News Briefs

Students from Dallas ISD’s Young Women’s STEAM Academy at Balch Springs Middle School recently got to tour the inner workings at an Amazon Fulfillment Center in Fort Worth. “Camp Amazon” allowed students to see the building, learn about coding and how the company uses robots and other technology. Students were amazed at the sheer size of the building, and of some of the large-scale robots in use there. “All the students in here have a love for math and science, and when we look at that, math and science helps you with problem-solving,” said Tony Vozzolo, general manager of the…

Shelly Thibodaux, a P.E. teacher and coach at Dallas ISD’s Robert T. Hill Middle School, is October’s “Excellent Educator.” The award included a $1,000 check for the school, presented by SMU President Dr. R. Gerald Turner. The Excellent Educator program is coordinated by NBC 5 and SMU to honor educators in the region who go above and beyond. Learn more about how Thibodaux makes a positive difference for students at Hill Middle School here.

New teachers are invited to Touchdown for Teachers on Saturday, Oct. 27, at the SMU football game. The first 500 teachers to register here can claim two complimentary tickets to the game, which starts at 2:30 p.m. A free tailgating party begins at noon and will feature food, drinks and entertainment along with a brief message of encouragement from distinguished Dallas ISD teacher Shareefah Mason, who teaches U.S. Government, AP Government and Economics at New Tech High School. During the halftime program, Dallas ISD teachers Matthew Abernathy and Melisa Simon will be recognized as “Rising Stars.” Abernathy is an Algebra 2…

Leanne Woods is the second recipient of a quarterly $250 recognition provided to outstanding special education teachers by Carter Financial Management. Recipients can use the funds to spend on items for their classrooms. Parents, community and staff are encouraged to identify nominees that demonstrate qualities of a distinguished special education teacher, setting high standards and demonstrating commitment for improving outcomes for students who receive special education services in Dallas ISD. Woods is a specialized programs teacher at Preston Hollow Elementary.  She was nominated by an administrator, parent and colleague. Below are some of the comments that were made during the nomination.…