanced programs on campus (mainly dual credit classes) and ended the school day after 4 o'clock. Both of these outcomes were not desirable for the overall vision of MFHS to promote high levels of instruction as well as participation in extracurricular activities for all students.

After looking at all of the data, a majority of teachers on campus recommend moving to an eight period school day, which allows for approximately 50 minutes of instruction each period daily. The eight period schedule would give all teachers the opportunity to see all of their students daily providing consistency. It would also provide a planning/conference period daily and an appropriate amount of instructional time to maximize student learning. The start time for school next year will still be 8:30 AM (same as this year) and the end of the day will be at 3:50 PM (10 minutes later than this year).

If you have any questions about this change, please feel free to contact the MFHS administrators or counselors at 830-693-4375.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
For Immediate Release June 5, 2013
MFISD Announces 2013 Teachers & Paras of the Year

Marble Falls Independent School District is proud to present this year's Teachers of the Year and Paraprofessionals of the Year. The Teacher and Para of the Year recognition is awarded to one teacher and one para on each campus. The honorees are nominated and then voted on by their peers as professionals who best exemplify the work, dedication, student focus, and passion for helping students learn on their campus.

 
The MFISD Teachers and Paras of the Year were recognized during the year-end faculty meetings and celebrations of success on each campus during the last week of the school year. Beyond the satisfaction of professional acknowledgement by their peers and administration, the Teachers and Paras of the Year are featured on campus web sites, school marquees, and through your personal pat-on-the back for a job well-done. MFISD encourages you to give these fine teachers and paraprofessionals a big high-five when you see them!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 4, 2013
Regional Visitors Observe MFMS Workstations

Educators from around the State are showing interest in Marble Falls ISD's curriculum focus and how the District's teachers use the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) to help students achieve success on the new STAAR standard. Teachers and Curriculum Specialists from Region 15 visited Marble Falls Middle School just before the end of the school year to observe how the English/Language Arts teachers are using learning stations to help students explore a targeted TEK.

Anna Munn, a curriculum consultant from Region 15 in San Angelo, contacted MFMS Principal John Schuma cher as well as ELAR teachers a few weeks prior to arrange the visit.

"We really need to see workstations in action…to see that so much more learning occurs when everyone is actively participating in a station," Munn stressed. "My objective was to show the group of educators the benefits of shifting their paradigm from a focus on instruction to a focus on learning."

Munn brought Shelly Bell, Region 15's ELAR consultant, plus three teachers and three curriculum specialists from Del Rio to observe student learning through workstations. Throughout the day, the group observed the classrooms of Becky Lazos, Katherine Corley, Laura Sutherland, and Lisa Persyn. Lazos, Corley, Sutherland and Persyn not only had an open door policy welcoming the visitors into their classrooms, but they also answered the visitor's questions, addressed their concerns, and shared various strategies on implementing and managing learning stations.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

Announcing Marble Falls I.S.D.

Summer Food Service Program

  Breakfast and Lunch Meals will be provided FREE of charge to ALL children ages 1 to 18.

  Meals are served Monday-Friday beginning June 3^rd thru* August 9^th 2013.

Breakfast 7am-7:30am Lunch 11:30am-12:30pm

*July 4^th No Meals will be served in observance of Independence Day

  Free Meals will be provided at the following locations:

Marble Falls Middle School Cafeteria
1511 Pony Circle, Marble Falls, TX 78654

  Boys & Girls Club of the Highland Lakes
1701 Broadway, Marble Falls, TX 78654
*must be a member with BGC

     Summer School locations:

Marble Falls High School
2101 Mustang Drive, Marble Falls, TX 78654  

Colt Elementary School
2200 Manzano Mile, Marble Falls, TX 78654  

Adult meals available for purchase

  In accordance with Federal Law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication; 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call toll free (866) 632-9992 (Voice).  Individuals who are hearing impaired or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339; or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow....Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
  Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 24, 2013
MFMS Jazz Band Wins Best in Class

The Marble Falls Middle School Jazz Band ended an exciting, event-filled year with "Best in Class" honors at the Sound Waves Festival on May 4, 2013. Under the direction of Cristi Reyes, the band received Superior Ratings from all three judges.

Jazz is a genre of music that requires the musician to have a solid mastery of the basics of their instrument and reading music while combining improvisational skills that blend with the sound of the other musicians in their ensemble. Jazz musicians simply call it "Jamming". Developing these skills at the middle school level helps MFMS students flourish in University Interscholastic League competitions once they reach high school.

"I am very proud of this group for their great work ethic and am very impressed that the musicians help each other whether working on difficult rhythms or improving solos," said Ms. Reyes. "This group has met every challenge placed before them and achieved greatness during the 2012-2013 school year!"

Marble Falls' Jazz Band members have racked up a string of honors for their work this year. In addition to the Best in Class honors at Sound Waves, the Jazz Band was selected to perform at the State Capitol, earned the Award of Excellence at the Georgetown Jazz Festival, and had four students winning a place in the All-Star Jazz Band.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 21, 2013
MFMS Actors Take 1^st in One Act Play Festival

Actors from Marble Falls Middle School's cast and crew were awarded the honor of "Winning S how" in last weekend's One Act Play Festival, for their rendition of Ken Ludwig's, "Leading Ladies". The competition, hosted by MFMS for each of the last three years, included performers from Blanco, Elgin and Dobie Middle Schools.

Out of eight possible awards for All Star Cast, Marble Falls Middle School walked away with half of the awards. Marble Falls' win marks the second time in three years that the school has been named first place show. MFMS has also taken home a Best Actress or Actor award all three years of the Festival. 　

"A few of the Judges' notes indicated that 'all of our actors are so strong' and this is better than some high school one act plays I've seen," reported Director, Jon Clark. "Our kids were rated Exemplary, the highest rating possible in all 59 judged criteria."

Actors receiving All Star Cast were:

Katlyn Mintz playing the role of Florence, Ryan Counts playing the role of Leo, Kaitlynn Hallmark playing the role of Audrey, and Sam Shirey playing the role of Meg.

This year, Marble Falls' Wolf Williams was named the festival's BEST ACTOR.

Lupita Mora was awarded the ALL STAR TECHNICIAN award-- one of only 4 techies to receive the honor.

Other members of the first place cast and crew are Braden McBryde, Gregory Tamaseu, Corey Polasek, Jennifer Lopez, Jackie Vasquez and Kevon Manning.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow....Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
For IMMEDIATE RELEASE MAY 17, 2013
MFMS and First Responders Practice Lockdown

This week, officers from the Marble Falls Police Department and Emergency Medical Services participated in and monitored a practice lockdown drill at Marble Falls Middle School. The purpose of the practice drill was to familiarize students and staff with the steps necessary to secure the building and to assess practices that may be improved in the event of a real emergency. Cord Woerner, Director of Special Projects, who is responsible for the safe and drug free programs in the District, reported that the drill was part of MFISD's regularly scheduled safety practice conducted on each campus throughout each school year.

"It was great to have a lot of trained eyes to really see the whole campus in a brief period of time," said Woerner. "I really appreciated the input and observations we received. Every detail or question that can be addressed now helps everyone, not only in the Middle School, but across the District."

Practice lockdown drills are conducted on each campus in Marble Falls ISD at least twice per year. The practice lockdown, as well as fire, weather, and evacuation drills are often conducted with the assistance of local emergency service providers to help administrators and teachers fine-tune communications and response times. The drills also offer officials the opportunity to explore suggested physical improvements to the District's facilities and safety procedure updates.

"Having the trained eyes watch the campus lockdown procedures during the drill was invaluable," commented Middle School Principal John Schumacher. "The debriefing that occurred between the campus administrative team and the police officers after the drill provided us with meaningful suggestions that will benefit the safety of our campus. We would like to thank all of the agencies in Marble Falls who help us keep our schools safe places for learning. "

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 20, 2013
Latest Results of MFHS Focus on State Standards

Marble Falls High School students have been learning with a laser focus on the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). The results of that focus by students and teachers has earned MFHS top marks in the latest round of TAKS tests measuring student understanding of the State curriculum in Math, Reading, Science and Social Studies.

11th Grade Cohort

Chart indicates how current MFHS Junior class students performed on the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) each year in high school.

Marble Falls ISD's Curriculum Focus Project has been helping each member of the District instructional staff focus on facilitating student learning to the depth and complexity of the new State standards, on team collaboration, and on using student data to help teachers design remediation to meet exactly what each student needs to learn to be successful on assessments required by the State for promotion or graduation.

"I called a last-minute faculty meeting and my staff thought there was some kind of emergency," said Manny Lunoff, Principal of Marble Falls High School. "They were thrilled to hear the reason for the meeting was to celebrate our success with TAKS! We're very excited about it and are looking forward to seeing similar results with the upcoming End of Course assessments."

For more information on the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills, visit your student's campus website and click on the "Parents" section. You can access the same instructional resources your child's teacher uses to begin lesson planning by clicking on the CSCOPE icon or by visiting http://www.tea.state.tx.us/index2.aspx?id=6148.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 10, 2013
Dr. O'Connor on Accountability and High Stakes Testing

Accountability and high stakes testing are concepts that are currently being hotly debated at the State Capitol. One side argues for high accountability standards and more testing, stating that we need high performing schools to keep up with the global market. The other side argues that accountability and testing has been overly emphasized and that there is more to education than how students perform on an exam. As in most concepts in life, the truth is probably somewhere in the middle. I tend to believe that accountability is needed but I don't agree with the current system that is punitive in nature and requires an overwhelming amount of testing in schools. There are better ways to determine if students are successful other than standardized testing.

In current and in previous years, it's not unusual to hear a frustrated parent or community member make the statement, "All the District cares about is preparing students for State assessments (TAKS, STAAR etc.)." I am sympathetic to their cause. Even the Ex-Commissioner of Education was quoted in the Dallas Morning news as stating "Overemphasis on test results at the local level is a "perversion" of the system." And he said that the State's reliance on those test results for more and more accountability measures was the "heart of the vampire." Why are test results and more accountability measures the "heart of the vampire?" Why is testing such a big concern for schools under the current State system? The answer is simple. If a local school district does not meet State standards there are significant and unpleasant consequences imposed by the State. In theory, I would like to stand defiantly and claim I don't care about State consequences. In reality, being non-compliant may cause more harm than good to the community and its schools.

The current consequences from the State for having a low performing campus, which is primarily based on how our students perform on the State assessments, include: 1) having to submit a detailed improvement plan and provide updates throughout the year; 2) having an outside monitor be assigned to your campus; 3) having to fire your current campus principal; 4) possibly having teachers fired or reassigned in low performing areas; 5) assigning an outside management team to run the campus; 6) or in a worst case scenario, the campus can be closed. Many of these consequences occur only after the second year of having a low performance rating. These State consequences are very unpleasant; there are also local consequences to being labeled as an unacceptable district or campus.

Many businesses and individuals review a district's rating prior to moving into a new community. Poor ratings impact community growth. Additionally, the local community loses pride and confidence in its schools. The new Texas Commissioner of Education, Michael Williams, has proposed a new rating system for public schools which would label a district or a campus on an A-F scale (again this rating would be based primarily on STAAR test results). Imagine the community outcry if a campus receives a D or F rating. As I mentioned above, I don't like the system's current reliance on judging districts or campuses based primarily on standardized test results. Nevertheless, this trend does not seem to be shifting significantly enough to change our current reality.

Current legislation has been introduced to keep harsh accountability measures in place. Senate Bill 1718 would establish a "Texas Achievement School District" that would be able to remove schools from district control after three years of low performance. This bill was passed out of the Senate and a similar bill is in the House by Rep. Dutton that proposes taking over schools after two years.

As a District, we are continuing to advocate for positive educational reforms and letting our voices be heard. Many District teachers and administrators participated in the Save Texas Schools March at the Capitol in February. Teachers, administrators and School Board members have written letters and emails to congressmen this spring. Recently, a Board member and I visited with our legislators face to face to share our concerns. Our District is advocating for our schools.

To be fair to all our State legislators, there are many representatives that have worked this legislative session to change the system and reduce the amount of testing required in our schools. Some have even advocated placing the current accountability system on hold until it can be fully evaluated. As parents, teachers and community members, your voices are being heard. This brings me to my final point. If we are going to change the system we need to advocate for change at the State level. State level regulations keep us confined to a high stakes accountability system. Districts have very little local control and are forced to work within the State mandated system or else suffer the consequences mentioned above. The good news is that several parent groups are making a difference. I would encourage parents wanting to change our current testing and accountability system to get involved with groups like Texans Advocating for Meaningful Student Assessments, Texas Parent PAC or Raise Your Hand Texas. You can make a difference!

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
  Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 8, 2013
Special Olympians Face Regional Competition

The Special Olympians from Marble Falls participated in Saturday's Regional Track Meet at Leander High School to warm-up for the State meet in Arlington May 23rd - 26th. This was the fifth year for the team to compete in individual events, but the first year to compete with a relay team. The first-year effort was rewarded with a 2nd place Regional finish with Briant Atkinson improving a 4th place pace to finish in 2nd during his anchor leg of the race. 

"Our whole team has been working hard and gave solid performances," commented Coach Gavin Smith. "There were approximately 600 athletes competing, so our group did well placing in multiple events."

Here are the Regional results for the Marble Falls Special Olympians:

Relay:

4x100 Relay Team placed 2nd (Briant Atkinson, Jonathan Estrada, Trevor Phillips, Andrew Phillips)

Individual:

Briant Atkinson - 2nd (running long jump), 2nd (200 meter)
S ocorro de la Hoya - 2nd (softball throw), 1st (50 meter dash)
Jonathan Estrada - 1st (mini javelin throw), 5th (100 meter dash)
Taylor Johnson - 2nd (50 meter dash), 2nd (softball throw)
Vanesa Lopez - 3rd (softball throw), 1st (50 meter dash)
Kim Morrow - 2nd (softball throw), 4th (50 meter dash)
Andrew Phillips - 4th (100 meter dash), 2nd (softball throw)
Trevor Phillips - 4th (mini javelin throw), 2nd (100 meter dash)
Jacob Phillips - 1st (shotput), 3rd (100 meter dash)
Karena Rios - 1st (50 meter dash), 3rd (softball throw)
Raul Serifin - 3rd (50 meter dash), 4th (softball throw)
Michael Thixton - 1st (mini javelin throw), 2nd (100 meter dash)
Ethan Vidal - 3rd (shotput), 1st (50 meter dash)
Tanner Worthing - 3rd (softball throw), 3rd (50 meter dash)

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 8, 2013
Falls Graduate Achieves Tarleton Honors

Joseph Knox, Falls Career High School graduate, 2011-2012, was recently inducted into the Tarleton State University chapter of Phi Eta Sigma, the National Freshman Honor Society. According to Dr. Linda Jones from Tarleton State, membership is awarded to students who earn a 3.5 or better grade point average their freshman year, and only eight percent of college freshmen in the nation earn this distinction. 

Falls Career High School is designed to help provide non-traditional high school students the support and flexibility necessary to meet their personal educational needs to achieve success after high school. Falls is designed to challenge students to earn success after earning their high school diploma. For some, that may mean a trade school, or community college coursework. For many Falls students, that means developing the skills and networking necessary to immediately enter the work place to meet life's needs before they consider furthering their education. Others, like Joseph Knox, sees Falls as a way to focus on their future goals by moving on to a four-year university as quickly as possible.

"We expected to hear good things from Joseph and we are all excited to hear about his achievement and success at Tarleton State," exclaimed Falls Teacher, Michael Saenz. "He is doing us proud!"

Peggy Little, Principal of Falls High School, was particularly pleased with the news of Knox' achievements in an advanced University setting. She expressed her confidence in Knox's ability to be successful during his application process to the Falls program. Little is known for inspiring students to discover their own potential through hard work and diligence.

"We were notified in a letter from Dr. Jones, the Faculty Advisor for Phi Eta Sigma, to Dr. O'Connor that Joseph was being honored by Tarleton's College of Science and Technology," said Principal Little. "We want to spread the word about Joseph's success so teachers throughout the Marble Falls District can feel proud of Joseph and their part in his success."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!  

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 6, 2013
MFHS Receives State Honor for School Improvement

Marble Falls ISD and Marble Falls High School have been selected to share the story of how its teachers and staff implemented the school improvement process by participating in the production of a training video with a State-wide audience. MFHS will participate in the Texas Accountability and Intervention System (TAIS) Statewide video series, a project designed by the TEA to highlight districts/campuses across our State that have demonstrated outstanding progress in implementing the components of the District Commitments and Support Systems within the Texas Accountability Intervention System (TAIS) framework. Highlighted in the video will be MFISD's focus on aligning student learning to the State Standards, the use of collaborative team planning, and student remediation based on current performance data.

"It's an honor to share our story with other Districts," reports Eric Penrod, Director of Secondary Academic Programs. "Teachers, parents, students and administrators will all have the opportunity to share the MFISD story in the production."

Carol Harle, a State consultant monitoring progress under MFHS's Texas Title I Priority Schools (TTIPS) Grant, nominated MFISD to be used as an example of a District implementing the best practices of school improvement. Video crews from the Region XIII Service Center will be on-site at MFHS Thursday and Friday May 9th and 10th to produce a training documentary designed to show how the school's administrators, teachers and staff implement MFISD's curriculum focus and District vision.

According to Principal, Manny Lunoff, MFHS was chosen to specifically highlight the staff's success in implementing:

• Processes and Procedures

Priority is placed upon teaching and learning when establishing and implementing systemic operational protocols that guarantee accountability, availability of resources, and their effective use.

• Communications

A clearly defined process is in place that ensures a consistent message is being sent, received, and acted upon using multiple, effective delivery systems. Proactive efforts are engaged by District level staff to establish effective internal communication systems and transparent external communication practices. Communication is focused on a shared and clear vision for continuous improvement which streamlines collaborative efforts toward student success. The TAIS statewide video series will include an introductory video, expert videos for each of the nine components, and stories from the field regarding these practices in action.

Robin Ward Southall, the Project Manager for the TAIS Statewide Video Series, provided further accolades for MFISD's selection: "Congratulations on being chosen as a participant and we thank you for your outstanding efforts on behalf of the students of our State."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow....Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE May 1, 2013
Robotics Team Scores at NASA

The Marble Falls High School Underwater Robotics team competed in Houston at NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Lab last Saturday. After navigating the underwater course and completing several of the mission tasks, the team ended the day with an impressive 239 points, enough to earn a 2nd place position out of 17 teams from all over Texas competing in the Texas Regional Contest sponsored by NASA and the Marine Advanced Technology Education (MATE) program.

"These young men represented MFHS with professionalism," complimented team sponsor, David Smith. "They demonstrated their Underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle (UROV) as if they were operating it for a business that bid on a contract to service actual observation stations located on the sea floors of the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. The team designed and built the UROV to meet the specifications set out by MATE and then presented their design to a panel of judges to score points. Finally, they had to demonstrate that their UROV could perform a certain set of performance tasks, again scoring points for accomplishing the tasks in a specific amount of time."

 The team invested months of time problem solving, building, and testing the UROV prior to the competition. In addition to the second place team finish, Senior Travis Sparks received the "Outstanding Senior" award given in recognition for exemplary leadership and professionalism. His award included a $1000.00 scholarship.

"This is the first time that Marble Falls has entered this contest," reports Smith. "It is very impressive that these students were able to excel to this level with no contest experience."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net |
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 19, 2013
MFMS Students Named Jazz All-Stars

Marble Falls Middle School Jazz Band members are celebrating with four of their performers who earned the honor of being selected as a Jazz All-Star Band member for 2013! Rogelio Arredondo, Bailey Dupree, Rebecca Faehnle, and Eloise Holder were selected to the All- Star Jazz Band at the Fourth Annual Georgetown Jazz Band Festival held April 6, 2013. The four MFMS students competed for 25 spots and were chosen from over 180 musicians competing for the All-Star Band.

