From the cheers at school entrances to the excitement in the community’s voices, Dallas ISD’s first day of the 2025-2026 school year began with a celebration of legacy, excellence, and innovation.
Across the district, more than 140,000 students returned to classrooms, greeted by principals, educators, community members, and special guests ready to set the tone for the year.
At Albert C. Black Jr. STEAM Academy, the school’s namesake, Albert C. Black Jr., addressed students and teachers, sharing his hopes for the year ahead.
“We are so proud of you. When a plan manifests as nice as this one has, you’ve got to be extremely proud,” he said. “Let’s be nothing short of their superheroes, reminding them of how much they’re loved and cared for every day, because that’s what it takes to be a success.”
He was joined by his wife, Gwyneith Black, Superintendent Stephanie S. Elizalde, Ed.D., principal, Torian Stencer, Board of Trustees President Joe Carreon, District 5 Trustee Byron Sanders, and Tiffany Clark, District 13 representative for the State Department of Education.
“Today marks the beginning of countless possibilities for students to grow, for them to learn and to discover their unending potential,” Elizalde said. “This year will be marked by excellence, innovation, and legacy.
Meanwhile, the Dallas Mavericks brought excitement to Royce West Leadership Academy and Adelle Turner Elementary School. Ethan Casson, president of the Mavericks, visited Adelle Turner, encouraging students for the year ahead.
Dallas ISD started the school year with encouraging milestones:
- 99.4% teacher positions filled—the highest rate since 2014, with only 59 vacancies.
- Nearly 12,000 teacher applications, a district record.
- More than 93% of schools rated A, B, or C in State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, or STAAR, results, with 72% earning A or B.
“These numbers reflect the collective commitment to student success and to overcoming challenges,” Elizalde said. “Progress has been made, and we know there is still more to do.”
