An Nov. 3, Dallas voters approved two Dallas ISD bond propositions totaling nearly $3.5 billion to fund repairs and upgrades to more than 200 campuses and cover the cost of purchasing and updating technology in the district. I have met, and will continue to meet with, the communities of different schools, such as Everette L. DeGolyer and Marcus elementary schools, to discuss how to align their exciting new programs with the construction of their new campuses.
Regarding technology, after providing computer devices and hotspots to over 33,000 Dallas ISD families, the district is now shifting its focus to longer-term home internet solutions for families who need it the most. To achieve this, the district will first work with commercial internet providers to install wireline services in the homes of low-income families, with financial support from the Texas Education Agency. Further, the Board of Trustees has approved the construction of five Dallas ISD-owned cellular networks for the school communities with the highest need, significantly reducing our long-term costs. These are just the first steps toward ensuring that every student in Dallas ISD has access to reliable internet to continue their studies.
Three District 1 schools receive Innovation Engine Grant funds
As part of Dallas ISD’s Innovation Engine Grant program, 21 Dallas ISD neighborhood schools received $50,000 to support campus innovation and increase school choice offerings. These projects will plant seeds of innovation throughout the district and expand choice options for Dallas ISD families. In the case of District 1, I am pleased to announce that John J. Pershing, Herbert Marcus and Everette L. DeGolyer elementary schools have received funds to pursue projects for the benefit of their students.
Magnet Schools Application Initiative to hold community conversations
During December and January, the Department of Centralized Enrollment and Magnet Programs and the Racial Equity Office (REO) will be hosting community conversations designed to assist interested students and families with navigating the application process and learning about the new platform Choose Dallas ISD, a one-stop application system that will make it easier for families to find the best-fit school for their child.
These virtual meetings will be held at 6 to 8 p.m. on December 17, and on January 12, 14, 19 and 21. Participants have to register at www.dallasisd.org/racialequity.
Meals will continue to be provided during the Christmas break
Dallas ISD will continue to offer curbside meal pickup for our students over the Christmas break. On Dec. 21 and 28, the district’s Food and Child Nutrition Services department will be distributing a week’s worth of meals at selected locations. In addition to this, on those days, Dallas ISD families will also receive a 30-pound Farmers-to-Families food box, with enough food to feed a family of four for one week. Be sure to visit the website of Dallas ISD Food and Child Nutrition Services for the delivery times and a list of the participating schools.
Finally, I would like to take a moment to wish happy holidays to all District 1 families. Certainly, 2020 has been a hard year for our district and our community; however, it is during this kind of situation that we get to witness the strength and solidarity within our community and our district. Let us reflect on the lessons that we have learned during this year and look forward to what 2021 will bring to all of us.
Stay up-to-date with district news by following us on social media @Dallasisd and @dallasisdEspanol.
Edwin Flores, Trustee District 1