"There were six middle school jazz bands at the Georgetown Jazz Band Festival with an average of 30 members in each band, so this was an event with a lot of competition for a limited number of All-Star spots," said Marble Falls Middle School Assistant Band Director, Cristi Reyes. "Mrs. (Rachel) Faehnle and I are very proud of these students and can't wait for our next performance."

Arredondo, Dupree, Faehnle and Holder were selected for the All-Star Jazz Band because of their group performance and solo performances. Arredondo, Holder and Faehnle performed solos in Blues Machine, and Dupree performed a solo in Besame Mucho. A panel of four judges unanimously selected the four Marble Falls Middle School students for their solo performance as well as their group performances. The band also received a rating of Excellent for their performance in the competition.

"I'm so proud of these four students and our band program," said MFMS Principal, John Schumacher. "We can hold our head up high knowing that four of the 25 spots held have been earned by our students. This is a great accomplishment and acknowledgement of the quality of our band program and our students here at Marble Falls Middle School."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 19, 2013
Colt Gallops Away With Health Competition

Look at all the healthy people from Colt Elementary School! The Colt staff achieved the amazing feat of 100 percent staff participation in MFISD's Spring Wellness Challenge and will be awarded a treadmill donated by an employee and the coveted Championship Banner to display at the Colt Campus. Honorable mentions in the competition were awarded to the Child Nutrition Department with 70 percent participation and Marble Falls Elementary School with 52 percent participation.

"The MFISD Wellness Campaign, sponsored by Edwards Risk Management, is run twice per year in the District," said Melanie Jordan, MFISD Wellness Coordinator. The goal of the wellness campaigns is to heighten awareness of the little things we can do that will improve our health and well-being."

Edwards Risk Management works with MFISD to reduce the costs associated with employees who become sick or are injured. Healthier employees result in fewer days out of the classroom for teachers and staff and that means the regular teacher is able to deliver the best quality instruction for our students. This win is especially sweet for Colt. It's their second year-in-a-row to snag first place in the Spring Challenge.

"Our P.E. Teacher, Debbie Johnson and our Secretary, Mary Ratliff, really encouraged us to participate in the program to stay healthy," said Colt Principal, Keith Powell. "We're going to put the treadmill right in our Professional Learning Community (PLC) room. Our theory here is to exercise both our brain and our body!"

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

"

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 17, 2013
FCCLA Designer Qualifies for Nationals

Marble Falls High School Senior Lupe Gomez learned this week that his design project won first place at the State Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) Recycle and Redesign Star event in Dallas. The win qualifies Gomez to compete during the FCCLA's National Conference in Nashville Tennessee this July.

Recycle and Redesign is an individual event that recognizes participants who apply recycling and redesign skills learned in Family and Consumer Sciences courses and create a display  using samples of their skills. Recycle and Redesign is one of 26 different STAR (Students Taking Action with Recognition) events that students can participate in through FCCLA.

"The Recycle and Redesign event requires that a student create something out of recycled materials," explains FCCLA Sponsor, Suzanne Dyer. "Generally it is a clothing item, but it doesn't have to be. Lupe created a two-piece, belted dress out of mulch bags. It was lined with white fabric that had been given to him, and embellished with hand sewn sequins. He also created a medallion, pair of heels and a shoulder bag made from mulch bags, aluminum pull tabs, pearls, and jewels to complement his project."

Gomez also was required to prepare a 10 minute presentation for judges to evaluate. The judges were given 5 minutes to ask questions about his project. Gomez talked about the environment, the importance of recycling, and then presented all of the steps he went through to attain his goal.

"It was really exciting competing against 25 other students," exclaimed Gomez. "I can't wait to go to Nashville and compete for the National Championship!"

　 Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 16, 2013
Students Support Burnet County Conservation

Marble Falls Middle and High School Students are participating in Burnet County's Government Week, April 15 - 19, 2013, by providing student- created water conservation posters for display in the Burnet County Courthouse.

"We were invited to participate in Burnet County Government Week," said High School Social Studies Teacher, Molly Heath. "The theme this year is Water Conservation: Our Future . We asked our senior government students to create posters that represent the theme."

Students from Marble Falls Middle School's art classes also participated in the project. Amy Miller, MFMS art teacher, coordinated the project, resulting in a dozen student submissions from the Middle School.

Projects like the Burnet County Government Week Water Conservation display give MFISD students an opportunity to discuss important issues that impact our local community while reinforcing the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills.

The project also provides students an opportunity to showcase their talents and efforts. T he Burnet County Courthouse on the Square is located at 220 South Pierce Street in Burnet. The students' Water Conservation displays will be available for viewing during regular Courthouse hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday. For more information on Burnet County's Government Week activities, call the County Clerk's Office at 512-756-5406.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 10, 2013
Tassel Turner Tradition 　

The closer students get to the completion of their senior year, the more intensely they focus on senior traditions that offer them one more chance to make a mark on the history of their school. One of the traditions that is near-and-dear to MFHS Seniors is the annual selection of the official Tassel Turner and Name Readers for their Commencement ceremony. These honorees join a hallowed place in the history of each class. Marble Falls' students pick just one educator to turn their tassel, signifying their graduation and commencement to their future. That educator is almost always a favorite teacher. But this year is different. The MFHS Class of 2013 selected an Assistant Principal, an educator in charge of keeping their class disciplined, structured and safe, as their official choice. The Tassel Turner honor this year goes to Mr. Clark Fields.

"We chose Mr. Fields because he has been with us since 7 th grade," said Student Body President, Mattie Cryer. "Most of us had him as a coach or teacher at Marble Falls Middle School. When we moved to the High School, he became a High School Assistant Principal and moved up with us. He remains a positive constant in our lives and we wanted to give him this honor as a way of letting him know how much he means to us."

The Senior Class also nominated and voted on their top four educators to fulfill the honored role of name reader during this year's Commencement. Four MFHS teachers were selected:

MFISD invites everyone in our community to join the Class of 2013 in honoring these fine educators.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 8, 2013
Falls Career High School Blood Drive

Falls Career High School students are continuing their tradition of community service with the "Spring is here-- Save a Life" Blood Drive. Donate Wednesday, April 10 th f rom 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. outside Falls behind Super Taco in Marble Falls.

"Thanks to support from our community last Halloween, we were able to provide more blood to people in need than on any of our previous blood drives," said Falls Teacher Michael Saenz. "We look forward to building on that success this spring. Spring is here at Falls. Flowers are blooming. Rain is falling. Blood is flowing. You can save a life today!"

Peggy Little, Principal of Falls Career High School, is encouraging students and community members to participate in the spring event. All donors will receive free munchies, a free t-shirt, and credit for a day's good deed. Donors must be 17, have an ID with a picture and birthdate, and weigh at least 115 lbs. If you are interested in donating, call MFISD extension 1504, dial 830-798-3626, or email Mike Saenz ( msaenz@mfisd.txed.net ) to set up an appointment time. Donors can also simply drop by the Blood Mobile.

"Our Spring Blood Drive will be a great event for our students," said Saenz. "In addition to collecting much need blood supplies to meet emergency needs; the drive provides our students with an opportunity to serve their community."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 4, 2013
MFISD Pre-K Round-up

Marble Falls ISD is holding its annual Round-up for all parents interested in learning more about the District's half-day Pre-Kindergarten programs offered for the next school year. This year's Pre-K Round-up is scheduled for Monday, May 6 th through Thursday, May 10th from 9:00 a.m. - 12N and 1 - 3 p.m. each day. During the Round- up, parents of potential Pre-K students are invited to visit the office of their local campus to pick up general information about Pre-K, indicate preferences of morning or afternoon sessions, and to obtain the required shot information necessary for final registration in August.

"The State currently provides funding to local districts for half-day Pre-kindergarten programs," said Superintendent, Dr. Robert O'Connor. "There are currently many districts across the State using this model. To maximize available State funding for the next school year, while meeting the important developmental needs of our pre-kinder students, MFISD will offer two half day Pre-K sessions each day. The half day sessions provide three hours of instruction per session and are designed with our youngest students in mind since they often need a shorter day to maintain focused learning. "

2013 - 2014 Sample Pre-K Schedule

Breakfast AM Session 7:15 - 7:45A
AM Session 7:45 - 10:45A
Teacher Conference 10:45 - 11:40A
Lunch PM Session 11:40A - 12:10P
PM Session 12:10 - 3:10P

Breakfast service and morning transportation will be provided for AM Session students. Lunch service and afternoon transportation will be provided for PM Session students. Parents will need to pick-up or make arrangements for AM Session students to be picked up from school at 10:45 AM and drop-off PM Session students at 11:40 AM.

If you have any questions about MFISD's Pre-K programs, please call your campus Registrar or Principal. Registration information will be available at the Pre-K Round-up and on the MFISD District web site.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 4, 2013
Marble Falls ISD Accepting Nominations for Legacy Outstanding Graduate Award

Marble Falls ISD is currently seeking MFISD graduates from 2003 or earlier for the honor of Legacy Outstanding Graduate. This award is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved excellence or distinguished success since graduation from Marble Falls High School.

Nominees Must:

• Have graduated from Marble Falls High School at least 10 years ago
• Be actively involved in their community and/or
• Achieved extraordinary career status within their field and/or
• Made notable contributions on a local, regional, state or national level

The Legacy Outstanding Graduate will be honored at the annual Legacy Honors' Banquet on May 24, 2013.

Nominations are being accepted through April 30, 2013 and may be made by anyone with knowledge of the graduate. Nomination forms are available at mfisd.txed.net  or by contacting Sylvia Weed at 830-693-4357.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow...Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 26, 2013
Students Explore with Giant National Geographic Maps

Marble Falls Students will soon explore North America in a big way - with one of the world's largest maps of the continent. The map, measuring 35 by 25 feet, is a resource Texas Tech University Hill Country is providing to MFISD teachers as part of its Tech Teach teacher preparation program.

"We're so excited to be able to bring the National Geographic Giant Traveling Map to MFISD so our Tech Teach Candidates and the Teachers in Marble Falls have an opportunity to learn how to use tools like this to excite our children to learn more about geography and social studies," said Dr. Kelly Fox, Coordinator for the Hill Country Tech Teach Program. "This is an opportunity for teachers who love Social Studies to pass that passion on to their students. 

Dr. Reese Todd, Professor in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction, will conduct a free professional development training for MFISD Teachers and Tech Teach Candidates on April 4 on how to use the map to explore the physical and economic reasons behind the location of North American cities. The map helps showcase My Wonderful World, a multiyear, National Geographic-led campaign to improve geographic literacy and to help students become more informed global citizens.

The brightly colored, smooth vinyl surface of the map illustrates North America's oceans, seas, rivers, mountains, countries and capitals. Students will have the opportunity to interact with the map using interactive games, geographic adventures, atlases and books that teach students about the physical characteristics of the continent as well as its rich history and varied cultures.

"Following the teacher training, the map, about half the size of an elementary school gym, will go on tour around the MFISD elementary campuses, so each of the schools' students and teachers have an opportunity to use this unique learning tool," reports Fox.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

"

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 25, 2013
Help Your Students Be STAAR Bright

All year, you have been helping your children with homework, working with their teachers, making sure they read often, and now it is test time! What can a parent do right before the STAAR to help their child perform? Here are some tips you can use to help your child be in the best possible mental and physical condition to excel on the upcoming STAAR:

A few days before the STAAR:
· Plan for your child to be in bed at a reasonable time so they will be well rested for the STAAR exam.
· Have fun so your child will be mentally prepared for the STAAR.

The Night Before STAAR:

· Eat a healthy dinner. Avoid greasy foods that might upset your child's stomach the next day.
· Get your child to bed on time. Your child will need to get a good night's rest to do their best on STAAR.
· Encourage your child by letting them know how hard they have worked all year! Tell them that you know they will do great!
· Remind them to take breaks when they feel tired by either going to the bathroom or putting their head down.
· Remind them to check to make sure they answered all the questions before they turn their tests in.
· Prepare snack and jackets the night before---no need to add stress!

The Day of STAAR:
· Have your child eat a healthy breakfast (either at home or at school).
· Dress your child in comfortable clothing and bring a light jacket just in case they get cold. If they have a "lucky" shirt---wear it!
· Send your child with an extra book to read-no need for more than one!
· Send a nutritious snack for the day. They are not allowed greasy, sugary snacks or things like C heetos/Doritos that might mess up the test.
· PRAISE YOUR CHILD! ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD!
· HAVE YOUR CHILD AT SCHOOL ON TIME! Being late only adds more stress.

    L earners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 25, 2013
Assistant Superintendent to Kenya

Marble Falls ISD was informed the week of March 18 th that Assistant Superintendent of Academic Programs, Dr. Janice Mauldin, was resigning her position as soon as possible to focus on her mission work of running her non-profit school in Kenya. The school is growing and it is taking a greater commitment on Dr. Mauldin's part to keep it running effectively. Her husband is heading to Africa on March 24th to check into matters related to the school.

"For Dr. Mauldin, this school is a big priority, and she needs to be in an area more accessible to resources which fund her non-profit," reports Superintendent, Dr. Rob O'Connor. "We wish Dr. Mauldin the best. She has helped implement many positive systems in the short year and a half she has been with the District."

At this time, the District is considering all options in regards to filling the position. O'Connor said he feels confident that Eric Penrod and Lee Courville, Director of Secondary Academics and Director of Elementary Academics respectively, can effectively run the department until a decision is made on how best to move forward. From a curriculum stand point, the District's curriculum focus will remain the same. Currently the District's focus is on addressing State standards at the appropriate rigor, collaboration, and making data based decisions. Within this framework, MFISD teachers have made a lot of progress in preparing our students to meet the challenge of the new State assessments. Although this focus will remain the same, each campus will have the opportunity to develop a campus specific action plan that is tailored to its specific needs.

"Although Dr. Mauldin will be missed," Dr. O'Connor stated, "I have full confidence that our teachers and staff will continue to set and meet high curriculum standards. We are blessed to have a great staff."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 19, 2013
Students and Teachers Voice Technology Needs

Students and Teachers voiced school technology needs to the MFISD Technology Committee during its March meeting to help shape the District's technology purchasing over the next year. The Technology Committee is charged with helping students embrace the possibilities of the 21st century through relevant, engaging learning experiences by recommending technology to support their learning.

"We believe it is very important to hear what technology our students and teachers need to support their learning," said Wade Stanford, Executive Director of Financial Services. "We invited teacher recommended student representatives from the elementary, middle and high school as well as groups of teachers to answer Committee questions about what technology is needed to support learning in MFISD."

The Technology Committee is comprised of administrators, teachers, Board Members, community members, and Superintendent, Dr. Robert O'Connor. In addition to seeking input on what technology teachers wanted in the classroom, the group visited with 4 th, 6th, 7th, 9th and 11th grade students to learn more about how technology helps them get excited about learning. Those particular grade levels were chosen so students could see the results of their input while still learning in their same elementary, middle or high school setting. Students indicated during the interviews that they loved notebook or laptop computers for personal use, smart boards in the classrooms, and fast desktops in the schools' computer labs. Students also said that a few tablets in learning centers would be helpful.

"Colleges have moved away from pencil and paper and are almost entirely tech driven," said Marble Falls High School student, Chelcee Bruns. "The process of asking us our opinions about technology and learning will help us get what we need here in Marble Falls so we can be productive at the next level."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 7, 2013
$500 Grants Awarded to Colt and Marble Falls Elementary

Thanks to the efforts of McCraw Oil Company and Kwik Chek Food Stores, Inc., Colt Elementary and Marble Falls Elementary Schools have each been awarded a $500 ExxonMobil Educational Alliance Grant. The ExxonMobil Educational Alliance Program is designed to provide Exxon retailers like Kwik Chek Food Stores with an opportunity to invest in the future of their communities through educational grants to neighborhood schools.

"McCraw Oil Company and Kwik Chek Food Stores have been terrific supporters of Marble Falls Schools for several years," said MFE Principal, Bruce Peckover. "Each year, the staff at Kwik Chek works to qualify for grant funds from ExxonMobil to help support student learning in our local schools. The ExxonMobil Educational Alliance grant this year will be used at MFE to provide students, teachers and community members with a multimedia computer for use in our multipurpose room. The equipment will help students make 21 st Century math and science presentations."

Colt has already targeted the $500 gift for their school to enhance their students' science and math instructional materials.

"We greatly appreciate the generous donation made by McCraw Oil Company, Kwik Chek Food Stores and the ExxonMobil Educational Alliance," said Colt Elementary Principal, Keith Powell. "With State budget cuts to schools in Texas, generous donations made by local businesses provide huge support for our students and teachers."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 6, 2013
MFISD Cafeterias Achieve Perfect Scores

Great food starts with a clean kitchen in all of Marble Falls ISD Cafeterias! For the third inspection in-a-row, MFISD's Child Nutrition staff has achieved scores of 100 in all seven District cafeterias! The cafeterias were rated on things like the proper temperature of food, server hygienic practices, food handling procedures, and use of proper equipment.

Health Inspectors visit food service providers on a regular basis to issue demerits on an inspection checklist for target areas of improvements. MFISD received zero demerits across all District facilities!

"It's the Health Inspector's job to be looking for any tiny thing that we can do better to meet required health guidelines in our cafeterias," said Mary Davidson, Director of Child Nutrition Services. "That's why I'm so thrilled that all our staff achieved perfect scores under such strict food handling rules and sanitation guidelines.

Everyone in MFISD congratulates our Child Nutrition Staff for their delicious, nutritious food, and excellent scores.

Colt Elementary Cafeteria-Manager, Tammy Carpenter
Falls Career High Cafeteria-Sheila Garza
Highland Lakes Elementary Cafeteria -Manager, Judy Jowers
Marble Falls Elementary Cafeteria-Manager, Evigal Garcia
Marble Falls High School Cafeteria-Manager, Jackie Venghaus
Marble Falls Middle School Cafeteria-Manager, Chris Holbrook
Spicewood Elementary Cafeteria-Manager, Sandy Craig

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 28, 2013
MFISD Aligns Curriculum to State Standards

The upcoming State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness (STAAR) has teachers, students and both advocates and critics of the State Curriculum examining the merits of the tests and those systems designed to help schools align instruction to the State standards.

Most Districts in the State use CSCOPE as a curriculum guide that all teachers are required to strictly follow. In contrast, Marble Falls ISD uses collaborative grade-level and subject area teams to design lessons aligned to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). CSCOPE is used by the District as one of many resources to help teachers facilitate customized instruction designed to increase students' opportunity to achieve success in learning to the required State standards.

"We do use some of the elements from CSCOPE among many curriculum tools to start our team planning process to help assure that the lessons for our students are aligned to the depth and complexity of the new STAAR standard," reports Lee Courville, Director of Elementary Education for Marble Falls ISD. "Items like the CSCOPE calendar and some of the lessons in the CSCOPE library can be useful starting points for teachers to discuss how to best align instruction to the State standards. From those starting points, our Focus Curriculum Project teaching teams examine each Student Learning Expectation, the recommended length and timing of those lessons, and then customize our District Instructional Calendar and lessons to meet the instructional needs of the students we serve. Assessment data is used throughout the year to further adjust instruction to help remediate the District's instructional efforts."

