�ǿմ�ý's Back to School Kickoff on Aug 1 at AT&T Stadium is less than four weeks away. So, now is the time to sign up!��

Why sign up?

Your student can get a FREE new backpack plus:

• Free age-appropriate school supplies
• Dental and health screenings
• Haircuts provided by students from the��Career + Technical Center
• Vendors with information on after-school care and other community resources

Sign up for a free backpack now��here.

�ǿմ�ý will also enjoy resources from vendors like:

• ACH Child & Family Services
• Arlington Public Library
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of North Texas
• Boys & Girls Clubs of America
• Goodwill Industries of Fort Worth, Inc.
• And many more!

A special thanks to the Gene and Jerry Jones Arlington Youth Foundation and all of our other sponsors for rallying behind our phenomenal students to help them succeed.

THIS EVENT IS FOR STUDENTS WHO ARE REGISTERED IN AN ARLINGTON ISD SCHOOL.

The AT&T Stadium bag policy will be enforced at the event.��.

Volunteer at the Kickoff

It takes more than 800 volunteers to make the Back to School Kickoff event run smoothly, and we still have lots of open spots. Please sign up to volunteer��.

“We’ve helped nearly 100,000 families get ready for the school year, which is an amazing accomplishment that wouldn’t be possible without community volunteers and sponsor support,” said Aaron Perales, �ǿմ�ý executive director of engagement, equity, and access.��

Culinary Students and Local Chefs Team Up for School Menus

Stuffed pork peppers, chicken teriyaki hoagie, and Korean fried chicken.

Does that sound like a school cafeteria lunch to you?

It is in �ǿմ�ý. And not only is it on the menu – it was created by �ǿմ�ý culinary students.

In fact, �ǿմ�ý culinary students are putting lots of their own dishes on school cafeteria menus, and they’re giving you a chance to try some of them.

Join us for the third-annual A Taste of �ǿմ�ý – July 23 from 5-7 p.m. at Seguin High School – and sample the amazing mouth-watering creations our high school culinary students have been cooking up. Plus, you’ll get to sample food from our great community partners like and , both owned by �ǿմ�ý grads.

Sign up for A Taste of �ǿմ�ý��.

Here’s what’s on the tasing menu:

• Stuffed Pork Peppers (Bowie)��
• Sausage, Egg & Cheese Breakfast Croissant (Bowie)
• Grilled Chicken Chef Salad with Pita (Sam Houston)��
• Sweet Heat KPOP Chicken (Martin)��
• Chicken Teriyaki Hoagie (Martin)��
• Cheesy Buffalo Mac Wrap (Seguin)
• Korean Fried Chicken with Garlic Noodles (AHS)��
• Breakfast Quesadilla (AHS)��
• Sunrise Sausage Bowl (Lamar)��
• Al Pastor Pork Nachos (Saltillo)��
• Beef Kabob (Prince Lebanese)��
• Chicken Shawarma Wrap (Prince Lebanese)

The Taste event is part of a program – By Students 4 Students – that started several years ago when Bowie High School’s culinary students first put together a meal for the school menu. The program has blossomed since then, with community partners like��Prince Lebanese Grill��getting on board and putting Prince-inspired food in district cafeterias. Now, most Arlington ISD schools participate, and culinary students from across the district create menu items for their school cafeterias that they know their fellow students will love.��

“It’s a truly student-driven menu,” said �ǿմ�ý executive director of food and nutrition services David Lewis. “This really is the full circle.”

The By Students 4 Students program is a year-long process. It starts with taste-testing basic ingredients across elementary and junior high campuses, gathering data from hundreds of students to determine what makes the cut. From there, those ingredients are passed to the district’s high school culinary programs, where students are challenged to transform them into menu-ready meals while meeting strict USDA guidelines.

“We’re not just looking at taste,” Lewis added. “We’re determining how easy it is to replicate these dishes across 76 campuses and making sure everything meets USDA regulations.”

Students showcased��their items for district staff last spring, and now the Taste of Arlington is the first chance for the public to get to sample the food.

Make your taste buds happy and����for A Taste of �ǿմ�ý.

A Taste of �ǿմ�ý is free, but during the event, we will be accepting donations to support our mission of providing meals to all students, regardless of financial situation. Your generosity helps us nourish bodies and fuel futures. You can also donate now��.

Sign up now to volunteer

There’s now just six weeks until the 12^th-annual �ǿմ�ý Back to School Kickoff event at AT&T Stadium, and we need your help.

The event, Saturday, Aug. 1, is a chance for 10,000 �ǿմ�ý students to get free backpacks filled with school supplies for the upcoming school year.

So, where do you fit in?

You can volunteer! It takes more than 800 volunteers to make the event run smoothly, and we still have hundreds of open spots.

There are tons of volunteer options, too. You can help distribute backpacks, work at the resource fair, help distribute water, register students to pick up backpacks, or just be a floater. The options are endless, and so is the flexibility to help time-wise. There are shifts that start at 7 a.m. and others that don’t start until after 10 a.m.

“The volunteers at our event are crucial to its success,” said Aaron Perales, the �ǿմ�ý executive director of family and community engagement. “We’re fortunate to see familiar faces and organizations helping, but it takes a lot of support.”

To volunteer, please����The deadline to sign up is July 31.��All volunteers must be at least 18 years old.

Sign up for a backpack

There’s also still time to register to receive a backpack. You can do that��here.

Hundreds of Arlington families came together this weekend for �ǿմ�ý's annual FatherFEST, a district celebration focused on family engagement, community connection and the important role fathers play in students’ lives.

The event featured a variety of activities for all ages, including a car show, obstacle courses, lawn games, and delicious food. Students from Thornton Elementary School also took the stage with live performances, adding to the festive atmosphere. �� ��

Eric Phillips, �ǿմ�ý family engagement specialist, said the event reflects the strength of the district’s community.

“It’s looking phenomenal,” Phillips said. “This is all about the �ǿմ�ý community coming together and celebrating responsible fatherhood.”

Community partners were on hand throughout the event, sharing resources and information with families to support student success both in and out of the classroom.

FatherFEST also recognized outstanding involvement across the district. Students and campuses were honored for their participation in the Family Engagement Reading Challenge, while select schools received the Family Demonstration Campus Award, which recognizes �ǿմ�ý campuses that excel in engaging families through volunteering and community involvement.

For parents like Issac Nolte of Moore Elementary School, giving back is essential to shaping students’ perspectives.

“Kids see their parents giving back and in turn also want to give back to their schools,” Nolte said. “Without all the helping hands, we wouldn’t be able to do all the cool things at Mary Moore.”

Leonard Washington, a community father, said he was glad to attend with his daughter, who especially enjoyed playing with pinwheels at the event.

“Fathers play a big role in their kids’ lives,” Washington said. “I’m trying to do my job with my daughter and do my part within the community.”

Sometimes the best way to show appreciation for volunteers in Texas is with a line dance.

That’s exactly how �ǿմ�ý honored its most dedicated volunteers during its annual Volunteer Program Appreciation Celebration last week.

The “Best Volunteers in the West” event recognized individuals who contributed more than 500 hours of service this school year, along with Campus STAR Volunteers selected for exceptional commitment to the district. The celebration opened with a line-dancing activity led by members of Arlington High School’s Colt Kickers dance team, followed by a recognition video spotlighting volunteers from each campus.

Volunteers shared how their service has become a meaningful part of their lives, giving them an opportunity to stay connected and involved in their campus communities.

“It's important for me to be a part of her scholastic journey and her athletic journey, but also the community of the schools,” said Shelley Battle, a volunteer at Martin High School. “It's a great way to stay involved, a great way to form partnerships.”

Their service extends far beyond completing tasks. It’s about fostering relationships and supporting students in ways that matter.

“Being able to get involved really gives you that chance to experience their world. The student experience and the teacher experience are both elevated,” said Gara Hill, Arlington High School volunteer. "It's really a way for you to connect with your kids and support their program.”

The event was coordinated by the hospitality and tourism students at the �ǿմ�ý Dan Dipert Career and Technical Center in collaboration with the Family and Community Engagement department.��

“Events like this are significant because they give students authentic, hands-on experience while also allowing them to give back and celebrate the volunteers who support our community,” said Emilie Barron, hospitality and tourism teacher. “Experiences like this help students build confidence, professionalism, and the creativity needed for careers in hospitality and tourism.”

