District News

Freedom Elementary Scholars Honored Through McNay Museum Spotlight Program

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Freedom Elementary had several scholars who were recently recognized through the McNay Museum’s Spotlight Program for the 2025–2026 cycle. Students were honored at the Spotlight Celebration Ceremony for their creative responses to this year’s featured artwork, Charm and Weight (2008) by artist Katie Pell.

The Spotlight Program is an annual initiative hosted by the McNay Museum that invites students to create artistic interpretations inspired by a selected work from the museum’s collection. This year’s featured piece, Charm and Weight, is a large-scale wooden sculpture that explores themes of identity, memory, and the interconnectedness of personal and cultural narratives.

As part of this special project, every Freedom Elementary student created a friendship bracelet that was woven together into a collaborative display symbolizing unity, connection, and shared experiences. Through the activity, students reflected on personal memories while celebrating the cultural connections that bring our school community together.

In addition to being recognized during the celebration ceremony, student artwork will be featured in the Spotlight Exhibition at the McNay Museum beginning May 17, 2026. This incredible opportunity allows our scholars to have their work displayed in a professional museum setting and shared with the broader community.

We are extremely proud of all of our students for their creativity, collaboration, and participation in this inspiring program.

Freedom Elementary Students Recognized in University Health Safety Art Contest

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Freedom Elementary is celebrating two students who were recognized for their outstanding achievements in the University Health Safety Art Contest.

Baylee Ybarra earned 4th place in the 4–6 year old age group, while Nysan Legarda received an Honorable Mention in her division. Both students were recognized for their creativity and thoughtful safety-themed artwork, selected from an impressive field of 1,341 submissions.

Each student received a prize pack in honor of their achievement. We are also excited to share that their artwork will be featured in the annual University Health Safety Calendar, which will be released in 2027.

We are incredibly proud of Baylee and Nysan for their hard work, creativity, and for representing Freedom Elementary so well in this highly competitive, community-wide initiative.

Celebrate the Year at Our End of Year Parade

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Celebrate the close of an amazing school year with us at our End of Year Parade & Celebration! This exciting, festival-style event will showcase student organizations, highlight achievements across campus, and feature live student performances to wrap up the year in style.

Bring your friends and family to enjoy an evening filled with school spirit, great food, and entertainment for everyone. From student booths to performances and delicious eats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Join us on Tuesday, May 19 at 5:30 PM at SHS Stadium as we come together to recognize a successful year and celebrate our school community!

PARDAE MAP! You can bring your own chairs along the parade route!

Southside ISD Celebrates 2025–2026 Elementary Teachers of the Year

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Southside ISD proudly celebrates its 2025–2026 Elementary Teachers of the Year, educators who go above and beyond to shape the hearts and minds of our youngest learners. In this special video, these outstanding teachers share their love for the Southside community, where they find purpose not only in academics but in making a lasting difference in students’ lives. Discover why they choose Southside ISD and why Southside ISD continues to choose them.

Freedom Elementary Student Named Texas Cavaliers’ River Parade Art Contest Finalist

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We are proud to announce that Luis Rivas, a 5th grader at Freedom Elementary, is a City Council District 3 Finalist in the Texas Cavaliers’ River Parade Art Contest and will be featured in this year’s Texas Cavaliers’ River Parade Program!
As a finalist, Luis has earned $3,000 for Freedom Elementary’s art program and will compete alongside 10 other finalists for a grand prize of an additional $2,000. The grand prize winner will be announced on March 31!

Attendance Matters: Every Day Counts for Student Success

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Welcome to another exciting school year at Southside ISD. It is wonderful to have all of our students back in the classroom. Providing a high quality education is of the utmost importance at Southside ISD. We believe school success goes hand and hand with good attendance. 

Southside ISD, believes that consistent attendance is one of the most important factors in a student’s academic and social success. When students are present and engaged, they build the skills, relationships, and knowledge needed to thrive both in school and beyond. Missing school—even just a few days—can have a lasting impact.

Why Attendance Is Important

  • Academic Growth: Students who attend school regularly are more likely to keep up with lessons, participate in class discussions, and master essential skills.
  • Social Connection: Being in school every day helps students develop friendships, teamwork, and communication skills.
  • Future Readiness: Regular attendance builds habits that prepare students for college, careers, and life after graduation.

How Families Can Help

  1. Establish Routines: Set consistent bedtimes and morning schedules to make getting to school on time easier.
  2. Plan Ahead: Schedule medical appointments outside school hours whenever possible.
  3. Stay Informed: Communicate with teachers and the school office if your child must be absent.
  4. Monitor Attendance: Review attendance regularly in the parent portal to ensure accuracy.

Every school day is an opportunity for learning, growth, and connection. Let’s work together to make sure every student is present, engaged, and on the path to success—because in Southside ISD, every day truly counts.