Enrichment Programming

In order to further academic achievement and deepen subject interest, an Enrichment Block has been implemented in the 2nd – 5th grades. These blocks take place twice a week for forty-five minutes each, during which teachers facilitate various cross-curricular activities, academic research, long-term projects, and interest studies that are completed independently or in teams. These activities usually extend multiple weeks in duration and require activation of previous and current knowledge and skills, use of technology, independent study, and collaborative and presentation skills, causing them to apply what has been learned to real-world applications, evaluation, and creative processes. 

The SOAAR Program (Student Opportunities for Academic Accelerated Rigor) at St. Austin is designed to address the needs of high-achieving learners. The program meets the needs of these students through accredited Gifted and Talented curriculum implementation, STEM projects, affective learning, and career/special interest projects and products. Students participating in the SOAAR program will demonstrate skills in self-directed learning, thinking, research, and communication as evidenced by the development of innovative products and performances within the program. These products and performances reflect individuality and creativity and are advanced in relation to curricular expectations of students of similar age, experience, or environment.  

Students who transfer to St. Austin and received Gifted and Talented services from other districts will be required to submit their most recent test scores for review prior to admittance into the SOAAR program.

DECATS (DeBusk Enrichment Center for Academically Talented Scholars) Austin, formerly known as Austin DEEP, is a three-week program that occurs in June to provide exciting opportunities for gifted students. DECATS was formed through the financial generosity of Mr. Manuel DeBusk and DeBusk Foundation in 1994. There are operating camps in Houston, Dallas, Sugarland, Tyler, and Austin. DECATS was brought to the Austin area in 2008 and is supported by the Diocese of Austin. This course is a tiered approach to help Scholars learn more about themselves as they enhance their leadership and critical thinking skills. The mission of DECATS Austin is to provide a fulfilling enrichment experience to all Catholic school students enrolled in grades 3-5 who qualify.

To qualify, students must score in the 95th percentile on standardized achievement tests in any area, in multiple areas, or as an average score overall.
On average, 40% of St. Austin students qualify for DECATS.

Each fall, seventh-grade students who score in the 95th percentile or above in at least one major sub-test of the Iowa Assessment achievement tests are eligible for Duke University's TIP (Talent Identification Program). This program allows students to take the SAT or ACT as seventh graders and also provides opportunities for further study in their area of strength. Each winter, fourth and fifth-grade students are also identified using the same criteria to provide extension opportunities in their area of strength as well. On average, 25% - 30% of St. Austin 7th graders qualify for Duke TIP.

The Student Council is made up of the President, Vice President, and Secretary (grades 7/8) and Advisory Representatives from each grade (5-8) who serve as servant leaders for the MS student body.  They meet monthly throughout the school year with an occasional commitment outside of school hours. Their main duties include leading and planning and running school socials, dances, pep rallies, spirit competitions, and other community events.  Officers are elected by the full student body in the spring for the following year; Advisory Representatives are elected by their advisory groups in the fall.