'You pulled off a monumental task': District leaders thank operations staff who leapt to action after Oct. 20 storm

Dallas ISD Superintendent Michael Hinojosa joined other district leaders in personally thanking the maintenance, facilities and operations workers who made it possible for students to return to class just two days after their campuses were seriously damaged by the Oct. 20 tornados.

https://thehub.dallasisd.org/2019/10/22/maintenance-and-facilities-workers-are-unsung-heroes-of-storms-aftermath/

The hardworking and dedicated operations employees worked around-the-clock to create and implement 38 new bus routes within 24 hours; deliver more than 3,000 breakfasts and lunches to new locations; and transform two district buildings into welcoming schools for students and staff displaced from Walnut Hill Elementary School and Thomas Jefferson High School, while also clearing debris from multiple other schools.

Here is some of what district leaders shared with the operations employees at the luncheon:

Superintendent Michael Hinojosa

“You all pulled off a monumental task, and it was inspirational to watch you work. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. You pulled it off, and we could not have done this without you.”

Deputy Superintendent of Operations Scott Layne

“I’d like to say I’m surprised. But I know most of y’all in this room, and I’m never surprised at how you step up and get the job done.”

Chief of School Leadership Stephanie Elizalde

“You will never understand how important it was for our kids and families to return to a safe place with familiar faces, and you made that happen. Tough times don’t last, but people like you do.”

Executive Director of Maintenance and Facility Services David Bates

“I appreciate how every department stepped up and supported each other. Your work is noticed, not just in the city, but across the state. People cannot believe how you were able to pull this off.”