From the classroom to campus administration, Jimmie Tyler Brashear Elementary School emphasizes leadership development at every level. The school earned an overall academic score of 88 from the Texas Education Agency by focusing on schoolwide collaboration. At Brashear, academic success begins the moment students walk through the school doors. Each morning, they are greeted by the principal, Sonja Barnes, and teacher assistants.. Barnes welcomes students with a swarm of bubbles, creating a friendly environment that sets the tone for the day. “I believe that as teachers, we should approach our work with joy and intention, making school an exciting place…
Author: Jirah Fleming
Devon Fortson, head wrestling coach at Justin F. Kimball High School, built a championship program rooted in unity. A former student-athlete and Kimball alumnus, Fortson dedicated nearly four decades to wrestling and is now making history. In recognition of his lasting influence on students and the wrestling community, he will be inducted into the 2026 Texas High School Wrestling Coaches Association Hall of Honor. “When I found out about the honor, I was reminded how everything happens in due time,” he said. “In due time, you’ll get your flowers—you’ll get your reward for the hard work you do. I’m glad…
Simone Chandler, maestra de ciencias en Young Women’s STEAM Academy at Balch Springs y graduada de Dallas ISD, atribuye su temprana exposición a las ciencias a haber moldeado su carrera en la educación y su camino para ser dentista. Ahora, está preparando a la próxima generación para que sean niñas resilientes e inquisitivas. Celebrado el 11 de febrero, el Día Internacional de la Mujer y la Niña en la Ciencia destaca la importancia de motivar a las jóvenes a buscar la innovación, el descubrimiento y el liderazgo en las ciencias, la tecnología, la ingeniería y las matemáticas. La conmemoración también…
Simone Chandler, a science teacher at Young Women’s STEAM Academy at Balch Springs and Dallas ISD graduate, credits her early exposure to science for shaping her career in education and her journey toward becoming a dentist. Now, she is preparing the next generation to be resilient and inquisitive girls. Celebrated on Feb. 11, International Day of Women and Girls in Science highlights the importance of encouraging young women to pursue innovation, discovery, and leadership in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The observance also recognizes learning environments, such as the STEAM Academy, that promote equity and opportunity in science education. Chandler…
Durante la Semana Nacional de la Consejería Escolar, Dallas ISD reconoce a los educadores que propician el éxito académico de los estudiantes apoyando su bienestar social y emocional. En Frank Guzick Elementary School, la consejera Elizabeth Reed-Smith ha creado un programa para los estudiantes que los ayuda a comprender sus emociones y sentirse más confiados. Luego de casi 20 años en el salón, primero como maestra y luego como bibliotecaria, Reed-Smith ahora está en su primer año como consejera. Con tantos años de experiencia, aporta lo aprendido y una perspectiva moderna a la profesión. “Mi éxito este año se debe…
Youngsun Choi is a 2025 recipient of the Dallas Education Foundation Heart of Teaching Grant. Through the grant program, the foundation recognizes outstanding educators, such as Choi, who is using art and inclusive activities to support student growth and strengthen her school community. Choi is the functional living instructor at Zan Wesley Holmes Jr. Middle School, where she has been a special education teacher for 10 years. “I love this population of students,” Choi said. “My goal is to continue building an inclusive campus culture and school community and to help students feel valued.” Before entering education, Choi studied fashion…
During National School Counseling Week, Dallas ISD recognizes educators who support students’ academic success while nurturing their social and emotional well-being. At Frank Guzick Elementary School, counselor Elizabeth Reed-Smith is creating a student-centered program that helps young learners understand their emotions and build confidence. After nearly 20 years in the classroom, first as a teacher and then as a librarian, Reed-Smith is now in her first year as a school counselor. As a veteran educator, she brings both experience and a modern perspective to the profession. “My success this year is because of a strong and encouraging school community,” she…
Candace Balderas-Miller is one of the few female athletic coordinators in the district, leading the Hillcrest High School Athletic Department with a vision of opportunity, wellness, and athletic success for all students. Overseeing 18 sports programs, she leads by example as a lifelong learner, inspiring the next generation of student-athletes, especially young girls, finding their place in sports. “Sometimes when we think of sports, especially because it is male-dominated, girls may feel like it’s not a place for them,” she said. “I hope that when any student sees me or interacts with me, they become open to new possibilities, because…
At Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Arts Academy, the theater department is growing its creative force. Ramad Carter, the school’s theater teacher, is drawing from his artistry and lifelong passion for education to prepare the next generation of actors to become authentic, expressive, and compassionate performers. Carter studied theater in New York City, where he earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dramatic Acting at The New School in 2017. While there, he trained in acting, directing, and playwriting while also performing professionally throughout the city. Even while pursuing his artist career, Carter continued to teach. During his time in…
Ocho jóvenes oradores exhibirán sus talentos durante la 34.ª competencia anual de oratoria MLK, patrocinada por Foley & Laudner LLP y Dallas ISD. Y sus auspiciadores estarán ahí con ellos, apoyando su discurso como lo han hecho todo el año. La competencia, establecida en 1993, se celebra cada año cerca del Día de Martin Luther King Jr. para alentar a la comunidad a recordar el legado del líder de los derechos civiles. La competencia empezará a las 11 a.m. el 16 de enero en el Dee and Charles Wyly Theater del AT&T Performing Arts Center. Quienes no puedan asistir en…