Welcome back, District 1, to a new year at Dallas ISD. I hope you all had a restful and healthy winter break. As our students head back to their classes, the district will continue to offer the current educational models of on-campus and virtual learning for students, based on parent preference. For students attending schools, the district will continue to follow extensive safety protocols.

Additionally, in order to increase safety on our campuses and further protect our staff and children, Dallas ISD is working with Dallas County Health and Human Services and Parkland Hospital to secure COVID-19 vaccines for staff who are eligible for vaccination in Phase 1B, which includes individuals who are 65 and older, as well as those affected by serious chronic medical conditions. As vaccinations become more widely available, the priority will be to vaccinate campus staff and those who work directly with students.

Dallas ISD shares transformation and innovation plan with its communities

On Jan. 11, I had the opportunity to hold a virtual meeting with the District 1 community to discuss the district’s Transformation and Innovation Strategic Plan to expand magnet, choice and other specialty schools in our district. I believe it is important to listen to parents and neighbors on how to provide every student with a “best-fit” school that matches their specific interests, aspirations and preferred learning styles.

Don’t forget that Jan. 31 is the deadline to apply to any of the district’s choice schools or programs. Likewise, many neighborhood schools are pursuing new and exciting programs that will increase school choice in families’ back yards. To learn more about the district’s programs and how to apply, visit the Choose Dallas ISD website, both in English and Spanish.

The largest STEM EXPO in Texas will be virtual this year

On Saturday, Jan. 23, Dallas ISD will host its annual STEM EXPO, which will be held virtually this year due to the pandemic. The free Expo will bring families together to explore, design, build and let their creativity loose. Exhibits will include activities and championships for elementary, middle and high school students and parents. To register for the EXPO, visit www.dallasisd.org/stemexpo.

Financial Aid applications for college are open

Dallas ISD students who wish to apply for financial aid to go to college still have time to fill out their applications. For priority consideration, the deadline is Jan. 15, but the deadline to apply for federal funds is June 30.

For students needing assistance with their application process, Dallas ISD has provided College Access advisors at high school campuses to provide one-on-one virtual completion sessions. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with your school’s advisor.

January is Board Recognition Month

As part of School Board Recognition Month, I would like to recognize my fellow trustees who work with me at the Dallas ISD Board of Trustees. As board members, we not only create policies for public schools, but also serve as a link between the community and the district. It is an honor to work with my fellow trustees to improve the lives and education of our students at Dallas ISD!

Stay up-to-date with district news by following us on social media @Dallasisd and @dallasisdEspanol.

DONT US EDITORIALLY - DISD AD PHOTO

Dallas ISD Trustee
Edwin Flores, District 1