Inside Dallas ISD

On a special day in first grade at H.S. Thompson STEAM Academy the cafeteria didn’t feel like a cafeteria at all.  The stage was framed by balloons and a colorful backdrop. Children arrived dressed as princesses, princes, and storybook characters. Then, to a chorus of excited whispers, Cinderella and Prince Charming walked in, took their seats on stage, and began to read aloud. This wasn’t a district initiative; it was the vision of Carrie Bhasin, a volunteer who  is one of Thompson Academy’s most dedicated advocates. Bhasin also represents one of thousands of volunteers in Dallas ISD whose contributions and…

At Personalized Learning Preparatory at J.W. Ray Learning Center, art teacher Carla Renteria is transforming plastic trash into a powerful lesson on ocean conservation and giving her students a platform in the Dallas art world along the way. Renteria, founder of Artful Young Minds, spent the past year leading third through eighth graders in an ambitious weaving project that blends environmental science, cultural tradition, and contemporary art. The installation, created with upcycled plastic bags on large cardboard looms, is inspired by Mayan weaving techniques and a documentary her students watched called Our Oceans. Rentería’s lessons are on topic for April…

For students at South Oak Cliff High School, planning for life after graduation begins with the guidance of the counseling team.  Leading this effort is Gala Smith, a school counselor who is setting the tone for a collaborative and compassionate environment that supports students.    Smith understands firsthand what it takes to guide students toward their goals. She has served as a high school counselor at SOC for six years and credits much of her success to the strength of her team.   “Counselors are patient, caring, and they have consideration for others,” she said. “We have great leadership skills and the…

The next generation of philanthropists can be found at Dallas ISD, thanks to the Common Cents Pennies from the Heart Program, which guides students as they raise funds to support various organizations. As students donate what they raise, they are strengthening their community by supporting nonprofits whose missions may reflect their own lived experiences and the causes closest to their hearts.    This year, 200 students across 21 schools participated in the program coordinated by the Family and Community Engagement Department.  Founded by Louise Gartner in 1998, the initiative has grown into a lasting philanthropic effort, expanding its impact through its…