On May 8 twenty-six Austinites graduated from Austin ISD’s UpClose program. A program which offers families and community members a unique opportunity to learn about the district’s infrastructure, programs and services, as well as the challenges and opportunities for improvements.

In eight monthly meetings the participants meet at district sites to get an inside look at key programs. In addition to monthly meetings, participants create a school-based final project.

UpClose was created in 2007 and to date, 350 participants have completed the program.   The graduates of the program are challenged to become leaders and advocates for the district, to volunteer for service on committees and task forces, to speak up when misinformation is circulating, and to encourage other parents and community members to get informed and involved.

“Austin ISD faces challenges, said Executive Director for Communications Reyne Telles. “We need all of you as community leaders to be informed, to be involved, and to participate in this initiative, we thank you for your time and commitment to the #AISDproud family.”

View the graduation photos, here.