The students were involved in the process of selecting the theme, designing decorations, coordinating activities, and building the menu.��

“Seeing all the guests come in with smiles on their faces, it just makes you feel great,” said Nicole Haro, Sam Houston High School hospitality student. “It's a great opportunity. Everyone's excited to just be in this class.”

While managing every stage of the event, the students gained firsthand experience in what it takes to plan and execute a professional event. The creativity, teamwork, and dedication came directly from the students.��

“Watching all of our ideas actually come to life, it's really cool,” said Jaiden Martinez, a Sam Houston hospitality student. “I love this class. I'm definitely going to miss it now that we're graduating.”

Beyond the awards and festivities, the celebration highlighted the importance of showing gratitude for the individuals who dedicate their time, energy, and resources to �ǿմ�ý.

“Our volunteers bring in the heart from the community that helps to nurture and develop our students everyday and provide blessings to our staff and entire learning community,” said Aaron Perales, executive director of Family and Community Engagement.

Thank you, volunteers!

What if you could help create the menu in your school cafeteria?��

That’s the challenge �ǿմ�ý culinary students recently took on as they put their skills and creativity to the test in a high‑stakes menu competition in the By Students 4 Students competition. With hundreds of future diners in mind, students stepped out of the classroom and into a hands‑on, career‑ready experience that could soon land their dish on lunch trays across the district.��

In the latest installment of the By Students 4 Students program, students gathered at the �ǿմ�ý Food and Nutrition Services building to showcase a variety of dishes for a hungry audience. Working within strict food safety and nutrition guidelines, students from six Arlington ISD schools presented creative options, including butter chicken, breakfast croissants, chicken Alfredo lasagna rollups, and buffalo chicken pita wraps.

“You have to take into account carb intake, sugar intake, sodium levels and what makes a meal balanced and healthy,” said Jayden Sosa of Arlington High School. “We’ll come up with an idea, see if we’re restricted anywhere, and then we’ll work to find ways around those obstacles if we need to.” ��

A crucial part of developing a successful recipe that works is knowing your audience. Student chefs must consider elementary, junior high, and high school diners and account for each group’s needs. From buffalo chicken sandwiches and Korean fried chicken with garlic noodles to pulled pork sliders, many students drew inspiration from local eateries in an effort to bring more variety to their cafeterias.��

“Students often do go off campus to eat if they have the chance, but we can bring those foods into our schools by making them with ingredients that we have available,” said Martin High School culinary teacher Lindsey Krokus. “We’ve adapted popular dishes from fast-food joints, and they’ve become hits in the schools.”

While showcasing their latest creations, students also had the opportunity to speak with �ǿմ�ý sponsor Chef Aziz Kobty of and Chef Juan Carlos Flores of .��

“Seeing how experienced they are and how calm and collected they are really inspires me because I want to be that confident in what I’m cooking,” said Dominic Griffin of Seguin High School. “Being around new people and letting them try my food is new for me, so I’ve really benefited from this experience.”��

��Judges are currently reviewing the student dishes. Winners will go on to be showcased at the Taste of the District and then added to the 2026-2027 school cafeteria menu.

��

��

Car show, games, free food, and more

You know it’s almost summer because FatherFEST is only three weeks away!

Kick off the summer right on Saturday, May 16, at FatherFEST, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Thornton Elementary School ().

��for Father Fest!��

FatherFEST 2026 is a��free, family-friendly celebration��hosted by �ǿմ�ý's Family and Community Engagement Department – and they're pulling out all the stops:

• Community Car Show: Come check out some incredible rides and soak in the good vibes.
• Free Food & Refreshments: Good food brings people together, and we've got you covered.
• Interactive Games & Family Activities: Fun for every age, from the littles to the grandparents.
• Giveaways & Summer Resources: Leave with more than just great memories. Walk away equipped and ready for summer.
• Live Music & Entertainment: Featuring live performances beginning at��10:30 a.m.��from Thornton Elementary's Ballet Folklorico and Sam Houston High School's Mariachi & Ballet Folklorico teams.

This event is for��everyone – dads, moms, grandparents, aunts, uncles, mentors, and community supporters. If you love a child in this community, there's a place for you here.

Connect with Our Community Partners

Meet incredible organizations from across our community who are committed to supporting and empowering families. Stop by their booths for resources, activities, and opportunities:

• Aetna Better Health
• �ǿմ�ý Early Childhood Department
• �ǿմ�ý Library Services
• �ǿմ�ý – Advanced Academics
• �ǿմ�ý – Food & Nutrition
• �ǿմ�ý – Student Outreach Services
• Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA
• Arlington Public Library
• Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Tarrant
• Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Tarrant County
• C5 Texas
• Dave & Buster's
• Girls Inc. of Tarrant County
• Haking Innovation
• HOPE Tutoring Center
• Metro Sports Fieldhouse
• Mindful Kids
• Tarrant County Kids
• Workforce Solutions for Tarrant County

Why You Should Come

FatherFEST is more than a festival – it’s a space where families feel welcomed, supported, and connected. It’s about celebrating the important role families play in student success and making sure every family leaves with something valuable. Spots are free, but don't wait —�� and save your family's spot.

This is the kind of day your kids will still talk about years from now. Come be part of it!

'Joie de Vivre' Community Celebration

Join us for a joyful��community event��to celebrate and close��with Wimbish World Language. This free, family-friendly morning will highlight French language and cultures through games, food, art, and student-led activities and performances.

What to expect:

• Le Café��and��Le Bistro with French hot chocolate, crêpes, and baguette
• Pétanque & chamboule-tout
• Le Cinéma�� - screen short French films with popcorn
• Crafts: necklaces & African masks
• French museums “à la manière de…” – explore the regions of France with professors from the UTA French program and learn about famous French figures and artists
• Free French children’s books
• And more!

The event is in partnership with and is part of the French Cultures Festival, coordinated by Villa Albertine Houston

Come celebrate French language, creativity, and community with us in a fun and welcoming atmosphere for all ages. ��🇫🇷

Wimbish World Language Academy

Wimbish is a dual-language elementary school where all students are immersed in either French or Spanish. Learn more about Wimbish.

Get discount tickets now

�ǿմ�ý and the �ǿմ�ý Education Foundation (AEF) will once again partner to host the annual���ǿմ�ý Education Celebration��on��Friday, April 24, 2026, at��Six Flags Over Texas, bringing together students, families, and the community for an evening that celebrates �ǿմ�ý student talent while supporting innovative classroom learning.

The event will feature more than 1,600 �ǿմ�ý fine arts students performing throughout the park, creating a vibrant showcase of the district’s musical and performing arts programs.

In addition to celebrating student talent, the event also serves as a fundraiser for �ǿմ�ý campuses. Five dollars from every ticket sold will be returned to the campus selected by the purchaser using the campus’ GIFT CODE, providing direct support to schools across the district.

This long-standing community tradition with Six Flags directly benefits �ǿմ�ý teachers and students through AEF Educator Grants, which fund creative and innovative classroom projects across the district. During the 2025–26 grant cycle, the �ǿմ�ý Education Foundation awarded nearly $250,000 in educator grants, empowering teachers to bring new learning experiences to their classrooms.

online at a discounted rate of $30.

Tickets purchased for the event may be used all day on April 24, allowing guests to enjoy the park during normal operating hours beginning at 11 a.m., in addition to the special private event experience from 6-10 p.m.

More than 100 families gathered Monday morning for an event designed to connect them with valuable resources and opportunities throughout the community.

The �ǿմ�ý World Languages Department, in collaboration with the �ǿմ�ý Multilingual Welcome Center, hosted the “Bringing Together Emergent Bilinguals” event, part of the district’s ongoing commitment to support families and strengthen partnerships with community organizations.

�ǿմ�ý arrived eager to learn about programs and services available to them. Throughout the morning, they met with community partners who shared information on a wide variety of resources designed to support both students and parents.

