• JOURNALISM BLING IS A GOOD THING: MacJ recently received a care package from @sipaatusc: a box that contained our staff awards from the 2021 Southern Interscholastic Press Association convention and our individual awards earned in the SIPA writing and visual contests. Thanks to the good folks at SIPA for helping us recognize the journalists who got work done in 20-21, and congrats to all the newspaper and yearbook staffers who contributed to our success in this year's SIPA contests.
    00
    JOURNALISM BLING IS A GOOD THING: MacJ recently received a care package from @sipaatusc: a box that contained our staff awards from the 2021 Southern Interscholastic Press Association convention and our individual awards earned in the SIPA writing and visual contests. Thanks to the good folks at SIPA for helping us recognize the journalists who got work done in 20-21, and congrats to all the newspaper and yearbook staffers who contributed to our success in this year's SIPA contests.
  • VERDE CON AZUL Y GRIS: In October of 2015, Steven Tibbetts (Class of 2019) was a McCallum freshman. In his introductory journalism class he wrote a story whose headline read, “Is Austin a major league town?” “Most sports fans in Austin have found themselves in the difficult position of choosing where their loyalty lies: Houston or Dallas,” Steven began his story. “An Austin option, even though it would be welcomed, has never seemed like a real possibility.” A major league pro sports team in Austin was unlikely, he wrote, despite the fact that Austin was the largest city in the United States without one. The primary source for Steven’s article, Lance Aldridge, the executive director of the Austin Sports Commission, said there was no buzz about an NFL, MLB, NBA or NHL team coming to Austin. The article, however, contained one prophetic sentence: “One growth opportunity that Austin hasn’t missed out on, though, is Major League Soccer (MLS).” Two and a half years later, in December 2017, Tibbetts was a junior writing a Shield article headlined, “MLS to ATX?” about the increasing likelihood that Austin might at last get a major league team. “I think it’s a good possibility [that Austin gets an MLS team], and I think it would be awesome if we had an MLS team,” said Jake Anderson, then a Mac freshman. “It would [mean] a lot more [fans] in Austin, a lot more fans and a lot of people who love soccer and enjoy it.” Foreshadowing perhaps? Fast forward to Saturday night and the realization of a long-anticipated Austin sports moment: the first home game for an Austin team in a major professional sports league. The tableau was green and black, but there were touches of blue and grey throughout @q2stadium. We are pleased to share a gallery that confirms that the Knights were as #Listos as the rest of Austin for @austinfc to play a home game. It was a scoreless draw, but in the larger picture, the game was a resounding victory for Austin.
    00
    VERDE CON AZUL Y GRIS: In October of 2015, Steven Tibbetts (Class of 2019) was a McCallum freshman. In his introductory journalism class he wrote a story whose headline read, “Is Austin a major league town?” “Most sports fans in Austin have found themselves in the difficult position of choosing where their loyalty lies: Houston or Dallas,” Steven began his story. “An Austin option, even though it would be welcomed, has never seemed like a real possibility.” A major league pro sports team in Austin was unlikely, he wrote, despite the fact that Austin was the largest city in the United States without one. The primary source for Steven’s article, Lance Aldridge, the executive director of the Austin Sports Commission, said there was no buzz about an NFL, MLB, NBA or NHL team coming to Austin. The article, however, contained one prophetic sentence: “One growth opportunity that Austin hasn’t missed out on, though, is Major League Soccer (MLS).” Two and a half years later, in December 2017, Tibbetts was a junior writing a Shield article headlined, “MLS to ATX?” about the increasing likelihood that Austin might at last get a major league team. “I think it’s a good possibility [that Austin gets an MLS team], and I think it would be awesome if we had an MLS team,” said Jake Anderson, then a Mac freshman. “It would [mean] a lot more [fans] in Austin, a lot more fans and a lot of people who love soccer and enjoy it.” Foreshadowing perhaps? Fast forward to Saturday night and the realization of a long-anticipated Austin sports moment: the first home game for an Austin team in a major professional sports league. The tableau was green and black, but there were touches of blue and grey throughout @q2stadium. We are pleased to share a gallery that confirms that the Knights were as #Listos as the rest of Austin for @austinfc to play a home game. It was a scoreless draw, but in the larger picture, the game was a resounding victory for Austin.
