The board of trustees received a quarterly update on Mendez Middle School's partnership with Third Future under the district's 1882 agreement. Staff and school leaders reported projected enrollment numbers for the incoming year and described program adjustments for adding sixth grade.

Zach Craddock, identified as chief executive officer for the partner organization, and Principal Elizabeth Miranda and Assistant Principal Marie Lipsey provided a recorded presentation with supporting data. School leaders said they hosted tours from Y. Dane, Langford, Houston and Rodriguez elementary schools. Projected incoming sixth-grade enrollment was 182 students; seventh grade 116 and eighth grade 103 for a total projected enrollment of 401. School leaders said they would budget more conservatively at 350 students for planning purposes.

Trustees asked whether students projected to enroll had registered through the district's ECST/Enroll Austin platform; leaders confirmed the 182 sixth-graders were registered in that system. Staff said the school has not historically served sixth grade and that the program has been adjusted to accommodate the additional grade level. Adjustments described included expanding the dyad program, reconfiguring spaces and adding offerings such as band.

The school and district staff proposed additional parent engagement in July, including two or three town halls before back-to-school night on July 31. Trustees and staff discussed the board's role in supporting transitions and the importance of communication with families to set clear expectations.

No formal board action was taken on the update.