At Becker, we are lucky to have Communities in Schools (CIS) that is funded by the PTA, a full-time school counselor, and a federally funded grant that allows us to have the restorative practice program. Please see below for more information about each program and how it can help support your family/child. Contact information is also included in each section.
Communities In Schools (CIS)
Becker’s CIS team:
512-841-0640
Vanessa Ordones-Hankins (Program Manager) – vordones@ciscentraltexas.org
Meredith Evett – mevett@ciscentraltexas.org
For more information about CIS, please visit https://ciscentraltexas.org
Communities In Schools (CIS) builds relationships that empower students to stay in school and succeed in life. Our school-based staff partner with teachers to identify challenges students face in class or at home. CIS staff members provide individual and small group social/emotional support and counseling, family support, and also coordinate with community partners to bring outside resources inside schools. From immediate needs like food or clothing to more complex ones like counseling or emotional support, we do whatever it takes to help students succeed. Our services are free and voluntary.
SmartKids is an additional part of our CIS program at Becker. This program focuses on our students from HACA communities like Meadowbrook. In addition to individual, group, and family support, it brings afterschool programming to the site two days a week. During the program, students eat a healthy snack, have time for homework and/or reading, and participate in enriching activities. SmartKids serves elementary, middle, and high schools students Meadowbrook.
Some CIS Becker highlights from the 2018-1029 year include:
- Intensively serving 90+ students
- SmartKids elementary attendance consistently at 15-20 students
- Holiday assistance for 40+ families
- 18 volunteer matches (reading buddies, mentors), 10 SmartKids volunteers
- Partnering with agencies such as Girls Empowerment Network and Christi Center to provide services for students
- CIS family events
- Basic needs support – backpacks, bus passes, snacks/food, clothing, etc.
School Counselor
Amy Bassett-Wells
512-414-3459
amy.bassett-wells@austinisd.org
From the American School Counselor Association:
Parents, the press, administrators and the general public often wonder just what it is that school counselors do on a daily basis. Gone are the days of school counselors sitting in their office simply handing out college applications, making schedule changes for students who want to drop a class or meeting with the troublemakers in the school. Today’s school counselors are vital members of the education team. They help all students in the areas of academic achievement, personal/social development and career development, ensuring today’s students become the productive, well-adjusted adults of tomorrow.
Restorative Practices Program
Becker’s Associate:
Lola Shores
From AISD:
Recognizing the need to build relationships and maintain positive connections to students and their families, Austin ISD has embarked on the development of a districtwide Culturally Responsive Restorative Practices Model.
This student-focused model will frame the school-level climate and culture, ultimately preparing all students for college, career and life.
More information here.
Families Experiencing Homelessness
Project HELP (Hope & Empowerment ~ Leveraging Possibilities) is part of AISD’s Department of School, Family and Community Education. The program assists families and students who are homeless. Please visit the Project Help webpage for information.
- Kathryn Martinez, Registrar 512-414-2019
- Amy Wells, Counselor 512-414-2019