Dallas ISD continues legacy of excellence with first day of 2026-2027 school year

Students at Victor H. Hexter Elementary School started the new school year in a newly renovated campus. 

“I think it is just using the maximum potential for students to grow in the space and helping them discover who they want to be,” said Melinda Smith, principal.

On the first day of school, Smith, along with the rest of the Hexter community, welcomed Superintendent Stephanie S. Elizalde to showcase the $30 million investment, made possible by the 2020 bond program. 

“It is an honor to have the superintendent here, and I think it shows that this is thanks to 70 years of legacy in a community that continues to advocate for this school,” Smith said. 

Creating learning environments where students feel connected to their schools remains central to the district's work, Elizalde said. 

“The best way kids learn is that they love school and they love their facilities,” Elizalde said. “Kids need to love where they go to school. They need to love their teachers. And we have to create that environment that is safe both physically and psychologically and is comfortable.”

Dallas ISD is welcoming nearly 132,000 students back for the 2026–2027 school year. With this year’s theme, "the legacy continues,” the district is building on generations of learning, growth, and community while creating new opportunities for students across the district.