  • Congrats to #MacClassof2021 graduate and distinguished photoj alum Viv Osterweil. Her classic #wrkxfmly winning photo from 2019 was posted as the cover image of today's @workingassumptions #fathersday gallery post! ABOUT THE PHOTO: My dad and I go on night time walks with our two dogs every now and then. We catch up on how everything’s going. There’s the usual small talk. ... I only really listen to his weird stories about his 20s, his band and going to punk concerts with his friend Doug. I get my music taste from him. He’s honestly one of the coolest people I know, even when he wears eerie Hawaiian shirts. #Repost @workingassumptions with @repostsaveapp ・・・ Happy Father's Day! Here are some of the dads photographed by students in the #wrkxfmly program. See more at education.workingassumptions.org/collection. #FathersDay #FathersDay2021 #HappyFathersDay #ThanksDad Nightwalk, Viv Osterweil, © Viv Osterweil
    00
    Congrats to #MacClassof2021 graduate and distinguished photoj alum Viv Osterweil. Her classic #wrkxfmly winning photo from 2019 was posted as the cover image of today's @workingassumptions #fathersday gallery post! ABOUT THE PHOTO: My dad and I go on night time walks with our two dogs every now and then. We catch up on how everything’s going. There’s the usual small talk. ... I only really listen to his weird stories about his 20s, his band and going to punk concerts with his friend Doug. I get my music taste from him. He’s honestly one of the coolest people I know, even when he wears eerie Hawaiian shirts. #Repost @workingassumptions with @repostsaveapp ・・・ Happy Father's Day! Here are some of the dads photographed by students in the #wrkxfmly program. See more at education.workingassumptions.org/collection. #FathersDay #FathersDay2021 #HappyFathersDay #ThanksDad Nightwalk, Viv Osterweil, © Viv Osterweil
  • Happy Father's Day to all you Mac daddies out there.
    00
    Happy Father's Day to all you Mac daddies out there.
  • In an email communication to families on Friday, @austinisd officials said that the 2021-2022 would be in-person for all students. The email said that the district had been weighing in-person versus virtual options but that the failure of the Texas legislature to pass HB 1468, which would authorized virtual learning, and the declining numbers of COVID cases in Austin/Travis County and across the country convinced the district to offer in-person classes to all students.  “By following guidelines from Austin Public Health, the CDC and more, we’re confident we can safely reopen to all our students,” Austin ISD chief of schools Anthony Mays said in the letter. While the district maintains that in-person learning is safe for all students, it also joined 29 other school districts in urging Gov. Abbott to have the legislature take up the issue of a virtual learning option should a special legislative session convene. “In order for districts to build high-quality, innovative programs for students in the future,” the Wednesday letter to Abbott reads, “the legislature must provide clarity and notice to districts.” While asking for guidance on the permissibility of an online option, the letter also argues strongly that such an option should be available because it is the best learning option for some students. The letter mentioned students who want to accelerate their learning to pursue outside interests, students who need to work to support their families, elite athletes who need a more flexible scheduling to pursue their sport and students who are able to remain enrolled while receiving treatment for life-threatening illnesses. While the letter concedes that the vast majority of students are best served by in-person learning, the 30 school districts plus the North Texas Commission and the Texas Computer Education Association argue that for the thousands of students who need it, virtual learning should remain an option. The letter concludes, “We have an opportunity to expand public school choice for families and meet our students where they are instead of letting them fall through the cracks of a system that was not built for them.
    00
    In an email communication to families on Friday, @austinisd officials said that the 2021-2022 would be in-person for all students. The email said that the district had been weighing in-person versus virtual options but that the failure of the Texas legislature to pass HB 1468, which would authorized virtual learning, and the declining numbers of COVID cases in Austin/Travis County and across the country convinced the district to offer in-person classes to all students.  “By following guidelines from Austin Public Health, the CDC and more, we’re confident we can safely reopen to all our students,” Austin ISD chief of schools Anthony Mays said in the letter. While the district maintains that in-person learning is safe for all students, it also joined 29 other school districts in urging Gov. Abbott to have the legislature take up the issue of a virtual learning option should a special legislative session convene. “In order for districts to build high-quality, innovative programs for students in the future,” the Wednesday letter to Abbott reads, “the legislature must provide clarity and notice to districts.” While asking for guidance on the permissibility of an online option, the letter also argues strongly that such an option should be available because it is the best learning option for some students. The letter mentioned students who want to accelerate their learning to pursue outside interests, students who need to work to support their families, elite athletes who need a more flexible scheduling to pursue their sport and students who are able to remain enrolled while receiving treatment for life-threatening illnesses. While the letter concedes that the vast majority of students are best served by in-person learning, the 30 school districts plus the North Texas Commission and the Texas Computer Education Association argue that for the thousands of students who need it, virtual learning should remain an option. The letter concludes, “We have an opportunity to expand public school choice for families and meet our students where they are instead of letting them fall through the cracks of a system that was not built for them."
