News Briefs

District employees may request reimbursement for a reasonable amount of office supply costs, to include toner, printer cartridges, and paper, incurred while working from home during the Extended Emergency Leave. Employees are advised to obtain approval from their supervisor prior to making any purchase. Note that only consumable office supply costs are eligible for reimbursement. Office equipment, home/office furniture, and services including phone and internet whether for home or mobile are not eligible for reimbursement under this reimbursement plan.  This office supply costs reimbursement option will be open to employees indefinitely as long as the Extended Emergency Leave is in…

AVID Spirit Week ended with AVID Virtual Senior Signing Day on May 1, National Signing College Day, with the Better Make Room campaign. More than 12 high schools participated, with a total of over 300 seniors participating and sharing their college decision. Parents participated and principals, AVID teachers and counselors gave words of encouragement and advice. A few campuses also had cheerleaders and dancers perform as a warm welcome. Each senior had the opportunity to share  their college decision, scholarships earned and give thanks to all who had supported them throughout their education. College decision signs, balloons, and décor were…

As we move into May, the Special Education Department is continuing to  provide a variety of services, resources and events for students with disabilities and their families. During this month, students are encouraged to enjoy virtual experiences such as visits to the Dallas Museum of Art (May 8), Yosemite National Park (May 15) and the United States’ Capitol (May 18).   Students, families, and teachers also have access to Facebook Live chats on topics such as how to transition into adulthood or how to support siblings with disabilities. In addition, parents and teachers can participate in a series of webinars on…

The stress of working from home, juggling family responsibilities, and managing the instruction of students and your own children is enough to challenge anyone’s well-being says Dr. Lenora Ivy, a school psychologist with Dallas ISD Psychological and Social Services.  “Everyone is affected by COVID-19 in some way—mentally, emotionally, financially, or physically,” she says. To manage the stress, Ivy, who has authored an easy-to-read book with coping strategies, offers the following advice: Be gracious with yourself, your students, and others, because we are all under a lot of stress. Keep in mind that everyone copes differently, and it’s okay if you…