Welcome 2016

Northside Independent School DistrictS a n A n to n i o’s P re m i e r S c h o o l D i s t r i c t

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San Antonio 's Dest inat ion School D is t r ic t

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I want to personally welcome you to Northside Independent School District, a family-friendly school district and the school district of choice for hundreds of new families each year. We’re proud of the exemplary academic and co-curricular programs that attract families to NISD.

With enrollment at 104,539, Northside remains the fourth-largest school district in Texas and is continuing to grow by about 1,500 students a year. Though enrollment growth is expected to slow down slightly, the District must continue to open new schools and classroom additions every year to ensure that all students are accommodated. In May 2014, NISD voters approved a $648.34 million bond issue to fund six new schools plus renovations and additions throughout the District.

NISD also enjoys the strong support of the many businesses that are located in the District. Since 1995, the Northside Education Foundation (NEF), a nonprofit charity of community volunteers and business partners, has administered more than $8 million in scholarships, teacher grants, and other program accomplishments.

We also are recognized for excellence in sound fiscal responsibility. For the thirteenth year in a row, Northside has received the highest rating from the state’s financial accountability rating system, called School FIRST.

Northside students attend classes in beautiful, modern, and well-equipped classrooms under the guidance of some of the finest educators in the state and nation. We welcome your visit to our campuses and look forward to you becoming a part of the Northside community.

AdministrationBrian T. Woods, Ed.D., SuperintendentRay Galindo, Deputy Superintendent for AdministrationLinda Mora, Ph.D., Deputy Superintendent for Curriculum & InstructionDavid Rastellini, Deputy Superintendent for Business & Finance

Board of TrusteesKatie N. Reed, PresidentM’Lissa M. Chumbley, Vice PresidentCarol Harle, Ph.D., SecretaryJoseph H. Medina, TrusteeGerald B. Lopez, TrusteeRobert Blount, Jr., TrusteeKaren Freeman, TrusteeNorthside Trustees meet monthly in regular meetings on the fourth Tuesday of the month. They may also meet in called meetings for workshops or retreats or to handle routine business. Meetings are held at 7 p.m. at the Board Room at 5900 Evers Road unless otherwise posted. Meetings are posted and open to the public. Citizens who wish to address the Board may do so by signing up to speak just prior to the beginning of the meeting.

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Northside ISD LeadershipThe Northside ISD Board of Trustees and Superintendent consider themselves a team of eight. From left, seated, are Board Secretary Carol Harle, Ph.D., Board President Katie N. Reed, Superintendent Brian T. Woods, Ed.D., and Board Vice President M’Lissa M. Chumbley. Standing, from left, are Trustees Joseph H. Medina, Gerald B. Lopez, Robert Blount, Jr., and Karen Freeman.

Published by the Northside ISD Communications Department

Northside’s Pillars of CharacterTo augment NISD’s character building curriculum, every year, the Northside Education Foundation (NEF) selects outstanding alumni to represent six Pillars of Character: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, and Citizenship.The Pillars serve as the centerpiece of NEF's fundraising gala, and teachers weave lessons about the Pillars’ character traits into classroom activities throughout the year.Enjoy reading about the 2015 Pillars of Character featured throughout this magazine.For information about nominating future Pillars, contact the NEF office at (210) 397-8599 or visit www.nisd.net/pillars.

Brian T. Woods, Ed.D.Superintendent

Welcome

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“I’ve always felt that my desire to succeed as a musician and to improve myself as a professional has sort of been a way to say thank you to the people that have inspired me and the mentors throughout my education and my career."

Sgt. First Class Chris BranaganJay High School Class of 1990 Musician/Soldier/Arts Advocate

equitable, open, reasonableFairness

Pillar of

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2013–2018

VisionOur students will be principled, knowledgeable individuals who maximize their potential to make positive contributions to society.

MissionThe Northside Independent School District and our community will provide innovative, high-quality, diverse learning experiences for all students in an ever-changing world.

Beliefs• Public education is a bridge to creating productive

members of society.

• Every individual is entitled to an emotionally and physically safe and respectful learning environment.

• Each student deserves equal and equitable access to a quality education.

• A commitment to student success is a shared responsibility among students, parents, educators, and the community.

• Students learn best when they are active participants in their own learning.

• The more connected families are in the educational process, the more successful the student will be.

• Meaningful relationships among parents, educators, and the community foster student success.

• Core academics, the arts, career & technology, electives, and extracurricular activities are crucial to a well-rounded education.

• Schools create conditions that prepare students to be critical thinkers and problem solvers.

NISD: A great place to work, raise a family, and send your children to schoolLocated in the northwest quadrant of San Antonio, Texas, Northside Independent School District, the state’s fourth largest school district, is in the heart of a rapidly growing area of Bexar County. Many people say Northside ISD is not just in the heart of northwest San Antonio, but that it is the heart. They say this because the quality of the neighborhood schools is reflected in the quality of hundreds of smaller communities that make up Northside ISD. In Northside, schools are the hubs of their neighborhoods.

The District’s appeal to families is because of factors such as excellent teachers, strong academic and extracurricular programs, and attractive and functional facilities. As a family-friendly District, the emphasis is on children and families. Northside also places great emphasis on a high-quality work force and an employee-family culture. There are about 608,000 people living in 210,000 households in NISD.

