Counseling & Health Services News

Provided by Jamie Ennis, BSN, RN, Lead Nurse

Seniors, if you plan on attending college, don’t forget to upload documentation of your meningococcal immunization to your college portals. Most schools require this in order to register.

School immunization records must be up-to-date for students to attend school in the fall and receive their fall schedules. Updated records can be emailed to your school nurse. Please note, the school must have the original affidavit of exemption on file if you choose to not vaccinate your child.

Middle School Note: Entry into 7th grade requires proof that your 7th grader has received the Tdap and Meningococcal (MCV4) vaccines. Campus nurses do not automatically get records from your doctor after vaccination. You must request an immunization record from the doctor and submit it to your nurse via email, fax or mail. The immunization record must have a doctor's stamp or signature on it. Please submit your records as soon as possible. Please reach out to your campus nurse with any questions.

• ALLERGY ACTION PLANS
• ASTHMA ACTION PLANS
• SEIZURE ACTION PLAN
• REQUEST TO ADMINISTER MEDICATION
• SELF CARRY FORM

Visit the Texas Department of State Health Services website for the most current information on the measles outbreak.

The best way to prevent getting the measles is to be vaccinated. Two doses of the measles vaccine prevent more than 97% of measles infections. To get vaccinated, parents can take their children to their health care provider or pharmacy. Pharmacies can vaccinate children 14 years and older without a prescription. Under 14 requires a prescription at most pharmacies. Please see the map on the measles outbreak page to locate a Texas Vaccines for Children (TVFC) or Adult Safety Net (ASN) provider in your area. If you have questions about vaccines or would like more information, please contact Jamie Ennis, lead nurse, at 512-533-6015.

On National School Nurse Day, we took a moment to honor and celebrate the amazing work that school nurses do every day. These dedicated professionals play a vital role in keeping our students healthy, safe, and ready to learn. From managing chronic conditions and responding to emergencies to providing daily care and promoting wellness, school nurses are the heart of our school communities.

Their compassion, expertise, and tireless commitment ensure that students receive the support they need to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. On this special day, we expressed our heartfelt gratitude to our school nurses for their unwavering dedication and the profound impact they have on the lives of students, families, and staff alike. Your work truly makes a difference—today and every day.

View the School Nurse Day highlight from our Communications Team!

After many years of dedicated service, we offer a heartfelt farewell to Nurse Margaret Freudenburg, who is retiring from her role at Lake Pointe Elementary. For 10 years, she has been a steady, compassionate presence in her school, caring for bumps, bruises, and emergencies with equal grace.

Nurse Margaret has not only treated the physical health of our students and staff, but has also offered a listening ear and a calming presence to all who entered her office. Her kindness, professionalism, and tireless dedication have left a lasting impression on her school community.

We are incredibly grateful for everything she has given to our district, and we wish her all the happiness and relaxation she deserves in retirement!

Provided by Marissa Bell, MPH, RD, Dietitian & Marketing Coordinator, LTISD

Even on cloudy days or during short periods outdoors, UV rays can still damage skin, making daily application important. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and remember to reapply every two hours when outdoors.

Protecting your skin today means healthier skin tomorrow!

Summer is a wonderful time for families to relax, recharge, and reconnect—but it’s also a valuable opportunity to engage in activities that promote emotional well-being, physical health, and personal growth. As part of our commitment to supporting the whole child, the Counseling and Health Services team encourages families to consider a variety of ways to stay active, creative, and connected over the summer break.

Explore the Outdoors - Spending time outside can boost mental health, reduce stress, and encourage physical activity. Consider:

• Hiking or nature walks at local parks or trails (Hamilton Pool Preserve, Barton Springs, Lady Bird Lake)

• Family bike rides around the neighborhood

• Outdoor scavenger hunts to make walks more engaging for younger children

• Picnics in the park for a simple and screen-free day

Stay Social - Strong relationships are key to emotional well-being. Summer is a great time to nurture them:

• Organize playdates, attend a summer enrichment camp or program, or plan fun family game nights

• Encourage older students to volunteer with a local nonprofit or summer camp

• Plan a family service project to support the community together

Build Healthy Habits - Without the structure of the school day, routines can shift—but that doesn’t mean healthy habits have to stop:

• Maintain consistent sleep routines - remember, children ages 5-18 need anywhere from 8-12 hours of sleep each night!