Marble Falls ISD is one of the 875 out of approximately 1200 school districts in Texas using CSCOPE to help guide students' curriculum. As indicated in the following CSCOPE Parent Advisory, the CSCOPE tool is designed to be customizable to meet the needs of students in the Marble Falls ISD. The District's decision to use CSCOPE as a resource is rooted in the assurance that the content of CSCOPE is inclusive of the TEKS only, and addresses only the required knowledge and skills set forth by the State of Texas. The CSCOPE information (link below) released by Mason Moses, the Public Information Officer for the Texas System of Education Services Centers, is also helpful in addressing many common parent questions about the curriculum tool. CSCOPE Parent Advisory

If you have further questions about MFISD's curriculum, please contact the Marble Falls Academic Programs Department at 830-693-4357. A link to CSCOPE is also available in the Parent section of the MFISD home page on the web so parents have an easily accessible resource available to further explore curriculum resources.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow....Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097r, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 25, 2013
Grant Produces Floral Fantasia

Colt Elementary Art Teacher, Kathy Meador, won a grant from Donors Choose to provide her students the necessary materials so they could create kiln-fired, hand-painted tiles as part of her Floral Fantasia project.Meador applied for the grant through Donors Choose to help supplement Colt's art
The students were asked to make a tile that showcased Texas wildflowers," said Meador. "We chose Indian Blankets. Student artists made a stencil and used it to create a black background. They painted in the flowers using glazes, and then fired the tiles in the kiln in order to make the glazing permanent."

Colt's students took the finished tiles home after wrapping them up for their moms to use as trivets or coasters. Beyond the art activity, the students also learned vocabulary words during the lesson. Students learned terms like trivet, glazing, kiln, minerals and oxides. In addition, they learned facts about glazing and firing ceramics.

"My students were surprised to learn that kiln temperatures are much greater than an ordinary stove," reported Meador. "They turned out beautifully!"

Meador applied for the grant through Donors Choose to help supplement Colt's art program budget. Grant funds help provide campuses with budget to enhance learning through hands-on activities. The Donors Choose grant for the Floral Fantasia Project covered the cost of all the tiles and the glazes necessary for the students to complete their projects.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow...Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 21, 2013
Rally for the Rally

The Save Texas Schools March and Rally at the State Capitol in Austin is this Saturday, February 23 rd . Many teachers, administrators, staff and community members have expressed interest in attending the event and are planning to participate in the March to the Capitol at 10:45 a.m. to cheer on the rally at noon.

"Some of our community members are planning to attend the event on their own," said Superintendent, Dr. Rob O'Connor. "But others have expressed that it would be fun to meet up and cheer for education together as a team. For anyone who is interested in rallying together and marching as a team to the Rally, we're gathering at two points in Marble Falls Saturday morning to caravan to the Capitol for the event. You can also meet us in downtown Austin if it's inconvenient to travel back to Marble Falls before heading to Austin."

Anyone interested in a caravan to Austin can meet at the MFISD District Offices or at Marble Falls Elementary at 9 a.m. Saturday morning. Drivers will depart shortly after 9 a.m. into Austin to participate in the march to the Rally. Education advocates can also meet the MFISD participants on the Congress Bridge at 10:30 a.m.

AGENDA: Speakers include Supt. John Kuhn, Diane Ravitch, former TEA Commissioner Robert Scott, student, Connor Brantley of Ft. Worth, Supt. Mary Ann Whitaker from Lufkin, former State Comptroller, Carole Keeton Strayhorn, David Anthony for Raise Your Hand Texas and other education and business leaders, parents, teachers and students. The Kashmere HS Marching Band will be leading the march up Congress Avenue.

For rally information, go to: www.savetxschools.org
To register for the rally and connect with others from your area, click here:
http://savetxschools.org/request-for-assistance- with-bus-transportation/ http://savetxschools.nationbuilder.com/volunteer

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 21, 2013
Seconds Count

If there is an emergency in a MFISD school, everyone agrees that when it comes to response time, seconds count! In the spirit of providing the fastest, effective response to emergencies on school campuses, emergency management, law enforcement, fire and emergency medical teams from Burnet County, Marble Falls, Granite Shoals, and Spicewood, met this week at the MFISD Community Room during the District's Safety Summit to review and suggest improvements in the MFISD crisis plans.

"We appreciate all of the leaders in emergency response who participated in our Safety Summit," said Cord Woerner, MFISD's Director of Special Programs. "This was an opportunity for us to share our REM4ed web-based crisis management tool with our first responders so they have at their fingertips the information they need to quickly respond to emergency situations on our campuses. The communicationm shared gave us valuable input on how we can update our systems to help them respond even more efficiently to crisis situations."

First responders reviewed information including campus maps, utility cut-off locations, roof access points, sprinkler system location, fire hydrants, and a long list of other emergency-critical systems and procedures. How to communicate quickly and with who was a significant discussion topic since MFISD is spread out over an area so large that it is served by multiple police, fire and emergency medical response teams. The inter-agency response teams will be working with MFISD administrators to set up interactive crisis situations at District facilities this spring and summer to further improve MFISD's emergency response to potential crisis situations.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 20, 2013
MFHS Students Celebrate Diversity

To celebrate Black History Month, Marble Falls High School students from the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) share events honoring African Americans during the school's morning announcements. 　

"One of my FCCLA officers wanted to do something at the High School to support Black History Month. A group of them asked our Principal, Mr. Lunoff, for permission to put the posters up in the halls," said Suzanne Dyer, MFHS's FCCLA Coordinating Sponsor. "Mr. Lunoff approved the posters and said it would also be wonderful to have different FCCLA members share something about one of the posters each day during the announcements for the month of February."

The student initiated celebration is the result of requests by FCCLA members Damaris Tinijera, Haley Brown, and Lupe Gomez. The three students are taking turns broadcasting the special Black History Month announcements daily throughout the month of February. The students also designed and made posters to honor Black Americans who have impacted our country. The posters were created and hung around the High School for students and faculty to be able to see and read.

"FCCLA is a nonprofit U.S. career and technical student organization for young men and women in family and consumer science education. We focus a lot on leadership activities," said Dyer. "I'm very proud of our young people who used their leadership skills to help showcase the accomplishments of African Americans during Black History Month."

February's morning announcements are an extension of the MFHS positive behavior support initiative encouraging students to run with the "HERD". Students are recognized each month when they support and showcase each other's unique contributions in the community by demonstrating Honesty, Excellence, Respect and Dedication.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Bruce Peckover
C oordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 13, 2013
MFMS Solo and Ensemble Performers Rated Superior

MFMS Band students participated in this season's Solo and Ensemble competition last weekend. Marble Falls Middle School's Band students delivered 102 Superior Medals!

"Mrs. Faehnle and I are very happy with our students and the successful day that they had at competition," enthused MFMS Assistant Band Director, Cristi Reyes said. "All judges were very complimentary of our students' performances as well as their behavior. All of our ensembles received superior ratings! Once again, the band program has represented MFMS and Marble Falls by maintaining a high level of superior performance."

Students receiving a Division II (Excellent) Rating Solos

Students receiving a Division 1 (Superior Rating Ensembles
Sophia Canales and Tambrey Gardner, Flute Duet
Rebecca Faehnle, Eloise Holder and Madeline Holder, Mixed Trio
Rogelio Arredondo and Greg Tamaseu, Brass Duet
Jack Degolier, James Garrison and Reagan Gutierrez, Mixed Trio
Angelica Knapp, Abigail Palacio and Mariela Silva, Woodwind Trio
Colton Clakley and Cody Molina, Mixed Duet
Elizabeth Isaak, Delaney Kelley and Tatum Morrison , Mixed Trio
Jalashawn Ford, Alexis Goff and Katie Hugunin, French Horn Trio

Students Receiving a Division I (Superior) Rating Solos 

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 11, 2013
Parents Offered Support

Parents face many challenges raising children: Bullying, stress, teen pregnancy, discipline, drug abuse, child obesity and so many other issues. Where can a parent turn for support in working through these issues? Krysta Adams, a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology, offers a Parent Support group that meets at Marble Falls High School the fourth Friday of every month from 5:30 through 7:30 p.m. through the end of April.

"The Parent Support Group is available to help parents with any type of parenting issue," said Adams. "Each month, we decide on a topic that many parents express interest in learning more about. This month, we'll explore over protective parenting. We'll help answer the questions: Are you a helicopter parent? How can I keep my child safe and encourage my child while building their ability to cope and live in a challenging world?"

If you are wondering whether the Parent Support Group could be valuable for you, Adams encourages you to review the most common parent myths and facts:

Parenting Myths:

I should know all the answers.
Parenting comes naturally.
Raising my child is my job.

Parenting Facts:

Children and parents learn together and from one another.
There is no such thing as a perfect child/parent.
There are many ways to parent. There is no one right way to do it.
As a parent, you constantly learn more and more about your children as they change and grow.
Your parenting changes with the changing needs of your child.

"If you have had any of these thoughts, I believe the Parent Support Group will be helpful for you," said Adams.

The parenting support group is free for parents of all children and adolescents.

Parents are encouraged to attend. There's no need to sign-up. Just show up at MFHS at 5:30 p.m. for the meeting. Adams is available to answer your questions, or need provide more information, at (830) 798-3634.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 7, 2013|
Marble Falls Special Olympians Bowl for Medals

Special Olympic athletes from Marble Falls Middle and High Schools attended the State Bowling meet in Austin last weekend along with approximately 1,500 athletes from around Texas. The athletes from Marble Falls struck gold, silver and bronze in several categories along with several other awards. Victoria Frischmann, Brandon Garcia and Iiona Bogran, volunteers from the Marble Falls' Key Club, helped coach the Special Olympics team along with MFMS teacher, Gavin Smith.


"Because of the amount of athletes, the competition took place over three days at three different bowling alleys," reported Coach Smith. "Our athletes didn't all compete at the same venue, so we really appreciate our Key Club volunteers spreading out and helping to make this opportunity available to our Special Olympians."

Here are the results for our athletes from Marble Falls:

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact:

MFISD News
For Immediate Release February 5, 2013
Rally for Education

Superintendent, Dr. Rob O'Connor encourages participation in the Save Texas Schools March and Rally on Saturday, February 23.  Please see below for more information.

Stand Up for Public Schools!
Save Texas Schools March and Rally
S tate Capitol in Austin, TX
Saturday, February 23, 2013
March at 11 am / Rally at noon

Public education in Texas is at a crossroads, threatened by underfunding and over-testing. Texas children deserve better! Join thousands of fellow Texans marching on Congress Avenue and standing up at the state capitol to say ENOUGH IS ENOUGH. Speakers include Supt. John Kuhn, Diane Ravitch, as well as other education and business leaders, parents, teachers and students.

Let our legislators know, including the many who will be at the rally, that Texas children cannot be left standing outside a courtroom waiting for their future. We need fair funding and significant testing reform now.

For rally information, go to  www.savetxschools.org
To register for the rally and connect with others from your area, click here:

http://savetxschools.nationbuilder.com/volunteer
To apply for assistance with bus transportation, click here: http://savetxschools.org/request-for-assistance-with-bus-transportation/

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 4, 2013
Tips to Survive the Cold & Flu Season

The cold and flu season is doing more than make MFISD's students and teachers uncomfortable and feverish. During just the last nine weeks, the number of students missing school has reduced State funding to support District programs by over $330,000.

"We know that healthy students are happier and perform better in school," said Wade Stanford, MFISD's Executive Director of Financial Services, who also oversees the District's Human Resource Department. "When we see how a flu outbreak impacts a tight budget already reduced due to State funding cuts, and it impacts learning, we look for ways to help our students and staff members stay healthy!"

MFISD's campus nurses collaborated on a list of simple tips to help you survive the cold and flu season:

• Wash your hands - Regularly and Often!
• Get enough rest. Don't push yourself, especially if you are feeling sick. (If you do become ill, it takes time for your body to fully recover so don't overdo it then either.)
• Dress appropriately for the weather. Layers are best.
• Tissues should be for single use. Dispose of it properly once used.
• Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet.
• Cough and/or sneeze into your elbow, not your hand!
• Take advantage of free and low-cost vaccinations.
• Blow your nose, (gently, so you don't increase pressure in your ears), don't sniff!| • Don't come to school/work if you have a fever. Please make sure you are fever free 24 hours, without medication before you return!
• The flu is contagious for 1 day before and for 5 - 7 days after symptoms appear.
• Wipe down door knobs (both sides), desk tops, locker handles, phones, keyboards, faucet handles, sanitizer pumps, etc.

"If you are not feeling well after a few days, see your Doctor," recommends Highland Lakes Nurse, Shannon O'Connor. "Don't forget to send your Doctor's notes to the campus registrar so your child's time out of school is excused. Most of all take care of yourself so you are in a position to help your child stay healthy."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

 MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 30, 2013
Fast Response to Incident at MFMS

This morning, January 30^th, during first period (approximately 9:00 a.m.), two students brought an airsoft and a BB gun pistol to Marble Falls Middle School.  Students immediately reported to the administrators on campus that the students were showing the airsoft and BB guns to other students.  Within a few minutes, campus administrators and Marble Falls Police isolated the students and secured the airsoft and BB guns.

While showing the BB gun to a student, the BB gun discharged and a BB struck an on-looking student in the hand, leaving a small mark.  The school nurse examined the student and determined that further medical attention was not required.  Administrators were able to investigate the incident and determined that the students did not have malicious intent to use the airsoft and BB guns. 

"MFISD is taking this incident seriously and will enforce the District Code of Conduct," reported Allen Roberts, Assistant Superintendent of Operations. "We are also in the middle of a complete security and safety audit of our physical plants, drills and procedures to help provide a safe learning environment for our children.  The training and preparation we conduct on a regular basis was evident in the swift actions of our administration and the Marble Falls Police Department."

John Schumacher

Principal

Marble Falls Middle School

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow....Mustangs Forever!

Contact:  Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 30, 2013
MFMS Choir Outstanding Again

The Marble Falls Middle School Choir program traveled last weekend to Leander with 21 6th - 8 th g rade vocalists to compete in this year's Middle School Solo and Ensemble Contest. Of the 21 students, 20 of them earned the top score of a 'One' and one student earned a 'Two', the second highest rating!

"All of these students sang a prepared solo for a judge," said Megan Goodman, Middle School Choir Director. "Mrs. Jones and I are very proud of our performers. They represented Marble Falls Middle School very well!"

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 30, 2013
Dodge Names New Defensive Coordinator

Head Football Coach and Athletic Director, Todd Dodge, named Tony Salazar as the Mustangs' new Defensive Coordinator Tuesday. Salazar is currently the Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator for the Leander Lions, where he was credited for much of the Lion's defensive success with the school's experienced defensive players.

"Salazar is one of the best defensive coordinators in the State," said Dodge excitedly. "Under his defensive direction, the Lions only gave up an average of seven and a half points per game this season. We're assembling a powerful coaching staff for the Mustangs. With Bill Poe as Offensive Coordinator, and now Tony Salazar as Defensive Coordinator, I believe that we have two of the brightest up-and-coming football minds in Texas."

In addition to his four years experience in Leander, Salazar served as the Special Teams Coordinator for the Dripping Springs Tigers. He also coached as a collegiate grad assistant for the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor during their Division III National Championship season.

"We're very excited to add Tony to our outstanding staff in Marble Falls," said Superintendent, Dr. Robert O'Connor. "Our community is highly supportive of our commitment to achieve excellence both on and off the field. When I polled our Board Members about Coach Dodge's recommendation to hire Tony, they felt confident to delegate the authority to me to authorize adding Coach Salazar to our Mustang staff prior to the formal Board approval during February's Board Meeting."

Salazar's defense in Leander has been ranked either 1 st or 2nd in most statistical categories in Central Texas. When asked which achievement made him the most proud, he told Dodge that helping to lead Leander to an undefeated District 16-5A Championship last year and an 11-2 Area Championship this year.

"Coach Salazar is a big-time, high-energy guy," said Dodge. "I threw a big net out there to find the best defensive candidates in the State and Tony was our top choice. Tony is one of the very special new coaches in Texas. He's going to fuel our players with his energy and knowledge of the game."

Salazar is expected to make the transition to Marble Falls in mid-February to assist the off-season transition at the end of the basketball season to spring football.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 30, 2013
STAAR 2012 Passing Standards Established

The State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) is the new State assessment p rogram that began in spring 2012. STAAR replaced the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS) that has been in place since 2003 and included 15 end-of-course (EOC) assessments.

The new STAAR assessment is designed to be more difficult than TAKS. The difficulty level will be increased by:

• • having more questions per test and adding time limits
  • measuring a higher level of thinking in relation to content skills
  • having more items where students will have to write in responses rather
• than selecting a response from those provided
  • focusing more deeply on content taught during the current year rather 
• than  testing knowledge and skills learned over multiple years
  • measuring readiness for college and career success

"Teachers in Marble Falls ISD have been working diligently to expose students to a rigorous curriculum to prepare them for a more difficult exam," reports Dr. Robert O'Connor, MFISD Superintendent. "In April 2012, when the first administration of the STAAR assessment was given, the State had not set the passing standards for students testing in grades 3 through 8. The State has been working since April 2012 to establish the new standards and after many months of deliberation and analysis, the standards were released in January 2013."

Based on how a student performed on the assessment, they will fall into three basic categories:

• Level I:   Unsatisfactory Academic Performance
  Level II: Satisfactory Academic Performance
  Level III: Advanced Academic Performance

"Because the State has now released the standards for the 2012 (last year's) exam, we will now be required to inform parents about their student's performance," said O'Connor. "Within the next month, individualized STAAR performance summaries will come home in student folders. Please keep in mind as your review your child's STAAR results that neither the teachers nor the students have ever been exposed to a STAAR test and it has been a learning experience for all. These results will help our hard- working teachers target interventions to help your child be successful achieving the new State standards this spring. They will also help our staff target long-term learning strategies to help students achieve the standards as they increase in difficulty in each of the next three years."

Now that the initial performance standards for STAAR have been set by the State, future performance standards should be established prior to the examination. Therefore, following future STAAR tests, parents should receive student assessment scores on a faster reporting schedule. Results for the 2013 exams, which will be given primarily in April, should be available by August or September of the same year. More information on the new STAAR standards and phase-in levels is available on the web at http://www.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/staar/ .

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow....Mustangs Forever!  

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097 Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 30, 2013
MFISD Reviews Campus Safety

Marble Falls District and campus administrators met last week to comprehensively review and plan for the ongoing safety and security of MFISD's campuses and facilities. Following walk-through audits of each of the MFISD facilities, administrators identified key areas for improvement in the practices as well as physical plant improvements of District buildings.

"One of MFISD's goals as outlined in our community developed Strategic Plan is to provide a safe and drug-free environment," said Superintendent Dr. Robert O'Connor. "That goal, along with our ongoing safety reviews keeps us focused on providing a safe, nurturing environment in which our students can achieve excellence in learning."

Physical improvements discussed for review include adding classroom window coverings, class room key lock devices that allow the teacher to quickly lock their door from inside the room, peep holes in cafeteria kitchen doors, and glass enclosures at various campuses so all visitors must enter through and be screened at the front office.

Staff procedures reviewed included safety drills for fire, school evacuation, lock down and weather related emergencies. Communication procedures for each procedure were reviewed as well as updates on information "go" boxes, and safety and substitute teacher training.

"Recent events in the news about school intrusions have our parents understandably focused on safety preparedness for their child's school," said Assistant Superintendent, Allen Roberts. "Families choose to live in Marble Falls because it is a relatively safe community. We still need to remain vigilant about our school safety procedures to help protect our children. We would like to thank our community for working with us to help keep our campuses a safe place for our kids to learn."

Tips for parents to help keep school operations safe:

• Check-in at the front office when you visit campus
• Visibly display your visitor's badge
• Follow campus pick-up and drop-off procedures
• Don't phone or text in a school zone
• Watch school zone speed limits very carefully
• Review the Code of Conduct with your child

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 25, 2013
Volunteers Help Drive MFISD Programs

MFISD students and campuses are fortunate to receive the benefits of hardworking, volunteer parents and community members. These dedicated volunteers help drive MFISD's District and Campus' student programs, clubs, office activities, athletic booster activities, and parent-teacher organizations. MFISD would like to highlight a few of these wonderful people who support our students to give community members an idea of just a few of the volunteer activities available in the District.