NISD: 355 square miles of urban landscape, suburban communities, and rural Texas hill countryEstablished in 1949 by the consolidation of 12 rural school districts, Northside today is 355 square miles of urban landscape, suburban communities, and rural Texas hill country. As South Texas’ largest school system, Northside is the “Destination District” for thousands of families wanting a high-quality school system. This is supported by the fact that an additional 1,500 students enrolled in NISD in 2015, and projections show that this trend will continue for the foreseeable future.

NISD: Home to giant economic generatorsLocated within the boundaries of Northside ISD are giant economic generators such as the South Texas Medical Center, which is home to dozens of hospitals and other medical facilities. An estimated 9,200 large and small businesses are located within NISD. USAA, one of the largest insurance and

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Abundant land for development

The District has abundant land for development and an excellent transportation system.

Major roads and highways traverse NISD. District records indicate that about 23,769 lots are planned for development with another 18,316 lots possible as land likely to be developed.

Because there are neighborhoods available in just about every price range — from multi-million dollar mansions to smaller, more humble homes — there are thousands of new homes being built throughout the District.

Because almost 50 percent of all the new single-family houses that are built each year in Bexar County are in Northside ISD, NISD is referred to as the “Destination District.”

Ninety percent of Northside ISD is located in Bexar County, but the District does extend into Bandera and Medina counties as well.

Student enrollment in Northside’s first year

back in 1949 was 823 students. In 2013, the

District reached a historic milestone – the

enrollment of the 100,000th student.

THe 'DeSTINATIoN DISTRIcT'

NISD Facts

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financial companies in the United States, is Northside’s largest taxpayer. Entertainment giants SeaWorld and Six Flags Fiesta Texas help draw people to northwest San Antonio. Valero Energy also calls Northside home.

The huge Westover Hills development includes major corporations like QVC Network, Citicorp, Capital Group, World Savings, Nationwide Insurance, and Chase Bank. Massive developments like the National Security Agency, Microsoft Corporation, and Lowe's Data Center continue to make NISD a commercial destination.

The sprawling and upscale Shops at La Cantera, Ingram Park Mall, other major shopping centers, and dozens of small and large hotels are located within NISD. The Rim entertainment and shopping destination brings thousands of visitors to NISD. Major resorts including the Hyatt Hill Country Resort, Hilton San Antonio Hill Country Hotel & Spa, and La Cantera Hill Country Resort are all major NISD taxpayers.

NISD: A Bexar County Education CenterIn addition to the 117 public schools (including five specialized magnet high schools) that Northside ISD operates, northwest Bexar County is also a higher education and research center magnet.

The University of Texas at San Antonio, home to more than 28,000 students, is also located in Northside. UTSA offers dozens of undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate degrees. The University of Texas Health Science Center with its medical, dental, nursing, and allied health schools is located in Northside ISD. The sprawling Audie Murphy Veterans Hospital is also located within the South Texas Medical Center. In addition, Northwest Vista College, part of the Alamo Colleges, is in Northside ISD. Other large education and research centers that are located within Northside are the Southwest Research Institute and the Texas Research Park.

NISD Facts

Keeping schools safeNorthside’s police officers are highly skilled,

licensed Texas peace officers who help keep

Northside’s schools safe and orderly. They

are specially trained to work with students

and the communities they serve.

Pride in FacilitiesNorthside’s Maintenance and Custodial

Department maintains more than 14.9 million

square feet of campus and support space in

146 separate facilities. Northside takes pride

in its facilities, which are huge investments

for Northside taxpayers. Maintenance

Department staff is guided by the proven

fact that well-maintained facilities enhance

the educational opportunities for children.

Huge bus fleetA bus fleet of 910 buses safely transports

65,500 students (more than half of

the District’s enrollment) to and from

school daily.

Keeping students in schoolVarious programs are in place to help

at-risk students stay in school. Innovative

schools like the Irene L. Chavez Excel

Academy help students complete their

education.

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“I’m able to do what I’ve done based on the shoulders of others and pillars before me, so it’s really important to me that I do that for folks in the NISD community. It’s a way that I can reach current students and say, ‘Look, I was just like you not that long ago. I’m investing in you in the same way that once you have the resources and the means to help somebody else you’ll do the same.’"

Gina Jones Jay High School Class of 1999Military Advisor/Bold/Resolute

Pillar of

Responsibilitydiligent, conscientious, stalwart

2015-2016

Staff:Teachers: 7,340Professional Support: 1,079Campus Administration: 318Central Administration: 95Educational Aides: 1,138Auxiliary Staff: 3,191Total 13,161* *Does not count substitute

teachers or part-time employees

Teachers Salaries:Bachelor’s beginning $51,085 Bachelor’s maximum $64,436Master’s beginning $52,585Master’s maximum $65,936

Bus Fleet:Total number of buses 910Total students transported each day 65,500(More than half of all NISD students)

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2015-2016 EnrollmentsBexar County School DistrictsNoRTHSIDE ISD 104,539North East 67,500San Antonio 53,071Judson 23,275Harlandale 15,130Schertz-Cibolo- 15,090 Universal CitySouthwest 13,400Edgewood 11,293East Central 10,060 South San Antonio 9,849 Southside 5,622Alamo Heights 4,760Somerset 3,840

Military School DistrictsFort Sam Houston (Army) 1,581Randolph AFB 1,372Lackland AFB 955

Northside: Fourth largest in Texas: NISD growing by about 1,500 students a year

1 Houston ISD 215,516

2 Dallas ISD 158,500

3 Cypress-Fairbanks ISD 113,689

4 NoRTHSIDE ISD 104,539

5 Fort Worth ISD 86,570

6 Austin ISD 83,634

Recognizing ExcellenceCountless awards for outstanding contributions and successes have been presented to Northside teachers throughout the years. Northside teachers pride themselves on professional growth and participating in professional associations.