• Encourage healthy meals and snacks by cooking together as a family - visit the local farmers markets to purchase fresh produce

• Stay active with family walks during the evening, trips to the local community pool for fun water activities or engage in online workout classes inside

Keep Learning Alive - Learning doesn’t have to stop just because school is out:

• Visit local libraries, museums, or science centers

• Encourage students to read books and join a summer reading challenge or book study group.

• Try fun learning activities like DIY science experiments, gardening, or family history projects

Written By: Samantha Pena, Dietetic Intern, University of Texas

Reviewed By: Marissa Bell, MPH, RD, Dietitian & Marketing Coordinator, LTISD

As the summer heat kicks in, frozen treats are a fun way to keep cool, but many store-bought ice creams and popsicles can be packed with added sugars, artificial colors, and preservatives. The good news? You can make your own nutritious frozen treats at home that are both delicious and beneficial for your health! These treats are easy to prepare, fully customizable, and filled with vitamins, antioxidants, and protein to keep your body feeling good all summer long!

The best part? You don’t need to compromise on flavor! By using whole fruits, Greek yogurt, and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, you can create frozen treats that are just as enjoyable but much healthier than traditional options. While these natural sweeteners may seem like a better choice, it's important to remember that they still count as added sugars if you're mixing them into a recipe. However, the real advantage of homemade treats is that you have full control over how much sugar goes in, allowing you to use them in moderation. Plus, relying more on the natural sweetness of fruit means you're also getting fiber, vitamins, and other nutrients with every bite.

Here are some tasty and nutritious frozen treats that are perfect for hot summer days!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups plain Greek yogurt (or vanilla for a sweeter option)

• 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)

• 1/4 cup granola

• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs

• 1/2 cup mixed fresh fruit (berries, banana slices, kiwi, etc.)

• A pinch of chia seeds (optional for extra fiber which helps support digestion and keeps you feeling full longer)

Instructions:

1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Spread the Greek yogurt evenly across the baking sheet to about 1/4 inch thick.

3. Drizzle with honey or maple syrup (if using).

4. Sprinkle the granola, dark chocolate chips, fresh fruit, and chia seeds over the yogurt.

5. Freeze for at least 3-4 hours or until the yogurt is firm.

6. Once frozen, break it into pieces (like shards of bark) and enjoy!

Why It’s Great!: Greek yogurt is rich in protein and calcium, while the fruit adds natural sweetness and important vitamins like vitamin C. The dark chocolate offers antioxidants, and the granola adds a satisfying crunch. This treat provides a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep you feeling full and energized.

Ingredients:

• 4 ripe bananas, peeled and sliced

• 1/4 cup almond butter or peanut butter (optional for extra creaminess)

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries) or other fruit (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place the sliced bananas in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 2-3 hours, or until frozen solid.

2. After the bananas are frozen, place them in a food processor or blender.

3. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down the sides as needed.

4. Add the almond butter (if using) and vanilla extract, then blend again.

5. If you like, add in the mixed berries during the last few seconds of blending for a fun twist.

6. Serve immediately as a soft-serve treat or transfer to a container and freeze for 1-2 hours for a firmer, ice cream-like texture.

Why It’s Great!: Bananas are an excellent source of potassium and natural sugars, providing energy without the sugar crash. The almond or peanut butter adds healthy fats and a creamy texture, while the berries bring in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. This dairy free alternative is a great option for those avoiding lactose!

