Being a member of the aerial drone team at School for Talented and Gifted at Pleasant Grove is more than the opportunity to fly an aircraft – it’s a chance to meet new people. “I think the most rewarding part of joining the team is connections. I’ve been able to learn about new people and talk with them about the drone competitions and more,” said Jacob H., member of the drone team. His teammate, Estrella P., agreed. “We meet people from all around the area and are able to make alliances and share our thoughts and ideas,” she said. A…

Orlando Velazquez has two full-time jobs. He works in the front office at Anne Frank Elementary School. He is also a competitive figure skater. Growing up in Puerto Rico, Velazquez was inspired to try figure skating after watching a movie about a teenager who rose to the competitive level. “I didn’t experience winter weather, so I was amazed when my parents took me to an ice rink for the first time,” he said. He was hooked the second his blades hit the ice.  “I fell in love with it because it is like a form of art that allows me…

Driving in a Dodge Ram at the crack of dawn, Adolfo C. makes his way to his first job at Excell Electric after graduating just a few weeks ago from Bryan Adams High School. He credits owning the Dodge – his second car – to having the opportunity to explore his talents with the company as an intern. “The pay at my age was really good. I saved money to buy school supplies and even managed to buy a truck,” Adolfo said. “I’m only 17, and the fact that I have all this is incredible. I just work hard for…

Submitted by Michelle Read, Student Activities Department Imagine waking up early Saturday morning, getting dressed as pirates, kings, queens, or even mystical fairies. That is exactly how students prepared for the Lone Star Challenge competition. Dressed in costumes to represent this year’s theme, IMAGINE, over 600 elementary school students across 80 Dallas ISD campuses showed up in teams of nine to compete in the annual scholastic extravaganza. A four-event competition, the Lone Star Challenge tests participant’s knowledge in literature, social studies, science, and math. “The Lone Star Challenge helps young students cultivate teamwork and lays a strong foundation for their…