NISD AT A GlANce

NISD Total Square Footage 14,947,560 2015-16 square footage added: 587,848 2016-17 square footage under construction 291,300

Total # of Facilities 146

Investing in Schools: Community SupportSchool Bond ’95 $98,000,000School Bond ’98 $224,000,000School Bond ’01 $495,000,000School Bond ’04 $439,000,000 School Bond ’07 $692,670,000 School Bond ’10 $535,142,000School Bond ’14 $648,340,000Total investment in new facilities since 1995 $3.1 billion

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“I think trustworthiness relates to my life in multiple aspects. One is part of what I do and that’s building relationships with people and getting them to trust me and trust that I will take care of them. So to me the Pillar of Trustworthiness means that at any given point in time, someone will be able to know that I’m going to do the right thing for them.”

Dr. Jorge Alvarez Clark High School Class of 1992 Cardiologist/Courageous/Caregiver

honest, loyal, credible

Pillar of

Trustworthiness

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District Finances (2015-2016)Cost to Educate Per Student $8,025

Budget (All Funds) $1,239,718,566 General Fund $840,880,281 Child Nutrition Fund $54,428,023 Debt Service Fund $151,500,093 Special Revenue Fund $42,910,169 Capital Projects Fund $150,000,000

Revenues (General Fund) $836,014,699 Tax Revenues (52.5%) $438,900,921 State Sources (44.1%) $368,658,716 Other Local Sources (1%) $8,599,216 Federal Sources (2.4%) $19,855,846

Expenditures (General Fund) $840,880,281 Instructional & Instruction-Related Services $554,486,971 Instructional & School Leadership $68,182,729 Support Services - Student (Pupil) $97,989,783 Administrative Support Services $13,105,515 Support Services - Non-Student Based $96,915,247 Ancillary Services $1,687,452 Capital Outlay/Debt Services/Other $4,446,851 Intergovernmental Charges $4,065,733

Projected 2014-2015 Ending Fund Balance $163,671,850

Taxes Tax Rate (total) $1.3755 Maintenance and Operation $1.0400 Interest & Sinking Fund $0.3355

Tax Exemptions Homestead $25,000 Over 65 Exemption $23,330 Disabled $23,330

Assessed Value District $42,286,618,367 Per Student (weighted ADA) $336,516

Basic Facts 2015-2016Student EthnicityAmerican Indian 0.1%

Asian 3.2%

Native Hawaiian 0.3%

African American 6.4%

White 19%

Hispanic 68.2%

Two or more races 2.8%

StudentsEnrollment: 104,539

Special Education Students: 11,902

Daily Attendance: 95.5%

Free and Reduced Lunch: 50.6%

Career & Technology Courses: 144

Seniors who Apply for 99% College Admission

CommunityNISD Population: 608,000

NISD Registered Voters: 309,279

NISD Households: 210,000

NISD Businesses: 9,200

Ratios:Student-Teacher: 15.4 to 1

Computer-Student: 1 to 2

Exemplary financial reportingFor 24 years in a row, NISD has been

recognized by the Government Finance

Officers Association for exemplary financial

reporting. This is a tribute to the financial

stewardship of the District.

Exemplary financial accountabilityFor the thirteenth year in a row, Northside

has received the highest rating from the

state's financial accountability rating

system, called School FIRST. This is a

tribute to the financial stewardship of the

District.

PRemIeR ScHool DISTRIcTSAN ANTONIO'S

NISD Facts

Students in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade benefit from a program that is designed to meet the needs of the young child. Seventy-five NISD elementary campuses offer programs that provide for maximum learning opportunities with emphasis on reading, writing, and mathematics skills, and instruction in science, social studies, physical education, fine arts, and computer technology.

Grade reports are issued every nine weeks. Progress reports are sent home halfway through each grading cycle if

students are not progressing according to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) and NISD promotion requirements.

Committed to the concept of neighborhood schools, Northside designs attendance areas around student populations. Boundaries set by the Board of Trustees change only as neighborhoods change. Although such changes are held to a minimum, dynamic growth in Northside sometimes makes them necessary.

Students living more than two miles from their neighborhood school qualify for bus transportation. Neighborhood pick-up and drop-off locations and schedules are designed with safety, efficiency, and service as priorities. Buses arrive at the school campus in time for the students to participate in the breakfast program and typically depart immediately after school for the afternoon trip home. Each elementary school campus offers a tuition-based or grant-funded after-school care program managed by the District's Adult & Community Education Department.

A child must be 6 years old on or before September 1 to enroll in the first grade, and 5 years old on or before September 1 for kindergarten. A child must be 4 years old on or before September 1 and meet other state requirements in order to be eligible for pre-kindergarten. Students who enroll in a Northside elementary school in the spring do not need to register again in the fall. A certified birth certificate is required for registration, as well as proof of residency and immunization. Core Content: Reading, Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social StudiesInstruction in the core academic content areas is based on the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). Instructional guidelines for each grade level and subject have been established in Northside ISD. Students in grades two through five take District assessments throughout the school year. Standardized TestsNorthside administers the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) to students in grades three, four, and five.

