Dallas ISD is investing in training future educators with two innovative programs. First, the District is implementing a new principal residency program to allow prospective principals to work alongside an experienced assigned mentor in the position. Through this one-year experience, applicants receive hands-on practice and tailored, in-the-moment feedback. Additionally, residents meet once a month to learn and deliver content. This will ensure that our future principals come into the job fully prepared for the challenges ahead.
Likewise, we want to attract people passionate about contributing to student success by providing a free pathway to becoming teachers. Through the District’s Alternative Certification Program, anyone with a college degree can get a free teaching certification in six critical areas: Core subjects with Science of Teaching Reading, bilingual education, special education, math, science and English Language Arts (ELA). Applicants will receive free program fees and tuition, high-quality professional development, guaranteed employment in Dallas ISD, and ongoing program support. To apply or to obtain more information, applicants need to visit http://www.dallasisd.org/altcert.
Black History Month
February is Black History Month, and in Dallas ISD, we are excited to celebrate the rich history, stories and achievements of this community centered around the theme “Legacy”. Throughout this month, we will have many academic and cultural activities to learn and celebrate the accomplishments of African Americans and their central role in U.S. history. For more information about Dallas ISD Black History Month activities, visit www.dallasisd.org/blackhistorymonth.
Changes in District 1 because of the redistricting process
As part of the political redistricting process approved by Dallas ISD’s Board of Trustees at the end of last year, District 1 had some changes. Although we are sad to see George Bannerman Dealey Montessori Academy, Arthur Kramer Elementary School and John J. Pershing Elementary School go to District 2, we are happy to welcome Stephen C. Foster Elementary School back to the District 1 family.
As you know, this redistricting is carried out every 10 years to ensure equal representation in each district based on the shifts in population trends as measured by the decennial federal census. A multitude of meetings and town halls were held in District 1 and across the district for the final decision to ensure that the community’s voice had an input in the final map.
One welcome and one farewell
I would like to welcome Beth Wing as the new principal at W.T. White High School. Last year, as you may remember, George B. Dealey Montessori Academy under Principal Wing’s leadership was ranked among the top 100 elementary and middle schools in Texas – including being named the fourth-best middle school in the state. I am excited to have her on board, and I’m sure she will excel in this new assignment at W.T. White.
Finally, I would like to thank Supt. Michael Hinojosa for his 13-year tenure as superintendent of Dallas ISD. As you probably know by now, he announced earlier this month that he’ll be leaving the District by the end of 2022. I have worked closely with him over the years, and I have witnessed his honest and steadfast commitment to making our District one of the leading districts in the country. Although Dr. Hinojosa will be missed, I am sure his successor will carry on his legacy and keep making Dallas ISD a district we can all be proud of.
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Dallas ISD Trustee
Edwin Flores, District 1