If you plan to reach for quick and easy store bought frozen treats, knowing how to read the nutrition label can help you make smarter, healthier choices. Here’s what to keep an eye on while shopping:

• Ingredients List: Look for a short, simple list with recognizable ingredients like fruit, milk, or yogurt. To steer clear of highly processed foods, choose items without artificial flavors, artificial colors, high-fructose corn syrup, or other synthetic additives.
  
  

• Serving Size: Don’t be fooled, many frozen snacks contain more than one serving per package. Always check the serving size so you know exactly how much you’re eating!
  
  

• Protein and Fiber: Look for products with protein (such as those made with Greek yogurt) or fiber (from fruit or whole ingredients). These nutrients can help you feel full and satisfied longer!
  
  

• Total Sugars: This number includes both naturally occurring sugars (like those in fruit and dairy) and added sugars (which are added during processing). Use this number along with the “Added Sugars” line to understand if sugar is coming from natural or processed sources.
  
  

• Added Sugars: Added sugars are included on the label so you can see how much of the total sugar content comes from sugars added during processing. Choose options with little to no added sugar when possible. Added sugars provide little to no nutritional value and are absorbed quickly, which can spike blood sugar levels and contribute to various health problems when consumed in excess. Consuming too many added sugars can also make it difficult to meet nutrient needs while staying within calorie limits to maintain overall health. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends limiting calories from added sugars to less than 10 percent of total calories per day.

With just a few simple ingredients and a little creativity, you can turn summer snacking into a fun, healthy experience for the whole family. Homemade frozen treats like yogurt bark, fruit pops, and banana “nice cream” let you control added sugars while packing in real nutrition from fruits, yogurt, and wholesome toppings. By learning to read nutrition labels and understanding the difference between natural and added sugars, you can make smarter choices whether you're blending up your own snacks or picking something up at the store. So embrace the natural sweetness of whole foods, and enjoy refreshing treats that taste great and support your family’s health all summer long!

As we celebrate the end of the school year and head into summer, it’s important to remember that food allergies don’t take a break. Whether you're planning a family gathering, summer birthday party, or attending a camp, please keep food allergy safety top of mind.

Still in School? Still Staying Safe

Although the school year is almost over, students with food allergies remain at risk during classroom activities, lunch, and celebrations.

• Remember: homemade treats are not allowed—only store-bought items with clear ingredient labels can be shared.
  
  

• Please speak with your child about not sharing food and being allergy-aware around classmates.
  
  

• If your child has a food allergy, ensure their emergency plan and medication are current and accessible through the last day of school.
  
  

Summer & Celebration Safety Tips

• Always ask about food allergies before serving snacks or meals.
  
  

• Avoid cross-contact—don’t use the same utensils or surfaces to prepare different foods.
  
  

• Read labels carefully, even on pre-packaged items.
  
  

• Consider non-food treats (games, crafts, small toys) for birthday or holiday celebrations.
  
  

• If children with allergies are present, make sure adults know how to respond to an allergic reaction and where emergency medication is kept.

Travel and summer camps are exciting parts of the season—but they also come with new environments and food routines that can increase the risk for those with allergies. A little planning can go a long way toward keeping your child safe and giving you peace of mind.

Helpful Tips:

• Notify camp or travel staff in advance about your child’s allergies and provide a copy of their allergy action plan.
  
  

• Pack allergy-safe snacks and meals if you’re unsure of food options.
  
  

• Make sure your child always carries their epinephrine auto-injector—and knows how to use it if they’re old enough.
  
  

• Review label-reading skills and safe eating habits with your child.
  
  

• Double-check that emergency contact information and medications are current and packed.

For more information and resources on food allergies, please visit the Food Allergy Research & Education website.

Each May, we recognize National Foster Care Awareness Month, a time to honor the more than 390,000 children and youth in the U.S. foster care system and the dedicated families, caregivers, social workers, and educators who support them. This month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the unique challenges these students face and to celebrate their resilience and potential.

In our district, we are committed to creating safe, inclusive, and supportive environments where all students—including those in foster care—can thrive academically and emotionally. We encourage staff, students, and families to learn more about foster care and how we can work together to make a difference in the lives of these young people.