School test results are available on each campus and are posted online.

Adams Hill - 9627 Adams Hill Dr. 78245 (397-1400)

Allen - 101 Dumont 78227 (397-0800)

Aue - 24750 Baywater Stage 78255 (357-6750)

Beard - 8725 Sonoma Pkwy 78023 (397-6600)

Behlau - 2400 Grosenbacher Rd. 78245 (398-1000)

Blattman - 3300 N. Loop 1604 W. 78231 (397-4600)

Boldt - 310 Hollimon Parkway 78253 (398-2000)

Boone - 6614 Springtime 78249 (397-1450)

Brauchle - 8555 Bowens Crossing 78250 (397-1500)

Braun Station - 8631 Tezel Rd. 78254 (397-1550)

Burke - 10111 Terra Oak 78250 (397-1300)

Cable - 1706 Pinn Rd. 78227 (397-2850)

Carlos Coon - 3110 Timber View 78251 (397-7250)

Carnahan - 6839 Babcock Rd. 78249 (397-5850)

Carson - 8151 Old Tezel 78250 (397-1100)

Cody - 10403 Dugas Dr. 78245 (397-1650)

Cole - 2252 Talley Rd. 78253 (opens 2016)

Colonies North - 9915 Northampton 78230 (397-1700)

Driggers - 6901 Shadow Mist 78238 (397-5900)

Ellison - 7132 Oak Dr. 78256 (398-1850)

Elrod - 8885 Heath Circle 78250 (397-1800)

Esparza - 5700 Hemphill 78228 (397-1850)

Evers - 1715 Richland Hills 78251 (397-2550)

Fernandez - 6845 Ridgebrook 78250 (397-1900)

Fields - 9570 FM 1560 N. 78023 (opens 2016)

Fisher - 3430 Barrel Pass 78245 (397-4450)

Forester - 10726 Rousseau 78245 (397-0200)

Franklin - 9180 Silver Spot 78254 (398-1700)

Galm - 1454 Saxon Hill 78253 (397-1150)

Glass - 519 Clearview 78228 (397-1950)

Glenn - 2385 Horal 78227 (397-2250)

Glenoaks - 5103 Newcome Dr. 78229 (397-2300)

Hatchett - 10700 Ingram Rd. 78245 (397-6850)

Helotes - 13878 Riggs Rd. 78023 (397-3800)

Henderson - 14605 Kallison Bend 78254 (398-1050)

Hoffmann - 12118 Volunteer Pkwy. 78253 (397-8350)

Howsman - 11431 Vance Jackson 78230 (397-2350)

Elementary Schools

elemeNTARY ScHool

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Bilingual and ESL EducationBilingual Education (Transitional and Two-Way Dual Language) and English as a Second Language (ESL) instructional programs address the needs of English Language Learners (ELLs) by building upon and valuing the linguistic, academic, and cultural experiences of students and families. The District believes that all students can become proficient in English and succeed academically.

The goal of the Spanish bilingual program is to develop bilingual, biliterate, and multicultural students. The goal of the ESL program is to enable students to become successful in an all-English curriculum. Both programs are offered at designated campuses.

Special EducationTesting is available for students who have a disability or a suspected disability through Northside’s Psychological Services Department. If students are found to have a disability and an educational need, a continuum of special education service options is available. Special education students learn alongside general education students whenever possible to allow them maximum instruction in the general curriculum and interaction with their classmates. Special education teachers and speech and language pathologists offer quality services for eligible students. If students need related services such as occupational or physical therapy, these services are provided to support educational needs. Special transportation may be provided as a related service.

Gifted ProgramThe Northside ISD Gifted and Talented Program, Advanced Learning Programs for High Achievers (ALPHA), is designed for identified gifted and talented students in grades K-12. GT students are given opportunities to work together as a group, work with other students, and work independently. For more information about program identification or GT program service options, contact the campus and/or District Director of GT Programs and Advanced Academics.

Fine ArtsFine Arts instruction is part of the basic elementary curriculum. Art and music specialists teach a TEKS-driven curriculum that includes the state and national standards. Northside elementary fine arts promote a highly visible program that involves students in multiple music and art performances, opportunities, and exhibits. Not only does the program develop students' interests and skills in music and art, but it allows the student to develop as a total child. Dress CodeShorts and skorts may be worn at the elementary school level. In grades three through five, they should be no more than 4 inches above the knee cap. Baggy or saggy pants and clothing that is suggestive, indecent, or distracting are not permitted. A complete copy of the Northside student dress code is available on each campus and in the student handbook. The campus administration, after consulting with the School Advisory Team and considering school/community needs, may have additional dress or grooming regulations that are campus-specific. [Note: Some schools require uniforms. Please call the individual schools.]

