Mariah T. has been lighting up the dance stage for as long as she can remember, a passion that grows daily as a senior at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts.While working toward her dream of becoming a professional dancer, her dedication to dance is complemented by an exploration of her culture.As secretary of the Black Student Union (BSU) and co-producer of her school’s African American Heritage Festival, Mariah has become a voice for other young Black students and dancers.“Everyone’s a star in their own way because they bring something different to the table,” Mariah…

Dallas ISD’s acclaimed student-hosted television shows, “School Zone Dallas” and “Zona Escolar de Dallas,” are returning after nearly a decade. Each episode of “School Zone Dallas” and “Zona Escolar de Dallas” (“School Zone Dallas” in Spanish) will provide an insider’s perspective on different Dallas ISD campuses and programs. “School Zone Dallas” will air on NBC at 5 p.m. on Saturdays starting Feb. 3. The Spanish version, “Zona Escolar de Dallas,” is set to air on Telemundo every Saturday in March, but will be live on Dallas ISD’s YouTube channel beginning Feb. 3. Originally premiering in October 2002, the show quickly…

Students at Wilmer-Hutchins High School are learning how to be self-sufficient gentlemen through the school’s new Esquire Club. Teaching beyond lessons in a traditional classroom setting, the Esquire Club imparts life skills to students through various engaging workshops and activities. Led by Head Assistant Basketball Coach Mauldin, students learn practical skills such as tying a tie, changing a tire, excelling in interviews, and financial planning. “Mr. Mauldin told me he had something brewing to help change the lives of the young men at Hutch who may not have the guidance back at home,” Brayden B., Wilmer-Hutchins senior, said. “So far,…

The ringing of a cash register isn’t a typical sound heard in an elementary school, but at Victor H. Hexter Elementary School, students are learning how to run and operate their own store. Known as “Hexter Market,” students in Heidi Zeko’s Functional Living Skills (FLS) class take on the role of shopkeeper. Recognizing the diverse abilities of her students, Zeko tailors tasks to each individual’s strengths, ensuring an inclusive and engaging experience. Adorned in blue, custom-made aprons, students help customers choose a snack, each priced at only $1. “They’ll work in shifts to greet customers, ask what they want, and…