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By Austin High School Principal Matt Schmit

As we start the second quarter of the school year, I am proud to share some exciting progress we’ve seen at Austin High School. One of the most significant changes we made last year was the implementation of a team-based approach for our ninth-grade students. This shift in how we structure learning and interventions has been positive both for students and staff alike and we have already begun to see gains in academic performance and personal growth.

In our new team model, ninth graders are grouped with a set of core teachers who teach math, language arts, social studies, and science classes. These teachers, in addition to a Packer Profile Seminar instructor, work closely with one another to monitor student progress and create a more personalized educational experience. With this collaborative approach, the team is better able to identify and address the needs of each student, ensuring that no one falls through the cracks.

This model also supports a tiered system of care. If a student is struggling, teachers can bring in additional support, such as a counselor, social worker, or even a community partner, to collaborate and help meet the student’s needs. This holistic approach ensures that we are supporting not just the academic growth of our students, but also their social and emotional well-being.

Another key element of the team model is our Packer Core Values, which guide students in their personal development. These values—Learner, Communicator, Contributor, Resilient, and Responsible—are woven into everyday learning. Take resiliency, for example. We want to help our students develop the confidence and perseverance they need to push through challenges, even when things get tough. This mindset empowers students to grow and overcome obstacles, setting them up for success both in school and beyond.

We are already seeing positive outcomes from this model. Over the past two years, our freshman class has increased the number of credits earned by more than 5%. This growth is a direct reflection of the hard work and commitment of our students, teachers, and support staff.

A heartfelt congratulations to our ninth graders for their continued success. Thank you to our dedicated teachers and staff who go above and beyond to support our students, and to the many community members who have come into our building to share their career paths and real-world knowledge with our students.

Finally, a sincere thank you to the parents who trust us with their children every day. Your partnership is vital and together we will continue to strive to help our students become the very best versions of themselves. We are excited for the rest of this year and look forward to even more successes to come!