Elementary SchoolsMary Hull - 7320 Remuda Dr. 78227 (397-0950)

Knowlton - 9500 Timber Path 78250 (397-2600)

Krueger - 9900 Wildhorse Pkwy. 78254 (397-3850)

Kuentz - 12303 Leslie Rd. 78023 (397-8050)

Langley - 600 Stevens Pkwy. 78253 (397-0150)

Leon Springs - 23881 IH 10 W. 78257 (397-4400)

Leon Valley - 7111 Huebner 78240 (397-4650)

Lewis - 1000 Seascape Dr. 78251 (397-2650)

Lieck - 12600 Reid Ranch 78245 (398-1450)

Linton - 2103 Oakhill 78238 (397-0750)

Locke Hill - 5050 DeZavala Rd. 78249 (397-1600)

Los Reyes - 10785 Triana Pkwy. 78023 (398-1200)

Martin - 730 Canterbury Dr. 78228 (398-1400)

May - 15707 Chase Hill 78256 (397-2000)

McAndrew - 26615 Toutant Beauregard 78006 (398-1750)

McDermott - 5111 USAA Blvd. 78240 (397-5100)

Mead - 3803 Midhorizon Dr. 78229 (397-1750)

Meadow Village - 1406 Meadow Way 78227 (397-0650)

Michael - 3155 Quiet Plain 78245 (397-3900)

Mireles - 12260 Rockwall Mill 78253 (398-1500)

Murnin - 9019 Dugas 78251 (397-4550)

Myers - 3031 Village Pkwy. 78251 (397-6650)

Nichols - 9560 Braun 78254 (397-4050)

Northwest Crossing - 10255 Dover Ridge 78250 (397-0600)

oak Hills Terrace - 5710 Cary Grant 78240 (397-0550)

ott - 100 N. Grosenbacher 78253 (397-5550)

Passmore - 570 Pinn Rd. 78227 (397-0500)

Powell - 6003 Thunder 78238 (397-0450)

Raba - 9740 Raba Dr. 78251 (397-1350)

Rhodes - 5714 North Knoll 78240 (397-4000)

Scarborough - 12280 Silver Pointe 78254 (397-8000)

Scobee - 11223 Cedar Park 78249 (397-0700)

Steubing - 11655 Braefield 78249 (397-4350)

Thornton - 6450 Pembroke 78240 (397-3950)

Timberwilde - 8838 Timberwilde 78250 (397-0400)

Valley Hi - 8503 Ray Ellison 78227 (397-0350)

Villarreal - 2902 White Tail 78228 (397-5800)

Wanke - 10419 Old Prue Rd. 78249 (397-6700)

Ward - 8400 Cavern Hill 78254 (397-6800)

Westwood Terrace - 2315 Hackamore Lane 78227 (397-0300)

GRADeS PK-5

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Northside students in grades six through eight benefit from a program designed to meet the needs of the adolescent child. The 20 middle school campuses offer strong academic programs within the core subjects of mathematics, social studies, science, and English Language Arts.

Students also take courses in physical education and electives such as computer literacy, fine arts, family consumer science, foreign language, career and technology education, and Skills for Adolescence. Enrichment and acceleration can be achieved through Pre-AP classes and gifted programs. Advanced Learning Programs for High Achievers (ALPHA)offers an array of services for gifted and talented students in middle school. Nominations are ongoing throughout the year and testing takes place once a year.

Middle school students attend classes in modern, well-equipped facilities located in neighborhoods throughout the District. Bus transportation is available for students who live more than two miles from school, and full-service cafeterias offer hot breakfast and lunch daily.

A variety of Special Education services are available for students with disabilities on all Northside middle school campuses.

Grading and TestingThe school year is divided into two semesters of three six-week grading periods each. Middle school students are graded on a numerical grading system: 90-100=A, 80-89=B, 75-79=C, 70-74=D, and 69 and below=F. Teachers schedule conferences with parents as needed, and parents are always welcome to initiate conferences. Tutoring sessions are offered to students needing academic assistance.

Students in grades six, seven, and eight take the state-mandated State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) in the spring. Subjects tested by STAAR are reading, writing, math, social studies, and science. Middle school students who take high school-level Algebra 1 will take the STAAR End-of-Course test in the spring.

Dress CodeA complete copy of the Northside student dress code is available on each campus website. The campus administration, after consulting with the School Advisory Team and considering school/community needs, may have additional dress or grooming regulations that are campus-specific. [Note: Some middle schools require uniforms. Please call the individual schools.]

Bernal 14045 Bella Vista Place 78253 (398-1900)

Briscoe 4265 Lone Star Pkwy. 78253 (398-1100)

Connally 8661 Silent Sunrise 78250 (397-1000)

Folks 9855 Swayback Ranch 78254 (398-1600)

Hector Garcia 14900 Kyle Seale Pkwy. 78255 (397-8400)

Hobby 11843 Vance Jackson 78230 (397-6300)

Jefferson 10900 Shaenfield Rd. 78254 (397-3700)

Jones 1256 Pinn Rd. 78227 (397-2100)

Jordan 1725 Richland Hills Dr. 78251 (397-6150)

Luna 200 N. Grosenbacher 78253 (397-5300)

Neff 5227 Evers Rd. 78238 (397-4100)

Pease 201 Hunt Lane 78245 (397-2950)

Rawlinson 14100 Vance Jackson 78249 (397-4900)

Rayburn 1400 Cedarhurst 78227 (397-2150)

Ross 3630 Callaghan 78228 (397-6350)

Rudder 6558 Horn Blvd. 78240 (397-5000)

Stevenson 8403 Tezel Rd. 78254 (397-7300)

Stinson 13200 Skyhawk 78249 (397-3600)

Vale 2120 N. Ellison 78251 (397-5700)

Zachry 9410 Timber Path 78250 (397-7400)

Middle Schools

Board policies online: nisd.netNorthside’s School Board policies are

available online at the District website,

nisd.net. By following prompts and

keywords, individuals may search and

access all policies.

mIDDle ScHool

12

NISD Facts

Grade 6English Language ArtsMathScienceSocial StudiesPhysical Education/Skills for AdolescenceElective

Sample Three-Year Course PlanThis sample plan is flexible, may vary from campus to campus, and allows students to take subjects of particular interest while still completing required courses.

