Dear Cedars International Next Generation High School Community,
Next week is Spotlight on Students Week, and we invite you to join us in celebrating the incredible work of our students! Throughout the week, students will be presenting their projects, and we encourage you to attend and support them. A schedule of presentations will be shared via email, so be sure to check your inbox. Our doors are open for you to come and see your student’s presentation and explore the outstanding work happening across all classes.
🎉 Big News for Cedars International Academy! 🎉
We are excited to announce that Cedars International Academy: Public School Charter has been approved for another 10 years! 🎉 CIA has been a charter school for 25 years, providing innovative and student-centered education. A huge thank you to our Superintendent, Dr. Leslie Sparacello, for writing an exceptional renewal application, ensuring that Cedars International Academy continues to thrive. This is a fantastic milestone for our school community!
🎉 Student & Teacher Recognitions 🎉
👏 Congratulations to Daniela Ortiz for being selected by our teachers as Raptor of the Month for Respect! Daniela is an active Student Council member and an exceptional group member who is highly sought after by her peers for project collaborations. Additionally, Daniela is an ACC student taking multiple Dual Credit courses for both high school and college credit. Way to go, Daniela!
💡 I take great pride in celebrating student achievements, but I also want to recognize our extraordinary team of teachers. This week, I am incredibly proud to highlight Ms. Sarah DiMaria, who was recently recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and awarded the 2021 Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching! After nearly four years of waiting since being named a finalist, she has finally received this well-earned and well-deserved national honor. At Cedars International Academy, you can expect the highest quality educators supporting our students every day. Congratulations, Ms. DiMaria! 🎉
⚽ Athletics & Upcoming Events
🏆 Our young men’s soccer team played their first match on February 8, and we are incredibly proud of their effort and teamwork! Their next game is on Thursday, February 13, at 6:45 PM at KIPP Paseo Field—let’s show up and cheer them on!
📚 Our 10th-grade Sophomores represented CINGHS at the 2025 Central Texas History Day competition this past Saturday. Thank you to Mrs. Acevedo and Ms. King for sponsoring this enriching experience!
🎮 Game Night is happening on Friday, February 14—join us for a fun-filled evening with friends and community!
📢 Important School Updates
📢 Be on the lookout for the CINGHS Monthly Newsletter! This newsletter contains all the highlights and important information to keep you updated on what’s happening each month. Inside this issue, you’ll find a very important survey. We are always striving to improve our educational environment and school community, and your feedback is essential. Let us know your thoughts on how this school year has been so far!
🚨 Reminder: Monday, February 17, is no longer a student holiday. Due to the recent bad weather day, it will now be a regular school day for all students.
📢 Open Enrollment is Underway!
We are welcoming new students and families to Cedars International Academy and Cedars International Next Generation High School! We are looking for students and families who want a personalized learning experience in an engaging, high-performing school environment.
🚀 Exciting News for Next Year!
We are launching several career and college pathways in partnership with ACC for Freshmen through Seniors! These programs will provide students with valuable career training and college credit opportunities.
📣 Help Us Spread the Word!
If you love being part of the CINGHS community, please share our school with friends and neighbors who may be looking for a great school! Word of mouth from our amazing families helps us grow and continue providing high-quality education and unique learning experiences.
Thank you for your ongoing support of our students and school community. We look forward to seeing you throughout Spotlight on Students Week!
Best,
Steven Zipkes
Principal, Cedars International Next Generation High School