When Esmeralda C. decided to travel more than 5,000 miles to Rome, Italy, and study Italian Language and Culture, she never expected it to be one of the most surreal and fulfilling experiences she has had.  Along with nine other students from Irma Lerma Rangel Young Women’s Leadership School, Esmeralda ventured abroad to explore leadership and build global connections through international study. “Spending four weeks in Italy gave me the opportunity to build a strong sense of community with the locals,” she said. “Hearing the daily ‘ciao’ at coffee shops, restaurants, and from neighbors, conversations with my host family at…

Submitted by Emily Davis, Dallas Education Foundation  This summer, 70 Dallas ISD high school students stepped into hospitals, tech labs, and business incubators, not as visitors, but as future professionals. Through the Dallas ISD Career and Technical Education Learn & Earn Summer Camps, students had the chance to explore future careers, learn from professionals, obtain industry-recognized credentials, and earn a weekly stipend for their hard work.  From pitching business ideas to exploring hospital wings and coding alongside industry pros, students gained hands-on experience and a glimpse into the careers that await them. At Vitals Camp, hosted by Methodist Dallas Medical…

Written by Dariana Albarran, Communication Services junior associate. Dallas ISD is committed to preparing students for success well into their future with early college programs. For the 2024-2025 school year, more than 8,500 students enrolled in pathways and technology or early college programs across 26 campuses, the highest enrollment in district history. “It’s a memorable experience because throughout the year, you are grouped with the same people. You become very familiar with everyone, and it’s almost like a family,” said Stephanie G., a recent Dallas ISD graduate and P-TECH student. “You get to see everyone grow from ninth to 12th,…

Once content behind the scenes, Angel C. found his spotlight the moment he strummed an acoustic guitar. When the rising senior at Emmet J. Conrad High School picked up the instrument in 2022, his fingers found a connection with the strings as soon as they met. Angel may not have seen it, but the guitar had bigger plans for him. This seamless relationship was on full display earlier this year when Angel competed in the Texas State Solo and Ensemble Contest. In a competition featuring over 100,000 high school students showcasing their musical talents, Angel and his guitar took home…