Inside Dallas ISD

For many, one of the simplest, but most fulfilling, pleasures in life is reading.  There is no greater enjoyment than inhabiting universes that arose out of someone else’s imagination, entertaining ideas of men and women long gone, and learning new information that expands knowledge of the world. Libraries are where these new worlds are readily available.  In honor of School Library Month, celebrated in April, librarians are encouraged to host activities that reinforce the vital role that school libraries play in empowering learning. Thanks to changes in schools, such as the device-free policy, foot traffic in libraries has increased, and…

Great leaders often anchor their actions in core values that will help bring out the best in themselves and those around them. Cassie White Rodriguez, assistant principal at Buckner Terrace Montessori, leads by example, fostering a culture that inspires both teaching and learning through resilience, collaboration, and compassion.  The week of April 6-10 is National Assistant Principal Week, recognizing the contributions these campus leaders make to learning and the school environment every day.  White Rodriguez’s path to education began in her own childhood when school became a safe haven.   “I had teachers who believed in me and made school interesting,”…

On an unusually cold Thursday morning in March, Seagoville High School students and team members filed onto the soccer field after morning announcements.  With a field bathed in sunlight, the anticipation of spring break in the air, and music blasting from a sound speaker, they all got ready for the kickoff of the first ever soccer match between staff and student athletes.  Headed up by teachers Yennifer Reyes, Daniel Seelig, and Jennifer Wallens, the soccer match raised funds for Link Crew, a program that pairs up freshmen with upperclassmen who can help them navigate the high school experience.  The proceeds…

Written by Michelle Read, Student Activities Department Dallas ISD is celebrating a high school student who was recently named a finalist for the National Association for Urban Debate Leagues Debater of the Year award. The Urban Debate National Debater of the Year Award is a coveted honor given to a high school urban debater who exemplifies competitive excellence and the impact debate has had on their lives. In her submission, Alaysha C., a student at Sunset High School, described debate as more than an extracurricular activity. “Debate didn’t just teach me how to make arguments,” she said. “It taught me…