Want to Help?

Local foster care nonprofits are always in need of community support, especially during the summer months when needs often grow. Here are a few ways families can get involved:

• Donate new clothing, backpacks, or school supplies.
  
  

• Support drives for hygiene kits or comfort items.
  
  

• Volunteer your time or services.
  
  

• Contribute to summer camp scholarships or activity funds.
  
  

• Follow and share local organizations on social media to raise awareness.
  

Together, we can help ensure that every child has what they need to thrive.

Let’s continue to build a community where every child feels seen, supported, and valued.

Join us in recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to prioritize emotional well-being, reduce stigma, and connect with resources that support mental health.

Whether you're seeking support or want to learn how to help others, this month is an opportunity to start the conversation and take action toward a healthier mind.

Summer break offers a well-deserved pause from the demands of the school year, providing time for rest, fun, and personal growth. While it's a great opportunity to recharge, it's also important to care for your mental and emotional well-being. Below are some tips for both parents and students to help support positive mental health throughout the summer months.

🌞 For Students:

1. Keep a Routine (but Stay Flexible):

Without school, it’s easy to fall into irregular sleep and activity patterns. Try to maintain a basic daily structure—like consistent sleep, meals, and physical activity—while still leaving room for spontaneity and fun.

2. Stay Active and Get Outside:

Regular exercise and time in nature can boost mood and energy levels. Even a short walk, bike ride, or playing outside can make a difference.

3. Connect with Friends and Family:

Social connection is vital for mental health. Plan time to see friends or keep in touch virtually. Meaningful interactions—even short ones—help combat loneliness.

4. Take a Break from Screens:

It’s tempting to spend long hours on phones, video games, or streaming, but too much screen time can affect mood and sleep. Make time each day for non-digital activities like reading, hobbies, or being outdoors.

5. Explore a Passion or Hobby:

Summer is a great time to try something new or dive deeper into a hobby—whether it’s music, art, sports, or volunteering. These activities build confidence and purpose.

6. Practice Self-Care:

Encourage journaling, mindfulness, deep breathing, or simply taking quiet time when needed. Recognizing emotions and talking about them is a strength—not a weakness.

👪 For Parents/Guardians:

1. Encourage Open Conversations:

Create a safe space for your child to talk about how they’re feeling. Listen without judgment, and let them know it’s okay to not feel okay sometimes.

2. Support Balanced Schedules:

Help your child strike a balance between rest, responsibilities, and recreation. While downtime is essential, some structure helps maintain a sense of stability.

3. Watch for Signs of Distress:

Changes in mood, sleep, appetite, or social habits can be signs of mental health struggles. If you notice anything concerning, consider checking in more deeply or seeking professional support.

4. Model Healthy Habits:

Kids often mirror the adults around them. Taking care of your own mental health—through exercise, rest, and managing stress—sets a powerful example.

5. Encourage Social Engagement:

Support opportunities for your child to stay socially connected through camps, community activities, or family events.

6. Know When to Seek Help:

If your child is feeling persistently sad, anxious, or overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to consult with a pediatrician, counselor, or mental health professional. Parents are encouraged to contact the school counselor prior to the last day of school if they need or would like support in accessing mental health resources for their students during summer break. Early support makes a big difference.

Summer should be a time of renewal—not just for the body, but for the mind too. Whether through rest, relationships, or recreation, taking small steps to support mental health can lead to a more joyful and fulfilling break for everyone.

The Lake Travis ISD School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) has recommended Choosing the Best as the human sexuality curriculum for the 2025–2026 school year.

After a thorough review of available curriculum options, SHAC members selected Choosing the Best for its alignment with state guidelines, emphasis on abstinence, and comprehensive approach to topics such as healthy relationships, STI education, and decision-making.

The recommendation will be presented to the Lake Travis ISD Board of Trustees for review and approval during the May 21, 2025 board meeting.

