Inside Dallas ISD

W.H. Adamson Athletic Coordinator Josh Ragsdale said he wanted one young man from every high school athletic program in Dallas to take the pledge against domestic violence. By the end of the project’s first year, his players asked, “Why just Dallas, why not more?” “This isn’t just an ‘athlete’ problem we have in regards to domestic violence,” Ragsdale said. “People everywhere love sports. They love watching sports. And we that compete in a sport have a platform we can utilize to spread such an important message that could potentially save a life.” Football programs across the district embraced the efforts, posting…

Almost everyone who knows Preston Hollow Elementary teacher Leanne Woods says she has a gift for teaching students with Down syndrome. Principal Tom Brandt describes her as a teacher of boundless energy who applies tough love to get her special needs students to grow when other teachers might give up. “Ms. Woods’ ability to connect with and address each student’s unique talents and specific needs is absolutely incredible,” he said. Parents echo the sentiment. Celina Abeyta-Barry, whose son is one of Woods’ students, says the veteran special education teacher is “kind and loving yet firm and determined.” Woods also takes…

At Charles A. Gill Elementary School, teachers and school leadership encourage as many parents to be as involved as possible. MySchool is a Hub feature that spotlights a different Dallas ISD school each week. Watch the above video to learn more about the good things happening Gill Elementary.

Amber Harris, owner of Mockingbird Lane Bridal Boutique, knows how much teenagers want to look and feel good during their homecoming dance. Harris spends much of her week helping brides, bridesmaids, and women preparing for a formal event pick out the dress that is perfect for them. Knowing the power of the perfect dress, Mockingbird Bridal donated approximately 150 dresses to Sunset High School students with the hopes of making their homecoming memories a little sweeter. “When you wear a beautiful dress, you feel great about yourself and it helps build your confidence,” Harris said. “We were excited to be able…