Counseling & Health Services News
August 2025 | Back to School Edition
If students ever need support, they’re never alone at LTISD. Every campus has caring and dedicated school counselors and nurses who are here to help with anything from emotional support to physical health concerns. In addition to campus-based staff, we also have district social workers who provide extra support for students and families who may be facing more complex challenges. Whether you're navigating difficult emotions, personal situations, or health-related issues, our team is here to listen, guide, and connect you with the right resources. Your social, emotional, and physical well-being is a top priority at LTISD, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Take a look at the Lake Travis ISD Community Health Resource Directory for more information.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Jennifer Garrigan, Director of Counseling and Health Services, by emailing garriganj@ltisdschools.org or calling 512-533-5940.
Here are some important reminders and helpful tips to keep your child healthy, safe, and ready to learn:
1. Health Records & Emergency Contacts
Update Health Records: Make sure your child’s health history, immunizations, and medications are up to date.
Emergency Contacts: Keep phone numbers current. We must be able to reach you or a trusted adult if your child is sick or injured. Update your child's emergency contacts by visiting Skyward Family Access and clicking on the "Emergency Contacts Additions & Updates" tile.
2. Medications at School
Prescription and Non-Prescription Drugs
Must be dropped off and picked up by a parent/guardian in the health office
Must be in the original container, unexpired
Parent/guardian must complete and sign a “Request for Medication Administration” form (Spanish version)
Physician signature is required for all prescriptions given more than 10 school days and all non-prescription medications
Must remain in the health office, not with the student (except for asthma medication and epi-pens with written permission signed by the physician) (Spanish version)
3. Chronic Health Conditions
If your child has a severe allergy, asthma, other chronic medical condition, or requires medication at school, please notify the nurse by completing the appropriate form(s) so they can create a plan before school begins. These forms must be completed every school year.
4. Illness Guidelines
Keep your child home if they have:
A fever of 100°F or higher (must be fever-free for 24 hours without medicine before returning)
Vomiting or diarrhea in the past 24 hours
Persistent cough or other signs of illness
If in doubt, call the nurse before sending your child to school.
5. Healthy Habits
Encourage your child to:
Get enough sleep
Eat breakfast
Wash hands regularly
Stay hydrated
6. Vision, Hearing, and Scoliosis Screenings
Screenings will be conducted during the year. You’ll be notified if any concerns arise.
7. Communication is Key
Please feel free to contact your school nurse with any concerns or updates about your child’s health. Working together helps us give your child the best support.
Wishing you and your student(s) a healthy and successful school year!
At LTISD, we know well-nourished students are more focused, energized, and ready to learn and that it all starts with enjoying healthy meals. The school cafeteria is more than just a place to eat; it’s a space where students can refuel their bodies, connect with peers, and make choices that support lifelong wellness. From the first bell of the school year, our Food & Nutrition Services team is here to help every student start strong with meals that are fresh, balanced, and built for both energy and focus.
Research shows that school meals are among the healthiest meals children eat in a day. According to the USDA, school meals provide more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and less saturated fat and added sugar, than meals consumed outside of school. At Lake Travis ISD, we’re proud to be leading the way in providing nutritious, delicious meals that fuel students for success, in the classroom and beyond.
National Recognition for LTISD School Meals! This summer, our Food & Nutrition Services team was recognized by Action for Healthy Kids with four Healthy Meal Incentive Awards for our commitment to quality, creativity, and wellness in school meals:
Lunch Trailblazer
Innovation in Nutrition Education
Innovative School Lunch Makeover
Innovation in the Preparation of School Meals
What’s New (and Returning) This Year? We’re always working behind the scenes to make school meals healthier and more exciting. From increasing scratch-prepared options to offering interactive taste tests, our menus are thoughtfully designed to inspire lifelong healthy habits.
Here are a few things we’re proud to offer this year:
A continued commitment to fresh, locally-sourced, and plant-forward menus.
Vegetarian menus are available by request from the district Dietitian Marissa Bell, MPH, RD; email bellm@ltisdschools.org.