Cindy Friedrichs (left next to a display she created) is a constant volunteer at Marble Falls Middle School's Library. In addition to helping around the school and in the concession stand, she helps with seasonal decorations, book fairs, the edible book fair, by processing new books, shelving books, and repairing damaged books. 

Many parents at Marble Falls High School discover the need to support their child's favorite sport, club or activity. In addition to academic support, volunteers are active in booster clubs and working concession stands.

"Patti Fox and Tammy Carpenter are also outstanding volunteers," said Jackie Gatton from the Athletics Office. "The sheer amount of time they donate to keeping our concession stands running is amazing!"

Campus Parent-Teacher Organizations also provide vital volunteer support to MFISD campuses.

"The Spicewood Elementary and other campus PTO's work extremely hard to support our schools in many ways: fundraising, teacher luncheons/appreciation, special family nights such as Family Fitness Night and Family Reading Night, and keeping contact with other parents to get them involved in school activities," said Spicewood Principal, Leslie Baty. "This year alone, our PTO has raised money to purchase iPads and document cameras for teachers, library books and furniture, a display case for our lobby, and a basketball slab for our playground. Year after year, our PTO raises money to purchase many large items our school would not be able to purchase any other way."

MFISD would like to thank all of its parents and volunteers. We look forward to recognizing each of you in the local community! If you would like to volunteer to read to students, to help with events, to work a concession stand, to tutor, to help in a library, or other many activities, please contact your campus office to learn how to sign up to volunteer. Volunteer information is available under the Student/Parent link on the MFISD home web page.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 23, 2013
MFHS Mourns Loss of Student

The Marble Falls High School community suffered a tragic loss on January 23rd when Mustang student Mylie Ferguson passed away. It is a very sad day for Marble Falls High School. The thoughts and prayers of the entire Marble Falls High School community go out to her family. Mylie was a wonderful young woman who was a Mustang through and through. She will be greatly missed by the entire Marble Falls High School family, especially her friends, fellow Student Athletic Trainers and Soccer teammates.

According to Marble Falls High School Principal, Manny Lunoff, "Marble Falls High School is providing grief counselors at the school beginning today to help students, parents and friends deal with their thoughts and feelings associated with the loss of Mylie."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 22, 2013
MFMS Students Win $1,000 Business Award

Students in Shelli Rowland's classes at Marble Falls Middle School are being honored for achieving the highest average increase in the value of their virtual investment portfolio of all the middle school classes in this fall's Stock Market Game competition sponsored by Fidelity Investments and the Texas Council on Economic Education.

Laura Ewing of the Texas Council o n Economic Education and Joy Malig of Fidelity Investments presented a check for $1,000 on behalf of the winning team from MFMS to the Highland Lakes Legacy Fund. The Stock Market Game Program is a national program of the SIFMA Foundation.

The game is the Nation's first and largest educational investment simulation program and is widely used to teach students about investing and personal finance as they apply learned math, social studies, business, economics, and language skills. 　

Each team of students is given a hypothetical $100,000 to "invest" in stocks, bonds or mutual funds over a 10-week period in their own online trading account. They research companies and make investment decisions intended to maximize virtual returns.

"I'm thrilled to see our students win this Business Award for the third year-in-a-row," exclaimed John Schumacher, Principal of Marble Falls Middle School.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 15, 2013
Marble Falls ISD Schedules Annual AEIS Public Hearing

Marble Falls ISD has scheduled this year's Academic Excellence Indicator System ( AEIS) Public Hearing for Monday, February 18, at 6:00 p.m., during the regular MFISD board meeting. Although no State Accountability ratings were assigned for 2012 school year, districts are still required to hold a public hearing to review the status of available data. Current TAKS, attendance, and data on criminal or violent disciplinary incidents will be presented during this year's public hearing scheduled in the Community Room at the District's Central Office at 1800 Colt Circle.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) reports, "The Academic Excellence Indicator System (AEIS) pulls together a wide range of information on the performance of students in each school and district in Texas. This information is put into the annual AEIS reports. This year, the TEA is developing a new accountability system based on the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) tests as well as other indicators. Information on new system is available on the 2013 Accountability Development site at http://ritter.tea.state.tx.us/perfreport/account/2013/index.html. Under Federal (AYP) accountability in 2012, schools and districts were assigned a status of Meets AYP, Missed AYP or Not Evaluated. For more information on Federal accountability, please visit http://www.tea.state.tx.us/ayp/ .

Following the presentation of the MFISD performance report, performance data will be available at each campus, the District offices, and on the MFISD web site. Previous years' accountability information is available on the accountability data sheets at http://www.tea.state.tx.us/perfreport/account/ . The AEIS reports also include, when applicable, the list of Gold Performance Acknowledgements (GPAs) earned in the current year as well as a note describing Performance-Based Monitoring (PBM) and the Special Education Monitoring Results Status if pertinent to the specific district or campus.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

"

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 15, 2013
Thank a School Board Member

The Marble Falls Community took a few minutes of the Marble Falls ISD Board of Trustees Meeting Monday night to show appreciation to its School Board Members for their tireless work and countless hours working as advocates for our children and the local voice of public education. Each Board Member was honored during the meeting with a book, donated in his or her name, to an MFISD campus library. Campuses are also encouraging community members to "Thank a Board Member" on their marquees and websites.

Rick Edwards, Kevin Naumann, Craig Mabray, Mike Savage, Karl Westerman, Tommy Chaney, and Kelly Fox, Ph.D., all are local volunteers, elected by their constituents, a nd receive no compensation for their work as public servants. January is School Board Recognition Month and Marble Falls ISD would like to take this opportunity to thank these local leaders for devoting time to support public education and serve our local schools.

"Even though we are making a special effort in January to show appreciation to our Board Members, we realize their many contributions reflect a year-round commitment," said MFISD Superintendent, Dr. Robert O'Connor. "This School Board always serves with great heart and passion for the betterment of our kids. I respect their selfless service and dedication to our District. They generously give of themselves to ensure that decisions directly affecting our local schools are made by representatives of this community, people who are close to our schools and know our teachers, parents, and students."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 8, 2013
Traveling Art Display Visits MFES

The MFISD Legacy Fund awarded Marble Falls Elementary art teacher, Vickie Weil, a grant to fund Traveling Art displays to provide students the opportunity to see and appreciate classic art right where they live. The Spring Show, Wired and Plastered , featuring larger-than-life works from Edgar Degas, will be on display January 14 -18th in MFE's main hallway. In addition to funding the traveling art show, the grant also covers supplies for the students to create their own 3-D sculptures inspired by the Degas traveling art.

"All of our students will have the opportunity to see the display and study the artwork of Edgar Degas," said Weil. "Our 5 th grade students will have the additional opportunity to learn by doing with an in-depth sculpture unit that will culminate with the design and construction of 3-D sculpture with wire and plaster."

The objective of the lesson is for students to create a posed sculpture that is balanced and free standing with correct proportions. Students will learn to demonstrate proportion of the human body during their study and hands-on creative activities.

"Our students will learn to create a sculpture using wire and fold it proportional to the human body," said Weil. "They'll also learn how to bend their figure into a desired action pose, apply foil, and attach it to a base. Using plaster strips to build up the sculpture, the students will then paint it, and add additional materials needed to complete the sculpture. (i.e.: Flowers, umbrella, soccer ball, etc.). It's quite an exciting way to learn from the masters!"

Parents are invited to have lunch with their child and view the display.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 18, 2012
MFHS Wins Health Challenge

 
Marble Falls High School staff won this fall's MFISD "It's Not for Cupcakes" Health Challenge. Employees from each campus and department around the District competed to win the Healthy You, Safe You (HUSU) Championship banner and bragging rights until the next competition this spring. MFHS had 43 employees participate in this fall's challenge. Honorable Mentions were awarded to members of the District's Transportation Department, Child Nutrition Department, and Marble Falls Elementary.

"The Wellness program is sponsored by Edwards Risk Management," said Melanie Jordan, MFISD Wellness Coordinator. "We promote a wellness campaign in the fall and again in the spring. The main goal is to heighten awareness of the small efforts we can make to increase our health and wellbeing."

The Fall HUSU Academy "It's not for Cupcakes" offered employees a baker's dozen ingredients (activities) for a sweet life. Each participant (cadet) tracked and reported one or more healthy activities on weekly scorecards to claim the prize of Dr. Ann's Eat Right for Life Cookbook Companion . In addition to the individual incentive, campuses competed with each other to encourage the highest percentage participant level so they could win a Champion Banner to display at their school. The HUSU program also produces the side benefit of keeping the District's Worker's Compensation and insurance costs as low as possible.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 17, 2012
School Board Candidate Information Released

A wealth of information is available for community members interested in running for one of two positions up for election in May to serve on the Marble Falls High Independent School District School Board of Trustees. The Marble Falls ISD election packet is accessible via a MFISD web page at www.mfisd.txed.net . The package may be accessed and printed by clicking on "School Board and then click on "Candidate Election Packet". A hard copy may also be obtained by contacting Mallory Few at 830-693-4357 or through e-mail at mfew@mfisd.txed.net.

Marble Falls ISD will hold a Regular Election Ballot Saturday, May, 11, 2013. Applications for a place on the May 11 th Ballot must be filed between January 30 th and March 1 st , 2013. The address for mailing or filing applications in-person is: MFISD Administration Building, 1800 Colt Circle, Marble Falls, TX, 78654. Office hours during the filing window are Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. and Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

According to Allen Roberts, MFISD Assistant Superintendent of Operations, the Texas Association of School Boards can help potential candidates learn more about the job of a board member so they can make an informed decision about running. Their website is www.tasb.org . Candidates are encouraged to view the free video about board service through the Online Learning Center (OLC) or purchase the newly revised 2012 Guide for School Board Candidates, which summarizes board member duties and procedures for seeking election.

"We want to thank all interested candidates who wish to dedicate their time, energy and services to Marble Falls Independent School District," said Roberts. "Marble Falls ISD continues to grow and establish the very best for tomorrow's future. We are committed to excellence, and as we work together, our students will have the opportunity to be successful."

Interested community members who have questions about the election are encouraged to contact Allen Roberts at the MFISD Central Office by calling 830-693-4357 or by e-mailing aroberts@mfisd.txed.net.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 13, 2012
Retiring Librarian Sets Up eBook Center

Andrea Bielefeld, lovingly known as "Mrs. B." at MFE, is gearing up for one last big week as the Librarian at Marble Falls Elementary School. Well known for her love of books, Mrs. B. is even better known for her passion of encouraging kids to develop a love of reading. The new eBook center at MFE will be designed to encourage kids to cultivate that love of reading in whatever presentation that encourages them to read, book or NOOK .

The Mrs. B. Retirement Book Fair will preview Scholastic offerings Monday and Tuesday December 17 th and 18th. Sales will run Wednesday through Friday (December 19th - 21st) mornings during class times. Everyone is invited to enjoy MFE's Family Night Thursday the 20th from 4 - 6 p.m. to attend the Book Fair, for Mrs. B's reading of Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Stole Christmas , and to have their photo taken with Santa! Proceeds will be used to set up a new eBook Center in the Marble Falls Elementary Library.

"It will be hard to not miss the wonderful times I have had during my 31 years in education, but especially the last 7 years in the Library of Marble Falls Elementary," said MFE's Librarian, Andrea Bielefeld. "I have always worked hard to pass on my love of reading to all of my students, and to motivate them to enrich their lives forever with the love of reading. So as this chapter of my life is ending, I begin a new chapter of retirement, spending my time reading, traveling, and helping wherever I am needed."

In January, one of the first responsibilities of Adrianna Lunoff, the new Library Manager at MFE, will be to set up the Andrea Bielefeld eBook Center in the Marble Falls Elementary Library. Proceeds from the Mrs. B's Retirement Book Fair will be used to purchase eReaders and a library of eBooks to supplement the Library's traditional book offerings. To help with a smooth transition, Mrs. Lunoff is working with Mrs. B. throughout the month of December to select electronic books for the new eBook reading center and to get to know the Library systems and MFE's students and staff.

"I admire Mrs. B. for her energy and passion to finish big for the kids of Marble Falls Elementary," said Bruce Peckover, MFE Principal. "While some people just fade into the sunset, Andrea chose to take on a big Book Fair during her last week to raise funds for a new eBook Center for our students. It's a wonderful legacy to know that her contributions will continue, both with her treasured books, and the new technology to engage young readers."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 7, 2012
Colt Family Reading Night

Students at Colt Elementary were surprised during the campus' monthly Family Reading night last Tuesday evening, when they heard a loud Ho, Ho; Ho in the Library! The normally quiet library environment buzzed with excitement as the students greeted their surprise guests, Santa and Mrs. Claus.

"We had a very large turnout for this one, said Colt Principal, Keith Powell. "It was a wonderful evening for our families."

"The purpose of our Family Reading Nights is to create a family-time atmosphere when parents and students can read to one another," said Lenore Weihs, Colt Librarian. "It is also a way to foster the love of reading to our students."

Teachers on campus take turns volunteering to help. FCCLA sponsor, Suzanne Dyer and her MFHS FCCLA students jumped in to help. Since last year, they have been volunteering to help Colt students practice reading.

"I'd like to give a big kudos to our Librarian, Ms. Lenore Weihs who oversaw and planned the event," said Powell. "She makes our Family Reading nights at Colt really special!"

 Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

"

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 7, 2012
Safety Practices Produce $93,791

The Public Workers' Compensation Program (PWCP) Board of Directors approved the issuing of $93,791 to Marble Falls ISD as a result savings produced through the District's Safety and Wellness Programs and practices. The refund news comes at a time when State funding for education continues to dwindle. MFISD plans to use the funding to support instructional programs.

The PWCP, managed and administered by Edwards Risk Management, works with MFISD to help control workers' compensation costs through its aggressive claims management, as well as offering employee safety education, personal protective equipment, safe employee recognition and rewards, safety and security audits, wellness initiatives, a confidential safety hotline, and other safety and wellness initiatives. According to the PWCP, the excess contribution refund reflects the strength and stability of the Program and also the commitment of the Program to protect the safety of all employees.

"We are proud of our staff for placing safety first and participating in wellness programs," said Dr. Robert O'Connor, MFISD Superintendent. "In Marble Falls ISD, our teachers and staff are amazing and fabulous team players. We thank them for their dedication to students and the District. Anytime we can save funds, it benefits our students and teachers at the campus level."

According to the PWCP, a refund of Workers' Compensation Funds would not be possible without the excellent performance of each member and their dedication to the safety and wellness of their employees.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 5, 2012
Christmas Card Winners 

Victor Lazo and Allison Goytia from Marble Falls Middle School created this year's Marble Falls ISD Christmas cards. Each year, the art department from one campus in Marble Falls ISD, has the opportunity to submit their students' creations for selection as the official District greeting cards. This was the year for Marble Falls Middle School artists to shine. Lazo and Goytia's creations were the winners among all MFMS art students.

Allison Goytia, a MFMS 7th Grade student who loves to participate in art and drama at the school, was inspired to create her Toy Soldier card from the Nutcracker, a play one of her Highland Lakes Elementary English Language Arts teachers showed her class.

"My favorite colors are red and blue," said Goytia, so I designed the card around those colors."

Victor Lazo, also a 7th grader who participates in athletics, band and art, designed his card around what he imagines Christmas is all about.

"I wanted to use a lot of colors that reminded me of Christmas for the card," commented Lazo. "I haven't seen snow, but I imagined what the Earth would look like covered in it. I'm happy to win the $50 Walmart gift card for my design. I can't wait to buy video games to play over Christmas break!"

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!  

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

"

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 1, 2012
" MFMS Achieves Record Honors Band Numbers

The Band program at Marble Falls Middle School has produced a record number of Central Texas Honor Band members in this year's competition. The Middle School sent 24 students to Elgin to compete in the Honor Band Tryouts this month. Eight MFMS Band members were named Honor Band members and three more were honored as alternates.

We're so pleased with the efforts of these students," said Rachel Faehnle, MFMS Band Director. "Our Honor Band students will get to perform in a special concert on January 12th at the Hutto High School Performing Arts Center. Everyone is invited to come and support our performers and enjoy the show."

Here are the local results from the Central Texas Honors Band Tryouts:
Maegan MacHarg: 13th chair flute
Reagan Gutierrez: 8th chair clarinet
Jesus Ramirez: 1st chair bass clarinet
James Garrison: 2nd chair trumpet
Rebecca Faehnle: 7th chair trumpet
Tatum Morrison: 6th chair horn
John Winn: 6th chair trombone
Corban Casjens: 4th chair percussion
Delaney Kelley: bassoon alternate
Gerard Galban: baritone alternate
George Jackson: tuba alternate

I'm proud of the work that our Middle School Band continues to demonstrate," said Marble Falls Middle School Principal, John Schumacher. "It's another year that our students and their Directors continue to achieve this excellent status. We're very thankful to receive the support from our parents and community so our program can continue to grow."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

"

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 1, 2012
MFISD Encouraging use of TexasSuccess.org

Parents and Guardians eager to help their child achieve success in school often ask, "What can I do at home to help my child be successful in school, especially with the aggressive, new State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness ( STAAR )?" MFISD teachers are encouraging students in grades 3 - 8 to take advantage of the new, free, TexasSuccess.org online math and reading remediation program in school and at home.

"We are constantly looking for resources aligned to State standards that will support student learning," said Dr. Janice Mauldin, Assistant Superintendent of Academic Programs for Marble Falls ISD. "This new online support from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) is an excellent tool to help as students learn at home and at school."

The TexasSuccess.org website provides State-funded access to interactive math and reading programs for all public school students in grades 3 - 8. The service also provides focused remediation lessons for teachers and school administrators. The advantage of using this resource over other educational materials is that it is specifically aligned to the challenging new State required STAAR curriculum. The online math and reading lessons are interactive and designed to engage learners who benefit from additional lesson reinforcement after regular classroom instruction.

The new system works well for students struggling with the new State standards. It also helps accelerated learners explore their curriculum at a broader level. This additional exposure can help students drive commended results. The reading system is already live and the math system is set to go on-line this month.

The system is set up to also help learners in math who speak Spanish. A student can select to have questions and answers read to them by the computer in Spanish. In addition, if a bilingual student is connected with a live tutor in Think Through Math, the system will attempt first to route that student to a bilingual tutor if they have been identified as such in the system. The Istation Reading product in Spanish is not available through Texas SUCCESS at this time.

Registration and more information are now available at TexasSuccess.org.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 29, 2012
Elementary Students Ready for UIl Academic Challenge

Marble Falls ISD elementary students are ready to show their brain power in this Saturday's University Interscholastic League Academic Competition. Approximately 150 elementary students from Colt, Highland Lakes, Marble Falls, and Spicewood elementary schools have been working with teacher coaches over the last few months to prepare for the challenging academic competition.

The UIL Academic Competition will take place at Marble Falls Elementary this year. The events are scheduled between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., Saturday, December 1st . Parents are invited to attend and applaud the honors and awards in the cafeteria, but should be aware that it is not possible to view the actual test-taking by the students in the competition rooms.

"The MFISD Elementary UIL Event is an awesome time for the elementary students of Marble Falls to shine academically," said Leslie Baty, MFISD Elementary UIL Coordinator and Principal of Spicewood Elementary. "Contestants have been hard at work practicing with their coaches since early fall and all are looking forward to this Saturday. We are proud of all the students who are competing and thankful for the MFISD staff members involved as both coaches and/or judges."

Students will compete in the categories of storytelling, oral reading, spelling, number sense, dictionary skills, and maps, graphs and charts. UIL contestants are urged to meet in the Marble Falls Elementary cafeteria 30 minutes before t he time listed for their contest. They will be escorted to the contest room approximately 15-20 minutes before so they can begin the contest right on time. Academic fans can expect award announcements as soon as judging of each event are complete.

