January 2026 Parent Newsletter

On the cover: Students at Glass Elementary School received an amazing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning experience when the Texas Mobile STEM Lab visited the campus. During a three-day visit, all students had the opportunity to visit this mobile classroom and solve engineering design challenges. Students worked cooperatively to design a product or process using model STEM activities. 

It’s almost time for PreK and Kindergarten Round-Up in Northside ISD! 

Families are encouraged to register early so that their child is ready to begin their learning journey on the first day of school. Early registration helps campuses prepare classroom spaces, plan staffing, and ensure a smooth start for every student. 

Round-Up events offer families the opportunity to explore the exciting, high-quality programs available across our Northside campuses. From hands-on early learning experiences to innovative enrichment opportunities, you’ll get to meet our dedicated staff, tour classrooms, and discover what makes Northside a wonderful place for young learners to grow.

For additional details, click here. 

Kindergarten STEM: Where Little Minds Build Big Ideas

When kindergarteners attend class in their campus STEM lab, they explore lessons that spark curiosity and build confidence in problem-solving. Students tackle hands-on STEM challenges while developing a “growth mindset,” learning that mistakes are part of the process and that perseverance leads to new solutions. Throughout the year, they participate in various activities, including computer science, digital citizenship, civil engineering, and health science.

In computer science, students learn that an “algorithm” is simply a sequence of steps used to solve everyday problems, such as making a sandwich or navigating a maze. Working in pairs with robotics and coding activities, they develop STEM fluency skills such as communication, collaboration, and resilience. Whether acting out directions or using digital tools, students practice breaking big problems into smaller steps while learning how to stay safe online.

Beyond technology, students discover how STEM connects to real-world careers. In the civil engineering unit, students design and test structures, such as bridges, to explore how different shapes support weight. In health science, they learn how tools such as stethoscopes and thermometers help care for others.

Through every bridge built and every line of code written, students are learning that they can solve problems, learn from mistakes, and confidently shape their future.

With 12, soon to be 13, magnet schools in Northside ISD, students have more opportunities than ever to choose their future.

The District offers eight magnet high schools and four magnet middle schools, with a fifth middle school set to be added in the 2026-27 school year. Applications will be accepted through Jan. 23, 2026.

The fifth middle school magnet will be housed at Stinson Middle School. It will offer a specialized curriculum in Sports Medicine and Exercise Science that combines academics, physical activity, and career exploration.

Click here for more information.

College Readiness Exams to be given on April 1st

On Wednesday, April 1st, Northside ISD high school campuses will administer college readiness exams to all 11th-grade students enrolled in NISD. There is no fee to participate.

A quick refresher: your child's NISD device responsibilities

As we continue to use district devices for learning, here is a quick reminder for parents regarding your child's responsibilities under the Northside ISD Acceptable Use Policy (AUP).

We ask that you review the full AUP in the student handbook (under the Technology section)  on nisd.net to ensure your child is safe and successful online.

What Your Student Needs to Know

• Treat the device and charger as valuable property. Report any loss or damage to the school staff immediately. Parents are financially responsible for any damage or loss resulting from negligence.
• Never share passwords or personal information (like addresses/phone numbers). Do not click on suspicious links or attempt to access restricted content.
• Use kind and respectful language online. Cyberbullying is prohibited. Please note that district devices are intended for educational purposes.
• Do not cheat, plagiarize, or misuse tools like Artificial Intelligence (AI) to complete assignments.
• While NISD uses filters, parents are responsible for monitoring their students' device use and online activity when the device is at home

It’s “Game On” this Saturday

Twenty NISD star football players will be center stage at the Alamodome this weekend as they compete in the San Antonio Sports All-Star Football game, marking the last high school football game of their careers. 

The annual All-Star Game, which began in 1978, showcases the best high school football talent from across the San Antonio area, highlighting local athletes while expanding opportunities for college scholarships and recognition. This year’s game features 118 seniors from 68 area high schools, with NISD proudly represented among the elite.

The game will be broadcast on CW35, or you can view the free livestream here. 

Click here for more details.

Bond funds help older campuses get upgrades

Jay High School opened in 1967. Thanks to the 2022 school bond, this almost 60-year-old campus is receiving some much-needed attention, with the construction of a new CTE Building, as well as renovations and reconstructions of the front entrance and administrative offices. The building was originally funded by a 1963 bond election. 

Learn about other 2022 school bond projects at nisd.net/bond

January is School Board Recognition Month, and Northside ISD proudly joins the Texas Association of School Boards and more than 1,026 school districts across Texas in honoring the dedicated service of locally elected trustees. The month also serves as an opportunity to educate the community about the vital role school boards play in shaping the lives of students and strengthening communities.

Click here for more information. 

Click on images to enlarge.