Kyria Hart knows what it’s like to be underestimated. A graduate of Dr. L.G. Pinkston Sr. High School and native of west Dallas, she said adults had preconceived notions based on her background.  “Those moments stuck with me, and they planted a seed,” Hart said. “I wanted to become the kind of educator who saw students for their potential, their strengths, and their dreams. Not the stereotypes placed on them or the zip code where they live.” As a teacher, her goal was to provide a safe space for students that encouraged them to be successful while making learning fun.…

Through the American Indian Education Program, Leah Y., a Sunset High School senior, brings her Comanche culture to life, sharing traditions and stories with her community. Recently, she created a display board and presented at the district’s Indigenous Peoples’ Day Fair, deepening her knowledge of her tribe’s history and values.  “I learned a lot through the program, like how we used to live before technology and outside influences affected our way of life. It’s important being in AIEP because we’re a really unique group. There aren’t a lot of us, so it means something to the community
to be a strong…

At Maria Moreno STEAM Academy, students can be seen playing chess, building robots, and using toy cars in their lessons. From hands-on experiments to creative art projects, every lesson is designed to spark innovation and connect learning to real-world experiences, helping students understand how science, technology, engineering, art, and math are part of everyday life. Being part of a STEAM school means that every day offers a new opportunity to explore how the world works. “We get to test a lot of materials and make sure we stay safe while doing it,” said Ellie T., a fifth grader. “I learn…

In Otto M. Fridia Elementary School’s innovation lab, fourth graders aren’t just playing pretend; they’re diagnosing patients, fitting casts, and discovering medical careers. “We plan to use the lab as a part of our strategy to create an environment where curiosity drives the lesson,” Christofor Stephens, principal, said. “Students will walk in excited, and walk out talking about what they experienced. It gives them space to take risks, try new ideas, and see learning come alive in ways that are hands-on, joyful, and meaningful.” Through a partnership with United to Learn and STEMscapes Collab & Play Spaces, the lab invites…