Inside Dallas ISD

In 47 years of serving Dallas ISD Food & Child Nutrition Services, Brenda Jackson can count on one hand how many days she’s missed work—just one. In an era where job-hopping is the norm, her colleagues still marvel at her reliability, because for Jackson, the job was never just about serving meals—it was about serving people. This past December, Jackson—who was the food service assistant at Maria Luna Food Service Facility—hung up her apron one final time. Her story with the district began in 1978 at two schools, the now defunct Pearl C. Anderson Middle Learning Center and David Crockett…

Youngsun Choi is a 2025 recipient of the Dallas Education Foundation Heart of Teaching Grant. Through the grant program, the foundation recognizes outstanding educators, such as Choi, who is using art and inclusive activities to support student growth and strengthen her school community. Choi is the functional living instructor at Zan Wesley Holmes Jr. Middle School, where she has been a special education teacher for 10 years. “I love this population of students,” Choi said. “My goal is to continue building an inclusive campus culture and school community and to help students feel valued.” Before entering education, Choi studied fashion…

During National School Counseling Week, Dallas ISD recognizes educators who support students’ academic success while nurturing their social and emotional well-being.  At Frank Guzick Elementary School, counselor Elizabeth Reed-Smith is creating a student-centered program that helps young learners understand their emotions and build confidence. After nearly 20 years in the classroom, first as a teacher and then as a librarian, Reed-Smith is now in her first year as a school counselor. As a veteran educator, she brings both experience and a modern perspective to the profession. “My success this year is because of a strong and encouraging school community,” she…

Candace Balderas-Miller is one of the few female athletic coordinators in the district, leading the Hillcrest High School Athletic Department with a vision of opportunity, wellness, and athletic success for all students.  Overseeing 18 sports programs, she leads by example as a lifelong learner, inspiring the next generation of student-athletes, especially young girls, finding their place in sports. “Sometimes when we think of sports, especially because it is male-dominated, girls may feel like it’s not a place for them,” she said. “I hope that when any student sees me or interacts with me, they become open to new possibilities, because…