News Briefs

Gulf Coast Educators Federal Credit Union named Akash Patel, a Spanish teacher at Ignite Middle School, as its 2021 Appreciated Teacher of the Year. The award comes with a $2,500 grand prize, which was given to Patel in his classroom. In addition to being an outstanding teacher, Patel also founded Happy World Foundation, a global citizenship nonprofit that connects educators around the world.

Students are taking ownership of their own learning as part of a growing initiative in Dallas ISD.  As part of the Assessment for Learning effort, students are able to describe what they are learning, why they are learning it, and how they will be successful in real time. “We are helping teachers and students become equal partners in teaching and learning by increasing the opportunities for students to become agentic,” said Kierstan Barbee, Dallas ISD Assessment for Learning coordinator. “When students become self-directed learners, we see increased student achievement, engagement, and empowerment in the learning process.” For a better idea…

Dallas ISD Athletics will host their first softball academy beginning on May 25. The softball academy will be open to Dallas ISD students in grade 3-6.  The Academy will be held from 6-8 p.m. on different campuses and at the Forester Softball Complex on specified dates. Students K-2 will have an opportunity to participate on May 25 and June 16 from 4:30-6 p.m. at the Forester Softball Complex. Students K-2 must have a parent present the entire time.  The Academy will last five weeks and will be held on four Tuesday nights and one Wednesday night, June 16, the last night…

To prepare students for the rigor of Advanced Placement coursework, Advanced Academic Services is sponsoring an AP Summer Boot Camp for any student enrolled in AP Biology, AP Calculus AB, AP English Language, and AP Human Geography for the 2021-22 school year. Students will build on writing and math skills, develop content knowledge, and develop a greater understanding of the AP exam. With each session, students will learn time management, study skills, and practical note-taking. The AP Summer Boot Camp will be held virtually. Students who attend AP Summer Boot Camp will receive a backpack with supplies, test prep workbooks,…