*Sponsored post*

DONT USE EDITORIAL - DISD AD PHOTO

At Dallas ISD, our every effort is focused on preparing students for success.

A way to help students prepare for a bright future is exposing them to innovative programs and career pathways. Dallas ISD offers students a variety of opportunities to explore, based on their needs, skills and interests.

Some of the specialized programs offered at District 1 schools include:

  • Kramer Elementary School is an International Baccalaureate School. The program offers students a challenging academic environment that creates active, lifelong learners with an international mindset.
  • Both high schools in District 1, Thomas Jefferson and T. White, offer collegiate academies though a partnership with Brookhaven College. The academies enable students to earn up to 60 hours of college credit, tuition free, while still in high school.
  • George Bannerman Dealey Montessori Vanguard and International Academy. Through Montessori programs, students have the freedom to choose how they learn while nurturing independence, social harmony and love of learning.
  • Students at Nathan Adams Elementary and P. Caillet Elementary school have an opportunity to master two languages through the Two-Way Dual Language program. Spanish and English language instruction in every classroom teaches students to read, write and think in two languages, increasing their career options and lifetime earnings.

These programs offer a wide variety of options to help parents find the right school for their children.

I understand how important it is for parents to choose not only the campus, but the educational program that best fits the needs and interests of their children. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you begin the search for the right school:

  1. Consider your neighborhood school: When researching school options, start with the schools in your neighborhood. Our neighborhood schools are deeply rooted in Dallas tradition and history and offer well-rounded academic offerings, fine arts and sports programs.
  2. Consider a school or program of choice: You can find a list of the programs by school here.
  3. Review enrollment guide: This enrollment guide provides a comprehensive overview of all of our campuses, including academic and extracurricular program offerings, before- and after-school programs, state assessment ratings, location, contact information and enrollment criteria.
  4. Schedule a campus visit: After reviewing the enrollment guide, schedule a visit to the campuses that have captured your interest. Contact the school directly to schedule a tour, meet the principal, and visit classrooms.
  5. Prepare for Enrollment: Once you have selected a campus for your child, follow the enrollment steps and requirements.

Mark your calendar for an application workshop to take place on Tuesday, Jan. 16, from 6 to 8 p.m., at Thomas Jefferson High School, 4001 Walnut Hill Lane. You will be able to receive on-site assistance to complete your child’s application for a specialty school. Additional workshops will take place throughout January. Click here for more information.

On another topic, I would like to congratulate the Anne Frank Elementary School’s girls basketball team for their stellar season. The team posted a near-perfect record at 7-1 and earned the title of Area Champions even though the nine girls started the season as beginners. Congratulations!

And last but not least, Dallas ISD’s Food and Child Nutrition Services Department will offer students 18 years and under (or special needs students up to age 21), free meals during the winter break. The program aims at providing students nutritious meals even during their vacation. Meals will be served Friday, Dec. 22 and Tuesday, Jan. 2 through Friday, Jan. 5, with a morning snack from 8 to 9 a.m. and lunch from 11 a.m. to noon. Click here for the list of participating schools.

Happy holidays to all!

DONT US EDITORIALLY - DISD AD PHOTO

Edwin Flores

—Edwin Flores is the District 1 representative on the Dallas ISD Board of Trustees.