Participants explored opportunities and services including: job opportunities, GED and high school credit programs, adult ESL and English language courses, early childhood education services, the Mothers and Babies Program, Safe Riders training, healthcare and counseling services, medical equipment, school supplies, vouchers for free bags of meals, and more.

“Throughout the event, families were actively engaged, taking notes, asking thoughtful questions, scheduling follow-up appointments, and connecting with one another,” said Dr. Jackeline Orsini, �ǿմ�ý Director of World Languages. “Many families expressed gratitude for the opportunity to access so many resources in one place and appreciated��the support from��the district and community partners. We are proud of a school district that goes above and beyond the experiences created in our classrooms, as we truly believe that partnership with families and the community is a critical component of every child’s success.”

Sign up now for Family Expo 2026

Mark your calendars! �ǿմ�ý families are invited to a morning of fun, learning and resources at the annual �ǿմ�ý Family Expo 2026 on Saturday, April 11.

The free event runs from 9 a.m. to noon at the Dan Dipert Career + Technical Center and is open to all students and their families.

The Family Expo and Resource Fair will feature more than 75 vendors offering helpful information about summer programs, educational opportunities, and community resources to support students and families. It’s a great chance to discover activities that keep students learning and engaged all summer long.

In addition to connecting families with valuable resources, the event will include plenty of hands-on fun for students. Our featured partners, and , will host interactive STEAM experiences designed to spark creativity and curiosity. Snapology brings hands-on LEGO®-based learning experiences that spark creativity, teamwork, confidence, and problem-solving skills. Thinkatorium, a mobile STEAM museum, will engage students through interactive experiences like Discovery Bubbles and Music Makers, where children explore science and creativity through hands-on experimentation and sound exploration.

Activities will include opportunities to:

• Create LEGO stop-motion movies in the Animation Studio
• Build and program robotic LEGO models
• Explore simple machines and engineering concepts
• Participate in hands-on math and learning-at-home activities

Students will also have the chance to explore robotics, coding and other technology experiences with �ǿմ�ý’s Technology Integration & Innovation team.

The Family Expo is designed to bring families together while helping parents discover tools, programs, and ideas to support learning beyond the classroom.

Save the date and plan to join us for this exciting community event. .

�ǿմ�ý students dream big

In �ǿմ�ý,��students��are��inspired to��dream��BIG.��

For two decades, �ǿմ�ý’s��What’s Your Big Idea?��Entrepreneurship��Contest��has��celebrated imagination, problem-solving, and the belief that great ideas can come from anyone, at any age!��

The��huge��What’s Your Big Idea?��awards ceremony last night at UTA��College Park Center��–where more��than 600��student��finalists from grades three through eight walked��across the stage and received��medals��–��looked nothing like the early days of the contest.����

The��contest started 20 years ago in a single classroom at Parks Mall, when marketing teacher Deborah Blackner, now the district’s career and technical education specialist, teamed up with a teaching partner to give �ǿմ�ý students a platform to share their ideas.����

“It started really small,” Blackner said. “It’s��just kept growing ever since.��It’s��been crazy to see it grow and persist.”��

It’s��BIG now. Last night, thousands of �ǿմ�ý students, educators, families, and community partners��attended the��awards ceremony��for��the��inspiring��20th��anniversary��milestone.����What’s Your Big Idea?��is��the only event of its kind, and��it’s��exclusively for �ǿմ�ý students. The contest��is��sponsored by the Greater��Arlington Chamber of Commerce, connecting student creativity with the business community.��

The��What’s��Your Big Idea?��contest��challenges��students to��identify��real problems and propose meaningful solutions. Across grade levels and campuses, students presented ideas��through essays or art��that addressed everything from community needs and environmental challenges to technology, wellness, and education. Each project told a story – not just��of��innovation, but of��curiosity��and��perseverance.��

“This is one of those unique student experiences that sets �ǿմ�ý apart,” said �ǿմ�ý career and technical education coordinator Sara Mahoney. “The contest really gets students��thinking outside the box��and interested in entrepreneurship at an early age.��It’s��so fun to watch these kids get inspired,��come up with��amazing ideas, and then get celebrated for creativity and ingenuity.”��

Educators played a critical role in guiding students through the process, helping them refine their ideas while encouraging independent thinking and collaboration. Blackner continues to play a role in the event through the CTE department, helping students connect their ideas to real-world applications.����

The event also highlights��the importance of community partnerships, with local leaders and supporters lending their��expertise, time, and encouragement to help students see how their ideas connect to the world beyond school walls.��

As �ǿմ�ý reflected on 20 years of��What’s Your Big��Idea?,��the anniversary served as both a celebration and a reminder of the district’s mission.��

“For two decades, this program has encouraged students to think boldly, dream creatively, and believe that even the boldest ideas can become something real,” said Arlington Mayor Jim Ross. “Each of you here today imagined a new business or invention, proving that innovation doesn’t wait for adulthood – it starts early, right here in Arlington, Texas.”��

After 20 years, one thing is clear – the best��idea of all is investing in students and��empowering��them to��dream big.����

Congratulations to our��first-place��art and��essay��winners:��

Art Winners:��

• • 3rd Grade:��Haven Hatcher, Ditto Elementary – Teacher Julie Lee��

• • 4th Grade:��Drew Pratt, Pearcy STEM Academy – Teacher Ty Pogue��

• • 5th Grade:��Olivia Bartoo, Hill Elementary – Teacher Nicole Fragosa��

• • 6th Grade:��Devon Wordlaw, Pearcy STEM Academy – Teacher Robin Lage��

• • 7th Grade:��Malachi��Brown, Boles Junior High – Teacher Sarah Grenier��

• • 8th Grade:��Yasmin��Elsaad, Shackelford Jr. High – Teacher Sara Isbell��

Essay Winners:��

• • 3rd Grade:��Trenton��Kuntschik, Butler Elementary – Teacher Kimberly Perry��

• • 4th Grade:��Emma Martinez, Foster Elementary – Teacher Allyssa Karlen��

• • 5th Grade:��Penny Crisafulli, Little Elementary – Teacher Emily Berrong��

• • 6th Grade:��Josephine Tollefson, Butler Elementary – Teacher Lauren Kelso��

• • 7th Grade:��Iza Garcia, Gunn Junior High – Teacher��Kowonia��Davis��

• • 8th Grade:��Valentina��Deantunano, Gunn Junior High – Teacher Alex Allison��

Community invited to celebrate Black history

Sam Houston and Arlington High Schools are inviting students, families, and the community to celebrate Black History Month with two powerful events that honor culture, creativity and resilience.

Graylon Roberson, an AP World History teacher and the director of Arlington High's program, understands why these programs are so important for students.

"Black history is American history and world history," he said. "I believe that representation matters, and students of all ethnicities and backgrounds learn a lot from a program such as ours, which honors Black culture, achievements, and social movements that have shaped America and the world."��

Sam Houston High School: “Rooted in Resilience”

Sam Houston will host Rooted in Resilience this Friday, Feb. 6, at 6:30 p.m. in the Sam Houston auditorium.

The event will feature special guest Grammy Award winner . The 2023 Music Educator Award winner is the director of choral music at DeSoto High School.

Students and kids get in free, and adults are $5.

Arlington High School Black History Month Celebration

Arlington High School will present its Black History Month program on Thursday, Feb. 20, at 7 p.m. in the Arlington High auditorium. The event will feature Michael Glaspie, �ǿմ�ý’s first Black trustee. Glaspie served nearly two decades as a trustee and later as a member of the Arlington City Council.

This will be Arlington High's first Black History Program.

• A fraternity step routine by TCU’s Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Kappa Epsilon Chapter
• Interpretive dancers from TCU’s School of Dance
• Performances by the award-winning Nichols Junior High Iconic Steppers Step Team
• A modern African dance performed by Mansfield’s Danny Jones Middle School African Student Association.

Both events are open to the community and reflect �ǿմ�ý’s commitment to honoring history, celebrating culture and creating meaningful learning experiences beyond the classroom.

�ǿմ�ý Night at UTA Women’s basketball game

February 12 is �ǿմ�ý Night at the UT Arlington Women's Basketball game against Abilene Christian at 6:30 p.m. All �ǿմ�ý students get in free if you show this flyer at the gate. Parent and staff tickets are $5 each and can be purchased .

