Inside Dallas ISD

From adopting new curricula to administration changes, Sunset High School continues to evolve, but two teachers –  Valarie Nichols and Stephanie Blankenship – are a constant source of support to students, and have been, for more than three decades. As English teachers, they are committed to encouraging students to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential.   “Adapting to changes has been challenging, especially with the increasing emphasis on standardized tests,” Nichols said. As Nichols reflects on becoming campus “Teacher of the Year” and being recognized in “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers,” she says her proudest accomplishments extend beyond accolades. Blankenship…

A torn ACL injury her junior year in high school inspired Bianca Broughton to become an athletic trainer. It was her high school athletic trainer who helped her with rehabilitation and therapy and that’s what sparked her interest.  Now, Broughton, an athletic trainer at Moisés E. Molina High School, is paying it forward with her students.  “One of my favorite things is having the opportunity to mentor the kids that we have on campus– to show them that they can go into the world and do bigger and better things,” she said.  In fact, Broughton inspired some of her past…

From adopting new curricula to administration changes, Sunset High School continues to evolve, but two teachers –  Valarie Nichols and Stephanie Blankenship – are a constant source of support to students, and have been, for more than three decades. As English teachers, they are committed to encouraging students to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential.   “Adapting to changes has been challenging, especially with the increasing emphasis on standardized tests,” Nichols said. As Nichols reflects on becoming campus “Teacher of the Year” and being recognized in “Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers,” she says her proudest accomplishments extend beyond accolades. Blankenship…

Fifth-grade students, representing 33 campuses, had the opportunity to share their hearts through words at a recent districtwide poetry slam competition at Skyline High School. The competition brought students together for the chance to be this year’s poetry slam champions as well as win scholarships. The Reading Language Arts Department partnered with the Roland Parrish Foundation, which funded the $10,000 in scholarships, to make the competition happen. First place went to Iker I. from Felix G. Botello Personalized Learning Elementary School, second place went to Max R. from William B. Travis Academy/Vanguard for the Academically Talented and Gifted, and third…