Aiden A., a junior at David W. Carter High School, has always been a fighter, but he never imagined it would lead him to the top of the Texas boxing scene. At just 13 years old, Aiden stepped into the ring for the first time—not out of passion, but necessity.  “I was always getting in trouble for fighting before I started,” he said. “So, on my very first day in the gym, my dad made me spar, and I’ve loved it since then.” Now 17, Aiden trains six days a week at Maple Ave Boxing Gym under the watchful eye…

Written by Aileen C., Dallas Education Foundation Social Media and Marketing Intern Dallas Education Foundation is partnering with Walmart, donating $25,000 to support Dallas ISD’s middle school athletics and the district’s Educator of the Year program.  This gift will directly benefit students at 29 middle schools across the school district, providing them with brand-new athletic equipment.  “We are deeply appreciative of Walmart’s commitment to our teachers and students that will make a real impact on daily classroom experiences and ensure that sports are accessible to all,” said Tom Brandt, executive director of Hillcrest Vertical Team. “By addressing the specific needs…

Whether they are in pre-K or high school, a high five, a handshake, a fist bump, or even a simple wave can make all the difference when students enter the classroom. Two Dallas ISD teachers have harnessed the power of the greeting to establish strong relationships with their students and help them succeed. Dipcianet Galan, a teacher at Wilmer-Hutchins Elementary School, greets her 3-year-old students at the door of her classroom every morning. She asks them to pick from four different greetings and reviews the letter of the day with them, in Spanish or English, depending on her students’ language.…

Dallas ISD is making progress toward resetting its five-year priorities.  Nearly 700 people participated in Community Listening Events, which were hosted by the Board of Trustees to facilitate conversations and get community input for the direction of the district. Throughout October and November, 16 events were held throughout the city, both in person, and virtually. And, during the meetings, attendees were given a survey with a series of questions regarding student knowledge and abilities. Stakeholders also had the opportunity to give their input online.  Nearly 600 people took the survey, with the highest percentage coming from Dallas ISD students. According…