Programs at Mark Twain
Mark Twain offers a wide variety of academic, enrichment, leadership, arts, and extracurricular programs designed to help every student discover new interests, build confidence, and grow beyond the classroom.
Explore the programs below to learn more about the opportunities available to our Twain Tigers.
Dual Language
Mark Twain's Two-Way Dual Language Program brings together native English and native Spanish speakers in a bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural learning environment. Students develop academic proficiency in both languages while building global awareness and a lifelong appreciation for diverse cultures.
International Baccalaureate
As an authorized International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, Mark Twain's Primary Years Programme (PYP) inspires students to become curious, compassionate, and globally minded learners through inquiry-based instruction, critical thinking, and meaningful real-world connections.
Kathleen Blakeslee – IB Coordinator
Makerspace
Located inside the Mark Twain Library, the Makerspace provides students with hands-on opportunities to design, build, and create using numerous 3D printers and innovative technology. Through inquiry-based projects, the Makerspace supports our International Baccalaureate (IB) program by encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and real-world problem solving..
Safety Patrol
Mark Twain's Safety Patrol is comprised of dedicated fourth and fifth grade students who serve as leaders within our school community. Students earn this privilege by successfully passing a safety quiz and committing to arrive early each morning to assist with arrival and dismissal. Their responsibilities include raising and lowering the American flag, assisting students at designated crosswalks with safety flags, and helping keep our campus clean and welcoming. Through their service, Safety Patrol members develop leadership, responsibility, teamwork, and valuable time management skills.
UIL
University Interscholastic League academic programs allow students to represent Mark Twain in a variety of competitive events that celebrate knowledge, creativity, communication, and teamwork.
Track Team
Mark Twain's Track Team gives students in 3rd through 5th grade the opportunity to develop speed, endurance, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Team members are selected through fall tryouts and proudly represent Mark Twain by competing in several track meets throughout the school year. The program encourages students to challenge themselves, build confidence, and demonstrate perseverance both on and off the track.
Art A La Carte
Art A La Carte is a parent-led enrichment program that brings famous artists, art history, and hands-on creative projects into the classroom. Supporting Mark Twain's International Baccalaureate program, students explore cultures and artistic styles from around the world while developing creativity and critical thinking. No art experience is required for parent volunteers. Volunteers receive the lesson plans, visual materials, and project supplies needed to lead each classroom experience with confidence.
K – 2: Maggie Dundon
3 – 5: Lynn Coleman
Spelling Bee
The Spelling Bee helps students strengthen vocabulary, improve spelling skills, build confidence, and participate in a fun academic competition.
Garden
The Mark Twain Garden serves as our outdoor science classroom, where students participate in hands-on lessons led by Dr. Stacey Grunke. Featuring native, sustainable, and edible plants, the garden inspires inquiry while teaching students about ecosystems, nature, and environmental stewardship.
Strings
Students can learn violin or cello through Mark Twain's Strings Program with instruction offered during and after the school day. Musicians build their skills through private and group lessons while performing in concerts, recitals, festivals, and other special school events throughout the year.
Classes
Private lessons are 30 minutes once a week during the school day. Group lessons are 40 minutes once a week directly after school. Classes generally start during the 2nd week of school.
Cost
The cost for private and group instruction is $750 for the entire year.
Elizabeth Cabral – Strings Director
Name That Book
Name That Book is a fun, team-based reading competition that encourages students to explore outstanding children's literature. Participants read a selected book list throughout the year and work together to identify titles and authors during district competitions, building a lifelong love of reading and teamwork.