Go Mavs!

Shatter the Silence is this Thursday, Jan. 29

Human trafficking is a real thing in DFW.

Just ask Brooke Morris. In 2022, her 15-year-old daughter was lured from a Dallas Mavericks game, abducted, trafficked locally, and sold online out of state. She was rescued 10 days later in Oklahoma.

Now, as major sporting events like the World Cup and Grand Prix come to Arlington, the threat – and reality – of human trafficking in our community may be greater than ever before.

That’s why Brooke Morris is coming to speak at �ǿմ�ý’s Shatter the Silence on Jan. 29, an event designed to educate and empower our community to stop human trafficking.

Date:��Thursday,��January 29, 2026
Time:��6-8 p.m.
Location:���ǿմ�ý Professional Development Center ()

Sign up now to attend.

The event will also feature expert speakers with Unbound Now, The Women’s Center Tarrant County and Arlington Police Department who will share insights and experiences on the realities of human trafficking.

The event will also include:

• Interactive panel discussions on recognizing the signs of trafficking and how to respond.
• Workshops developmentally appropriate for students in kindergarten through second grades and third through fifth grades, offering age-relevant information on how to stay safe.

Whether you’re a parent or guardian, concerned citizen, community leader, educator or professional, this event is for everyone committed to ending human trafficking.

Together, we can empower ourselves and others to create a safer community for all. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, engage, and take action.

Learn more and sign up to attend.

Arlington’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. “Advancing the Dream” Celebration was filled with �ǿմ�ý students celebrating King’s legacy of unity. If you missed it, it’s not too late. you can still watch the Step Showcase and the Youth Extravaganza below.

Step Showcase

[embed]https://youtu.be/D8s4afXCLpA[/embed]

The Step Showcase on Saturday included step teams from 19 �ǿմ�ý schools, and three of them walked away with first place trophies:

• First place high school: Seguin High School
• First place junior high: Nichols Junior High
• First place elementary: Atherton Elementary

Youth Extravaganza

[embed]https://youtu.be/lGPri-cXm6M[/embed]

The Youth Extravaganza featured �ǿմ�ý talent throughout, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary Choir with students from 15 �ǿմ�ý elementary schools.

Contest Winners

If you went to any of the celebration festivities or watched the Youth Extravaganza above, you saw the official event t-shirts that featured artwork of Martin Luther King. That art was created by Lamar High School ninth grader Ramiro Ramirez, the winner of the MLK art contest.

This year, all the winners in both the art and essay contests are from �ǿմ�ý, and all received scholarships. The winners included:

Art contest:

1. 1. Ramiro Ramirez, Lamar High School
   2. Joaquin Merino, Lamar High School
   3. Airyss Soria, Bowie High School

Essay contest:

1. 1. Aniyah Butler, Arlington High School
   2. Destiny Okolie - Arlington High School

See the winning artwork and hear the winning essays .

Arlington’s 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. “Advancing the Dream” Celebration kicks off Friday, and �ǿմ�ý students are a big part of the festivities.

The Celebration features four days of events, Jan. 16-19, honoring Dr. King’s legacy.

�ǿմ�ý students will participate in multiple events, including the MLK Step Showcase on Saturday and the Youth Extravaganza on Sunday. The Step Showcase will feature step teams from 19 �ǿմ�ý schools, and the Youth Extravaganza’s Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary Choir includes students from 15 �ǿմ�ý elementary schools.

See below for a full list of events:

JANUARY 16

• MLK Advancing the Dream Gala, 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the E.H. Hereford University Center’s Bluebonnet Ballroom, 300 W. First St. on The University of Texas at Arlington campus.

JANUARY 17

• MLK Step Showcase, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at James Bowie High School, 2101 Highbank Drive. Presale tickets are $10. At the door, tickets are $15 for adults 19 and older, $10 for students ages 7-18, and free for children 6 and under.
• MLK Poetry Meets Jazz, 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the Bluebonnet Ballroom. Tickets are $21.25 online.

JANUARY 18

• MLK Hubert Moss Ecumenical Service, 6 to 7:30 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 1200 S. Collins St. Admission is free.

JANUARY 19

• Zeb Strong Jr. MLK Day of Service, 9 a.m. to noon at Mission Metroplex, 400 W. South St., followed by the MLK Day of Service Festival from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Arlington City Hall, 101 W. Abram St. Both events are free. .
• MLK Youth Extravaganza, 6 to 7 p.m. at Fielder Church Metro Center, 2011 S. Fielder Road. Admission is free.

The MLK Historical Timeline Exhibit will be on display at each event throughout the celebration.

For ticket information and event details, visit .

About The Arlington Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee��

Organized in 1989 and established as a nonprofit in 1990, the����has been an active contributor to the community for more than��35 years. The MLK Celebration Committee has given out scholarships to graduating students, donated time, and provided resources to the community while continuing to push forward the message and dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The committee is supported by the following organizations:��

• �ǿմ�ý��
• Arlington Ministerial Association��
• Tarrant County College Southeast Campus��
• The City of Arlington��
• University of Texas at Arlington

Trustee Talk is Wednesday, Jan. 14

The �ǿմ�ý Board of Trustees’ first Trustee Talk is tomorrow, Wednesday, Jan. 14, at 6 p.m. in the Berry Elementary library ().

The format for tomorrow's meeting will include “Listening Circles,” in which all attendees will get to share their experience and insight.

Please visit the��Trustee Talks webpage��to RSVP for the meeting.

Trustee Talks��is a series of public meetings initiated by the Board of Trustees and hosted by two or three trustees.

Sign up for Shatter the Silence now

Human trafficking isn’t just a global problem. It’s an urgent issue even here in Arlington and Grand Prairie. That’s why �ǿմ�ý is inviting you to our Shatter the Silence event designed to educate and empower our community to stop human trafficking.

Date: Thursday, January 29, 2026
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Location: �ǿմ�ý Professional Development Center ()

Sign up to attend now.

Expert speakers with Unbound Now, The Women's Center Tarrant County and Arlington Police Department will share insights and experiences on the realities of human trafficking. The event will include:

• Interactive panel discussions on recognizing the signs of trafficking and how to respond.
• Workshops developmentally appropriate for students in kindergarten through second grades and third through fifth grades, offering age-relevant information on how to stay safe.

Whether you're a parent or guardian, concerned citizen, community leader, educator or professional, this event is for everyone committed to ending human trafficking.

Together, we can empower ourselves and others to create a safer community for all. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, engage, and take action.

Learn more and sign up to attend.

Donated toys going to Mission Arlington Christmas Store

The mission of �ǿմ�ý’s annual Mission Joy Toy Drive is clear – to turn generosity into smiles, and empty shelves into holiday magic.��

From schools and fire stations to businesses and city offices, the community came together this holiday season, filling donation boxes with toys that will soon find their way into the hands of local children and families who need them most.��

The toy drive’s finale at the Dr. Marcelo Cavazos Center for Visual and Performing Arts brought the holiday spirit to life with a live CBS broadcast, spirited performances by Thornton Elementary Ballet Folklórico, the Shackelford Junior High Choir, and Lamar High School’s Jazz Band. Plus, there was a surprise visit from Santa and one of his elves, adding even more magic to the night.��

This year marked the second year �ǿմ�ý partnered with for the Mission Joy Toy Drive – and the impact grew even stronger.��

For Mission Arlington director and Burgin Elementary namesake Tillie Burgin, this effort goes far beyond the number of boxes collected.��

“What this will do is put toys on the shelves that don’t have toys right now,” she said.��

Every toy collected goes straight into the , where families can select gifts for free for their children. Seeing those shelves fill up is always one of Burgin's favorite parts of the season.��

“It’s just a fun time,” she said.��

“When these toys go on those shelves, they will put smiles on faces when the parents or kids walk through and shop.”��

But it wouldn’t be possible without the support of the entire Arlington community.��

“Community is the key word,” said �ǿմ�ý superintendent Dr. Matt Smith. “The heart of this community tells a story. It’s great to see everything come back together and do something great for kids – that is what �ǿմ�ý is all about.”��

Burgin felt the same way.��

“God chose Arlington, Texas, to be a place of love and people’s hearts blending together when they see needs. It’s amazing.”��

The toy drive is a community-wide effort led by �ǿմ�ý in partnership with the , the , the , and . Financial donations even increased from last year, showing how deeply this partnership continues to resonate with the community.��

“I love the Christmas season,” Smith said. “I love the fact that this is so many different groups working together to make it all possible.”��

Seeing students around the district each day makes the impact even more meaningful to him.��

“I walk through the halls and see our kids all the time, and to know that we can do something like this for them – it’s super special.”��

By the end of the event, an entire Mission Arlington truck was filled with boxes of toys, ready to make its way to the store.��

Now, as Mission Arlington prepares to welcome families in the coming days, shelves that were once empty will soon be full – full of toys, full of joy, and full of the love this community continues to show.��

And that is the story of Mission Joy!��

If you didn't get to participate, it's not too late to give. You can bring unwrapped gifts to Mission Arlington all the way through Christmas Eve. Donations of wrapping paper and tape are helpful, too.

from the Mission Joy Toy Drive-thru. ��

Attention parents of young children!

