Inside Dallas ISD

For as long as Adamson High School senior Elias Calixto can remember, education has always been his main focus in life. While some students prioritized friends or other interests, Calixto prioritized textbooks. “My parents came to this country with nothing but the clothes on their backs,” Calixto said. “My mom knows from experience the importance of education, she taught me the value and power a textbook can have.” Calixto is a first-generation high school graduate and valedictorian of his class at Adamson High School. Ever since he received a ranking of number one during his sophomore year, Calixto realized that…

Dallas ISD honors valedictorians and salutatorians for the Class of 2020 at each high school. With four years of hard work and commitment, these stellar seniors are bestowed with the prestigious honor of holding the highest and second highest ranks, respectively, among their graduating class. These outstanding and well-rounded students embody an impressive breadth of knowledge and have shown exceptional academic prowess, proving there is no achievement beyond reach. The No. 1 and No. 2 spots are traditionally the most coveted for seniors and is an accomplishment to celebrate as they advance to their next chapter in life. Dallas ISD celebrated its…

On his eleventh birthday, IDEA senior Rafael Martinez was diagnosed with an eye disorder that causes vision loss. The condition, which is called Stargardt, today severely impacts his central vision, while his peripheral vision is stronger. Despite the obstacle, Martinez has thrived in school and this year served as drum major for the band at Wilmer-Hutchins High School. Next year, Martinez will attend Prairie View A&M University and be a future member of the legendary Marching Storm. “I have an eye condition, but honestly, it has never been something that has stopped me from moving forward,” Martinez told fellow student…

The 2019-2020 school year is officially coming to a close, but in Dallas ISD, learning is a year round practice. This school year has challenged the Special Education Department, families, and students to think differently and look for improved systems for learning.  From working with new leadership in the department to shifting to At-Home Learning (AHL) and teletherapy; from discussing the installation of cameras in all special education classrooms, to working with parents on virtual Parent Academies. To help keep this momentum going over the summer,  families of students with disabilities are encouraged to stay connected by checking their emails…