Submitted by Michelle Read, Student Activities Department
Imagine waking up early Saturday morning, getting dressed as pirates, kings, queens, or even mystical fairies. That is exactly how students prepared for the Lone Star Challenge competition.
Dressed in costumes to represent this year’s theme, IMAGINE, over 600 elementary school students across 80 Dallas ISD campuses showed up in teams of nine to compete in the annual scholastic extravaganza. A four-event competition, the Lone Star Challenge tests participant’s knowledge in literature, social studies, science, and math.
“The Lone Star Challenge helps young students cultivate teamwork and lays a strong foundation for their future success,” said Erika Guzman-Escobedo, Student Activities coordinator. “This year’s contest was a testament to the talent, creativity, and spirit of Dallas ISD elementary students and teachers.”
Students embraced the competition with gusto, incorporating elements of characters, settings, and themes into their attire and displays from the imaginative tales they studied during the school year.
During the competition, students also participated in a parade of costumes and themed signs. An annual fan favorite, the parade added a vibrant and festive atmosphere to the academic rigor. Popular costumes this year were Peter Pan, Captain Hook, and the Lost Boys. As the event concluded, awards were given to the schools with the highest cumulative points from the four academic events. Along with the academic awards, schools received special recognition for best-themed costumes and banners.
Award highlights for Dallas ISD schools are below.
Group A top schools:
- First place: William B. Travis Academy/Vanguard for the Academically Talented and Gifted
- Second place: George Bannerman Dealey Montessori Academy
Group B top schools:
- First place: Louise Wolff Kahn Elementary School
- Second place: Solar Preparatory School for Boys
- Third place: Celestino Mauricio Soto Jr. Elementary School