• 2nd/3rd Grade Boys/Girls Storytelling and 4th/5th Grade Boys/Girls Oral Reading begins at 8:45. Check-in 8:15.
• 
  5th Grade Maps, Graphs & Charts and 4th Grade Spelling begins at 10:00 a.m.. Check-in 9:30 a.m.
  
  3rd Grade Spelling and 4th/5th Grade Number Sense begins at 11:00 a.m. Check-in 10:30 a.m.
  
• Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 16, 2012
MFHS FFA Sweepstakes Champions

After several top finishes in preparatory contests, Marble Falls High School's Future Farmers of America (FFA) Jr. Quiz Team students are preparing to score in the upcoming Leadership Development Event at Sam Houston State University November 30th and December 1st. Elizabeth Lane, Ashley May, Kaley Neal, Paxton Oberle and Isaac Salas, placed second to qualify for this event and are the first Marble Falls team in at least 12 years to qualify.

"The team has worked very hard and has performed very well," said Mike Chesnut, MFHS' FFA sponsor. "They placed second overall at the Tarleton State Invitational which is a State wide practice contest. At Texas State they placed third. We knew going into District that we would win. We were really training for Area, and of course we placed first in District."

T he Area contest is one of the hardest Area's in the State, reports Chesnut. Often, the Area winner is also the State winner. MFHS has finished 3rd many times, so the students were determined to make this the year we finally qualify, and they succeeded!

The competition season started Monday Oct. 29 th, when the FFA teams traveled to Tarleton State University to compete in the TSU Invitational LDE. The Sr. quiz team placed first, Jr. Quiz placed second, and the Sr. Chapter Conducting team placed third. On Wed Oct 31st, the teams traveled to San Marcos and competed at Texas State. The Sr. Quiz Team placed second, Jr. Quiz placed third and the Ag Issues team placed third.

The teams were ready for the San Saba District Contest. The teams loaded up and traveled to Goldthwaite for the District contest on Monday Nov. 5 th. After five years, Marble Falls FFA was Sweepstakes champion again. Lacey Naumann placed eighth in Sr. Creed speaking. Mitchell Mullinix placed eighth in Job Interview. Sr. Skills (Hunter Comstock, Travis Felps and Skylor Postgate) placed sixth. Cody Jukes placed sixth in Jr. Creed Speaking. The Radio team (Laura Baugh, Haley Dane and Lacey Naumann) placed third. We had five teams qualify for the Area Contest. Ag Issues (Laura Baugh, Ashley Inman and AJ Waldrop) placed second. Jr Skills placed second (Ryan Becker, TJ Higgins and Jeff Ramey). The following teams not only qualified for Area but were District Champions, Sr. Chapter Conducting was first (Ashton York, Mitchell Mullinix, Ashley Inman, Laura Baugh, Ty Chesnut, AJ Waldrop, Haley Dane, Lacey Naumann, Clint Crowder and Robert Jeffcoat). The Sr Quiz placed first (Ty Chesnut, Claudia Owens and Ashton York) and the Jr. Quiz team placed first (Elizabeth Lane, Ashley May, Kaley Neal, Paxton Oberle and Isaac Salas).

The teams traveled to Blanco on Monday Nov. 12 th. Jr. skills placed 11th, Sr. Chapter Conducting placed tenth, Sr quiz placed sixth. The Jr. Quiz Team (Elizabeth Lane, Ashley May, Kaley Neal, Paxton Oberle and Isaac Salas placed second and is the first team in at least 12 years to qualify for the Texas State Leadership Development Event.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 14, 2012
Spicewood Student Asks for Your Vote

Samantha Nesrsta, a 5th grader at Spicewood Elementary, rose to the challenge to create a "It's up to me to be drug free" photo to compete in the National Red Ribbon contest sent out to MFISD District Campuses last month. Her entry (pictured to the left) was chosen and included in the National contest. It can be found on page six on the Red Ribbon voting page http://redribbon.org/vote . 　

"The purpose of this contest is for the family to be involved in drug prevention and not just our schools," said Spicewood Counselor, Cathy Ellis. "We let our students know about the contest during our Red Ribbon Campaign. I am proud of Samantha for entering the contest. She did a great job of encouraging her family to do this project with her. She is a leader."

You can support Nesrsta's Spicewood entry by voting at http://redribbon.org/vote . Voting is open now through Saturday, November 24th at 11:59pm (EST). Voting will not take place on Facebook, although the voting portal will have a link you can click on to share the contest with your friends on Facebook. Remember, voting will be limited to ten votes per entry per 24 hour period per IP address, so if someone votes at 7am on Monday, they will have to wait until 7:01am on Tuesday to vote again. The voting page is http://redribbon.org/vote .

Voters can vote up to ten times per IP address, so Samantha is reminding everyone that many schools and businesses share an IP address, which means if someone at your school already voted for your entry ten times, everyone else using a computer at the same school will be blocked from voting for 24 hours. Individuals are encouraged to vote using their home computers to maximize the votes for MFISD's Spicewood contestant. During the voting process, contestants won't be able to track voting progress, so everyone will have to wait until the Red Ribbon organization announces winners will be announced on December 3rd.

 Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR MMEDIATE RELEASE November 14, 2012
School Vouchers: Hot Topic for Legislators
An Editorial Letter from MFISD Superintendent, Dr. Robert O'Connor

Recently an Austin news channel held an interview with a top state elected official who was promoting the need to approve school vouchers in Texas. He stated the need for vouchers was driven by the need to allow for school choice. The elected official stated that approximately 500 campuses across the state of Texas were rated "Unacceptable." The message -- parents should have choices. To the lay person this statement sounds appropriate. A parent could easily ask "Why not give parents a choice when their school is failing?" On the surface school vouchers sound like a plausible option but in practice school vouchers could present many real problems that ultimately will not help to improve our solid public school system.

School vouchers in theory are certificates issued by the government that parents can apply towards tuition at the school of their choice. The value of a voucher is arbitrary but would be set by the state legislators at a fixed amount. The exact amount is not critical at this time but it would be set around the average cost spent per pupil in Texas public schools. The range of a voucher program in Texas could be approximately $5,000-$5,500 per child. So let's make the assumption that as a parent I receive this voucher from the state so that my child may attend the school of my choice. What would be my realistic options? Currently there would be two choices; attend a private school or home school. Let's examine each one of these options as it relates to school choice and what systemic problems may surface in relation to the topic.

Using a school voucher to allow a parents' school choice of private schools sounds possible but there are many unanswered questions. The first unanswered question is the issue of tuition. The average tuition cost for the top 10 private schools in the Dallas area in 2010-2011 was $20,000 according to the Dallas Business Journal. If, as a parent, I have a $5,000 voucher to apply towards my tuition, I still need to generate $15,000 on my own. This makes attending a top tier private school out of reach for most middle class parents. Yes, parents could choose a private school that is less expensive but not all private schools are created equal which brings us to the next question. If a private school takes public funds, will they have to meet state accountability and fiscal responsibility standards? Without holding private schools accountable to academic and fiscal standards, how do we know if taxpayers' dollars are being wisely invested and students are receiving a sound education? As it should be, all public schools are accountable to state academic and fiscal standards because we are funded by taxpayer dollars. The public has a right to know if tax dollars are being invested wisely. I believe it's safe to say that most private schools want to remain "private", therefore; using public funds without transparency on the part of private schools creates a huge conflict of interest.

Home schools, facing the same issue of transparency with public funds, could be more problematic. If a parent chooses to home school their child, how will the public know if these dollars are being used for educational purposes only? There is no doubt that some very conscientious parents will use a $5,000 voucher of public funds wisely to educate their child. However, there is the other side of the spectrum; family situations not conducive to an appropriate learning environment. As an example, let's say the parent is unemployed and in a desperate move decides to pay the rent or buy food with this voucher. What measures would be in place to prevent this from happening? Even a less drastic example can raise concerns. Let's say the parent actually buys a curriculum for $5,000 but because of the lack of structure in the house, the parent or student never applies the curriculum. Will there be an academic accountability system to measure student progress?

Another dilemma is once the voucher is spent in a private or home school setting, will the student have the opportunity to return to public school if the funds have been expended. Many times even the most diligent parent realizes that the private or home school setting is not working for their child but have already purchased the $5,000 curriculum or paid tuition in that amount. How will the public school receive funding for the student if the student's allotment has already been spent?

There are a lot of unanswered questions related to how an effective voucher system would work. Below is a list of questions about a voucher system raised by Superintendent Mary Ann Whiteker of Hudson ISD in a recent article in the Lufkin Daily.

1. Will a private school retain the right to refuse students based on disability, academic achievement, religious beliefs or discipline?

2. Will a private school, receiving students that are eligible for free and reduced meals, be required to offer meals under this federal program?

3. Will private schools retain the right to charge tuition above the value of the voucher?

4. Will vouchers limit the religious instruction offered in private schools? (Separation of Church and State)

5. Will the state offer vouchers for all students currently enrolled in private schools or home schooled?

6. Will the private school/home school have to reimburse the state if the student withdraws from the private school during the year to re-enroll in the public schools?

It is also important to address the role of charter schools. Although not specifically related to vouchers, when it comes to "school choice" charter schools are often mentioned. All charter schools are state funded on a per pupil basis and parents do not need a voucher to attend. Therefore, most parents already have this option and their children are welcome to attend the charter school of their choice if they meet the school's enrollment guidelines. The reality is that charter schools are failing at a higher rate than public schools. Out of the 482 charter schools in the state, 38 or 7.8% of them were unacceptable in 2011 according to the Texas Education Agency. In comparison, out of the 8044 campuses, only 458 public school campuses were rated unacceptable by the state; approximately 5.6%. Based on these numbers, public schools outperformed charter schools in 2011. If you are looking for options, why not transfer your child to another public school. Public schools have a higher success rate. The fact is that 94% of all public schools have met the state's very rigorous standards. Public schools are making a difference every day for students.

Dr. Rob O'Connor, Superintendent, Marble Falls ISD

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 13, 2012
Block and Spike Bullying

Marble Falls Middle School students have the opportunity Friday, November 16 th, from 3:15 through 3:45, to cheer on their favorite faculty volleyball teams as they Block and Spike bullying. The charity event is part of the Marble Falls Middle School's Don't H8, Appreciate anti-bullying campaign. The Middle School is running a pep rally schedule Friday at the end of the school day so all students can attend the fundraiser and Block and Spike Bullying.

"The faculty will team up to "Block & Spike Bullying" and show our students that we can all get along both on and off the court," said MFMS Nurse and event sponsor, Emily Kelley. "The Middle School is running a pep rally schedule Friday at the end of the school day so all students can attend the fundraiser for the campus' Sunshine Committee."

This is the third year to have a faculty game. It started as a fundraiser for our Sunshine Committee. This committee is all about giving back to the teachers - luncheons, donuts, coffee, and special snacks. The volleyball game has evolved into something that the staff looks forward to each fall. 100 percent of the proceeds of this event will go directly back to the staff.

"Much of the training that goes into bullying prevention programs, rightfully so, involves the training of students to participate in effective ways in being proactive in preventing and stopping bullying," said MFMS Principal, John Schumacher. "This Friday, instead of having students practice techniques to curtail bullying, the MFMS staff will model and demonstrate how to work as a team, compete against their peers, and make mistakes without being made fun of. The staff will block and spike bullying by showing how to compete and still encourage their team and opponent.

Four teams of Faculty and Staff are playing while students cheer on the matches in the two gyms. The entire campus faculty is invited to participate. There will be teachers, librarians, administrators, coaches and paraprofessionals playing volleyball. One of the teachers has even volunteered to wear the mascot uniform. Other teachers are dressing up as cheerleaders to lead the students in cheering on the game. It is great fun for all that participate!

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

"

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 12, 2012
Edible Books

To promote student reading, Marble Falls ISD students will have the opportunity to win one of four Nook e-readers offered in the Edible Books competition sponsored by the District's campus libraries. Students who create an Edible Cake decorated to represent a good book or the student's favorite book will be entered in a drawing to win a Nook . The librarians from MFHS, MFMS, Colt, Highland Lakes, Marble Falls and Spicewood campuses are working together on the competition to raise awareness of the importance of reading through the Holiday season.

"We wanted to make sure that students of all grade levels have a chance to win the Nooks ," said Brenda Belk, Marble Falls Middle School Librarian. "That's why we're doing a drawing from everyone who enters. To make it fun, we'll also award certificates in categories like, fan favorite, most humorous, most creative, most literary, and judge's favorite."

To enter the competition, students can pick up and complete an entry form at any of the District campus libraries. Entries must be returned to the school librarian by November 27 th. The actual Edible Book competition will be at Marble Falls Middle School December 3rd at 4:30 p.m. Entrants will bring their creation to MFMS by 4:30 and place it on display with their book or picture of a book it represents.

"We are hoping that this will encourage reading and also student and family involvement with our campus libraries," said Gail Huffman, Spicewood Elementary' s Librarian. "Because the contest is a drawing of all entrants and isn't based on skill, everyone can be included. Students can participate individually or as family."

The campus librarians are inspiring students with suggested Edible Book ideas. While introducing the contest on each campus, the librarians are suggesting students can either create their own idea, or choose to make Edible Books from the following suggestions: Make it look like a book in form or shape, be inspired by a book or author, use a pun of a book title, refer to a book character, reproduce a book cover, or just have something to do with books in general.

According to Belk, "Besides promoting reading, one of the best parts of the competition is that after the judging, everyone gets to eat and enjoy the students' Edible Books!"

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 8, 2012
Cooperative Safety Training

Last weekend, after the children were out-of-school, the hallways, classrooms and offices of one of the MFISD campuses turned into a training zone for the Marble Falls Police Department. To prepare in the event of an emergency, Marble Falls ISD continually partners with Marble Falls Police, Fire and Area Emergency Medical Services (EMS) by communicating and practicing for emergency situations. The police, fire and EMS practices range from crisis planning, to drills, to emergency tactics training within school settings.

"Members of the Marble Falls Police Department descended on the Marble Falls Elementary campus to practice several different emergency scenarios that could happen in a school setting," said MFPD School Resource Officer, Tim McIntyre. "We worked with MFISD, Marble Falls Fire, and the Area EMS to fine-tune our response to school emergencies."

To help coordinate the emergency response efforts of police, fire, communication and medical teams, MFISD uses REM4ed, an emergency communication planning app that runs on smart phones, iPads and computers. The mobile software is a tool that is provided to the District by Edwards Risk Management as part of the MFISD's safety awareness, communication and monitoring programs. The REM4ed i s available to administrators and first responders. It quickly provides school maps, emergency procedures, and contact information critical to minimizing emergency response delays.

"In addition to working with outside agencies, we also work closely with the campuses to continually insure the safety of all children," reports Allen Roberts, MFISD Assistant Superintendent of Operations. "We run safety drills throughout each semester, and our communication between our community agencies and school district provides the very best plan of action for our children if one of these events were to actually occur. We want to thank everyone for their involvement in making Marble Falls one of the safest communities to live."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 6, 2012
Blessings in a Backpack

Highland Lakes residents Greg and Shanna Murrell, and Anna Womack, have organized members of the community to help provide backpacks filled with food for the weekend to go home with students in need who attend Highland Lakes Elementary School. Since the beginning of this school year, the Blessings in a Backpack Program has helped Highland Lakes Elementary send home 450 weekend meals benefitting more than 40 families.

"Katy Brickey, Highland Lake's Counselor, helps us identify kids in need," said Greg Murrell, a Blessings in a Backpack volunteer. "We know the students are getting two meals a day during the week at school, so our program is designed to make sure they have food over the weekend too."

The Highland Lakes Elementary program is a part of the national Blessings in a Backpack charity. Since the Blessings in a Backpack charity's operational costs are funded by a trust, 100 percent of cash donations are used to provide food and the backpacks for students. During the holiday season Highland Lakes Elementary will be "doubling up" to ensure that there is something available over the long breaks from school so donations at this time are especially welcomed. It is estimated that just $80 will provide weekend food for an entire school year for one student.

"One boy told me that he was so happy to be able to help out his family and his mama that he might just cry," said Brickley. "Another child asked if her friend could get a backpack too. When I explained the program and that all the backpacks were taken, she said, 'Well, I guess I will just share mine with her.' We found a solution so they could both benefit."

To help a student at Highland Lakes, you can make a donation at www.blessingsinabackpack.org/ . Be sure to include Highland Lakes Elementary, Granite Shoals, TX in the memo line of your donation and all of the proceeds will directly benefit the students in your community.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

  MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 5, 2012
Run for Fun in MFISD's Turkey Trot 

The Marble Falls ISD Turkey Trot Fun Run benefitting the Helping Center's Food Bank is ready to take off between 9:00 and 10 a.m. this Saturday, November 10t h , at the Leonel Manzano Track at Mustang Stadium. The Turkey Trot is a fun family fitness activity that also serves as a community service project for MFISD students.

"The Turkey Trot Fun Run is a great way for students and their families to stay fit together by walking, jogging, or running a mile or more," said Hillary McCasland, MFE's PE Coach. "We play music, families come and visit, and all of our elementary coaches give our students credit on their jogging program if they participate."

Coaches from all of MFISD's campuses work together to organize the event. During last year's event, more than 500 community members participated by donating food for the Helping Center. To participate, just show up at the main gate of Mustang Stadium at Marble Falls High School between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m. Saturday. Entry for the event is a minimum of one canned good item. Many participants bring bags of food since they know the event kicks off the Helping Center's drive to replenish their food pantry shelves for the Holidays.

Mattie Cryer, past President of the MFHS Interact Club, current President, Carolyn O'Connor, and club Historian Kelcey McCasland are MFHS High School Seniors who have been working to organize volunteers for the event. Students who help set-up and run the event, or help pack up and ship the food to the Helping Center, receive community service hour credits for their club membership and university applications. Interested volunteers can contact any of the elementary PE coaches, or Mattie Cryer, through the MFHS office.

"We're trying to encourage as many people as possible to participate so we are able to collect as much food as we can for families in need," said Cryer. "This is a great opportunity to raise awareness about exercise while bringing people together over the holidays for a really fun event."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 30, 2012|
M FISD Early Release Day Approved

In a special Board meeting Tuesday, the Marble Falls ISD Board of Trustees approved an Early Release Day for Tuesday, November 6 th to provide common planning time for teachers so they can discuss specific student process, prepare lessons aligned to the new State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness (STAAR) standard for the second nine-weeks of instruction, and to process data from the District's recent nine-week TEKS-Based Assessments.

"Our students will benefit from teachers being better prepared for instruction," said Dr. Robert O'Connor, MFISD Superintendent. "This is part of our on-going commitment to allow common planning time for our teachers. I do want to apologize to parents for the quick notice and thank them for partnering with the District to help meet their children's needs. With the increased State standards, additional planning and teacher collaboration time is required to ensure our students are receiving the highest quality instruction."

Teachers will accomplish a variety of lesson planning activities on the various District campuses during the afternoon of the early release day. The planning activities will include aligning instructional activities for the next nine weeks, analyzing how well students understand what they learned of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills during the first nine weeks of school, and where the teacher can adapt instruction to meet gaps in student learning.

"For our students' success, it is imperative that teachers and administrators have the time to collaborate after analyzing student data so they can make instructional adjustments that will impact student learning," said Eric Penrod, Director of Secondary Programs. "The data does have about a two-week life span before its usefulness is limited, so it's extremely valuable for the teachers to have this time to plan targeted lessons to help our students be successful in acquiring the knowledge necessary to meet the aggressive new (STAAR) standard."