  • Thanks to Huston-Tillotson University for this historical context of #juneteenth and its importance in the story of American history. #Repost @hustontillotsonuniversity with @repostsaveapp ・・・ We commemorate Juneteenth, the day in June 1865 — two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation and two months after the Civil War ended — that the last enslaved African-Americans were finally freed. And as we mark the occasion, let us remember that slavery was not merely a sad, dark chapter in our country’s history, but the foundation of the country’s social, political and economic order, and that it lasted for nearly a quarter of a millennium. The Juneteenth flag is the brainchild of activist Ben Haith, founder of the National Juneteenth Celebration (NJCF). Haith created the flag in 1997. Click to learn more about the meaning of the symbols of the Juneteenth flag. https://www.kmov.com/news/the-juneteenth-flag-is-full-of-symbols-heres-what-they-mean/article_fb3bb689-54fe-52f1-8d60-461d95b1c4b6.amp.html
    00
    Thanks to Huston-Tillotson University for this historical context of #juneteenth and its importance in the story of American history. #Repost @hustontillotsonuniversity with @repostsaveapp ・・・ We commemorate Juneteenth, the day in June 1865 — two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation and two months after the Civil War ended — that the last enslaved African-Americans were finally freed. And as we mark the occasion, let us remember that slavery was not merely a sad, dark chapter in our country’s history, but the foundation of the country’s social, political and economic order, and that it lasted for nearly a quarter of a millennium. The Juneteenth flag is the brainchild of activist Ben Haith, founder of the National Juneteenth Celebration (NJCF). Haith created the flag in 1997. Click to learn more about the meaning of the symbols of the Juneteenth flag. https://www.kmov.com/news/the-juneteenth-flag-is-full-of-symbols-heres-what-they-mean/article_fb3bb689-54fe-52f1-8d60-461d95b1c4b6.amp.html
  • FISH NO. 39: Divine Intervention -- Freshmen should not leave campus for lunch because as this week’s strip reminds us … predators are stalking everywhere, and speaking of stalks, today’s bonus panel features another questionable fan suggestion. To see it, please visit macshieldonline.com.
    00
    FISH NO. 39: "Divine Intervention" -- Freshmen should not leave campus for lunch because as this week’s strip reminds us … predators are stalking everywhere, and speaking of stalks, today’s bonus panel features another questionable fan suggestion. To see it, please visit macshieldonline.com.
  • THODEN AND TEAMMATES PLACE IN TOP 11 AT JUNIOR ROWING NATIONALS: Over the course of 17 events and surrounded by over 1,500 athletes, class of 2021 graduate Sally Thoden and her @texasrowingcenter team competed at the Junior Rowing Nationals in Sarasota, Fla., on June 10,  placing 11th in the country in a quad on which she served as the stroke (the lead rower who sets the rhythm and cadence for the team). “[Nationals] was super exciting,” Thoden said. “It’s really fun to be able to see how all of our hard work pays off.”  This was Thoden’s third time competing at nationals, competing previously in 2018 and 2019. Last year’s competition got cancelled due to COVID-19.  “It was just a blast to race at one of the most competitive races,” Thoden said. “And [it] makes me excited for rowing next year in college. Thoden, who recently committed to rowing at Boston University, is excited to be rowing at the collegiate level and looks forward to what the future holds.  “I am most looking forward to being on a team that is filled with great teammates and coaches,” Thoden said. “And also being able to row on the Charles River every day!”  Caption by Anna McClellan. Photos courtesy of Thoden.  #knighttime #macseniorwall2021 #seniors2021
    00
    THODEN AND TEAMMATES PLACE IN TOP 11 AT JUNIOR ROWING NATIONALS: Over the course of 17 events and surrounded by over 1,500 athletes, class of 2021 graduate Sally Thoden and her @texasrowingcenter team competed at the Junior Rowing Nationals in Sarasota, Fla., on June 10,  placing 11th in the country in a quad on which she served as the stroke (the lead rower who sets the rhythm and cadence for the team). “[Nationals] was super exciting,” Thoden said. “It’s really fun to be able to see how all of our hard work pays off.”  This was Thoden’s third time competing at nationals, competing previously in 2018 and 2019. Last year’s competition got cancelled due to COVID-19.  “It was just a blast to race at one of the most competitive races,” Thoden said. “And [it] makes me excited for rowing next year in college." Thoden, who recently committed to rowing at Boston University, is excited to be rowing at the collegiate level and looks forward to what the future holds.  “I am most looking forward to being on a team that is filled with great teammates and coaches,” Thoden said. “And also being able to row on the Charles River every day!”  Caption by Anna McClellan. Photos courtesy of Thoden.  #knighttime #macseniorwall2021 #seniors2021