New at the High School: Cav Kitchen! This year, we’re launching a brand-new lunch line concept at the high school called Cav Kitchen. Dedicated to featuring scratch-made meals and locally sourced ingredients, this will serve as a creative space where we pilot new recipes, explore seasonal produce, and get direct feedback from students.
Fresh for Less initiative. We use strategic pricing and menu placement to promote full meals, healthy snacks, fruits, vegetables, and nutrient-rich options.
Clean Label initiatives. We prioritize products free from artificial dyes, high-fructose corn syrup, and MSG.
Active participation in the Good Food Purchasing Program, which supports local economies, environmental sustainability, animal welfare, a valued workforce, and community health. Lake Travis ISD was nationally recognized by the Center for Good Food Purchasing in their May 2025 newsletter for our progress in the latest assessment.
As we kick off a new school year, we’re reminded that one of the best parts of school is sharing space, stories, and time with classmates. With about 1 in 13 children living with a food allergy, it’s important we work together to create a school environment where every student feels safe, cared for, and included.
Whether your child has a food allergy or not, there are simple steps we can all take to support one another. With strong communication, clear routines, and a shared sense of responsibility, we can work to reduce the risk of allergic reactions and help every child stay healthy and focused on learning.
Talking with Young Children About Food Allergy Safety
Even our youngest students can play an important role in keeping their classmates safe. Consider sharing simple, age-appropriate messages like:
“Some kids have special food needs, eating certain foods can make them very sick.”
“That’s why we don’t share food at school, even if we’re trying to be kind.”
“After we eat, we wash our hands so everyone stays safe.”
“If a friend isn’t feeling well, we tell the teacher right away.”
These early conversations build awareness, compassion, and healthy habits that benefit everyone.
To help guide these conversations at home, check out this Food Allergy Awareness Video for students ages 4-11.
Whether or not your child has food allergies:
Please avoid sending peanuts, tree nuts, or other allergens if your child is in an allergy-aware classroom (you’ll be notified if this applies).
Teach your child not to share or trade food at school.
Reinforce handwashing after meals and snacks—soap and water works best for removing food residue.
For Families of Students With Food Allergies
We are here to partner with you in keeping your child safe and supported. As the year begins:
Make sure the school nurse has an updated Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Emergency Plan and any required medications, such as an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen®, Auvi-Q®, etc.).
Contact Food & Nutrition Services to update your student’s meal account restrictions or request meal accommodations (see the article above for more information).
Label your child’s lunch, snacks, and water bottles clearly.
Teach your child how to identify unsafe foods, say “no thank you” politely, and know when and how to ask for help.
For our youngest learners, including PreK and Kinder, we work closely with families and teachers to ensure students are safe, confident, and cared for throughout the day.
LTISD follows a comprehensive Food Allergy Management Plan, aligned with state and national guidelines. Each campus has protocols in place, including:
All staff are trained to recognize the signs of allergic reactions and respond immediately.
Epinephrine is available on campus, and emergency action plans are followed closely.
Our teachers, nurses, and support teams all work together to keep students safe during meals, classroom activities, field trips, and events.
Together, we’re creating a school community where safety, empathy, and inclusion go hand in hand. Thank you for being a part of this effort. If you have any questions about your child’s health needs or would like to speak with someone about food allergy planning, please reach out to your campus nurse.
Starting a new school year always brings a mix of emotions: excitement, nervousness, and questions about what’s ahead. For students entering Kindergarten, middle school, or high school, these transitions can feel especially big.
Starting Kindergarten: Building Comfort and Confidence
For many children, Kindergarten is the first time they’re away from home for an extended period. You can help your child adjust by:
Practicing routines early: Try setting a morning routine and bedtime schedule in the week leading up to school.
Reading books about school: Stories about starting school can spark conversation and ease fears.
Visiting the school if possible: Walk the campus, attend the meet the teacher event , or explore the playground to make the space feel familiar. Check out the principal's newsletter or visit our Back to School webpage for opportunities.
Creating a goodbye ritual: A quick hug, high-five, or wave helps with separation and gives structure to morning drop-off.