Students will be released according to the standard 2012-2013 Early Release Schedule. Food service will be provided for both breakfast and lunch prior to the students' release. District transportation will use the following schedule:

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow...Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 30, 2012
Softball Raises Funds for Breast Cancer Awareness

Members of the Marble Falls High School Softball Team raised $3,500 to benefit Breast Cancer Awareness last Saturday during their Student versus Faculty Softball Game and 1 st Annual Battle for Breast Cancer Fundraiser. In addition to a spirited softball game, Lady Mustang Softball fans participated in a homerun derby, a costume contest, a pumpkin auction, and several different games of skill.

"What a great turn out for the first year." said Softball parent and volunteer, Gary Thomas. "Thanks again to all of you who participated. It was a great time with tons of fun!"

The MFHS staff was extremely exuberant in their celebration of their 13-7 win in the Student versus Faculty softball game. Student players were very gracious in what they described as "fun for the old-timers".

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. The purpose of the campaign is to encourage women to take advantage of the available diagnostic screenings to help detect breast cancer before it develops to an unmanageable stage. Funds raised during the Awareness month are used to provide mammograms for women who don't have access to the life-saving screenings.

"The event was really successful," said Head Softball Coach, Tino Salazar. "We need to do it every year!"

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 24, 2012|
Falls, Halloween and Blood

If you are a high school student who wants to make sure people know when your blood drive is, when do you schedule it? On Halloween day of course! Falls Career High School students in Marble Falls thought it would be fun to play off the current teen fascination with vampire characters in books and movies for their community blood drive this year. The drive is set for Wednesday, October 31st, from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Donors can look for the volunteer vampires and the Blood Center of Central Texas Blood-mobile across the street from Falls High School and the MFISD Central Office, behind Super Taco.

"For its school category, Falls High School has had the best percentage of blood donors to students enrolled for two years running," reported Michael Saenz, English, Language Arts Teacher at Falls. "From posting flyers around town and plugging our drive on local radio station, KBEY-FM, to the actual giving of their own blood, I'm always pleased with how Falls students both rise to the occasion of our blood drives and enjoy themselves in the process."

Peggy Little, Principal of Falls Career High School, is encouraging students and community members to donate blood Halloween Day. All donors will receive free munchies and a free t-shirt. Donors must be 17, have an ID with a picture and birthdate, and weigh at least 115 lbs. If you are interested in donating, call MFISD extension 1504, dial 830-798-3626, or email Mike Saenz (msaenz@mfisd.txed.net) to set up an appointment time. Donors can also just drop by the Blood Mobile.

"Our Blood Drive on Halloween will be a great event for our students," said Little. "It offers Falls students an opportunity to get creative and stir up interest in their community service project while providing a valuable service for our community."

  Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE OCTOBER 15, 2012
MFMS Students Advance to Choir Regionals

Marble Falls Middle School advanced seven students to the Texas Music Educators Association's (TMEA) All-Region Women's and Men's Choirs. MFMS took ten hardworking students to audition this past Saturday and seven of them advanced. The Middle School students competed among approximately 1,000 students from around the Area. Each student vied for the top 16 spots in each section to make their respective choirs.

The Region Choir is made up of choir members from over 20 schools, so competition is fierce. Listed below are the students qualifying for All-Region and their rankings (1st Chair indicating the top spot):

1st Chair Tenor One; 8th Grade Men's Choir: Dale Gunlock
2nd Chair Soprano One; 8th Grade Women's Choir: Micheala Young
5th Chair Bass One; 8th Grade Men's Choir: Bo McCasland
5th Chair Soprano Two; 7th Grade Women's Choir: Mackenzie Young
9th Chair Soprano Two; 7th Grade Women's Choir: Anna Herrington
16th Chair Soprano Two; 8th Grade Women's Choir: Emily Gunlock
16th Chair Alto One; 8th Grade Women's Choir: Maria (Lupita) Mora

Honorable mentions were also awarded to Aubri Ladesma, 8th Grade; Stephanie King, 8th Grade; and Karoline Westerman. These ladies also competed Saturday and were commended for their efforts.

The MFMS students who participated in the Area competition chose to compete since it is not a requirement to participate in the MFMS Choir program. Students who audition complete 90 percent of their preparation on their own time at home and before and after school with Megan Goodman, MFMS Choir Director, or one of the MFMS voice teachers.

"I am so pleased with how the students did this past Saturday," exclaimed Goodman. "This is the third year in a row for Marble Falls to take one or more of the first chair positions and this is the most students to advance in MFMS history!"

The All-Region Choirs will perform in concert this Saturday October 20th at 4:30 p.m. at the Georgetown Performing Arts Center. Everyone is invited to attendthe concert and listen to these students perform!

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 15, 2012
Elementary Students Learn Fire Safety

Students from Marble Falls and Colt Elementary Schools, both served by the Marble Falls Fire Department, learned fire safety tips and fire prevention strategies to use in school and at home from Captain Coy Guenter and his crew during Fire Safety Week at the schools.

Guenter, along with the Chuckle Bucket crew from Marble Falls High School, put on an informative and very entertaining show.

"The kids were so excited to see the fire trucks and learn how they work," said Marble Falls Elementary Principal, Bruce Peckover. "Guenter's crew combined safety tips with the science of fire safety and a load of laughs to capture the attention of his elementary audiences."

Guenter teamed up with Martha Patino, the Theater Teacher from MFHS, to bring the MFHS Chuckle Bucket performers to the elementary campuses. Beyond the big red trucks, the kids participated in skits and question and answer routines led by Guenter and the performers of the Chuckle Bucket Crew. Cast members showcased their improvisation skills to reinforce the important fire safety information Guenter and his fire crew shared.

"We really appreciate our fireman taking the time to share this important information with our students," said Colt Principal Keith Powell. "The Fire Department did a wonderful job relating the information to the kids."

While the tone and delivery of the Fire Prevention presentations was light, and when Guenter took the microphone, downright funny, the firefighters were careful to help kids understand the serious message of how to prevent fires and survive fire emergencies. Students learned about the importance of smoke alarm checks, what to do if clothing catches on fire, how to avoid items that may cause a fire, and how to react in the event they find themselves in the middle of a real emergency.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 12, 2012
Libraries Celebrate Teen Read Week

Marble Falls High School and Middle School students will be invited to participate in Teen Read Week™ the week of Oct. 14 - 20. The secondary libraries are offering students a variety of special events and programs aimed at encouraging their students to read for pleasure and to turn to the library as a source for free reading materials.

"It is so exciting see students reading and sharing what they read with other students," said Joyce Smith, MFHS Librarian. "Teen Read Week is a great way to celebrate reading in this digital age."

Smith will be featuring digital NOOK books by the authors that presented at the AUSTIN TEEN READ FESTIVAL in Austin recently. She and Brenda Belk, MFMS Librarian, took a group of students to the Festival in September to help kick off the Teen reading program. Students can try out the High School's new Nooks by stopping by their library and picking up a permission form for parents to sign granting them permission to can check out NOOK digital readers. The library will also be offering Teen Readers hot chocolate with a warm welcome to the library. The Middle School library will be hosting a Scholastic Book Fair to celebrate Teen Read Week™.

According to the American Library Association, teens have so many demands on their time as well as options for entertainment that reading for pleasure often gets lost in the mix. Yet various studies show that teens who read for pleasure achieve more in school. Teen Read Week™ provides an opportunity for parents, teachers and caregivers to encourage and set aside time for teens to visit the library to find a great read.

"Believe it or not teens do enjoy reading," said Young Adult Library Services Association President Jack Martin. "The challenge for parents is to get the right type of books into their teens hands."

The MFISD Librarians are looking forward to encouraging reading by extending all MFISD students the special invitation to visit their library during Teen Read Week !

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
C oordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 10, 2012
Orange Out

Students at Colt Elementary and Marble Falls Middle School decked out in bright orange for National Orange Day, Wednesday, October 10 ^th . Wearing orange was part of Colt's Bully Prevention Program and MFMS's Don't H8, Appreciate Program.

"My Father-in-law gave me an orange tie for Christmas years ago," reported Keith Powell, Colt Elementary Principal and die-hard Aggie. "In the spirit of unity, I can finally wear it!"

The Orange-out day helps reminds students and staff how important it is to treat each other with respect and unity. Colt Elementary featured "Unity" signs in their gym common area. Krissy Sralla, MFMS C&I Coordinator, reported that Marble Falls Middle School students participated in discussions of what unity meant for them and brain-stormed slogans to display on signs and slides displayed during breakfast and lunches on the video monitors in the Middle School cafeteria.

"You know I'm a big Sooner fan, so when they asked me to wear orange today, I have to admit that I had to think twice," said MFMS Secretary, Sherrie Cossey. "When they told me it's for the kids to help with bully-prevention awareness, of course I wore orange. I have on an orange watch and shoes. They go nicely with my Sooner red outfit!"

Jodye Smathers, Colt Elementary Counselor, spear-headed the Unity program at the school. Students received an anti-bullying lesson and participated in creating signs that will be posted around the campus to create awareness of how students can treat each other to create a positive, respectful, safe school environment.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!  

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 10, 2012
MFHS Homecoming Festivities  

Marble Falls High School Students are excitedly preparing for the 2012 Homecoming Festivities scheduled for October 15 ^th - 19^th. Students are gearing up with in-school spirit days leading up to the Homecoming Ceremonies and Football game versus Vandegrift on Friday, October 19^th . Everyone is invited to participate in this year's Homecoming Parade, Bon Fire and Pep Rally on Thursday October 18^th, and the pre-game and halftime celebrations during the game Friday night.

The Homecoming Parade will follow the same route as it has the last few years. Participants will stage in the front loop of MFMS. The parade will begin at 6:00 p.m. from the front of Marble Falls Middle School and run North up Northwood drive toward MFISD's Central Offices.

To help all our students stay safe, parade participants on floats are encouraged to stay seated, and lightly toss soft candies well clear of the street. Parade fans are asked to remain clear of the street while watching the parade. Please also be respectful of our neighbor's yards by picking up trash after the parade.

Community and School organizations are invited to join in the parade as participants. If you have a float or group you would like to march in the parade, contact Julie Docherty at the High School for information on the parade and all of the MFHS Homecoming events. Ms. Docherty can be reached at 830-693-4375 during regular business hours Monday through Friday.

 Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 8, 2012
MFHS Band in pre-UIL Contest Top Ten

The Marble Falls High School Mustang Band placed in the top ten of the pre-UIL Marching Festival for the first time in many years last weekend. The honors were earned during the Vista Ridge Marching Festival at Gupton Stadium in Leander Saturday.pete  Region 26 Contest ith 4-A and 5-A sch
The Mustang band placed 10th in the contest, making it into the finals portion of the contest with other area bands, Vandegrift, Westlake, Leander, Pflugerville Connally, Burnet, Rouse, Georgetown, East View Georgetown, and Lehman.

"All of the Band staff is very proud of our students," said High School Band Director, Brad Behrens. "It was a tough competition, but our students rose to the occasion! Many of the bands that we competed with are UIL State qualifiers."

The MFHS Band will compete in the UIL Region 26 Contest with 4-A and 5-A schools from the Region at Reeves Stadium in Round Rock, Saturday, October 20^th. The Mustang Band's performance is scheduled for a 4 p.m. start.  The band is using this competition to help set its sights on next year's 4-A State Contest.  This year, Marching Band fans can watch the State UIL Marching Band Contest for 1A, 3A & 5A qualifying bands in the Alamodome November 5^th and 6^th.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….
Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 5, 2012
Choir Members Sing Their Way to Regionals

The Marble Falls High School Choir members are celebrating the performances of nine of their performers, who qualified for the upcoming University Interscholastic League Regional Competition at Westwood High School October, 30^{t h} . Blaire Hambrick, M eghan Gonzales, MaeAnn Ross, Julia Weber, Faith Westerman, Carolyn O'Connor, Jesus Perez, Mario Hernandez, and Colton Davis all qualified during the competition, held at Cedar Park High School last Saturday, to represent MFHS in the upcoming prestigious Regional event.

"They have to be in the top 15 in their respective competitions to qualify, so it's an exclusive group," said Bryce Gage, Marble Falls High School Choir Director. "These are great, hardworking kids. With continued hard work, I expect they will move on to the Pre-Area Competition after Thanksgiving and then on to the Area Competition in January."

More than 750 performers competed for only 250 Regional performance slots during last Saturday's District Auditions. The performers from the Marble Falls High School Choir secured nine of those slots after performing three different pieces of music.

"Typically, 75 to 80 percent of our Choir students who audition, normally move on to Regionals," reports Bryce. "We're right in line with that again this year. This is a great group, with solid focus; I believe we have a good shot at repeating State-level honors."

To advance to the next level beyond Regional, Gage's students will need to learn four new pieces of music in the next three weeks and then out-perform more than half of the other performers to claim one of the 120 Area slots. You can follow the Choir's performance during Regionals October 30 ^th, during Pre-Area November 27^th,  and during Area January 12 ^th. .

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE October 2, 2012
MFMS Performing at State Capitol

The Marble Falls Middle School Jazz Band and select Middle School Choir members have been chosen to perform at the Texas State Capitol on Friday, November 9, 2012, between noon and 1:00 p.m. The students' performance in the Rotunda of the State Capitol will include various musical selections. The Rotunda is open to the public during the performance, so fans of the Middle School performing Arts program are invited to attend.

I am happy to showcase the students of the Marble Falls Middle School Jazz Band and Choir at the State Capitol," said Marble Falls District 24 State Senator, Troy Fraser. "We are looking forward to a fantastic performance on November 9th."

Cristi Reyes, Assistant Band Director at the Middle School, indicated that the applicationm process to be selected to perform at the Capitol was long and involved. It also included securing a sponsorship from Senator Troy Fraser.

"I cannot express how thankful I am that our Choir and Band Teachers took the time to go through the long process of applying for this opportunity," expressed MFMS Principal, John Schumacher. "It says a lot about our teachers' belief in our kids' talents. I also can't thank Senator Fraser enough for sponsoring our students here in Marble Falls. I'm looking forward to personally applauding their performance at the Capitol."

Both the band and the choir programs at Marble Falls Middle School have been chalking up contest wins and featured performances over the last few years. The Directors of the Middle School performing arts programs continue to look for showcase opportunities like the Capitol appearance to help young performers prepare for their future High School University Interscholastic League competitions.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

"

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 26, 2012
MFHS and Beyond

MFISD's motto is "to inspire and empower all students to lead extraordinary lives and embrace the possibilities of the 21st century through relevant, engaging learning experiences led by inspirational and nurturing educators." The Counseling Office at Marble Falls High School uses this District Goal to focus their efforts on providing unique growth opportunities like College Day and Meet the Congressmen, two events designed to help MFHS students embrace the possibilities available to them in Universities, Colleges, Trade Schools, and the U.S. Military after high school.

MFHS Counselors arranged the MFISD College Day Wednesday, September 26 th , from 8:30 am-11:00 a.m. This was a unique opportunity for area students to visit with recruiters from over 70 colleges, universities, and military recruiters, all in one place. Instead of attempting to travel all over the State and the Region, Junior and Senior students from Marble Falls High School, FALLS Career High School, Faith Academy, Llano High School, and Johnson City High School will all gather at Marble Falls High School in the Mustang Gym to learn about how they can advance their career aspirations by finding out what opportunities are available to them after they earn a high school diploma. The event is offered every year by Marble Falls ISD through TACRAO, the Texas Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admission Officers.

Another unique opportunity offered during College Day was the chance for students interested in seeking an appointment to a United States Military Academy to learn about the appointment process. Congressman Mike Conaway was at Marble Falls High School on Wednesday, September 26th, to visit with possible Military Academy candidates. He met with students from Marble Falls High School and Faith Academy to help answer questions about the application process.

Students who attend Military Academies receive a free education in exchange for a five-year commitment to serve in the military upon graduation. Competition for an appointment to a Service Academy is stiff. In addition to normal college-entrance requirements, applicants must pass a physical fitness test, a medical examination and secure a Congressional nomination (except for the Coast Guard Academy, which does not require a nomination).

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

ESPN, Fox Sports, ABC, NBC, CBS, YNN, The Dallas Morning News, The Houston Chronicle, The San Antonio Express, The Austin American Statesman, Varsity News, and so many other media outlets, all asked for personal time with the Mustangs' Record Setting Quarterback and his Coach.  Here is your chance to personally ask Richardson or Dodge about the Mustangs' game winning strategy and join them for dinner! 

Tune in to Marble Falls' KBEY-FM 103.9 tonight at 6:30P for the Mustang Roundtable to hear special guest, Mustang Quarterback, Michael Richardson, talk with KBEY and Coach Todd Dodge about his State record setting performance during last week's game.  You can also join the Roundtable live at the River City Grill! 

For more information on the Mustangs, click on the MFHSports Twitter link:  http://twitter.com/MFHSports

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 17, 2012
Veterans Bring Constitution Day to Life at MFE

Larry Miller and members of the Marble Falls' VFW Post 10376 presented a new United States Flag to Macy Fox, Marble Falls Elementary's 5th Grade Student Council President, and the MFE Student Council as part of the State's Constitution Day activities at the school. The flag raising ceremony helped kick-off a series of lessons for students on how our country was built on a foundation of fairness and freedom. The Constitution Day lessons during Celebrate Freedom Week at MFE also include character education opportunities for students to demonstrate how they can create a school community that is No Place for Hate.

"Texas law (Tex. Education Code §29.907 & §Tex. Admin. Code 74.33) requires Texas public schools, grades 3-12, to acknowledge Celebrate Freedom week (week of September 17th) and conduct appropriate instruction concerning the intent, meaning, and importance of the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution, the abolitionist movement and women's suffrage. Additionally, this requirement is also reflected in our new social studies standards passed by our Texas State Board of Education," according to the Texas Legislative Update.

"We have a wealth of knowledge and experience in our senior community here in Marble Falls," said Marble Falls Elementary Principal, Bruce Peckover. "That includes our veterans. It's wonderful when we are able to partner with our community volunteers to bring our students' lessons to life."

The Student Council at Marble Falls Elementary is building on the student-driven bully-prevention activities started last year at Marble Falls Middle and High Schools. The program will begin with a review of the U.S. Bill of Rights so students have an exemplary model to create their own School Bill of Rights. MFE students will then participate in creating and voting on their own School No-Hate slogan, followed by a TShirt Design Contest sponsored by the MFE PTO, and an array of student created bully-prevention activities.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 17, 2012
Legacy Fund Supports the Arts

Marble Falls Elementary is displaying a Teacher's Discovery Traveling Exhibit featuring the fascinating paintings of Vincent van Gogh, including a giant reproduction of Starry Night . The students and staff will enjoy the spectacular reproductions prominently displayed in the campus' main hallway rotunda area during the week of September 17th. Parents will also be able to enjoy the exhibit during the campus Curriculum Night Wednesday, September 19th at 5 p.m. The exhibit celebrates art, French language, and the French and Dutch culture and history.

Vickie Weil is the MFE Art Teacher who applied for the Mobile Art Display Grant through the MFISD Legacy Fund. She was thrilled to be notified at the beginning of school that her application to support art appreciation and her curriculum was approved.

"Not all of our students can travel to visit art museums which display famous works of art," said Weil. "I wanted our students to see Vincent van Gogh, so this was a perfect way for them to experience his art right here on our campus."

Weil was awarded Legacy Grant funding for two traveling art exhibits from Teacher's Discovery at the Marble Falls Elementary Campus this year. In addition to the fall van Gogh exhibit, the spring exhibit will feature Edgar Degas. Students in 4th and 5th grade will reflect their learning experience by completing a project during their daily art specials class. 4th grade will be drawing "Starry Night" (pictured above) and 5th grade will be making a wire/plaster sculpture.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 17, 2012
Information Regarding Potential Lawsuit

MFISD community members may have seen in the media that a former Marble Falls High School athlete has filed suit against MFISD. The following information from MFISD Superintendent, Dr. Robert O'Connor, will be helpful for you so you are aware of the most recent information regarding those reports:

"At this time the District has not been given official notification of a lawsuit by Mr. Ripple. Regardless of a potential lawsuit, Marble Falls ISD works diligently to provide a safe school and competitive athletic environment for all kids. The District, our teachers, and our coaches constantly review safety procedures to ensure the safest environment possible on our campuses and for our student athletes."