Join us on Dec. 5 at the , from 9-11:30 a.m., for fun workshops designed to help you help your little learners thrive and grow. The fun, informative session will feature a specialist from KERA/PBS Kids with great resources.

Get ready to connect with like-minded parents and discover new resources to enhance early learning experiences. Session on timely topics will be conducted in English and in Spanish, so families can attend in their preferred language.��

Dec. 5��Session Topics

• KERA/PBS Kids Presents:��Tiempo Tranquilo��(Managing and Understanding Emotions)
• Routines That Help Children Thrive

Not able to make it in person? Links to a virtual option will be shared to all who register for the event.

After the sessions, all participants will gather for a shared social time with coffee and light refreshments. This portion of the event is intended to foster parent-to-parent connections, encourage conversation, and strengthen the sense of community among families. The overall goal is to ensure families leave the event with practical strategies for supporting their child’s learning, free resources, and stronger relationships with other parents in our school community.

Help spread joy across Arlington

This holiday season, �ǿմ�ý and its incredible community partners are on a mission to bring smiles and joy to local children with our second-annual Mission Joy Toy Drive.

The drive benefits the����Christmas Store, a program that helps families in need create magical holiday memories.

�ǿմ�ý is proud to collaborate with the��, the��, the�� and to make this vision a reality.

With collection boxes conveniently located throughout the city, including at many �ǿմ�ý campuses, Arlington fire stations, libraries, and more, it’s never been easier to join the effort. Simply donate a new, unwrapped toy for a boy or girl and help brighten someone’s holiday season.

Donations are being accepted now through Dec. 3, or you can drop off at the grand finale of the Mission Joy Toy Drive – a festive drive-thru toy drop-off celebration on Dec. 3, from 5-7 p.m., at the��Dr. Marcelo Cavazos Center for Visual and Performing Arts.

It’s more than just a chance to give back – it’ll be a full holiday experience with live holiday music and entertainment from talented �ǿմ�ý students. Plus, Tillie Burgin, Mission Arlington’s executive director, and her team will be there.

The toys collected will stock the Mission Arlington Christmas Store to provide families in need with an opportunity to choose gifts for their loved ones.

Help us spread the word, and let’s come together as a community to ensure every child experiences the magic of the season. To find a drop-off location near you or learn more about the Mission Joy Toy Drive, click��here.

Explore �ǿմ�ý

What’s there to explore at Explore �ǿմ�ý tomorrow?

That’s not an easy question – because there’s a lot to see.

�ǿմ�ý offers specialized learning opportunities to match every student’s interests, passions and goals. Whether you’re a parent or a student, this event is your chance to learn first-hand about programs like �ǿմ�ý’s early college high schools, P-TECH programs, STEM academies, fine arts and dual language academies, the elementary leadership academy, and much more.

So, why should you explore these opportunities? Ask the experts - the students already in these programs. They can tell you.

Like Kaylie Nguyen, a senior in the STEM Academy at Martin High School, who plans to become a doctor. For her, the academy is the perfect foundation.

“The Martin STEM Academy has given me the opportunity to explore my passion for biomedical science in a hands-on and challenging way,” Kaylie said. “Through the biomed pathway, I’ve been able to gain knowledgeable insights about the healthcare field within a classroom setting. Not only that, my problem solving and critical thinking skills have advanced due to the coursework. Because of STEM, I really do feel like I’m being prepared for college and for my future career in the medical field.”

The STEM Academy isn’t the only option for students interested in health care. Bowie High School’s Pathways in Technology program (P-TECH) focuses on health sciences and partners with to give students real-world education and experience.

Bowie’s program is one of four P-TECHs in the district, each with its own career focus. At Lamar High School’s P-TECH, the focus is on business and cybersecurity. That’s where senior Fred Threats Jr. has thrived and grown into a districtwide leader.

“Applying to Lamar P-TECH has been one of the most proactive decisions I’ve made toward building a stable and fulfilling future,” Fred said. “What I’ve valued most is the program’s partnership with AVID, which embraces diversity and celebrates the unique perspectives, approaches, and cultures that help us face every challenge, academically and personally. I’ve earned 47 college credits and am on track to receive an associate degree, while one of my closest friends will graduate with two! That’s the power of P-TECH – cultivating resilience, community, and college- and career-ready professionals who are prepared to lead beyond graduation.”

Speaking of associate degrees, nearly every student at Arlington Collegiate High School and Arlington College and Career High School (ACCHS) earns an associate degree from by the time they graduate from high school.

In Tatum Skari’s case, she earned her associate degree before her senior year even started. The ACCHS senior and aspiring teacher loves the “endless opportunities” her school provides.

“I love having a school full of supportive teachers, staff, and peers,” Tatum said. “I would recommend ACCHS to others because of the small environment where teachers are able to work one on one with you and provide more individualized attention … Our counselors and teachers work with us so we can reach our high school and associate's requirements while finding classes that are a good fit for our future careers and degree as well as our current abilities.”

While early college high schools start in ninth grade, �ǿմ�ý also offers many opportunities that begin much earlier – even in elementary school.

At Pearcy STEM Academy, hands-on learning challenges students to think critically, embrace mistakes, and grow from them.

“Pearcy is benefiting me because it is a STEM academy and we learn so much,” said Lyric T., a sixth grader. “It can be hard in the beginning, but you’re learning new things and it will get easier.”

Lauren W., another Pearcy student, says she not only loves what she’s learning, but she also values the strong sense of community at her school.

“Pearcy is giving me opportunities and helping me to think about my future, and they help me spread my ideas,” she said. “We all care for each other and we are all together even if we lose. I’ve made a lot of friends and they have helped me be myself here at Pearcy.”

Over at Crow Leadership Academy, students participate in one of the only elementary International Baccalaureate programs in the Metroplex.

STEM academies, P-TECHs and early college high schools are just a sample of the specialized opportunities available in �ǿմ�ý. The district also offers fine arts and dual language academies at Corey, Jones, Gunn and Arlington High, as well as the Crow Leadership Academy and Wimbish World Language Academy.

So, come explore everything �ǿմ�ý has to offer and discover new opportunities for your child.

Explore �ǿմ�ý is tomorrow evening, Tuesday, Oct. 21, at the Dan Dipert Career + Technical Center from 6–7:30 p.m. .

Learn more about �ǿմ�ý’s specialized programs here. Applications open tomorrow at noon and will close on Jan. 12.

Explore �ǿմ�ý 2025

Come to Explore �ǿմ�ý on Oct. 21, 6-7:30 p.m. at the , and learn all about the unique and innovative academic programs available to students from pre-K through high school.

Whether you’re a parent or student, this is your chance to learn first-hand about programs like �ǿմ�ý’s Early College High Schools, P-TECH programs, STEM academies, fine arts and dual language academies, the elementary leadership academy, and more. You’ll get to:

• Meet with program representatives to ask questions and get details
• Learn about application and non-application programs��(i.e., programs that require an application or selection process, and those open to all)
• Explore specialized academic, technical, and career pathways��offered across �ǿմ�ý
• Network with educators, administrators, and community partners

�ǿմ�ý’s Specialized Programs

Explore �ǿմ�ý is the kickoff of the application window for �ǿմ�ý's specialized programs. Applications and more details are available here.