Beginning in the 2025–2026 school year, Lake Travis ISD will implement Naviance as a key tool for managing the college application process at Lake Travis High School.

Naviance is a comprehensive, student-centered platform that helps streamline college and career planning. Students will be able to research colleges, track applications, request transcripts and letters of recommendation, and explore scholarship opportunities—all in one place. This new tool will support students, parents, and counselors in making the college planning experience more organized, efficient, and personalized.

Our school counselors at the high school will be assisting our rising seniors with navigating the new platform and will be there to help guide them through the process.

Watch this video for a brief introduction to Naviance and see how it supports our students in their college and career planning journey.

LTISD has launched a new Community Health Resource Directory designed to connect students, families, and staff with essential support services across the Austin and Travis County area. This guide was thoughtfully developed with the collaboration of district social workers and the Director of Counseling and Health Services, ensuring that it is both comprehensive and responsive to the real needs of the LTISD community.

Key Benefits of the Community Health Resource Directory

• Centralized Access to Support: Families can quickly find help for needs such as housing, healthcare, food assistance, and more—all in one place.
  
  
• Mental Health and Wellness Resources: The guide includes counseling services and emotional wellness programs, helping to support students’ social and emotional growth.
  
  
• Stronger Community Ties: By connecting families with local organizations, the guide strengthens partnerships between the district and the greater community.
  
  
• Equity and Accessibility: Developed by professionals who work closely with students and families every day, the guide reflects an understanding of diverse challenges and aims to ensure no one falls through the cracks.

This initiative underscores LTISD’s commitment to holistic student success, acknowledging that learning thrives when basic needs are met and mental health is supported.

To explore the Community Health Resource Directory, visit the LTISD Counseling and Health Services webpage and click the “Community Health Resource Directory” link.

As a campus, we have a monthly assembly. Each grade level team nominates a student that exemplifies the character trait of the month. We want to celebrate our squires of the month for April!

Lake Travis High School recently hosted a successful Texas College Night, where students and families had the opportunity to meet with representatives from a wide range of colleges and universities across Texas. It was a valuable evening full of exploration and planning for the future.

We invited students and parents to join us for Naviance Parent Night on May 6, where we provided guidance on using the Naviance platform for college and career planning. This was a great opportunity to learn how to support your student through the academic journey.

Finally, we were proud to celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2025 during our Senior Awards Night on May 12. We enjoyed recognizing the hard work, leadership, and achievements of our outstanding seniors. A special thank you to all of the parents, guardians and community members for your continued support in helping our students prepare for what’s next!

As we head into the final stretch of the school year, LWE students took time to reflect, celebrate, and are ready to finish strong!

📝 Reflection and Celebration

Students participated in meaningful end-of-year activities that helped them look back on their growth and accomplishments—and take pride in how far they had come!

🍽️ May 12 – Newcomers’ Lunch

We rolled out the welcome (and now farewell) mat one more time! Students who joined LWE this year gathered for their final Newcomers’ Lunch—a time to celebrate new friendships and a successful transition.

🏅 May 14 – Mighty Mustang Awards

We closed out the year with our final Mighty Mustang Awards Ceremony on May 14 at 8:00 am. This month, we honored students who had demonstrated the character trait of Initiative. It was a proud moment to celebrate the leadership and drive of our Mustangs!

Here’s to finishing the year with reflection, recognition, and Mustang pride! 🐴✨

The Rough Hollow Student Leadership Team organized a school wide snack drive to receive snack donations for LT students in need. More than 30 boxes of snacks were donated! Rough Hollow Rattlers enjoyed organizing this event and loved that they were helping other students in the LT Community!

Undergraduate Degree: University of Texas at Austin

Graduate Degree: University of Tulsa

20 years as a Counselor and 15 years in Lake Travis ISD

I am excited to have joined the BCMS team this year! I was at LPE prior to spending the past 12 years as the counselor of BCE. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to continue working with the students and parents I've known throughout the years. The relationships we get to form as counselors are priceless, and I've had the pleasure of knowing many of our Raiders since they were in kindergarten.

