Support from valuable partners has helped position Dallas ISD as an innovative leader in public education.
From implementing outdoor learning spaces and supporting personalized learning efforts–to helping fund innovative school ideas–Dallas ISD has received nearly $23 million in grants to support innovative efforts.
“Dallas ISD is at the forefront of adopting forward-thinking school models and programs that equip students with tools they need to succeed in the 21st century and beyond,” said Angie Gaylord, deputy chief of transformation and innovation. “And support from these partners are giving our students learning experiences that will grow them into the leaders of tomorrow.”
The grants include:
- The Next Generation Systems Initiative grant helped establish a culture of innovation districtwide and boosted the opportunity to design, launch and scale personalized learning schools and practices;
- The Jiv Daya Foundation’s STEP initiative provided almost every 3rd-5th grade student with their own Kindle over four years. Principals and teachers received coaching and support from Personalized Learning, School Leadership, and Jiv Daya Foundation to support year-one implementation;
- The Verizon Innovation Grant provided 1:1 technology and 24/7 access for educators and students at five middle schools;
- The SSI Community Partnership increased economic and educational opportunities for social and academic growth through intentional partnerships with the Young Men’s Leadership Academy and feeder schools;
- Math Innovation Zones provide the opportunity to scale blended learning best practices and strengthen math instruction across elementary and middle school feeder patterns;
- The New Schools Venture Fund supports teams of educators and innovators who are reimagining public education so every student finishes high school prepared and inspired to create a good life;
- The Raising Blended Learners grant from Raise Your Hand Texas provides technical assistance for blended and personalized learning schools from leaders in the field;
- The School Action Fund grant program provides the support to transform a low-performing school through the district-managed ACE program;
- Out Teach provided outdoor learning spaces at multiple campuses;
- Plano-headquartered Toyota Motor North America awarded the SMU Simmons School funding to partner with Dallas ISD to create a new school model for the West Dallas community. The partnership’s goal is to prepare students for the next generation of STEM jobs and provide them with both the expertise and innovation mindset they need to thrive.
Gaylord said she is excited to see how partnerships further support the district’s efforts to educate and train the next generation of CEOs and visionary leaders.
