Dear Round Rock ISD community,
Our teachers are the best in the field. Every day, they go above and beyond to create engaging, supportive, and inspiring learning environments.
Westwood High School science teacher Chris Mihealsick has been selected as one of three finalists for State Secondary Teacher of the Year. After being named Region XIII Teacher of the Year in August and Round Rock ISD Secondary Teacher of the Year in May, Mihealsick continues to earn well-deserved recognition. The Texas Association of School Administrators will announce the Texas Teacher of the Year on Oct. 25. Let’s all join together and cheer her on!
Over the past few weeks, we’ve been celebrating more outstanding teachers. Our Round Rock ISD Partners in Education Foundation awards Excellence in Education grants to teachers and departments throughout the district. These grants equip our educators and teams with added resources to enhance learning and the well-being of our students.
This year, the PIE Foundation awarded $165,000 in grants, supporting 40 campuses and 25 department projects and initiatives.
It is a joy visiting schools and surprising our hardworking educators! Our teachers strive to bring innovative and effective practices into the classroom. I am incredibly proud of them, and I know that your children are in the best hands possible.
On Sept. 17, the Round Rock ISD Police Department will welcome a new chief of police. Chief Ryan Urrutia comes to us from El Paso. He is excited to engage with our community and foster connections through events like Coffee with a Cop. The Chief will lead our police department’s officers and support staff, ensuring student and staff safety throughout our district. Please help me in welcoming Chief Urrutia.
Every day, the Round Rock ISD community is collaborating and creating ways to help our students succeed. We couldn’t do everything we do at our schools without our PTAs. With nearly 9,000 members, our PTAs contribute to a positive, collaborative school environment through volunteering and advocating for policies that strengthen the educational experience. Join your school’s PTA.
Lastly, I’d like to invite you to a 2024 Bond Info Session about the bond that voters will consider on Election Day: Tuesday, Nov. 5. I hope to see you at one of the sessions, whether you can join us in person or virtually!
Together, we are shaping a brighter future for our students, making sure that they are nurtured, challenged, and inspired every day. Whether we’re celebrating our outstanding educators, welcoming new leadership, or rallying together through our PTA, we are a community committed to excellence.
Respectfully,
Dr. Hafedh “AZ” Azaiez
Proud Superintendent of Schools
