Inside Dallas ISD

Construction is beginning at the first of 47 schools set to receive $143.3 million in science lab expansions and heating system improvements funded by the district’s sale of Qualified School Construction Bonds. The $26.2 million in science lab upgrades will benefit 26 of 37 district middle schools, bringing them into compliance with TEA science instruction requirements, and enabling more students to engage in hands-on science experiments and lab projects. The sale of Qualified School Construction Bonds is allowed under federal and state law for improvements to existing school district facilities. Essentially a loan of federal funds which must be repaid…

Imagine 2020 is the district’s strategic feeder pattern initiative to accelerate student achievement. The goal is to promote college- and career-readiness for every student. This year, the South Oak Cliff High School feeder pattern joined the original 21 schools from the Lincoln, James Madison and L.G. Pinkston feeder patterns as part of Imagine 2020, an important element of Destination 2020. Community engagement is a key component of the initiative, and recently principals and staff from the 12 schools in the SOC feeder pattern devoted part of their weekend to participate in a community resources fair conducted in connection with the…

Dallas ISD’s drive to recruit 5,000 volunteer literacy tutors to improve student reading skills will culminate in a Volunteer Signing Day event at 6:30 p.m. tomorrow, Wed., Oct. 29, in the Underground Room at South Side on Lamar, 1409 S. Lamar St. The search is on for civic-minded citizens from all walks of life willing to devote one hour per week to tutor struggling readers in district elementary schools. The need exists in all geographic areas of the city, so chances are no matter where you live or work, a nearby school has students who need your help. Research shows…

Did you know October is National Principals Recognition Month? All across the country, citizens are finding creative ways to show their appreciation to their school instructional leaders. There’s even a video contest  for schools that want to show and tell the world how great their principal is. Governor Rick Perry has issued a proclamation declaring October Principals Recognition Month in Texas. It thanks principals for serving as “educational leaders, disciplinarians, community builders, spokesmen, budget analysts, and guardians of policy mandates and initiatives.” Many students, parents and citizens would agree that we have 227 of the country’s greatest school leaders right…