Elementary Programs

• Crow Leadership Academy is an IB Primary Years Progamme focusing on service and global citizenship. This program is one of only a few in the state.
• Wimbish World Language Academy students are fully immersed in a dual language environment in either English/Spanish or English/French.

Fine Arts and Dual Language Academies

• Corey and Jones Academies of Fine Arts and Dual Language students engage in Spanish, visual arts, music, and performing arts.
• Gunn Junior High Fine Arts and Dual Language Academy students continue the fine arts and dual language pathway they started at Jones or Corey.
• Arlington High School completes the fine arts and dual language pathway.

STEM Academies

• Pearcy STEM Academy students experience STEM opportunities throughout the day.
• Martin STEM Academy prepares students for STEM college majors and careers in engineering, biomedical science, technology, and computer science.

Early College High School

• Arlington Collegiate High School partners with TCC Southeast campus to give students a college experience as they work toward an associate degree.
• Arlington College and Career High School students learn in a college environment as they work toward an associate degree and workforce certifications.

P-TECH

• Bowie P-TECH students earn an associate degree and participate in traditional high school programs with an emphasis on health sciences.
• Lamar P-TECH students earn an associate degree and participate in traditional high school programs with an emphasis on business and cybersecurity.
• Sam Houston P-TECH students earn an associate degree and participate in traditional high school programs with an emphasis on logistics, business, and mechatronics.
• Seguin P-TECH students earn an associate degree and participate in traditional high school programs with an emphasis on mechanical engineering and Computer Aided Design (CAD).

Calling all 7th-10th grade students and parents!

Are you ready to start shaping your future? Come to the �ǿմ�ý Career and Technical Education (CTE) Showcase on Monday, Oct. 6, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The CTE Showcase is your chance to discover the incredible opportunities waiting for you. From junior high and high school CTE courses to advanced programs at the state-of-the-art Dan Dipert Career + Technical Center, this event is designed to help you dream big, explore your options, and plan your path forward.

EXPLORE

Tour the Dan Dipert Career + Technical Center and see firsthand the cutting-edge facilities where students bring their ideas to life.

EXPERIENCE

Step into classrooms, labs, studios, and kitchens to get a taste of what’s possible. Meet passionate teachers and current students and imagine the skills you'll learn in the years ahead.

PLAN

Talk with teachers, counselors, and administrators who are eager to guide you. Wherever your interests lie, they’ll help you connect your passions with the right courses.

Programs featured include culinary arts, robotics, fashion design, automotive technology, and so much more.

Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to explore, experience, and plan your future!

Sign up to volunteer by July 31

There’s now less than a month before the 11^th-annual �ǿմ�ý Back to School Kickoff event at AT&T Stadium, and we need your help.

The event, Saturday, Aug. 2, is a chance for 10,000 �ǿմ�ý students to get free backpacks filled with school supplies for the upcoming school year.

So, where do you fit in?

You can volunteer! It takes more than 800 volunteers to make the event run smoothly, and we still have hundreds of open spots.

There are tons of volunteer options, too. You can help distribute backpacks, work at the resource fair, help distribute water, register students to pick up backpacks or just be a floater. The options are endless, and so is the flexibility to help timewise. There are shifts that start at 7 a.m. and others that don’t start until after 10 a.m.

“The volunteers at our event are crucial to its success,” said Aaron Perales, the �ǿմ�ý executive director of��engagement, equity and access. “We’re fortunate to see familiar faces and organizations helping, but it takes a lot of support.”

To volunteer, please The deadline to sign up is July 31.��All volunteers must be at least 18 years old.

Sign up for a backpack

There’s also still time to register to receive a backpack. You can do that��here.

Third-annual �ǿմ�ý Earth Day event

Come celebrate Earth Day 2025 this Saturday, April 26, with �ǿմ�ý!

�ǿմ�ý’s energy management department will host the third-annual ��event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the���ǿմ�ý Dan Dipert Career + Technical Education Center. The CTC will be transformed into a hub of eco-friendly fun. And the best part? It’s FREE!

The fun includes:

• Face painting
• Arts and crafts
• Bat sanctuary information
• Presentation on the importance of bees
• Free hot dogs (while supplies last)
• Quilt raffle
• Seedling giveaway
• And much more!

Let’s come together to learn, celebrate and protect our planet – one step at a time.��

�ǿմ�ý Education Celebration is April 25

Education Celebration 2025��– a private event at��Six Flags Over Texas��benefiting the���ǿմ�ý – is April 25, from 6-10 p.m. Enjoy unlimited rides, thrilling attractions and a night of fun while supporting �ǿմ�ý students and teachers.

For each $30 ticket sold, $5 goes to the �ǿմ�ý school of your choice, and the remaining proceeds fund �ǿմ�ý initiatives throughout the district. It’s a great way to experience Six Flags and support �ǿմ�ý at the same time! Buy tickets .

The �ǿմ�ý Education Celebration is hosted by the��. Through the years, this event has raised more than $1 million for schools and the community.

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�ǿմ�ý Night at the Rangers is May 2

Students, teachers, employees, family and friends are invited to �ǿմ�ý Night at the Texas Rangers on Friday, May 2. Enjoy a night out at the ballpark and soak up some exciting Rangers baseball against the Seattle Mariners.

Gates open at 5:05 p.m., and the first pitch is at 7:05 p.m. Get your tickets now for �ǿմ�ý Night��.

Fun event promotes literacy

Once upon a time in a land far away …

Actually, the time is next Monday, April 14, from 5-7 p.m. And it’s not so far away – it’ll be at the .

But it will be magical and a very special time with your little ones. Plus, it’s free!

“We are getting close to end of the school year, and in �ǿմ�ý we want to do a Royal Event to celebrate the hard work and extraordinary achievements of all our current pre-K and kinder students,” said the magical queen of Once Upon a Time – also known as Dr. Jackeline Orsini, �ǿմ�ý director of early childhood learning. “It’s also going to be a majestic celebration to welcome all new �ǿմ�ý pre-K and kinder students who will be joining us for the 2025-2026 school year.”

Join us for Once Upon a Time and take a whimsical adventure with your current or rising pre-K and kindergarten children and dive into the enchanting world of fairytales. Dress up as a princess, prince or your favorite fairytale character for a fun evening filled with storytelling, games, crafts and more.

The event is designed to encourage a love of reading for little learners and to help parents foster learning at home. The PDC will be transformed into an Enchanted Forest to surprise all �ǿմ�ý young learners with activities we have designed for families to learn more about how to help young learners read and write from a very early stage. Guest will participate in read-aloud sessions and hands-on literacy activities, get free books and snacks, take beautiful pictures, and much more.

“It’s so important to promote early literacy,” Orsini said. “Early literacy helps children in so many ways, including language development, social and emotional learning, communication skills and so much more.”

Once Upon a Time will be a magical opportunity to bond and create cherished memories with your kids. Don’t miss out on this spellbinding experience!

to register for the event today.

Staff will also be on hand to assist you with your 2025-2026 registration for pre-K. Or you can go ahead and get started now with registration online.

Learn more about �ǿմ�ý’s fun, innovative pre-K programs and kindergarten.

Celebrate your Little Learner's Milestone

There’s no bigger deal than starting pre-K! That’s why �ǿմ�ý is hosting its third Pre-K Signing Day on Thursday, April 3, from 5-7 p.m., at your child’s school. Your child is starting a new, exciting chapter in their lives, so come out next week for a chance to celebrate this momentous milestone and get your child registered.

“Since we believe that pre-K should be a magical experience, we make Signing Day a special and unforgettable experience for our new students,” said Dr. Jackeline Orsini, �ǿմ�ý director of early childhood learning.

It’s going to be a lot of fun. Just like high school athletes declare their college choice and sign a letter of intent, your child will get to sign a certificate declaring their status as a rising pre-K student. You’ll get a fun photo of your child declaring their intent to learn and grow!

Not sure what school your child is going to attend? Visit the school locator here.

