Plan would create two new TAG schools in southern Dallas

A plan under consideration would create two new Talented and Gifted schools in southern Dallas.

Roger Q. Mills Elementary School and Mark Twain Leadership Vanguard would become TAG campuses under the proposal. Students who currently attend Twain and Mills elementary schools would be invited to stay and complete their elementary educations at the campuses.

Chief of School Leadership Stephanie Elizalde said the schools would increase learning opportunities in southern Dallas. There are approximately 1,800 Dallas ISD elementary students who qualify as talented and gifted but do not attend a TAG school

“These two schools would help us provide equity to families in southern Dallas,” Elizalde said.

District officials discussed the plan with Dallas ISD trustees during a Jan. 10 board briefing. Other details include:

• Mark Twain Leadership Vanguard would serve TAG students in grades 1–5. The school’s attendance zone would consolidate with Adelle Turner and John Carpenter elementary schools.
• Roger Q. Mills Elementary School would grow to serve TAG students in grades 1–8. The school’s attendance zone would consolidate with Cedar Crest Elementary School

Dallas ISD is holding public meetings at the schools to gather feedback and input on the proposals. Mark Twain Leadership Vanguard, 724 Green Cove Lane, is holding a meeting at its school on Jan. 15 at 6 p.m. Meanwhile, Mills Elementary School, 1515 Lynn Haven Ave., is holding a meeting at its school on Jan. 15 at 6 p.m.

Trustees will consider approving the plan at its Jan. 24 board meeting.