The AlumNow series showcases former students’ post-graduation successes.
We recently caught up with Anastasia Reed who is the current Director of Digital Communication at Dallas ISD. Read about her educational journey at Dallas ISD and how artistic exploration and expression helped shape her passion for communication, below:
What high school did you graduate from and what year did you graduate?Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in 2008.What are your responsibilities as director?
As the director of digital communication for Dallas ISD, I am responsible for developing and implementing effective digital communication strategies to enhance the online presence and digital footprint of the district. My team works hard to produce engaging and compelling content that resonates with our different audiences. We work year-round to provide accurate, timely and engaging content on our digital channels. We strive to be the first and the best at telling Dallas ISD stories.
What are some career or personal highlights/accomplishments?
I have had the most incredible and life-changing experiences in the communications field over the last 12 years. I am most proud of the work I have done in public service. Previously, I was a Senior Public Affairs Officer for the 9th largest city in the country, my hometown, Dallas Texas. While there I led the City’s first digital team, aided in multiple emergency activations including the COVID-19 pandemic, and served as the media representative for the organization. I am honored to continue serving my hometown in my capacity at Dallas ISD. Working in my hometown fosters a deep sense of connection, rootedness, and fulfillment in both my career and personal life. As a proud Pleasant Grove native, I am forever grateful for the opportunity to contribute directly and give back to the place that helped shape who I am today.
What made your Dallas ISD education unique?
My educational journey was heavily shaped by my acceptance to Harry Stone Montessori in the 3rd grade. It was there that garnered an interest in playing the piano. I eventually studied at Booker T. as a classical pianist. Although I did not continue with a career in music, I had the educational foundation needed to excel in college, my professional career and life at Booker T.
I was encouraged to explore my creativity, take risks and express my unique perspectives. I developed essential skills that extend beyond the arts that I continue to use in my life. Because of my Dallas ISD education, I am creative, I think critically I am a problem-solver and I am able to communicate effectively. All of these skill sets were cultivated through artistic exploration and expression.
Who was your favorite Dallas ISD teacher or what was your favorite course, and why?
The Montessori experience was very beneficial for me as a student. I had the freedom to choose my activities and work at my own pace. I will always appreciate and remember my piano teacher, Mr. Brown, for encouraging me to pursue piano. I am also appreciative of my 8th-grade social studies teacher Ms. Capshaw. She gave an extra credit assignment to watch and review the State of the Union that year. That assignment gave me my first glimpse of how interesting the interworkings of our government could be and that curiosity still exists in me today.
What advice, if any, would you offer to students who are interested in your career field?The communications field is an exciting career choice, but it’s important to remember that any form of communication requires basic skills you learn during your K-12 years of education. Lead with kindness and remember that you can learn from anyone, at any age, at any point in your life.