"The Board of Trustees has been notified by me of a potential lawsuit," reports O'Connor. "A potential lawsuit will not change the Board's long-term practice of supporting on-going professional development for our teachers, coaches and trainers so they can continue to provide a safe environment for our students, student athletes and performers. We ask all community members not to pass judgment until the District is notified and a thorough due process investigation can be completed."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 13, 2012
Colt on Target

Target presented Colt Elementary with a purchase fund of $500.00 to order books for the school as part of its Books for Schools Award Program. In addition to the funding, volunteers who work for the Target in Bee Caves will visit the campus during the course of this school year to help with reading programs and Colt's Book Fair.

"We are grateful and pleased to be picked by Target in Bee Caves as the recipient of this year's award," said Colt Elementary Principal, Keith Powell. "We thought since we are in Marble Falls, we may not get a chance at the grant. We were pleased that Target gave back to our community by choosing a Marble Falls school to support."

Colt Elementary was nominated by employees of the Target Store in Bee Caves who live in the Marble Falls area. Colt met the criteria for the award as a Title I school serving a significant population of economically disadvantaged students. The Target Books for Schools Award Program is part of First Book, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing books and assuring that they are in the hands of children.

"Marble Falls is an area that's a drive to our Store, but we have several of our nted to show support for the kids from that community. We try not to just give an award without on-going support. Our Community Team does monthly volunteer events and we will definitely be scheduling visits throughout the school year to Colt Elementary to help with their reading and school projects."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 10, 2012
Hop on the Mustang Express

Mustang fans eager to park and get to their seats quickly to cheer on the Mustangs are encouraged to use the new Mustang Express Shuttle Service. MFISD announced two shuttle routes which offer convenient parking and a short (less than 5 minute) drive to Mustang stadium.

"Parking is limited on the home-side off 1431 and down Mustang Drive. Combine the limited home-side parking for a home football game with our neighbors from Burnet, and a home volleyball game the same night, and parking could be challenging without the shuttles," said Assistant Superintendent of Operations, Allen Roberts. "To help our fans get into and out of the stadium safely and conveniently, we are running two Mustang Express Shuttles for Mustang fans from 6:00 p.m. until 30 to 45-minutes after the end of the football game. Both shuttles will run every 15 minutes and offer handicap access."

A Mustang Express Shuttle will run from Colt Elementary. Fans using that shuttle can park in the Colt Elementary Parking lot or along Manzano Mile and ride the shuttle to the Visitors gate. From the Visitors side, home fans will be able to walk to their seats on the Home side. Following the game, Mustang fans will pick up their Mustang Express shuttle at the Visitors gate back to Colt Elementary. See location #1 on Map.

A new Mustang Express Shuttle is also running from the Fellowship Baptist Church on Mormon Mill Road. Fans will be shuttled to the North side of the stadium for exclusive shuttle access through the North gate. Following the game, the Mustang Express back to the Fellowship Baptist Church will pick up at the North gate of the stadium. See location #2 on Map.

Volleyball fans should arrive early to park in the Home parking for easiest access to the Max Copeland Gym. Volleyball fans can also park in the Visitors lot or ride the shuttles to campus. The gates will be open behind the Visitors Football stands so Volleyball fans can walk through to the Max Copeland gym without entering Mustang Stadium.

Fans planning to park in the Home parking lot who are heading toward Mustang Stadium on 1431 from town are urged to arrive early and to stay in the left lane of 1431 for a left turn onto Mustang Drive. Fans planning to park in the Visitors lot off Manzano Drive or at Colt Elementary are urged to stay in the right lane on 1431 until they pass Mustang Drive.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 5, 2012
Anonymous Reporting Promotes Safety

MFISD students will receive StayAlert wallet cards from their home campus in early September. The cards provide a convenient way for students, parents and staff to anonymously report unsafe behaviors or suspicious activities such as bullying, acts of violence, harassment, and a host of other potential school safety concerns.

"StayAlert is a great communication tool for our community," said Allen Roberts, MFISD Assistant Superintendent of Operations. "We always encourage students and staff to communicate with campus administrators for a fast response to safety issues. Sometimes though, people want to report things confidentially, and we still need to hear the information so we can help assure a safe environment for our students. StayALERT is a great communication tool to help fill that gap."

With the recent passage of Texas House Bill 1942 (TEC 37.0832), schools are now required to have specific, formal policies and procedures in place to address the occurrence of Bullying in schools, at school-sponsored functions, and in school vehicles. In addition to the No Place for Hate student-driven programs, District character education, and campus staff and student training, the Stay ALERT system provides a confidential reporting function to MFISD's work to provide a safe learning environment for students.

In addition to the wallet cards, administrators will be promoting StayALERT through window stickers, posters and web postings on each campus. Reports can be made by call or text at 1-206-406-6485. The reports can also be made online at www.stayalert.info or by e-mail at report@stayalert.info .  The StayALERT system is coordinated through Edwards Risk Management and is part of the District's Worker's Compensation Program. It is provided to MFISD at no additional cost to the District.

"Another benefit of the StayALERT system is that it's available 24 hours a day, seven days a week," reports Roberts. "This makes it easy for everyone to report safety concerns late evenings or weekends."

Learners Today…Leaders Tomorrow…..Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 4, 2012
Spicewood Elementary Receives Technology Grant 　

Students at Spicewood Elementary will be learning while using new interactive Smartboards designed to engage learners in their classrooms thanks to a Partnership for Educational Progress PEP Grant from Data Projections. The grant, along with community funding from the Spicewood Elementary PTO and business partnership funding from Wal-Mart, made it possible for Spicewood Principal Leslie Baty to purchase the interactive technology and Smartboard training for her teachers.

"Smartboard technology facilitates fun, exciting, and most of all, engaging lessons for our students," said Baty. "The Spicewood Elementary teachers are having a great time planning lessons through their new Smart software and watching student learning come alive!"

The Smart software that runs the Smartboards also allows the Spicewood teachers to share lessons from classroom to classroom. This allows teachers to seamlessly collaborate on engaging lessons which are aligned to the new STAAR standards.

"Spicewood Elementary was thrilled to receive the PEP grant from Data Projections for 10 Smartboards to be used in our classrooms," exclaimed Baty. "We are thankful to our partners in funding, the SWE PTO and Wal-Mart, for supporting our school in this endeavor. It is because of generous donations and grants that we were able to accomplish something wonderful such as 21 ^st Century Technology tools for our classrooms."

In addition to the new Smartboards, Spicewood Elementary teachers competed to win four new iPadsvduring MFISD's back-to-school District Convocation. Spicewood Elementary competed with all of the other campuses in the District during Team Building activities to win the iPads for students to use during classroom learning and technology lab activities. Marble Falls High School and Marble Falls Elementary School teachers also scored technology and teacher support activities during the competition.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
  bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
  512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR RELEASE September 1, 2012
Students Begin Year with Character Education

Marble Falls High School and Middle School students and parents will have the opportunity to participate in the first Character Education event of the school year Wednesday, September 5th, in the High School Auditorium. Students from both campuses will participate in the Seven Project, a multimedia, speaker-driven school assembly. The Seven Project Assemblies, sponsored by several churches around the Marble Falls community, have entertained and captivated audiences all across the United States.

"Seven addresses real-life issues and situations students face every day," said Marble Falls High School Principal, Manny Lunoff. "Middle school students will be bussed to the High School for two morning assemblies and high school students will attend two assemblies in the afternoon. The assemblies, custom designed based on the needs of MFISD students, will cover topics that affect middle and high school students such as bullying, drug abuse and making good choices."

Area churches teamed up and rented the High School Auditorium for an optional Seven Project presentation the evening of September 5 th for parents, students, and other community members who would like to attend. This optional event is a Christian presentation and will have a Christian based message. All community members who are interested in coming to hear these dynamic speakers and their message are welcome to attend this evening event. Refreshments will be served in the High School cafeteria from 6:00 to 6:50 p.m. before the evening presentation begins at 7:00 p.m.

"The Seven Project multimedia assemblies are part of Marble Falls Middle School's and Marble Falls High School's on-going bully-prevention and character education efforts," said Middle School Principal, John Schumacher. "There has been an ongoing dialogue between the District and the Seven Project since last spring. It has been well thought out and will be beneficial for all students. This is a natural way for us to extend the Middle School's student-driven Don't H8; Appreciate program and the High School's No Place for Hate program into the 2012-2013 school year."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever! 

Contact: Bruce Peckover
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
For Immediate Release August 23, 2012
Inside the Huddle with Coach Todd Dodge

Marble Falls Mustang fans have the opportunity to feel like they're inside the huddle with Head Football Coach and MFISD Athletic Director, Todd Dodge, Tuesday nights over the upcoming football season during the Mustang Round Table Radio Show on K-BEY 103.9 FM. Dodge will be on the radio Tuesdays from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. discussing the game-plan for the Mustang's next opponent.

The Mustang Roundtable with Coach Dodge will be broadcast in Marble Falls at the River City Grill. Fans can listen on the radio or have dinner with the Coach and be part of the show by asking questions live from the audience. The Mustang Round Table is a unique opportunity to amaze your friends with your knowledge of the strategy for the next game by getting the inside scoop each week on the Coaches' game plan for the Mustang's next game.

"In addition to breaking down the next opponent's offense and defense, I'll be discussing goal boards, special teams player of the games and scout team player of the game," said Dodge. "I'm looking forward to sharing the exciting Mustang experience with all of our fans!"

The Mustang Round Table with Head Coach Todd Dodge is sponsored by American Bank, The River City Grill, The Highlander Newspaper and KBEY-FM. Other sponsors include The Mustang Booster Club, Spicewood General Store, Bluebonnet Café, Atkins Pharmacy, Northland Communications, Watkins Insurance, Subway, Mustang Equipment, Galloway Insurance, The Law Offices of Robert Klaeger and Lee Hoffpauir Chevrolet Buick.

If you can't be present for the hour long Coaches Show, you can always participate in the fun by tuning in to KBEY 103.9FM or KBEYFM.COM to listen live beginning September 4 th . You can also get inside information on the Mustangs on Twitter at MFHSports.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 21, 2012
State Comptroller Recognizes MFISD Business Office

The members of the MFISD Central Business Office were recognized Monday night during the regular Board of Trustees' meeting for earning the Texas Comptroller's Gold Leadership Circle Award.

"The Texas Comptroller's Leadership Circle program recognizes local governments across Texas that open their books to the public," reported Lisa LeMon, MFISD Director of Business Operations."

Districts striving to meet a high financial transparency on-line are recognized by the State Comptroller's Office for their efforts in providing citizens with a clear, concise picture of spending and sharing information in a user-friendly format. In a letter to the MFISD Central Business Office, Susan Combs, Texas Comptroller for Public Accounts, notified Wade Stanford, MFISD's Executive Director of Financial Services, of the District's Gold Leadership Circle Award.

"Congratulations on your success in moving forward on financial transparency and joining our Leadership Circle," wrote State Comptroller, Susan Combs. "You are setting a strong example for other government entities to follow."

MFISD is now highlighted on the State's Texas Transparency website. The site displays a digital Gold Seal next to the Marble Falls listing to indicate a top designation among District's in the State for business reporting practices.

"I'm so pleased that the smart, hardworking professionals in our Business Office have been recognized by the State," enthused Stanford. "They deserve all the credit for helping us provide top educational services for our students while maintaining responsible stewardship of our public funding."

Learners Today, Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
F OR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 16, 2012
Tax Ratification Early Voting Open

MFISD Superintendent, Dr. Robert O'Connor, visited service clubs and community organizations over the summer encouraging their members to vote in the Tax Ratification Election. During the visits, O'Connor communicated the rationale of the proposed change was to reduce property owner's overall school tax rate while increasing available operational revenues for MFISD schools.

Voting "For" the tax ratification election will maintain the board approve tax rate of $1.28 which reduces the overall tax rate by a penny. Last year's tax rate was a $1.29. However, because the district is shifting $0.0133 pennies within its current tax rate, the ballot language can be confusing.

According to Assistant Superintendent of Operations, Allen Roberts, the actual Ballot language is: "Approving the Ad Valorem Tax Rate of $1.28 per $100 valuation in Marble Falls Independent School District for the current year, a rate that is $0.0133 higher per $100 valuation than the School District rollback tax rate."

"You can see how voters could be confused," said O'Connor. It's important for voters to know that by voting 'For' the tax election they will maintain the board approved tax rate of $1.28, reducing their overall school property tax by a penny. In addition to reducing the tax rate, voting "For" the TRE will allow the district to shift existing pennies of the tax rate from Debt service so that 0.0133 per $100 is allocated to Operations. This shift will provide approximately $400,000 of new operating revenue. The new revenues will offset the projected $400,000 budget shortfall due to State reductions in funding.

Early voting is now open at the District's Central Offices at 1800 Colt Circle in Marble Falls weekdays from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily through August 21st. Election Day Polls open at the Central Office Saturday, August 25th from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 15, 2012
MFISD Welcomes New Teachers

New teachers for Marble Falls ISD gathered at the District's Central Administration Offices Wednesday for a Welcome Breakfast and to meet District and Campus leaders who will support them as new teachers. MFISD also introduced the first cohort of Student Teachers from Tech Teach, the innovative teacher education program through Texas Tech University designed to deliver graduates who understand how to develop mastery in their content area and teach it using data-driven assessment information to improve student performance.

Dr. Kelly Fox, MFISD School Board Member, and the Assistant Professor and Coordinator for the Hill Country Teacher Education Program, College of Education, Texas Tech University, said, "Our Teacher candidates will benefit from the opportunity to experience a full year-long collaborative teaching partnership with an experienced mentor classroom teacher in Marble Falls."

MFISD Curriculum leaders expect the Tech Teach program to help the District develop an expertly trained pool of teacher candidates to consider when future teaching positions open. Board President, Rick Edwards and his mother Carolyn, presented a check from the Edwards Family Fund for five thousand dollars to support the Tech Teach program with Marble Falls ISD.

Parents and students are invited to greet the District's new teachers during the campus Meet the Teacher night and during the upcoming campus open houses. Visit the MFISD website for complete back-to-school registration and start-of-school activities.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net  
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 14, 2012
Kilgo Set to Invigorate MFISD Teachers

MFISD teachers and staff members will be welcomed back to school over the next week with training from Margaret Kilgo. Kilgo is known in Texas for her proven, research-based overview of the relationship between the State curriculum, the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) and Student Expectations (SEs), and the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) and End-of-Course (EOC) tests in Reading, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, Grades K-12.

"We're so excited to have someone of Margaret's experience work with our staff to identify both the content and the complexity of thinking included in our State standards," said Dr. Janice Mauldin, Assistant Superintendent of Academic Programs. "Training our entire staff will help us increase the professional dialogue among our educators so everyone understands the new standards and is able to use our District's Common Shared Vision language to improve student performance.

Kilgo reported that she will cover the components that are critical for effectively  teac hing and assessing the TEKS/SEs to the depth and complexity of the STAAR/EOC/TAKS during her training in Marble Falls. She indicated that the focus of these sessions will be on teaching and assessing the curriculum, not on teaching to the test.

"I want to help teachers find the joy in teaching by helping them focus in on the new standards of the test," said Kilgo. "The teachers and staff in Marble Falls will be on the leading edge in the State because they'll have the information to communicate to their students on what they need to learn and how to learn it!"

Participants in the MFISD Kilgo Data-Driven Decisions workshops will be involved in an innovative, copyrighted process that promotes student success on the STAAR and STAAR/EOC by effectively implementing the TEKS/SEs with a focus on higher standards in classroom instruction and assessment through a district-wide curriculum and assessment plan. The critical components of a campus and/or district plan include:

1. Data-driven decisions - In-depth models based on specific TEKS/SE alignment
2. Instruction and Assessment Models and Strategies
3. Scope and Sequence Standards-Based Curriculum Plans
4. Focused Professional Development
5. Monitoring to Ensure Outstanding Student Performance

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net  
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 13, 2012
School Accountability Update

In an effort to keep the Marble Falls Community fully informed of school progress, MFISD Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Robert O'Connor, reviewed the latest information regarding the State and Federal school rating systems affecting the Marble Falls Community with the MFISD Board of Trustees and District Administrators Friday.

"Schools in Texas will not be receiving a State accountability rating this year as we transition from TAKS to STAAR," said Dr. Robert O'Connor, MFISD Superintendent. "This transition means there will be no State label that campuses carry for the 2012-2013 school year. In the past, a campus was rated Exemplary, Recognized, Academically Acceptable or Academically Unacceptable by the Texas Education Agency."

O'Connor reported that in addition to the State rating system, Texas campuses are also rated by the Federal Government (U.S. Department of Education) under the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) as either meeting Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) or Not Meeting Adequate Yearly Progress. With the transition from TAKS to STAAR, the calculations of AYP are primarily based on the STAAR Bridge Study and not the actual STAAR standards, as they have not been set. (Additional information may be found in the STAAR Bridge Study for AYP p osted online at http://www.tea.state.tx.us/student.assessment/reports ).

The Federal requirements for 2012 AYP showed a significant rise in the standards for both Reading and Math. The Reading standard increased from 80 percent to 87 percent and the Math standard increased from 75 percent to 83 percent passing. These measures are calculated for the "All Student" group, as well as all other student groups that meet the minimum size requirement including White, Hispanic, African American, Economically Disadvantaged, Special Education and English Language Learners.

Based on the preliminary AYP data tables, Marble Falls ISD did not meet AYP. However, Marble Falls ISD was successful in 23 of the 28 measures used to determine AYP, with visible growth in many areas. The District will use this data along with additional data points to review and revise our District Improvement Plan. 71.4% of all Districts across the State did not meet AYP and 47.8% of all Campuses did not meet AYP. By 2013-2014 Districts across the State are required by NCLB to have 100 percent of students passing in all required measures to meet AYP. As the Standards continue to increase, the percentage of schools in Texas not meeting AYP is predicted to increase substantially by 2013-2014.

"Marble Falls ISD is very proud of how well our students have performed and we are certain that we will see continued growth in student performance," said O'Connor. "We will continue to use this information to help identify areas of focus for additional support and resources. Specifically, we are using this data to inform our District and Campus Improvement Plans this school year. We look forward to an outstanding start of the year."

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact:  Bruce Peckover
  bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE August 2, 2012
Curriculum Workshop Kicks-off MFISD School Year

MFISD Teacher Leaders gathered with campus administrators from around the District this week to continue work on its Curriculum Focus Project to align student instruction to State standards. The leadership workshop to kick-off the school year was held at the Marble Falls Lakeside Pavillion August 1st and 2nd.

"Our Teacher Leaders, campus administrators, and District leaders are critical in communicating our District goals for establishing a framework for what works for building our students' success," said Superintendent, Dr. Robert O'Connor. "Our leadership development sessions help assure that our Curriculum is aligned and our campus leaders all understand the sound best practices to support our teachers in their efforts to help students learn."

Texas school districts regularly send staff members to conferences around the State to gather the latest educational strategies for local implementation. While valuable, outside conferences can be costly due to the travel expenses. This year, MFISD curriculum leaders elected to keep the back-to-school training local to conserve on tight budgets restricted by State cutbacks. Meeting in Marble Falls' Lakeside Pavilion offered leaders the opportunity to get away from office interruptions so they could focus on developing District team collaboration, assessment strategies and curriculum alignment.