Signing Day will also be a great opportunity for your family to walk the school building for the first time and visit the pre-K classrooms.

“Building strong relationships with families is crucial for the success of our students,” Orsini said.��“Signing Day gives us the opportunity to connect for the very first time with all our new families. It's really a special day that no one with a future pre-K student should miss.”��

Come meet pre-K teachers and school staff, and check out the amazing student artwork on display. You’ll get a sneak peek at how our incredible teachers blend fun with world-class learning opportunities. Plus, you can get help and support with completing the registration for your child, so bring registration documents with you.*

Registration for��pre-K��opens online on Tuesday, April 1. Learn more about �ǿմ�ý’s best-in-class pre-K here, and read about why pre-K is so important for little learners here.

*Registration documents include:

• Student's birth certificate
• Photo ID of parent / guardian (driver's license, state or international ID, passport)
• Proof of address (current gas, water or electricity bill or the lease / mortgage agreement in the name of the parent / guardian)
• Each of the following documents that apply:
  • Proof of Income – Last 30 days for all adults living in the household (paystub, Medicaid, disability, worker comp)
  • SNAP/TANF benefits letter
  • Current tax return (if self-employed)
  • Proof of military service for active-duty military parent(s)
  • Foster care documents
  • Star of Texas Award certificate or letter
• Immunization Records
• Social Security Card (if available)

Baseball is back!

Spring is right around the corner, and that means baseball!

Students, teachers, employees, family and friends are invited to �ǿմ�ý Night at the Texas Rangers on Friday, May 2. Enjoy a night out at the ballpark and soak up some exciting Rangers baseball against the Seattle Mariners.

Gates open at 5:05 p.m., and the first pitch is at 7:05 p.m.

Get your tickets now for �ǿմ�ý Night .

For groups of 15+, please contact Tomas Sardina at 817-533-1570 or email Tsardina@texasrangers.com.

Camp Innovation 2025 is in June

Drones, robots and programming! Camp Innovation will be back this summer for its sixth year.

Camp Innovation is a free week-long camp that gives students currently in fourth through ninth grades the opportunity to use technology in a variety of creative ways. Each camp will include robotics, programming and a lot of other fun activities. At Camp Innovation, students are exposed to a variety of innovative technologies and learning experiences that:

• Build foundational knowledge and skills for computer science readiness
• Develop the thinking and problem-solving processes required for coding
• Provide hands-on opportunities to develop coding skills
• Participate in enrichment opportunities with technology that emphasize communication, collaboration, critical thinking and creativity.

Every grade level has a different curriculum and uses different types of technology, which may include LEGO Spike Prime or EV3 robots, Sphero Bolts, Jimu robots, Ozobots, Dash and Dot and Sphero RVR+. Students going into seventh through 10th grades will have opportunities to fly and program drones for tasks such as photographing the interior of a volcano, doing search and rescue missions and flying through a two-story obstacle course.

Held every June at the Dan Dipert Career and Technical Center, students are provided transportation from nearby hubs, a free breakfast and lunch and daily snacks. The best part of all: it’s FREE!

Registration opens on March 2 at www.aisd.net/campinnovation.

Here’s what some teachers and parents from last summer shared about Camp Innovation:

WHAT I LOVE ABOUT CAMP INNOVATION

“I loved helping and watching the kids make amazing connections over the course of the week and seeing how they made connections with new friends and with unfamiliar technologies. Seeing the look of satisfaction and accomplishment when they conquered a challenge was the best because they experience technical challenges tailored to their age group and are encouraged to learn through discovery.”
- Jennifer Appleby-Grunewald, Camp Innovation teacher (Nichols Junior High)

WHAT DO KIDS LEARN AT CAMP INNOVATION?

“At camp, the kids dive into a learning experience where they acquire hands-on skills in coding, robotics and design, fostering their problem-solving abilities and technological proficiency. The camp cultivates a foundation for future innovation, providing a fun environment where children not only grasp technical concepts but also develop a passion for exploring the limitless possibilities of technology. From learning about Spheros to flying drones to creating a bot for our robotic competition, the kids are gaining experiences that will last a lifetime.”
- Tamara Gaffney, Camp Innovation teacher (Bryant Elementary)

WHAT WOULD I WANT PARENTS TO KNOW ABOUT CAMP INNOVATION?

“I think parents should know that this camp is an excellent opportunity to introduce your children to the world of coding. The kids have so much fun each day while problem-solving and using critical thinking skills. The camp is free, so all you have to do is manage pick up and drop off. They even feed them! It’s great!”
- Dr. Maya Wadley, parent of Camp Innovation student

For more information about Camp Innovation, go to www.aisd.net/campinnovation.

�ǿմ�ý College and Career Expo 2025

Get ready for an exciting evening filled with possibilities at the annual �ǿմ�ý College and Career Expo! Explore college, military and career pathways – all in one place – on Tuesday, March 25, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the �ǿմ�ý Dan Dipert Career + Technical Center.��

Meet College Representatives����

Talk with representatives from top universities like the University of Texas at Arlington, Texas A&M, Stephen F. Austin State University, the University of Oklahoma, the University of Missouri and many more! The list of colleges attending is growing, so keep checking back to see if one of your favorites will be there.��

Explore Career and Military Opportunities����

Connect with businesses like National Special Force LLC, Six Flags Over Texas and Trinity River Authority of Texas. Some are even offering on-site job interviews! Plus, representatives from the U.S. Army, Navy and Texas Army National Guard will be available to discuss military career options.��

Navigate College Readiness����

Parents and students can attend 45-minute information sessions on key topics like:��

• College Prep��

• Paying for College��

• College Athletic Recruiting and Scholarships��

Win A Prize��

Attendees have the chance to win exciting prizes, including an Echo Dot, Amazon Fire TV Stick and Beats Studio Earbuds, courtesy of our partners at . You must be present to win.��

Win a Scholarship��

is also sponsoring two $500 scholarships for students who attend and complete an online survey. More details will be provided at the event and via email.��

Register Now!��

Don’t miss the chance to explore, learn and pave the way for a successful future at the �ǿմ�ý College and Career Expo. You can learn more and register .����

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Special performance from American Idol contestant Odell Bunton Jr.

Ready to spark change? Sam Houston High School invites you to its annual Black History Month program, a powerful celebration of African American history, culture and influence.��

This year’s theme, "Igniting the Change: The Next Steps," highlights the impact of Black history while inspiring the next generation to take action. The community-wide event takes place Feb. 21 at 6:30 p.m. in the SHHS main auditorium.��

“We want to honor history and Black culture under the umbrella of our theme,” said Graylon Roberson, program director and teacher. “Black history is American history. Black culture is American culture. It’s the tightly woven fabric that makes our country and society so unique.”��

Roberson’s passion for Black History Month runs deep. Growing up in a family that valued the celebration, he participated in events throughout his childhood, an experience that shaped his commitment to carrying the tradition forward. ��

“Here at Sam, not only do we entertain, but we educate,” he said.��

A Celebration of Culture and Talent��

The program features a dynamic lineup of performances, including choir, band, orchestra, traditional African dance, jazz ensembles, oral interpretation��and poetry. This year, the event expands its reach with performances from Martin High School, Nichols Junior High and other organizations across DFW, including the Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity from TCU.��

Adding to the excitement, �ǿմ�ý alum and former American Idol contestant Odell Bunton Jr. will take the stage as both a guest speaker and performer.��

“As an �ǿմ�ý alum, this is truly a moment you dream and wish for,” Bunton said. “To be regarded as successful in my field after graduating, and to now return to inspire the next generation, fills me with pride and gratitude.”��

For both Sam Houston High School and Bunton, this night is more than a performance – it’s a homecoming.��

“It is extremely special for me to be speaking at this event,” Bunton said. “I count it a privilege and an honor to be able to pour into the youth in ways that I was poured into similarly when I was in their position.”��

Supporting Future Leaders��

This year, a $3 entry fee will be collected, with all proceeds going toward scholarships for two seniors who participate in the program.��

“We put a lot of hard work into this event, and having a strong community presence would mean so much to our students and faculty,” Roberson said. “If you’re curious about our show, come see what we do.”��

