Inside Dallas ISD

Starting as a teacher and leader in both high school and middle school in Dallas ISD, Miriam Gaytan has worked to make a positive impact on students’ lives. Now, in her role in Maintenance and Facility Services, she continues to bring her dedication and focus on pursuing the highest standards of excellence for the benefit of students and team members. Gaytan, currently director of operations, is a Thomas Jefferson High School graduate and an example of commitment and dedication to the community. She oversees the budget and management of 10 organizations in Maintenance and Facility Services. With an outstanding 22…

In its continued efforts to prioritize the safety of students and team members, the district conducts regular safety audits throughout the school year. The success of these audits has attracted the attention of the Texas Education Agency, which is developing a statewide vulnerability assessment. TEA teams of assessors spent a week in Dallas touring district facilities and attending meetings with Operations Division team members to determine the district’s vulnerabilities based on their 11-point assessment that then will be used by school districts across the state. “Dallas ISD volunteered to be the first in the state to have a vulnerability assessment…

Martin Osae, a middle school science teacher who teaches Carnegie Honor Mathematics at West Dallas STEM School Program at Pinkston, has been selected to be part of the steering panel for the 2028 National Assessment of Educational Progress Science Assessment Framework project. The NAEP, often referred to as “The Nation’s Report Card,” has been assessing student achievements for more than 50 years. The National Assessment Governing Board initiated a review of the NAEP Science Framework in 2021, leading to the selection of skilled people for the 2028 project. Osae, who has years of experience in science education, said he was…

Alexandria M. Cervantes, a lead MTSS Reading Interventionists, was born and raised in what she likes to call the heart of Dallas, Oak Cliff. Alexandria proudly identifies herself as a product of Dallas ISD. Having attended L.P. Cowart Elementary, W.E. Greiner Exploratory Arts Academy, and Skyline High School’s Magnet Program, she represents the district’s spirit and values. Reflecting on her educational path, she shares, “I completed my student teaching with the district in 2014 and was immediately welcomed aboard at that time.” Currently serving as a Lead MTSS Reading Interventionist at Paul L. Dunbar Learning Center, Cervantes provides support to…