While remote learning for the 2020-2021 school year starts Sept. 8, at this time, a select number of students who receive special education service–specifically students in specialized self-contained classrooms–will have the choice to either continue distance learning or return to full-time on-campus learning starting Sept. 17. Students with more severe disabilities who are usually in specialized self-contained classrooms represent approximately 25% of the 15,000 students who receive special education services in Dallas ISD. The return to full-time on-campus learning for these students will allow them to receive their accommodations, modifications, and related services as outlined in their individualized education plan…

Internet connectivity is a critical resource during the pandemic and the Internet For All coalition aims to ensure every family has access. The Internet For All coalition is made up of more than 40 community leaders including Chief Technology Officers from 9 Dallas County school districts, The Dallas Regional Chamber, City of Dallas, the Dallas Innovation Alliance and the Federal Reserve Bank. The coalition has been meeting since May to pursue short-term, medium-term and long-term strategies to ensure all students have a reliable internet connection. The “Get Connected” campaign, sponsored by Senator Royce West, will encourage students and families to…

This school year, Dallas ISD will receive a $28 million funding allocation for its teacher strategic compensation program from the Texas Education Agency (TEA). Dallas ISD was named one of only 26 districts statewide to receive approval for participation in Cohort A of the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA), which passed under House Bill 3 (HB3) in June 2019. HB3 established an optional TIA to achieve six-figure salaries for teachers who prioritize instruction in high-needs areas and rural district campuses. Under the TIA, approved districts may submit highly effective teachers for a state designation of Recognized, Exemplary, or Master, based on…

Mental health conditions impact one in six children, and that number may increase during a community crisis such as the current Covid-19 pandemic. With that in mind, Dallas ISD is ramping up efforts to provide mental health services and focus on social and emotional learning when the school year virtually starts on Sept. 8. The Dallas ISD Mental Health Services team of licensed mental health clinicians include psychologists, therapists, social workers, and psychiatrists. They work with students with challenges such as anxiety, depression and behavior concerns. The department is hiring 53 additional licensed mental health clinicians to increase services to…