Approximately $2.1 million in college tuition savings. That is the amount Dallas ISD minority students saved in college tuition costs by passing one or more Advanced Placement (AP) exams last May. This group of students led the nation in the number of qualifying scores on AP exams in subjects such as math, science and English. “We know of no other large urban district in the country that has even half the results Dallas has with respect to the percentage of their minority students passing AP math and science exams,” said Gregg Fleisher, Chief Academic Officer of the National Math and…

The Dallas Business Journal has named Dallas Independent School District Chief Financial Officer Dr. James Terry, CPA, Government CFO of the Year, an award that distinguishes North Texas’ financial professionals “whose demonstrated commitment to their respective companies’ financial best practices, accounting standards and success as a strategic visionary set them apart.” Under Terry’s direction, the Dallas ISD was able to double the district’s general fund, secure funding for major renovation to district schools, and improve its Moody’s bond rating from AA- to AA as well as its S&P rating for financial management from regular to strong.   According to an…

Five students who have been kept home while under observation after coming in contact with the first U.S. Ebola patient will soon return to school. The district has taken additional steps to address some of the psychosocial needs to calm any remaining fears. “One of the messages we have for everyone is practice good hygiene,” said Connie Rodriguez, director of psychological and social services. Connie Rodriguez heads the district’s Psychological and Social Services department. She says everyone must continue to use “common sense” behaviors. Methods such as washing your hands, covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing and staying home…

Four of five Dallas ISD students who have been cleared by health authorities to resume regular activities following an exposure to the Ebola virus returned to school this morning, one day earlier than expected. The students were cleared at midnight to resume normal activities. They had been advised to come back to school tomorrow, Oct. 21. The district learned this morning of the students’ intentions after they arrived at school. “While we had planned on them coming back to school Tuesday, they were obviously eager to return back to the school environment and decided on their own to attend,” said…