Trustee Edwin Flores: DISD Celebrates Black History Month

Photo courtesy of Dallas ISD

I want to begin by thanking all the members of the District 1 community who were able to join us last month at Thomas Jefferson High School for a conversation with Drug Enforcement Agency officials about the dangers fentanyl poses to our children. Remember that being informed is our first line of defense against this drug.

Black History Month

February is Black History Month, and we are excited to celebrate this community’s rich history, stories, and achievements centered around the theme “African Americans and the Arts.” Throughout this month, district schools will host various academic and cultural activities to learn about and celebrate the accomplishments of African Americans and their central role in U.S. history. For more information about activities, visit www.dallasisd.org/blackhistorymonth.

Highlighting District 1

Kudos to principals Ben Jones, from TJ, and Herschel Carter, from DeGolyer Elementary, for being named Regional Principals of the Year. These two have led their communities through big changes. I look forward to them contending for the district Principal of the Year award in April. Also, congratulations to Principal Beverly Mullins at Anne Frank Elementary School for being recognized as a Master Principal in the 2023-2024 class. This recognition is awarded annually to the top 10% of Dallas ISD elementary, middle, and high school principals based on experience, student growth, and individual and campus performance in the previous school year.

School Zone is back

Dallas ISD is bringing back two cherished TV programs: School Zone Dallas and Zona Escolar de Dallas. Hosted by our students, this series will provide a unique perspective into the various Dallas ISD programs while showcasing student voices and stories. The first episodes premiered on Feb. 3 and will run on Saturdays through March 9 at 5 p.m. on NBC and 10 a.m. on Telemundo.

Save the dates

Although May seems very far away, we are in the last stretch of the school year, which means graduation season is upon us. For District 1, both W. T. White and Thomas Jefferson high schools’ commencement ceremonies will be on Saturday, May 25, at Alfred J. Loos Athletic Complex. That same day, North Lake Early College Saturday will also have their graduation at the Forester Athletic Complex. For a livestream of the graduation ceremonies and other information, please visit www.dallasisd.org/graduations.

Also, mark your calendars for March 11-15, when all district schools and offices will be closed for spring break.