Reassure your child that it’s normal to feel a little nervous and that their teacher is excited to meet them and help them learn.
Transitioning from Elementary to Middle School: Gaining Independence
The move to middle school often brings multiple teachers, more responsibility, and a bigger campus. Help your child prepare by:
Walking through the schedule: Review the class schedule and map out where classrooms are (if possible). Check out the principal's newsletter or visit our Back to School webpage for opportunities.
Talking about organization: Encourage your child to use a planner or calendar to track homework and activities.
Reassuring them help is always nearby: Middle school campuses can feel big at first, but there are many adults, teachers, counselors, office staff, and principals, who are there to help students succeed. Let your child know it's okay to ask questions and speak up when they need support.
Creating a study routine at home: Middle school is when homework becomes more regular. Set a consistent time and space for schoolwork each afternoon or evening. It doesn’t have to be long, just predictable.
Checking in regularly: Ask your child how classes are going and help them prioritize tasks when they feel overwhelmed. Learning how to manage time and work through distractions is a key part of growing up.
Encouraging involvement in clubs, fine arts, sports, or service opportunities: Whether it’s art club, theater, band, robotics, student council, or soccer, extracurricular activities are one of the best ways to make friends and feel connected. They also give students a sense of purpose and belonging during a time when social changes can feel big.
Balancing nerves with excitement: Middle school comes with new clubs, electives, and friendships. Talk about what they’re looking forward to.
Encouraging open communication: Even confident students may feel overwhelmed at first, and it’s okay to take time to adjust.
Transitioning from 8th to 9th Grade: Starting High School Strong
Moving from middle school to high school is an exciting milestone. Students may be looking forward to more freedom, new opportunities, and greater independence—but it can also feel intimidating. With more rigorous academics, shifting social dynamics, and higher expectations, it’s normal for both students and families to have questions.
Here’s how to help your student walk in feeling ready and supported:
- Walking through the schedule: Review the class schedule and map out where classrooms are (if possible). Check out our Back to School webpage for opportunities.
Talk through the changes: High school brings more choice, electives, extracurriculars, and advanced coursework, but also more responsibility. Help your child understand what will be expected of them, and that they don’t have to figure it all out at once.
Build a strong routine: Time management becomes even more important. Help your student set up a calendar or planner for assignments, projects, and activities. Encourage them to check grades and communicate with teachers regularly.
Prioritize balance: High school students may juggle sports, jobs, clubs, and social commitments. Talk about the importance of sleep, downtime, and knowing when to say no.
Encourage involvement: Whether through athletics, fine arts, student organizations, or volunteer work, getting involved early helps students find their community and build confidence. It’s one of the best ways to feel connected in a new environment.
Remind them they’re not alone: High school can feel big, but it’s filled with caring adults—teachers, counselors, coaches, and principals—who want students to succeed. Encourage your teen to speak up when they need help, whether it's academic, emotional, or social.
Showing up matters—not just for grades, but for connection, confidence, and overall well-being. Students who attend school consistently are more likely to feel connected to their peers and teachers, have stronger mental health, and stay on track academically. Even missing just two days a month can add up to lost learning time and missed opportunities to build friendships and routines that help students thrive.
Attendance and Mental Health
Research shows that routine is one of the most powerful supports for a child’s mental health. When students are in school regularly, they are more likely to:
Feel a sense of belonging and predictability
Develop relationships with trusted adults
Build coping skills through social and emotional learning
Access in-the-moment support when they’re struggling
Conversely, frequent absences, especially without a clear plan to reconnect, can increase feelings of isolation, anxiety, and academic stress.
Attendance Builds Connection
School is more than academics, it’s where students practice teamwork, learn how to navigate friendships, and find their voice. When students miss school often, they may feel left out or disconnected from classmates and campus life. Being present builds social confidence and helps students stay in the loop, whether it’s group projects, sports tryouts, class discussions, or lunchtime conversations.
