August 2025 Parent Newsletter

The first day of school for the 2025-26 school year was exciting for thousands of students, teachers, and staff members as they walked in the front doors of their schools, many of them for the first time. 

Our theme for the year is “Northside Unstoppable,” but it isn’t just a theme or slogan. It is a reflection of who we are. It speaks to the grit, heart, and unity that define our community. Through every challenge, Northside students and staff show up stronger, driven by a pride in our roots and a relentless spirit that refuses to quit. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or in the neighborhood, we continue to rise, support one another, and push forward. 

Let’s have a great school year, Northside!

Dr. John Craft
Superintendent of Schools

Almost 12,000 employees attended one of six Back-to-School Convocations to hear a message from the Superintendent and Board and be entertained by hundreds of "unstoppable" Fine Arts students who certainly took the opportunity to "seize the day!"  

On Aug. 11, almost 99,000 students and 6,000 teachers returned to the classroom when 133 schools reopened this week. With new backpacks filled with fresh school supplies, students and parents entered the schools on Monday with big smiles and wide eyes as many saw their classrooms for the first time. 

"It is always heartwarming to see the students and their parents coming to their campuses and seeing the excitement in their eyes," said Dr. John Craft, superintendent.

Pictures from Convocations and the first day of school can be found here. 

NISD Fine Arts Shines at State and National Levels

For the sixth year in a row, the NISD Fine Arts/Visual Arts program received the District of Distinction Award from the Texas Art Education Association (TAEA). They are one of 109 winners across the state. In addition, for the fourth time, the NISD Fine Arts Department has been honored with the Best Communities for Music Education designation from the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation for its outstanding commitment to music education. 

Register now for PSAT, Grades 10 and 11

On Wednesday, Oct. 15, the PSAT/NMSQT exam, a College Board assessment, will be administered at high school campuses to NISD-enrolled students classified as Grade 10 and Grade 11 who register in advance to participate. There is a fee for this optional test for Grade 10 students, but there is no fee for this optional test for Grade 11 students since the PSAT/NMSQT exam is the entry route to the National Merit Scholarship Program for 11th-grade students.  

Before registering, read the documents below.

 Detailed information for online registration will be available on each high school's website on Aug. 18, 2025. Registration will be open Aug. 18 through Sept. 17. Late registration is available September 18-24 but will incur a $5 late fee.

Application for free & reduced meals for 2025-26 school year now open

The Northside ISD Free and Reduced-Price Meals Application is now open for the 2025-26 school year. Families can complete the application online at https://www.schoolcafe.com/Northside.

All NISD families are encouraged to apply. 

Track Your Child's School Bus with an App

Here Comes the Bus (HCTB) is a revolutionary app that parents can conveniently download to track their child's school bus in real time. With this app, you’ll receive timely notifications about the bus's location, ensuring you never miss the bus and know when your child will arrive home. No more waiting in uncertainty or worrying about delays—stay informed and in control with Here Comes the Bus.

Find more details here. 

New State Law Prohibits Cell Phones During School Day

Northside ISD is committed to providing a safe, focused, and distraction-free learning environment for every student.

In compliance with House Bill 1481, all students must power off their cell phones and store all electronic devices—including phones, smartwatches, earbuds, tablets, and similar items—in their backpacks or in a designated classroom location.

This policy is in effect from the first bell to the last bell, including passing periods and lunchtime. Students in violation of this State law could be subject to disciplinary consequences.

Learn more by watching this short video. 

Student Device Care Tips for a Successful Year!

The start of a new school year is an excellent time to review important mobile device reminders with your child. These devices are crucial for your child's learning, and your support in reinforcing good habits is greatly appreciated.

Here are some key reminders to discuss with your child:

• Bring It and Charge It! Please remind your child to bring their assigned device to school every day, fully charged and ready for learning.
• Handle with Care: Devices should be handled gently and with care. Remind your child to avoid behaviors that would endanger the Chromebooks or iPads.
• Be Gentle with the Keyboard: When closing a Chromebook, ensure there are no small items, such as paper clips or pencils, on the keyboard, as this can cause significant screen damage.
• Don't Leave It Behind: Remind your child not to leave their device in a vehicle for extended periods, as extreme temperatures can cause damage.

If your child experiences any issues with their device, such as damage or a technical problem, please have them report it to their teacher or campus Technology Support Specialist as soon as possible. For more information on how Northside ISD ensures students' online safety, including approved apps for student use in the District, visit the NISD Technology page at nisd.net/district/technology. 

Stay Informed About Your Northside Schools

While one-on-one communication is the best, it is sometimes difficult in a District as large as Northside ISD. Because we want our parents to stay informed, NISD has several ways for parents and other interested citizens to keep informed about the successes and challenges of San Antonio’s premier school district of choice and find out news about their children’s schools.

Click here for ways to stay informed about NISD schools.

Get ready to level up your school year! Join us for the NISD Esports Scholastic League Fall Kickoff, where all K-12 students, staff, and teachers are welcome. Meet your campus sponsor, discover a world of competitive gaming in titles like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Marvel Rivals, and speak with representatives from visiting professional esports organizations.

The event will be held on Saturday, Sept. 13, at 9:00 AM at the Northside Activity Center (7001 Culebra Rd.). Come connect with fellow gamers and learn more about the league!

Click on the images below to enlarge