News Briefs

Travis band’s 2nd-place finish a first for district Second place is not a bad place to be, especially when the competition is between the top honor bands from schools in 28 regions across the state. In the case of William B. Travis Vanguard/Academy, its second-place win in the Texas State Honor Band Competition is a first for the district. “No other Dallas ISD band has ever placed or won the honor band competition,” said Randy McCann, band director at Travis. “This is a great achievement, and I would like to thank the students for all their hard work. Thanks also…

Throwback Thursday with early photos from DallasISD Superintendent Mike Miles

Felix G. Botello Elementary teacher Jacqueline Martinez recently penned her thoughts in a blog written to the Dallas Morning News on the controversial new teacher compensation plan, known as the Teacher Excellence Initiative. During its rollout, the plan received criticism from various educators including some of the district’s own: teachers. These faces are the largest lifelines of the district who are ultimately charged with educating more than 160,000 students in Dallas ISD. Martinez makes no qualms about her stance. Read why she favors the new pay-for-performance structure for teachers who provide quality instruction while improving student achievement. http://www.dallasnews.com/opinion/latest-columns/20140912-unruly-teachers-disappointing.ece

Tonight is the night for the eighth-annual Dallas ISD Districtwide College and Career Fair! The college fair is free and provides many benefits to students and parents as they embark in their next chapter. Please note that all juniors and seniors need to be pre-registered with their counselors to attend. We’ll see you starting at 5:30 p.m. TONIGHT at the Ellis Davis Fieldhouse, 9191 Polk St.