Grade 7English Language ArtsMathScienceTexas HistoryPhysical EducationElective(s)

Grade 8English Language ArtsMathScienceU.S. HistoryPhysical EducationElective(s)

English as a Second Language EducationThe English as a Second Language (ESL) instructional program builds upon and values the linguistic, academic, and cultural experiences of students and families through ESL programs that develop mastery of the English language, promote academic excellence, develop multiculturalism, and cultivate self-actualization. The goal of the ESL program is to enable students to become successful in an all-English curriculum. The ESL program is offered at all middle schools.

Two-Way Dual Language Education The goal of the Spanish Two-Way dual language program is to develop bilingual, biliterate, and multicultural students. The program is offered at Ross and Stinson middle schools.

Irene L. Chavez Excel Academy 6500 Ingram Rd. 78238 (397-8120)

The Holmgreen Center 8580 Ewing Halsell 78229 (397-5460)

Northside Alternative Middle School-North 11937 IH 10 W. 78230 (397-2070)

Northside Alternative Middle School-South 5223 Blessing 78228 (397-6900)

Northside Alternative High School 144 Hunt Lane 78245 (397-7080)

The Reddix Center 4711 Sid Katz 78229 (397-2401)

Special Schools

Parent Connection offers a web portal to view students' assignments, attendance, grades, disciplinary actions, and accepts payments for cafeteria meals.

GRADeS 6-8

13

For information on registering your children

in Northside go to nisd.net/schools/enrollment.

Students attendneighborhood schoolsIn Northside, children attend schools assigned

to a street address; however, because of the

opening of new schools annually, boundaries

frequently change.

To determine which schools serve a particular

address, click on Boundaries and Buses at

nisd.net and follow the prompts.

NISD Facts

HIGH ScHool

14

Five magnet schools provide focused instructionNISD offers students a choice of five magnet

programs that provide specialized/focused

instruction. Four programs share campuses

with their larger comprehensive high schools.

Business Careers HS is located at Holmes HS;

Communications Arts HS is located at Taft HS;

Jay Science & Engineering Academy is located

at Jay HS; and Construction Careers Academy

is located at Warren HS. The fifth, Health

Careers HS, is located on its own campus in

the South Texas Medical Center. All schools

accept students via an application process.

67 languages spokenOver the years, thousands of students speaking

67 different languages from all over the world

have been assessed for English language

proficiency by staff at the Northside Student

Placement Center.

NISD offers state-mandated Bilingual and

ESL Education Programs that focus on the

development of English language proficiency.

Northside is serving more than 8,900 English

Language Learners.

Comprehensive High Schools and Magnet SchoolsStudents in grades nine through 12 benefit from comprehensive high school programs and specialized magnet programs. Regular course offerings emphasize mastery of the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). Enrichment of these skills can be gained through enrollment in honors and Pre-AP courses, Advanced Placement courses, and dual-credit courses for college credit. Further enrichment and enhancement of academic and life skills may be achieved through participation in academic electives, international languages, fine arts, physical education, technology applications, and career and technology classes.

Students compete in academic and athletic contests in University Interscholastic League (UIL).

Ten comprehensive neighborhood high schools and five magnet high schools offer students a wide variety of education options. Bus transportation is available, and cafeterias are open daily for a hot breakfast and lunch. With parental permission, some students qualify for off-campus lunch. A tuition-based Summer School includes opportunities for enrichment, acceleration, and course retrieval.

Grading and TestingThe school year is divided into two semesters of three six-week or two nine-week grading periods each. High school students are graded on a numerical grading system: 90-100=A, 80-89=B, 75-79=C, 70-74=D, and 69 and below=F. Free tutoring sessions are offered before and after school by classroom teachers and National Honor Society students.

Various types of tests are administered in Northside high schools including college entrance exams, career inventories, and other assessments vital to providing information about the students to both parents and staff. The PSAT is given to all 10th and 11th grade students and the SAT is given to all juniors in the spring semester.

The state continues to transition from the TAKS to the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) standardized testing system. Students who entered ninth grade in the 2011-12 school year and beyond are the first to take five end-of-course exams to graduate. Students who entered ninth grade prior to the 2011-12 school year will graduate under the TAKS testing system. For more information, visit the District’s graduation website at www.nisd.net/schools/graduation.

English as a Second Language EducationThe English as a Second Language (ESL) instructional program addresses the needs of English Language Learners (ELLs) by building upon and valuing the linguistic, academic, and cultural experiences of students and families. The District believes that all students can become proficient in English and succeed academically. The goal of the ESL program is to enable students to become successful in an all-English curriculum by providing sheltered instruction in all content areas. Dress CodeShorts may NOT be worn at the high school level. Skirts, dresses, and culottes must be no shorter than 4 inches above the top of the knee cap. Baggy or saggy pants and clothing that is suggestive or indecent or which causes a distraction are not permitted. A complete copy of the Northside student dress code is available on each campus and in the student handbook available online. The campus administration, after consulting with the School Advisory Team and considering school/community needs, may have additional dress or grooming regulations that are campus-specific.

NISD Facts

15

“I think being bestowed with this honor is a little ironic because I think I was surrounded by pillars all along the way. I would just encourage everyone that when you are either tested or given an opportunity, go all in and give it your best."