MFISD is developing its leadership capacity through its campus Teacher Leaders. Teacher Leaders are campus teachers who work to help their teachers develop and facilitate student instruction to give them the best opportunity to demonstrate success through their achievement on the new STAAR tests.

"We're working to build District capacity by helping our teachers teach to the State standards and to collaborate and make decisions around student results," said Dr. Janice Mauldin, Assistant Superintendent of Academic Programs. "Students experience success when they know what they need to learn. It's our job as educators to show them the steps they need to take to learn it."

During the workshop, administrators and Teacher Leaders worked to identify how their teams could each work to deliver consistent improvement of student performance.

Learners Today, Leaders Tomorrow….Mustangs Forever!

Contact: Bruce Peckover
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 26, 2012
MFISD On-line Registration Opens August 1st

To help parents during the busy back-to-school time, MFISD is opening on-line registration for the 2012-2013 school year beginning Wednesday, August 1 ^st . The online registration is set up for returning students.

"We are excited to welcome back over 4,000 students to what looks like will be the most fantastic and rewarding school year ever as we educate the learners of today, developing leaders for tomorrow, and maintaining Mustangs Forever," exclaimed MFISD Assistant Superintendent of Operations, Allen Roberts. "Parents can register their returning students from the convenience of their home, office, or smart phone beginning August 1st."

The on-Line Registration link will be on the district web-site at www.mfisd.txed.net . Computer labs will be open at each of the campuses for parents who do not have access to the internet or if assistance is needed to complete the registration. Can't remember your password? No problem. Just click "I forgot my password" and it will be emailed to your e-mail address on record with the District. You can also contact your campus registrar if you can't remember your login or password.

New Student registration for Marble Falls Middle School and all of the elementary campuses will be August 13 ^th - 17^th  from 9 a.m. until 12 noon and from 1 - 4 p.m.

New student registration for Marble Falls High School will be August 13 ^th and the 23 ^rd from 9 a.m. until 12 noon and from 1 - 4 p.m.

New student registration for Falls Career High School will be August 20 ^th - 24^th from 9 a.m. until 12 noon and from 1 - 4 p.m.

If you have questions about registration, Secondary Registrars return to work on July 30 ^th. Elementary Registrars return to work on August 8^th . You can reach your registrars at the following numbers:

Colt Elementary School (830) 693-3474

Highland Lakes Elementary School (830) 798-3650

Marble Falls Elementary School (830) 693-2385

Spicewood Elementary School (830) 798-3675

Marble Falls Middle School (830) 693-4439

Falls Career High School (830) 798-3621

Marble Falls High School (830) 693-4375

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 25, 2012
Mustang Football Camp Develops Tomorrow's Stars

Todd Dodge, Head Mustang Football Coach and MFISD Athletic Director, is making good on his promise to bring significant athletic development opportunities for all levels of athletes in the Marble Falls Area with the announcement of the 2012 Mustang Football Camp. This year's camp is scheduled for August 6 th, 7th and 8th , from 8:30 - 11:30am, at the Marble Falls High School Game and Practice Fields.

"It is important for our younger players to know about our Mustang Football Camp," said Dodge. "The camp is the perfect opportunity for our younger players to get a fast start in building the base knowledge of the game of football and how it will be run in the Mustang Program."

Dodge is known around Texas for his High School and College level football player development camps. His philosophy of implementing strong off-season programs is what he reports as the foundation necessary to produce a winning program. This year's Mustang Football Camp is designed for all 2 nd - 9th grade students who have an interest in developing their knowledge and skill set in preparation for the upcoming football season. The level of activities are custom designed to meet the age appropriate needs of elementary, middle and incoming high school football players.

Players will learn the Mustang system during the camp from Coach Dodge and the Marble Falls High School and Middle School coaching staffs. The cost is $50 per camper, $45 for each additional camper per family, and $40 each for MFISD employee's athletes. Campers will only need shorts, a t-shirt, a water bottle, and tennis shoes or cleats. All other equipment will be provided by Mustang Athletics.

To sign up for the Mustang Football Camp, stop by the Mustang Athletic Office Monday through Thursday from 8 - 11:30 a.m. or from 1:30 - 4 p.m. Call the Athletic Offices for more information about the Camp at 830-693-4375. Walk-up registration will also be open the first day of the camp.

Contact: Bruce Peckover
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
for Immediate Release July 24, 2012
Mustang Football Season Tickets On-Sale

Chatter among Texas high school football fans is heating up, especially in District 25-4A, where excitement for the upcoming Marble Falls High School Mustang Football season is high. A new head coach with a fast moving offense, and high numbers of football team members participating in summer conditioning activities, already has fans fantasizing about Friday night football glory this fall.

Previous Mustang Season Ticket holders have been notified that their tickets are up for renewal. Season ticket holders are snapping up their reserved seat reservations to make sure they have a great view of the action, with seat backs for a comfortable spot to sit during time outs in play. Season Ticket holders who have not yet contacted the MFISD Central Offices to reserve their current seating reservations should do so immediately.

"On behalf of our players and coaches, I want to encourage the entire town of Marble Falls and Horseshoe Bay to purchase season tickets to come and watch the 2012 Mustang Football team," said Todd Dodge, the Mustang's Head Football Coach and Athletic Director. "You won't be disappointed!"

Mustang Season Tickets and single game tickets continue to be one of the best entertainment values in the area. Season tickets are an outstanding deal compared to the cost of tickets in neighboring school districts for high school football games. For 2012, each season ticket package including five home games is only $45. Special Senior season tickets are available for just $10. Senior ticket holders must be 65 years or older to qualify for Senior pricing. Fans interested in getting on the waiting list for reserved seating are encouraged to call the MFISD Central Office at 693-4357. General admission seats will also be available in advance through the Athletics office and at MFMS one week prior to each game. General admission pricing will be set by District 25-4A in August.

Our expectations are to provide a fun, entertaining Friday night football experience for the whole family," said Allen Roberts, MFISD Assistant Superintendent of Operations. "We expect that the Marble Falls fans will pack the stadium every Friday night, so I encourage Mustang fans to buy their season tickets early so they have a prime seat to cheer on the Mustangs."

Parking on the home side can be tight for standing room only games. Limited reserved season parking is available through the Athletics Office beginning August 1 st for $35 per vehicle. Roberts encourages Mustang fans to arrive at the stadium well before the 7:30 p.m. schedule kickoff time to secure free stadium parking. He also is working with the Athletics and Transportation staffs to arrange additional parking with free shuttles running from Colt Elementary and Marble Falls Middle School.

Football fans are invited to watch the Mustang's first scrimmage at home Friday, August 24 th. The first home game of the season is Friday, August 31st versus LaGrange.

Contact: Bruce Peckover
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

"

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 13, 2012
Kickoff Tailgate & Golf Tournament

The Marble Falls Athletic Club (MFABC) members are excited to bring Mustang fans together for the first two big events of the 2012 Football Season. Kickoff your season by planning to attend the Pre- Golf Tournament Kickoff Tailgate with Coach Dodge, Friday July 27 ^th , from 7 - 8 p.m. in the Marble Falls High School Parking Lot behind the Band Hall.

"We'll be serving up some great hamburgers and hotdogs during the tailgate," said Lee Ann Harkins, MFABC member. "The hamburgers and hotdogs are just five dollars per plate, or free for golfers who have registered for the First Annual MFABC Golf Tournament at the Legends Golf Course."

During the Tailgate, Mustang Fans will have the opportunity to meet and visit with new Head Football Coach and Athletic Director, Todd Dodge. Coach Dodge will be introducing your new coaches and will also be giving a tour of the Mustang's new weight room. If you have been wondering what equipment is being used by top programs to help build championship teams, you won't want to miss this chance to learn how the new equipment will be used to develop Marble Falls' athletes for all of the District's extracurricular sports programs.

Besides being a fun event for the family, the Kickoff Tailgate will also help raise funds for the Mustang Weight Room and off-season facility to continue developing Mustang and Lady Mustang athletes throughout the year. Fans can score with fantastic deals during the benefit silent auction. The auction is featuring plenty of goods, services and gift certificates from supporting businesses around the Marble Falls community. The Tailgate is also a convenient time for fans to show their support by signing up for MFABC membership.

During the Tailgate, keep your season rolling by signing up for the First Annual MFABC Golf Tournament at the Legends. The Golf Tournament is Saturday, July 28^{t h} . The t ournament is designed so everyone can play with a four-person scramble and a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. Lunch will follow and prizes will be awarded. For tournament information and registration, go to http://mfabc.org.

Contact: Bruce Peckover
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

Public Notice

On July 16, 2012, the Board of Trustees of Marble Falls ISD adopted a tax rate of $1.28 per $100 of valuation, which is 1 cent less than the 2011 tax rate of $1.29 per $100 of valuation.  The Maintenance and Operations tax rate is $1.0533 and the Interest and Sinking tax rate is $0.2267 per $100 of valuation.  For questions concerning these tax rates, please contact Dr. Rob O'Connor or Lisa LeMon at 830-693-4357.

MARBLE FALLS ISD ADOPTED A TAX RATE THAT WILL RAISE MORE TAXES FOR MAINTENANCE AND OPERATIONS THAN LAST YEAR'S TAX RATE. 

Additional Election Information

El 16 de julio, 2012, la Junta Directiva del Distrito Escolar Independiente de Marble Falls adopto una tasa de impuesto de $1.28 por cada $100 de valuación, cual es 1 centavo menos que la tasa de impuestos de 2011 de $1.29 por cada $100 de valuación. La tasa de impuestos de Mantenimiento y Operaciones es $1.0533 y la tasa de Interés y Hundimiento es $0.2267 por cada $100 de valuación. Si tiene preguntas sobre estas tasas de impuestos, por favor llame al Dr. Rob O'Connor o Lisa LeMon a 830-693-4357.

EL DISTRITO ESCOLAR INDEPENDIENTE DE MARBLE FALLS ADOPTO UNA TASA DE IMPUESTOS QUE VA RECAUDAR MAS IMPUESTOS PARA MANTENIMIENTO Y OPERACIONES QUE LA TASA DE IMPUESTOS DEL A Ñ O PASADO.

MFISD News
For Immediate Release July 5, 2012
2012 State Retest Schedule Set

The End of Course (EOC) and TAKS retest schedule has been set for July 9th - 13th at Marble Falls High School for students who were notified by mail in June that they must retest to achieve a passing standard on the TAKS and/or STAAR EOC assessments:

• Exit Level TAKS ELA & EOC Writing-July 9th 8:00am
• Exit Level TAKS Math & EOC Reading-July 10th 8:00am
• Exit Level TAKS Science & EOC Biology-July 11th-8:00am
• EOC World Geography-July 11th 1:00pm
• Exit Level TAKS Soc Stud & EOC Algebra-July 12th 8am
• EOC Makeup-July 13th-8:00am

"Because students have to take five EOC tests per year, it is very important that they take advantage of each testing opportunity so the required tests don't pile up on them,: said High School Lead Counselor, Susi Roberts. "There are also students who need to retake the Exit Level TAKS test so they can graduate on time. Students who received notices in June can help keep their graduation plans and scheduling on track by making sure they take their required retests for either TAKS or EOC during the July testing dates."

Principal Manny Lunoff met with parents last week to review the new State standards and their impact on MFHS students. Lunoff shared tutoring resources as well as resources available on the web for students and parents working to improve assessment results. It has been a shorter summer for some MFHS students. They have been in class in June receiving free remediation classes offered by MFISD.

"Parents and students can check the High School web site for EOC information, scheduling, and tutoring resources," reported Roberts. "Simply Google MFISD and click on the MFHS page, or type the following into your address bar to access the retest information:

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
For Immediate Release July 3, 2012
Principal Change at Marble Falls Elementary

Superintendent Dr. Robert O'Connor announced Marble Falls Administrator Bruce Peckover as Marble Falls Elementary's Interim Principal for the 2012-2013 school year following the departure of Principal, Andy Reddock, who is leaving to start new Assistant Superintendent duties in Coahoma ISD later this month. Reddock and Peckover will be working together in July to prepare Marble Falls Elementary for the return of staff and the start of school in August.

"We're very fortunate to have someone of Mr. Peckover's experience here in the District who can immediately step in and support the Marble Falls Elementary staff in meeting the District's goals for our students," said O'Connor. "Without such a quality pool of Assistant Principals to draw from, it would be challenging to complete a lengthy committee process to interview multiple candidates this close to the start of school."

Peckover is familiar with many of the Marble Falls Elementary Teachers after teaming with them over the last six summers while serving as the Principal for the District's Pre-K through 12 summer remediation and acceleration programs. He's also had the opportunity to become familiar with MFE's operations over the last month while directing this year's summer programs. Peckover is known for his work as an Assistant Principal and Instructional leader at Marble Falls Middle and High Schools.

"I'm so excited to return to my elementary roots and join the experienced team at Marble Falls Elementary," said Peckover. "Since I have served our students as a secondary Principal, many people in Marble Falls aren't aware that my first experience in education was as a fifth grade teacher."

Peckover's wife Esther is also an educator who works with first year teachers through Texas State University. He has two sons, Zach and Adam, who both attend Texas Tech University. Peckover has lived in the Hill Country for the last 14 years. When he's not at school functions, he enjoys writing youth books and announcing sporting events.

"I know all of our campuses are special here in Marble Falls," said Peckover. "But I have to admit that I can't wait to experience every day why the teachers and staff all tell me that MFE is the place to be!"

Contact: Dr. Robert O'Connor
ROConnor@mfisd.txed.net
830-693-4357

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 26, 2012
Donations in Honor of Ebbie Neptune

Fans of Texas High School Football are mourning the passing of Coach Ebbie Neptune today. Neptune, known as the face of Westlake Football and Athletics, was 73. While famous for his contributions to student athletics, Neptune's greatest passion was for his family, including his daughter, Elizabeth, newly hired to teach at Marble Falls Middle School, and his son-in-law, Mustang Head Football Coach and Athletic Director, Todd Dodge. Neptune's family in the area includes his two daughters, six grandchildren, and Mary Sue Neptune, his wife of 52 years.

Dodge, the Mustang's new Head Coach, spoke fondly of Neptune during his interview process with Marble Falls. Dodge talked about how Westlake ISD honored Coach Neptune when they dedicated the field at Chaparral Stadium as the Ebbie Neptune Field in 2002, and how he'd like to make that same kind of long-term contribution to the community. Dodge also discussed how important it was for him to be close to family. He indicated that one of the primary reasons he was searching for a Coaching position in the Central Texas area was so his family could be close and help care for his wife's parents.

"I have received several calls from community members wishing to make a donation to Marble Falls ISD Athletics in honor of Ebbie Neptune," said Dr. Robert O'Connor, MFISD Superintendent of Schools. "We're setting up an account to make it simple for anyone wishing to make a donation on behalf of Ebbie Neptune to benefit our kids participating in Mustang Athletics."

Anyone wishing to make a donation can do so by making out a check to the MFISD Athletics and dropping it off or mailing it to the attention of Pauline Carrington at the MFISD Central Office:

MFISD Athletics
1800 Colt Circle
Marble Falls, TX 78654

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 20, 2012
Summer Giggles

Comedy Improv is taking center stage Friday night in Marble Falls as the participants of MFHS's Fourth Annual Summer Theater Camp present fun and a comedic twist with the Chuckle Bucket Crew. Join the Crew and finally learn why the chicken crossed the road.

Marble Falls' students from 2 nd through 8th grade have been working their comedy chops every afternoon this week during the MFHS Summer Theater Camp. From 1 to 4 p.m., the kids have practiced their jokes and comedic timing. Patino reported that the students had an amazing time this week. The actors and burgeoning comedians were encouraged to crack up their classmates (and were applauded for d oing it) during the camp. Some of the class clowns even asked Patino if they could tell their parents to wait to pick them up so they could spend more time at camp perfecting their show.

"We're hoping the highlight of the show will be what Art Linkletter was known to say: 'Kids say the darndest things'," said Martha Patino, Theater Camp organizer. "This week the campers have had the opportunity to participate in four workshops emphasizing spontaneity, narration and characterization, pantomime, and improvisation. The results of their efforts will be showcased Friday night. It should be a fun and memorable night for all in attendance."

The kids are taking their comedy seriously. Overheard during rehearsal: "Knock, knock" "Who's there?" "No one!" "No one who?" "No one, really, I'm working on a joke." "Dude, it's not very funny. I think your timing is off!"

Due to the work this month on the water main serving Marble Falls High School, this s ummer's Theater Camp presentation will be on stage in the Marble Falls Middle School Cafetorium, June 22 nd, at 7 p.m. Parking is available in front of the Middle School and on the west side near the gym entrance. Audience members are asked to enter the building through the front main entrance for the show. Everyone is encouraged to come and laugh. Admission is free.

Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 19, 2012
New Head Baseball Coach Announced

J.T. Blair was approved as the New Head Baseball Coach for the Mustangs by the MFISD Board of Trustees during Monday night's Board Meeting.

Blair brings 18 years of teaching and coaching experience and 10 years of Head Coaching experience to Marble Falls High School. He is no stranger to post season play. Blair's teams have achieved eight District Championships, 10 Bi- District Championships, Seven Area Championships, five Regional Championships, and five Quarterfinal Championships.

"He's going to be a great fit," said Athletic Director, Todd Dodge. "I know Blair from when I competed against him when I coached at Southlake Carroll. I'm thrilled for Marble Falls and for our Baseball program."

Blair most recently was the Head Coach at Newman Smith High School in Carrollton, Texas. Prior to that, he coached at Denton Ryan High School. He was named the 5-A Coach of the Year three times and personally achieved All Conference Player status in college while playing for Navarro College and the University of Texas Pan American. He also has Major League experience identifying up-and-coming baseball talent. Blair worked as a Major League Scout for the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Milwaukee Brewers.

Blair communicated that he is planning to increase participation in Mustang Baseball by offering Summer Baseball Camps, by reaching out to the Middle and Elementary p layers, by establishing relationships with players and their families, and by injecting his enthusiasm into the great tradition of Mustang Baseball.

Taking a break between innings coaching a summer double header, Coach Blair said about his approval by the Board, "I can't wait to get to Marble Falls. This is going to be fun!"

Blair, a Social Studies teacher, takes over for David Norwood, who has been named the Marble Falls Middle School Boys Athletic Coordinator.

Contact: Bruce Peckover
  Coordinator of Communications and Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net
512-431-7097

MFISD News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 14, 2012
Inventors at Work

Marble Falls area Kindergarten through 6th grade students are busy inventing new products, planning new cities, and experimenting how they can use everyday materials in creative new ways. It's all happening this week for the kids attending MFISD's Summer Camp Invention.

"It's so much fun to see how our kids grow when they have time to experiment with hands-on science activities," said Cari Orts, Spicewood Elementary Teacher and Coordinator of Camp Invention in Marble Falls. "During Camp Invention, our young scientists have time to roll up their sleeves to try new things, be silly, and most importantly, experiment.

Orts, along with Spicewood Teachers Jamie R eddock and Jamie Horn, teamed up to offer the innovative science camp to area students this summer. All week, campers met up at the Marble Falls Elementary campus to challenge each other.

Students are participating in daily theme days designed to challenge their experimentation skills. Alien Day, Accessorize Day and Dress Like Someone from a Different Era Day, all offer the y oung scientists opportunities to view their world from a different perspective and then apply the new perspective to solve scientific challenges.

"During alien day, aliens (our students dressed up in an alien creation of their own) wiped out a city and then planned, design ed and created a new city using everyday materials," said Orts. "It was a good opportunity for the kids to learn how to use things in a different way."

Orts reported that Camp Invention is a terrific way to help develop their budding scientific skills. The camp is offered each summer by MFISD.


Contact: Bruce Peckover
Coordinator of Communications & Media Relations
bpeckover@mfisd.txed.net  
512-431-7097