From Across the State HEADLINES

1 Round Rock ISD Launches Work Perk Program

In order to recognize the hard work of its staff, Round Rock ISD has created a Work Perk program offering employees free, discounted, or special services. Round Rock ISD is currently searching for businesses that would like to participate in the program. For more information—including the terms of use—visit the RRISD website.

“The district is committed to finding ways to enhance the total rewards package that RRISD employees can benefit from,” Chief Human Resources Officer Eddie Curran says. “Partnering with businesses to provide staff discounts is one way to accomplish that. Ultimately, we want our staff to feel appreciated for their hard work, and being able to provide discounts on local services is a great way to do so.” roundrockisd.org

2 Vandegrift High School Band Performs at Thanksgiving Day Parade

One Leander ISD high school band from Austin got the opportunity of a lifetime to perform in the 2022 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. Vandegrift High School’s band was originally set to perform in the parade the year prior, but COVID-19 delayed those plans to 2022. The band played Symphony No. 4 and the 1812 Overture by Tchaikovsky, which could be heard bouncing off the New York City buildings to a crowd of thousands. leanderisd.org

3 Houston ISD Police Launch Evidence Submission Portal

With threats to schools always on their radar, Houston ISD Police Department officials have launched a new crime reporting system so the public can report incidents on HISD campuses.

The Axon Citizen Portal is active and available on the HISD police department website. This new system allows citizens to submit video evidence for police review.

“Confidence in the police department improves community interactions, enhances communication, and promotes shared responsibility for addressing crime and disorder,” HISD Police Chief Pedro Lopez said in a HISD press release. houstonisd.org

4 Tyler ISD Opens Salon for Cosmetology Students

Tyler ISD’s Career & Technology Center opened its new cosmetology salon to the public Dec. 10, and it is open from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Saturdays. The salon provides valuable hands-on experience for seniors in Tyler ISD’s cosmetology program who are pursuing a professional barber or cosmetology license.

“By having real clients in their chairs, our students continue to hone their expertise,” cosmetology teacher and instructional lead Leslie Pryor says. tylerisd.org

5 Arp ISD Aids Coach Who Lost Home to Fire

After Arp High School assistant coach Winston Butler and his mother, Dorene Freeney, lost their home to a fire on Thanksgiving, Arp ISD asked for donations to aid in their recovery. More information on how to donate is available on Arp ISD’s website, including clothing sizes for those wishing to donate clothes.

The Arp community has already helped with donations through monetary means, food, and clothing.

“Thus far, the support given to this family has been incredible,” Arp ISD Superintendent Shannon Arrington says. “What an amazing family of Arp Tigers we have.” arpisd.org