MARLO MALOTT 

Principal Marlo Malott — 2024–2025 AISD Principal of the Year
Principal Marlo Malott has proudly led O. Henry Middle School since May 2017. A dedicated educator with nearly three decades of experience, she was recently honored as the 2024–2025 Austin ISD Principal of the Year for her visionary leadership and commitment to student success.

Ms. Malott holds a Bachelor of Science in Applied Learning and Development from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master’s Degree from Texas State University. Her career in education began as the Public Programs Coordinator at the Austin Nature Center, where she sparked curiosity and a love for learning outside the traditional classroom. She went on to teach Science and English in Grapevine-Colleyville and Hays CISD, where she also served as department chair and coach. Over the years, she has served as an Instructional Specialist, Assistant Principal, Academic Dean, and Academy Director, building a strong foundation in instructional leadership.

Though she grew up across the country, Ms. Malott has called Texas home since 1982. Outside of school, she is passionate about service learning, photography, travel, hiking, swimming, and spending time outdoors with her two adult children and her dog.

 

Welcome Back Mustangs! 

August 5, 2024
Dear Mustang Families,

Welcome back to another exciting school year at O. Henry Middle School! As we launch into the 2024–2025 academic year, I can’t wait to see our campus come alive with the energy, enthusiasm, and promise of our Mustangs. Our staff officially returns this Thursday, and already this week we are welcoming our newest students at Transition Camp (Tuesday & Wednesday) and our adult Mustangs at Mustang 101 on Wednesday night—don’t miss it!

This year, we proudly embrace the theme: “Tell Our Story” through Mustang Pride, with a focus on developing core traits that help our students thrive—Responsibility, Choice, Accountability, Initiative, and Resourcefulness.

Middle school is a pivotal time, when students begin to discover who they are and how they learn. Our mission is to guide them through these important years with care, high expectations, and a deep belief in their potential. Here's how we'll approach that:

• Responsibility: Empowering students to take ownership of their learning, actions, and goals.

• Choice: Helping students understand the power of thoughtful decision-making and the ripple effect of those choices.

• Accountability: Building a strong sense of integrity and follow-through.

• Initiative: Encouraging students to lead, ask questions, and take risks in a supportive environment.

• Resourcefulness: Equipping them with the confidence and creativity to navigate challenges in an ever-changing world.

Throughout the year, we’ll spotlight these values while celebrating everything that makes O. Henry special—academic excellence, vibrant arts, fierce athletics, strong community, and above all, a spirit of resilience and Mustang Pride.

I’m also honored to share that I have been named the 2024–2025 Austin ISD Principal of the Year. This recognition belongs to all of us—our incredible students, dedicated staff, and supportive families. It reflects the strength of our community and the meaningful work we do together every day.

We have a fantastic year ahead, filled with opportunities for learning, leadership, and connection. Your partnership means the world to us—thank you for entrusting us with your child’s education.

Look for our first Pony Express, the weekly newsletter, in your inbox this Sunday, August 11th, at 5:30 p.m. It’s your go-to for important updates, upcoming events, and a window into the life of our school.

Here’s to a joyful, connected, and impactful year. Let’s make 2024–2025 unforgettable—together.

With Mustang Pride,
Marlo Malott

Principal Coffee — Question and Answer Sessions

Come meet with the principal to discuss all the latest happenings at O. Henry Middle School. Meetings will provide a great forum for informal Q&A with other parents and Principal Marlo Malott.

Principal Coffee Dates:

Thursday, August 22nd

Thursday, October 10th

Thursday, November 7th (Google Meets)

Thursday, December 5th