Attendance Fuels Learning
Learning happens best in real time. While schools provide ways to catch up after absences, there’s no perfect substitute for in-person instruction, hands-on learning, and immediate feedback from teachers. Students who attend school regularly are more likely to:
Achieve grade-level expectations
Develop stronger reading and math skills
Be prepared for tests, projects, and future success
How You Can Support Strong Attendance
Establish consistent sleep and morning routines.
Schedule appointments outside of school hours/days when possible.
Communicate with the campus if your child is struggling emotionally or physically. We are here to help.
Let’s work together to make every day count. If your child needs support with attendance, motivation, or mental health, please reach out to your school counselor, nurse, or administrator. We’re here to support your whole child—every day.
Primary source referenced: School Attendance, Truancy & Chronic Absenteeism: What Parents Need to Know
For Families:
Model kindness daily: Children learn by observing adults. Demonstrate kindness in your interactions, whether it's holding the door open, expressing gratitude, or speaking kindly about others.
Encourage empathy: Discuss feelings and encourage your child to consider others' perspectives. This helps them understand the impact of their actions on others.
Praise kind actions: Acknowledge and praise acts of kindness your child performs. This reinforces positive behavior and shows them the value of being kind.
For Students:
Be inclusive: Reach out to new or shy students. A simple "hello" or invitation to join an activity can make a big difference.
Practice active listening: When someone is speaking, give them your full attention. This shows respect and makes others feel valued.
Help others: Offer assistance to classmates who may need help with schoolwork or carrying books. Small gestures can have a big impact.
Stand up against bullying: If you witness bullying, speak up or seek help from a trusted adult. Creating a safe environment is everyone's responsibility.
“Family engagement in schools improves student achievement and builds stronger school communities.” —U.S. Department of Education, Partners in Education Report
Whether your child is starting a new grade, joining a new school, or trying out a new extracurricular activity, the beginning of the school year is full of opportunities to connect with teachers, peers, and most importantly, as a family. When parents and caregivers stay involved, at home and at school, students are more likely to feel confident, supported, and ready to succeed.
Tips to Stay Connected This Fall
Introduce yourself to teachers and staff: A quick email or hello at pickup can open the door for great communication.
Attend open houses and school events: These are great opportunities to connect with other families and get to know your school community.
Look for ways to plug in: Volunteer opportunities, parent groups, and campus committees often begin forming early in the year.
Support your child’s interests: Whether they’re trying robotics, cheer, theater, or student council. Ask questions, show up when you can, and help them reflect on what they enjoy most.
Model curiosity: Trying something new isn’t just for kids. Share a time when you took on something unfamiliar and how you grew from it.
Why Parent Involvement Matters
Years of research show that when families are actively engaged:
Students earn higher grades and test scores
They have better attendance, behavior, and motivation
They’re more likely to graduate and pursue college or careers
Whether you’re a first-time Kindergarten parent or you’ve been doing this for years, your support makes a difference. Small actions like checking a backpack, sending a kind note to a teacher, or joining a parent coffee meeting, all send a powerful message: "We’re in this together."
Let’s make this school year one of connection, growth, and celebration—for every child and every family.
Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that has tragically become a leading cause of drug-related deaths across the US, often because young people don’t realize it’s present in counterfeit pills or street drugs. Student safety is our top priority, and that includes equipping families with the knowledge to help prevent accidental overdoses.
What Families Should Know:
Fentanyl is often hidden in fake prescription pills, vape pens, marijuana, and powders.
It’s 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine.
Many teens who overdose never intended to take fentanyl; they were unaware it was in the substance they used.
How to Start the Conversation:
Talk openly and calmly about the risks of substance use.
Encourage your child to ask questions and come to you or a trusted adult if they feel unsure.
Share the truth about fentanyl—that one pill can kill.
What We’re Doing:
LTISD follows district-wide health and safety protocols to educate students about the dangers of fentanyl and other substances. Fentanyl awareness assemblies will take place at the high school and lessons will be facilitated at middle schools.
Our counselors, nurses, and trained staff are available to provide support and resources.
We partner with local health and safety agencies to stay informed and proactive.
Resources for Families:
Together, we can keep our students informed, supported, and safe.