Event honors the role of parents in boosting student achievement

Parents of Dallas ISD students were celebrated at a special event on Wednesday, May 18, for the roles they play in supporting their children’s educations.

The All-Star Parents celebration was for parents across the district.

Keynote speaker Deborah Ferguson, the morning news anchor from NBC 5, said it was the support she received in a public school system and from her mom that kept her dreams – formed early – of becoming a broadcast journalist. She marked 25 years at the station this year.

She quoted Dallas ISD student Dalton Sherman in a speech he delivered to district staff eight years ago: “Do you believe in me?” she asked. “Do you believe in your children to dream big dreams and get that education?”

Ferguson also encouraged parents who still want to complete their own educations that it’s never too late. “Never stop believing in you,” she said.

Superintendent Michael Hinojosa told parents that they are an important part of student achievement. “We could not do what we do without you,” he told parents.

Trustee Bernadette Nutall, a district parent herself, thanked parents for all the effort they put into supporting children.

Dr. Cynthia Wilson, Dallas ISD Chief of Staff, served as emcee.

Elsa Pennell, director of the Dallas ISD Office of Family and Community Engagement, recognized campuses for parent engagement – 86 made the list for Exemplary Parent Engagement – and announced individual awards for campuses and staff that have attained a high level of parental engagement. Pennell's office coordinated the event.

The program included performances by the Sunset High School Jazz Ensemble. More than 100 exhibitors representing Dallas ISD and community organizations offered resources to parents at the event, which was conducted at Centennial Hall at Fair Park.