One of my favorite things about being a counselor is getting to watch students grow—seeing them overcome obstacles, develop coping skills, work towards their goals, and learn about who they are. I love to be one of the positive adults in their lives.

Every day is a new opportunity to make a difference—by giving students hope, empowering them, or just being there for them—and that is such a gift. They make me laugh multiple times a day and are also a lot of fun to be around. It's always a great day to be a Raider.

Undergraduate Degree: Texas A&M University

Graduate Degree: Lewis University in Chicago

10 years in education, 4 years as a Counselor, 10 years with Lake Travis ISD

I love getting to know our students on a personal level and collaborating with their parents and our team in support of our students' mental health and academic success.

Undergraduate Degree: The University of Texas at Tyler

Graduate Degree: University of North Texas

9 years as a Counselor and 6 years with Lake Travis ISD

My favorite thing about being a counselor is having the opportunity to help students navigate challenges, celebrate their growth, and create a safe space where they feel seen, heard, and valued.

I also absolutely love being able to provide pet therapy for staff and students with Nala. She brings smiles to so many faces and adds a unique, comforting presence to our school community.

Undergraduate Degree: Samford University

Graduate Degree: University of Alabama at Birmingham

7 years as a Counselor and 7 years with Lake Travis ISD

My favorite thing about being a Counselor is experiencing the joy of pet therapy alongside the students.

Undergraduate Degree: The University of Texas at Austin

Graduate Degree: Lamar University

3 years as a Counselor and 3 years with Lake Travis ISD

I love working with kids during such a transformative season of life! I enjoy teaching them healthy coping skills and how to handle conflict appropriately.

Undergraduate Degree: University of North Texas

Graduate Degree: Lamar University

20 years as a Teacher, 2 years as a School Counselor, 2 years with Lake Travis ISD

The last two years at LTMS have been both demanding and affirming. I often say, “Middle schoolers are my people.” My relationship with students—as both an educator and a counselor—always comes first. I strongly believe that building rapport is the cornerstone of successful education and support for students, staff, and parents.

I love being in the classroom presenting guidance lessons and talking with students who are facing a variety of issues and challenges.

My journey to becoming a school counselor is a testament to the importance and power of perseverance, determination, and forward thinking—qualities I strive to instill in my students every day.

Undergraduate Degree: Texas A&M University, Kingsville

Graduate Degree: The University of Texas at Pan American

11 years as a Teacher, 13 years as a School Counselor, 13 years with Lake Travis ISD

As a middle school counselor, my favorite part of serving our LT students is being part of their growth—not only as academic scholars, but also as young individuals. Working with and guiding our students to gain new insights into their challenges and develop a deeper understanding of themselves is beyond fulfilling and rewarding.

As counselors, we assist our students in building resilience as they navigate difficult situations and learn coping mechanisms.

While challenging at times, the opportunity to empower individuals and contribute to their well-being would likely be the most fulfilling aspect of being a counselor.

Undergraduate Degree: The George Washington University

Graduate Degree: Virginia Commonwealth University

18 years of experience as a Teacher and Social Worker, 5 years with Lake Travis ISD

One of my favorite things about being a school social worker is getting to build meaningful relationships with students. Every day, I have the opportunity to support them through challenges, celebrate their successes, and help them feel safe, understood, and valued.

It's incredibly rewarding to be a part of their journey and to work alongside families and staff to create a positive, supportive school environment.

Undergraduate Degree: Lubbock Christian University

Graduate Degree: The University of Texas at Arlington

23 years of experience as a Social Worker, 2 years with Lake Travis ISD

Honestly, my very favorite part of being a school social worker is building relationships with students—helping them feel seen and heard. I enjoy partnering with them in advocating for their own mental health as well as supporting them in the educational setting.

I also really love the team of people that I work with and the camaraderie we share in making sure our students get their needs met!