J. Patrick BurkClark High School Class of 1992 Business Leader/Philanthropist

compassionate, empathetic, unselfish

CaringPillar of

GRADeS 9-12

Special EducationTesting is available for students who have a disability or a suspected disability through Northside’s Psychological Services Department. If students are found to have a disability and an educational need, a continuum of special education service options is available. Special education students learn alongside general education students whenever possible to allow them maximum instruction in the general curriculum and interaction with their enrolled grade level peers. Special education teachers and speech and language pathologists offer quality services for eligible students. If students need related services such as occupational or physical therapy, these services are provided to support educational needs. Special transportation may be provided as a related service.

Graduation and BeyondStudents who began their high school freshman year prior to the 2014-2015 school year are working towards graduation on either the Recommended, Distinguished, or Foundation with Endorsement graduation plans. Because there are several options, it is important that students consult with the designated counselor at the high school to choose the best plan.

All entering freshmen will graduate under the Foundation Graduation Plan with at least one Endorsement. The plan allows campuses to offer courses that enrich the school experience, align with student interest, and fit well with the student’s post high school plans.

Career and Technology Education programs offer an introduction to different career areas, training for specific career fields, and options for further education. The high school-level gifted program includes seminars, an independent study mentorship, a leadership course, honors and Advanced Placement courses, credit by examination, and dual credit opportunities.

High SchoolsBrandeis 13011 Kyle Seale Pkwy. 78249 (397-8200)

Brennan 2400 Cottonwood Way 78253 (398-1250)

Business Careers 6500 Ingram Rd. 78238 (397-7070)

Clark 5150 DeZavala Rd. 78249 (397-5150)

Communications Arts 11600 FM 471 W 78253 (397-6043)

Construction Careers Academy 9411 Military Dr. West 78251 (397-4294)

Harlan 14350 FM 471 78253 (opens 2017)

Health Careers 4646 Hamilton Wolfe 78229 (397-5400)

Holmes 6500 Ingram Rd. 78238 (397-7000)

Jay 7611 Marbach 78227 (397-2700)

Jay Science & Engineering Academy 7611 Marbach 78227 (397-2773)

Marshall 8000 Lobo Lane 78240 (397-7100)

o’Connor 12221 Leslie Rd. Helotes 78023 (397-4800)

Stevens 600 N Ellison Dr. 78251 (397-6450)

Taft 11600 FM 471 W 78253 (397-6000)

Warren 9411 Military Dr. West 78251 (397-4200)

Northside Child Nutrition Services, a TDA commended program, serves about 21 million meals per year in all schools.

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17

“From my perspective, and what really drives me, is helping causes and helping people. I consider myself a catalyst and that is when something needs to get done and it’s the right thing that needs to be done, well by gosh let’s make it happen."

William F. RabaMarshall High School Class of 1979 Businessman/Catalyst/Entrepreneur

law-abiding, judicious, responsive

Pillar of

Citizenship

EnglishEnglish I 1 credit English II 1 credit English III 1 credit Advanced English Course 1 credit

MathematicsAlgebra I 1 credit Geometry 1 credit * Algebra II or other Adv. Math Course 1 credit Advanced Mathematics Course 1 credit

ScienceBiology 1 credit IPC or Adv. Physical Science Course 1 credit Advanced Science Course 1 credit Advanced Science Course 1 credit

Social StudiesWorld Geography (or World History) 1 credit U.S. History 1 credit Economics ½ credit U.S. Government ½ credit

Languages other than English (LoTE) 2 credits

Physical Education 1 credit

Fine Arts 1 credit

Health (local requirement) ½ credit

Communication Applications (local requirement) ½ credit

Electives 6 credits

TOTAL 26 credits

* Algebra II is required to earn a distinguished level of achievement.

GRADUATIoN PRoGRAm ReQUIRemeNTS

NISD Foundation Graduation Program with an EndorsementTo be considered for automatic acceptance to a state university, a student must graduate with a distinguished level of achievement by earning an Endorsement and Algebra 2 credit.

Volunteers expand reachWith the help of 18,000 volunteers, Northside

schools provide classroom enrichment

opportunities beyond the regular budget.

Donating time, energy, expertise, and funds,

business and community partners as well

as parents serve on advisory committees,

support fundraisers, and serve as mentors

and tutors.

For example, the OASIS Program puts

dozens of senior citizens in elementary

schools to help tutor students, and The

Capital Group Companies Scholars Program

awards college savings funds to selected

Ross Middle School students beginning in

seventh grade.

Northside Education Foundation, a premier

partnership made up entirely of volunteers,

supports a competitive grants program for

employees to implement in NISD classrooms.

Since 1995, NEF has administered more than

$8 million in program accomplishments.

NISD libraries are learning centersAs instructional hubs of their campuses,

NISD libraries contain extensive print

and digital collections to support the K-12

curriculum, as well as pleasure reading.

Combined, NISD’s shelves contain and

circulate nearly 2.1 million books, and offer

a collection of more than 11,300 eBooks

as well. Students also have home and

school access to several online databases

to support scholarly research. Northside

library initiatives are well supported by

the Friends of Northside ISD Libraries

organization. These charts are general in information. More specific details are available from the school.

EndorsementsStudents may select an endorsement

in the areas of: STEM, Business and

Industry, Public Services, Arts and

Humanities, and/or Multi-disciplinary

Studies. Please consult with the

designated counselor at the high

school about chosen endorsements

and course offerings.

