Counseling Services

 The counselor serves as a resource to students, parents, and staff through the four components of the district's Comprehensive Guidance Program:

• Guidance Curriculum - provides appropriate guidance content to students and provides leadership for social and emotional
• Individual Planning - assists students in monitoring personal development;
• Responsive Services - addresses the immediate concerns of students;
• System Support - facilitates school activities and

Library

 The library is an integral part of the school educational program. A full-time professional librarian works with teachers to develop students’ information-problem-solving skills and encourage the appreciation of literature. In addition to having assigned times to attend library lessons with their class, students are also able to go to the library to check out books as needed. The library collection is developed around the school curriculum, and reflects the reading interests and needs of the students. In addition to books and magazines, audiovisual and electronic materials are available in the library. The library also provides guided access to online databases and other information resources on the internet.

Literacy Library

 The Literacy Library is stocked with books that are “leveled” so that they are appropriate for a student’s reading level. Teachers check out books to use with students for guided reading and to send home with students for practice. Parent volunteers keep the Literacy Library up-to-date, organized and functioning.

Technology & Innovation

 Casis has technology present in all classrooms and instructional spaces. All students in AISD are allocated a technology device [I-Pads for PK-2nd & Chromebooks for 3rd – 5th] resulting in 1-to-1 device learning for every student. Casis also has Maker Spaces to further allow students to think innovatively and collaboratively. This flexible learning space allows for Problem and Project- Based Learning (PPBL) to occur for all students.

Organic Garden

 An organic garden is supported by parent volunteers and supports experiential, hands-on learning in conjunction with the school curriculum. These programs are offered school-wide to support teaching in each grade; they occur at various times through the school year.

Outdoor Learning Center

 An extended outdoor learning space is available for the instructional enhancement of all classes at Casis. This space has storage lockers and seating that overlooks the Casis Forest. It is used for the enjoyment of the outside environment as well as for outdoor learning opportunities.

Parent Reading Time

 Parents have the opportunity to volunteer to read books in the classroom of PK and Kinder classes. This enjoyable time with kids lasts approximately 15 – 20 minutes and is arranged directly with the classroom teacher. The classroom teacher also remains in the classroom during this special reading time. Parents must complete the district required background check to participate in this activity.

Leadership Casis

 5th Grade classes participate in ‘Leadership Casis’, a specialized program developed by Casis parents and staff that emphasizes leadership, outreach, and learning. In collaboration with teachers, parent volunteers coordinate monthly guest speakers to come and present to the 5th grade student class. Leadership Casis develops student leadership and emphasizes character building through service to school and community. During this time they learn about specific leadership skills and about service in their community and world.

Casis Forest

 This natural wooded environment provides classes an opportunity to learn and play in a safe, but adventurous space. Maintained by a parent volunteer and student club, the Casis Forest is a wonderful learning space for observation and interaction with nature, plants, and animals.

Protected by fencing, laid with man-made paths, and provided with play equipment, seating, and an amphitheater, this area provides an additional way to enhance students’ outdoor learning experience.

Field Trips

 Field trips are used as introduction, extension, and/or culmination of a learning unit. All children are encouraged to participate in field trips. Financial assistance is available to those who need it to cover field trip costs. Parent approval forms are required, and students are not permitted to go on a trip without written permission. Parents who drive children on field trips must complete a proof of insurance form in advance of the field trip. Drivers must make sure that each child is buckled individually in a seat belt. All students who are less than 8 years old must use a booster seat, in accordance with Texas State Law.

Science Fair

 Casis holds an annual Science Fair in which students from participating grades may exhibit an experiment, a collection of objects, a model, demonstration, or display. Students and parents will receive a Science Fair information booklet from their teacher that includes the details and rubric, and describes the types of projects that can be submitted.