  • SECOND TEAM ALL-STATE: The Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association has named McCallum baseball class of 2021 third baseman Jacob Masters second-team all-state. Masters was one of two Knights selected for an all-state honor. Teammate Trinidad De la Garza was selected third team as a shortstop. This honor will add to Masters list of season accolades including a first-team all-district selection and The Austin Area Senior All-Star game defensive MVP. “It definitely means a lot, it’s something I never thought would happen,” Masters said. “To me, it shows how amazing my coaches, teammates, and family are.” Head baseball coach Brandon Grant believes this selection is very rightfully merited. “He compiled quite impressive stats on offense but I believe it was ultimately his defense that lead to the selection,” Grant said. “He fielded 1.000% at third base which is one of the toughest positions on the field to play.” While Masters led the team in fielding percentage, ended the season with a batting average of over .400 and hit 3 home runs, he attributes his success to not just his performance on the field but his support system. “My family, friends and coaches are the people that make me love playing the game. Winning this recognition or any is award is always something I attribute to them and their support.” Masters especially gave credit to Grant. “I’ve never met a coach who advocates for his players the way he does,” Masters said. “He loves each and every one of us and tried to help all of us become the best we can be. I know he’s been involved in different coaches' boards and I’m sure he pushed my names into whatever conversations he could.” Grant reciprocates those feeling admiring Masters for his grit and character. “As a player, it’s his toughness,” Grant said. “Nothing pulls him out of his element. As a person, his selfless humble nature. He’s always thinking about others and is never looking for any type of personal recognition.” Grant is not alone in his appreciation of Masters. Longtime friend and teammate Ethan Vandament praises Masters on his altruistic style of play. CAPTION CONTINUED IN COMMENTS
    00
    SECOND TEAM ALL-STATE: The Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association has named McCallum baseball class of 2021 third baseman Jacob Masters second-team all-state. Masters was one of two Knights selected for an all-state honor. Teammate Trinidad De la Garza was selected third team as a shortstop. This honor will add to Masters list of season accolades including a first-team all-district selection and The Austin Area Senior All-Star game defensive MVP. “It definitely means a lot, it’s something I never thought would happen,” Masters said. “To me, it shows how amazing my coaches, teammates, and family are.” Head baseball coach Brandon Grant believes this selection is very rightfully merited. “He compiled quite impressive stats on offense but I believe it was ultimately his defense that lead to the selection,” Grant said. “He fielded 1.000% at third base which is one of the toughest positions on the field to play.” While Masters led the team in fielding percentage, ended the season with a batting average of over .400 and hit 3 home runs, he attributes his success to not just his performance on the field but his support system. “My family, friends and coaches are the people that make me love playing the game. Winning this recognition or any is award is always something I attribute to them and their support.” Masters especially gave credit to Grant. “I’ve never met a coach who advocates for his players the way he does,” Masters said. “He loves each and every one of us and tried to help all of us become the best we can be. I know he’s been involved in different coaches' boards and I’m sure he pushed my names into whatever conversations he could.” Grant reciprocates those feeling admiring Masters for his grit and character. “As a player, it’s his toughness,” Grant said. “Nothing pulls him out of his element. As a person, his selfless humble nature. He’s always thinking about others and is never looking for any type of personal recognition.” Grant is not alone in his appreciation of Masters. Longtime friend and teammate Ethan Vandament praises Masters on his altruistic style of play. CAPTION CONTINUED IN COMMENTS