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NISD Facts

GRADUATIoN PRoGRAm ReQUIRemeNTS

These charts are general in information. More specific details are available from the school.

NISD...San Antonio’s Premier School District

1 NoRTHSIDE ISD2 Alamo Heights ISD3 Fort Sam Houston ISD4 Randolph Field ISD5 Judson ISD6 San Antonio ISD7 Edgewood ISD8 Lackland ISD9 Medina Valley ISD10 South San Antonio ISD11 Harlandale ISD12 East Central ISD13 Southwest ISD14 Somerset ISD15 Southside ISD16 North East ISD

Bexar County

NoRTHSIDE MINIMuM GRADuATIoN PRoGRAM (COUNSELOR APPROVAL REQUIRED)

English 4 credits

Mathematics 3 credits (to include Algebra, Geometry)

Science 2 credits (Biology and IPC or Biology and Chemistry with Physics taken as Science/Social Studies elective)

Social Studies

World History or World Geography 1 credit

U.S. History 1 credit

U.S. Government 1⁄2 credit

Economics 1⁄2 credit

Science/Social Studies 2 credits (selected from either World History or World Geography, and another science)

Physical Education 1 credit

Health 1⁄2 credit

Fine Arts 1 credit

Communication Applications/Speech 1⁄2 credit

Electives 7 credits

TOTAL 24 credits

19

410

10

1604

Med

ina

Coun

ty L

ine

Bexa

r Cou

nty

Line

Bande

ra

County

Line

1604

35

10

1604

Bexa

r Cou

nty Li

ne

Bexar County Line

35

37 41090

NoRTHSIDE RECoMMENDED HIGH SCHooL PRoGRAM FOR STUDENTS ENTERING NINTH GRADE BETWEEN 2010-2011 AND 2013-2014

English 4 creditsMathematics 4 credits Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra IISocial Studies 4 credits World Geography 1 credit World History 1 credit U.S. History 1 credit Economics 1⁄2 credit U.S. Government 1⁄2 creditScience 4 credits Biology plus Chemistry, IPC or Physics, and one elective lab-based science course.International Language 2 credits (same language)Communication Applications/Speech 1⁄2 creditPhysical Education 1 creditHealth 1⁄2 creditFine Arts 1 creditElectives 5 credits

TOTAL 26 credits

coNTINUe THe eXcelleNceTEXAS' FOURTH LARGEST SCHOOL DISTRICT

20

Growth means schoolsSince 1995, Trustees have secured authori-zation from District voters for $3.1 billion in bonds to build schools and make improve-ments at all others.

In May 2014, voters approved a $648.34 million bond issue to build six new schools and fund renovations and addi-tions throughout the District. The first new school from School Bond 2014 will open in 2016.

Hundreds of classroomsplanned for future growthThe following is a list of schools in the construction or planning phase and the year they will open. Some do not have names yet. The working names being used are in quotation marks and refer to the geographic proximity.

Cole ES 2016 Fields ES 2016

Harlan High School 2017 “Kallison Ranch #2 area” ES 2017

DIRECToRY

The Don Hardin Athletic Complex, a 70-acre site at Loop 410 and Culebra, provides competition-level facilities for sports. These include Gustafson Football Stadium, Paul Taylor Field House, George Block Aquatics Center, Northside Softball Stadium (2 fields), Northside Soccer Fields, Northside Baseball Stadium (Inselmann Field and Field #2), and the Annemarie Tennis Center. In addition, the Northside Activity Center, a multi-purpose center, hosts hundreds of large and small meetings year-round.

The Dub Farris Athletic Complex opened in 2003 on Loop 1604 at Hausman Road. The facility includes a football/soccer stadium, the Northside Natatorium, the Northside Swim Center, and the Northside Sports Gym (opens 2016). Located next to the site are Stinson Middle School and Brandeis High School.

The Northside Tennis Center opened in 2013 and is located near O’Connor High School.

NISD Facts

NISD Athletic Complexes

Northside’s first graduating class in 1951

had nine graduates. Today, more than

6,000 students graduate from Northside

high schools each year.

NISD Facts

Main District Switchboard 397-8500Athletics 397-7509Boundary Information 397-8588Bilingual Education 397-8173Child Nutrition 397-4501Communications 397-8550Community Education 397-8100Connections (Homeless) 397-0530Gifted Program 397-8631Guidance & Counseling 397-1257Health Services 397-3551Human Resources 397-8600Instruction - Elementary 397-8644 Instruction - Secondary 397-8637Kindergarten and Pre-Kindergarten 397-8780Learning Tree (After-School Care) 397-8102 Partnerships Office 397-8964Police 397-5600Pupil Personnel 397-8695School Age Parenting 397-8111Special Education - Elementary 397-8742Special Education - Secondary 397-8754Student Services 397-3500Superintendent 397-8770Technology Services 397-7200Testing & Evaluation 397-8726Transportation 397-0939

21

“Respect is a pretty powerful word. It’s something that can’t be bought and has to be earned over time, so to be associated with that trait is a great honor for me."

Dr. Mandie Alice Tibball SvatekMarshall High School Class of 1993 Pediatrician/Professor/Athlete

courteous, intuitive, unbiased

Pillar of

Respect

Northside Independent School District

5900 Evers Rd.

San Antonio, TX 78238-1606

(210) 397-8500

nisd.net