News Briefs

Written by Michelle Read, Student Activities Department Dallas ISD students reached new heights at the 2026 Urban Debate National Championship, a weekend defined by intellectual rigor and high-stakes advocacy. Held at Harvard University, the tournament brought together 22 urban debate leagues across the United States. For the first time in the history of the Dallas Urban Debate Alliance partnership, a Dallas team advanced to the finals of this prestigious policy debate tournament. Competing in policy debate rounds that demand deep research and logic, Javier V. and Caleb J. from Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy at A. Maceo Smith, completed ten…

Dallas ISD students will have the chance to engage in rigorous, engaging, and culturally responsive debate instruction in Spanish thanks to a recent grant from the Texas Bar Foundation. As part of its 2026 summer programming, the Debate en Español initiative at Emmett J. Conrad High School makes it possible for middle and high schoolers to dive into rigorous, Spanish-language debate instruction. The Debate en Español program will follow a World Schools-style format and offer both middle school and high school instructional labs. Students will build skills in critical thinking, public speaking, research, and civic engagement, while also developing legal…

Submitted by the Student Activities Department In Dallas ISD, the University Interscholastic League is more than a series of academic contests; it is a vertical climb.  This rigorous academic pipeline transforms curious students into elite competitors, proving that academics is a championship sport. “Students need a place where they feel successful and where they can make themselves and their parents proud. I believe we provide that with our UIL programs,” Michelle Read, Student Activities coordinator, said. The path to success begins in the elementary classroom, where UIL is about discovery and learning how to compete. This year’s elementary competition saw…

Three schools celebrated for State Championship wins At Dallas ISD Board of Trustees meeting on April 23, 2026, three high school basketball teams were recognized for their historic season. The following schools were honored for becoming 2026 state champions and  bringing home the gold: James Madison High School: 3A Division  David W. Carter High School: 4A Division II  Justin F. Kimball High School: 4A Division I  These students serve as a testament to the dedication, teamwork, and spirit that define the district’s student-athletes. Below are highlights from the April 9 Board Briefing.  More students are earning certifications and credentials District…