Finley P. is discovering a love for reading. “It relaxes me to read,” he said. “My mom and I read before bed every night.”  A second-grader at Jesus Moroles Expressive Arts Vanguard, Finley was introduced to the world of books at his school’s library. Every month, his class goes to the library to listen to a story read aloud–and handpicked by their eighth-grade buddy.  Known as the Book Buddy Program, the idea was inspired by Adam Benoit, librarian at Moroles, and Madeline Whitacre, an eighth grade reading teacher. The two wanted to find a way to foster a love of…

“When I’m up there, I think, ‘let them do what they do, and just play,’” said Ki’Zydreeck F., who juggles the roles of both cheerleader and band member at South Oak Cliff High School. “I get a little scared every time, but once I’m lifted, I know I can’t mess it up.” Strapped with a nearly 20-pound drum, these thoughts run through the sophomore’s head as he’s hoisted several feet in the air by his cheer squad. Then, in a slow cadence, his teammates spin him in a circle while he plays. Typically, Ki’Zydreeck is a base cheerleader and plays…

The Dallas ISD Police Department is helping parents and students make the most of their trick-or-treating adventures while keeping safety a top priority. Below are their top five tips for a fun-filled and safe evening: Trick-or-treating is safer, not to mention more fun, in groups. Kids under age 12 should be joined by adults for trick-or-treating. Get together with other adults and make an evening of it. Bring cellphones for quick pictures and emergencies, but leave them in your pockets to avoid getting distracted. Slow down and be alert. Kids are excited on Halloween and may dart into the street…

Written by Aileen C., Dallas Education Foundation Social Media and Marketing Intern Last March, the library at Hillcrest High School was buzzing with students – this time not reading books, but instead displaying their original creations for Texas Art Education Association Big Art Day. Karleen Hesselbacher, art teacher at Hillcrest High School, used her Heart of Teaching grant, to bring back the ceramics program for Hillcrest and give students creative opportunities to showcase their art. Terrence Florie, the principal at Hillcrest High School, wanted to restart the ceramics program since the COVID-19 pandemic, and with support from the Dallas Education Foundation,…