Don’t miss an unforgettable evening of history, culture and inspiration. Mark your calendars for Feb. 21 and register to be a part of the change . ��

Sign up now for Shatter the Silence

Human trafficking impacts millions of people worldwide, including many right here in our own community. It can affect people of all backgrounds, making it critical for everyone to unite in raising awareness and taking action.��

Join �ǿմ�ý as we seek to inform and empower our community to end human trafficking. Come to the first Shatter the Silence event on Thursday, Jan. 23, from 6-8 p.m., at the to:��

• Hear from Experts: Learn from professionals fighting human trafficking every day.��

• Join Panel Discussions: Discover how to spot trafficking, respond effectively and find solutions for your community.��

• Participate in Student Workshops: Students in grades 6-12 will gain tools to stay informed and safe.��

This impactful event is designed to educate, inspire and empower individuals to stand against human trafficking. By coming together – whether you are a parent, educator, community leader or concerned citizen – we can create safer communities and provide support to those who need it most.��

Don’t miss this chance to learn, get involved and take action. Together, we can make a difference.��

Learn more about the event and register .��

Butler Elementary celebrates 50th anniversary

Nora and Pearl Butler. Perhaps, you may know those names well if you attended schools or worked as an educator in �ǿմ�ý during the mid-1900s. After starting their teaching career at Arlington High School in 1942, Nora and Pearl retired in 1966 and 1971 respectively. Affectionately known as “the Butler sisters,” the Godley, Texas, natives worked tirelessly to ensure success for all who walked through their classroom doors.

If they were alive today, the devoted educators would be thrilled to see how much pride that countless current and former students, staff members and principals have in Butler Elementary School – a north Arlington institution named in their honor.

On a recent Friday night, hundreds from its school community – forever Broncos – along with �ǿմ�ý superintendent Dr. Matt Smith and Arlington board members flocked to the campus to celebrate its 50th anniversary. Along with games and food trucks, the jam-packed event included student choir performances, speeches and more to celebrate the school’s academic excellence.

Principal Mark Basham said Butler represents “the best of what happens in public education when the focus is on helping our students achieve at the greatest heights.”

“At the heart of Butler’s success is a shared belief: that each student and every community member can expect the most from one another,” Basham said. “This belief creates a powerful bond, knowing that as educators, parents and community members, we are committed to giving our all for the benefit of our children.”

Basham was overwhelmed by the massive turnout on that night. He told the crowd, “This unity is what makes Butler exceptional – a community built on partnerships, where teachers and families come together and where high expectations lead to real achievements. It is this alignment of trust, dedication and a shared vision of excellence for all that drives us forward.”

A team effort

Assistant principal Kelly McMaier – who helped plan, organize and execute the event, focusing mainly on marketing – said the event was like a homecoming.

“I enjoyed watching current and former Broncos interacting and celebrating together. Current and former students and staff were able to honor their individual experiences together, forming new memories,” she said.

During the celebration, there were raffle prize giveaways, face-painting and balloon artists. Among the highlights, McMaier said, was a Goosechase digital tool activity that “provided an interactive way for families to explore the history of Butler and hopefully learn something new!”

Another hit among the attendees was the blast-from-the-past images laid out through “decades” presentations. Teacher Molly Bennett served as a “historian,” working with a team to digitize old PTA scrapbooks and school photos. They brought new life to the dated materials by creating videos for the main event.

“I loved the time that I got to spend pouring over those books and letting the years roll back,” Bennett said. “I am a memory keeper at heart.”

Butler has remained a special place in Bennett’s heart for numerous reasons.

“My oldest daughter started here as a kindergartener 30 years ago, and I’ve never left!” she said. “I started as a parent, then became a PTA volunteer, a classroom assistant, a substitute, and I have now been a sixth-grade teacher for 18 years.”

Brittany Lee, a pre-K teacher at Butler, has had a similar journey. She first joined the school community when her daughter – who is now a high school senior – started there.

“I joined the PTA right away and was a kindergarten room mom, which helped me get to know the amazing people at Butler,” Lee said.��

Lee became a staff member in 2018 when she was hired as the school’s first STEM lab manager. Lee stressed that there is “really something special about Butler.”

“I love that our staff has a family atmosphere where everyone helps each other out. We pray for each other, we collaborate with each other and we learn from each other,” she said. ��

Nothing was going to stop Lee from assisting with the celebration. She served on its hospitality committee, which worked to make the event’s VIP guests feel welcomed. She greatly enjoyed interacting with the many former staff members and students who came decked out in the school’s colors: red, white and blue.

“And I was able to talk with some of my own children’s former teachers. My favorite thing of the night was getting to reconnect with two students from my first pre-K class. What a joy to see them and to know they still remembered me!” Lee said.

A lasting impact

In addition to the 50th year community celebration, dubbed, “The Big Event,” the school hosted a staff-alumni luncheon. The latter event catered to more than 50 former faculty and all current staff members.

Kathy Ryan, a former teacher and co-chairperson for the alumni luncheon, taught at the school from 1978 to 2019.

“What I loved most about Butler is the culture,” Ryan said. “I worked with the first principal for 19 years, and her motto was ‘hire great people and get out of their way.’ This led to a standard of excellence that was often called ‘the Butler Way.’”

Among other things, Ryan said the committee created a legacy tree that celebrated the multi-generational families of Butler. The tree was on full display at the celebration.

“I so enjoyed seeing their faces as they found their names on the tree. I had taught most of them over the years and their kids,” she said.

Judy Callahan, another committee chairperson, said that Butler is truly a “center focal point of our community.”

Before retiring in 2023, Callahan taught half of her 34-year �ǿմ�ý career at Butler.

“I was first interested in becoming a teacher at Butler because of their stellar reputation for high academics and positive working environment,” Callahan said.

Over the years, Callahan said she learned that parents would intentionally buy houses and move into the Butler area to send their children to the school. She added that the PTA and Dad’s Club rally around the school's efforts to create family experiences and provide community fun for all students.

“Many parents are former Butler Broncos themselves and have chosen to bring their children back to the school they themselves grew up in. There are many families who we consider “Legacy �ǿմ�ý,” Callahan said.

For the 50th year celebration, secretary Debbie Steiner made numerous building-related arrangements and helped gather old scrapbooks and photos for the historian committee.

“Butler feels like a family to me, and that’s why I’ve been here over 30 years,” said Steiner, who is planning to retire soon. “I began working here as a cafeteria monitor when my family moved to Texas and my kids were in second and fifth grades. I later became a clerk, then secretary.”��

The 50^th year celebration, Steiner said, was “even better than I had hoped!”��

Heather Frisina agreed. She first joined the Butler community when her daughter – who is now a sixth-grader – started kindergarten. The PTA president from 2022-2024, Frisina was in charge of organizing the food trucks, decorations, raffles, T-shirts and snacks.

“I thought the celebration was amazing,” Frisina said. “When you plan an event like this you never know – are you going to get a good turnout? If you do, is it worth their while? I felt like it hit on all the marks… The energy and love for Butler that evening was inspirational.”������

.

Register now for the CTE Showcase

��Calling all 7th-10th grade students and parents!

Come to the �ǿմ�ý’s Career and Technical Education Showcase and experience the many options �ǿմ�ý offers career and technical education students, from CTE courses at the junior high and high school campuses to upper-level classes at the���ǿմ�ý Dan Dipert Career and Technical Center (CTC). The CTE Showcase is Oct. 1 from 6-8 p.m. at the CTC ().

now for the CTE Showcase.

“The CTE Showcase is an event designed to give students an insider look at the CTE programs in �ǿմ�ý,” said Sara Mahoney, �ǿմ�ý career and technical education coordinator. “Students get to see inside classrooms, check out the equipment used by professionals and hear from our expert teachers on the things they will learn in our CTE programs.”

Students and parents will get to talk with teachers, counselors and administrators who can help them plan for a future that best fits their interests and talents.

“Many students and parents have mentioned that this evening helped them make a decision on the program path they wanted to take by having conversations with the teachers and counselors available at this event,” Mahoney said.

Some of the programs on display at the CTE Showcase will include culinary arts, robotics, fashion design, automotive technology and many more!

Don't miss this incredible opportunity to start planning an exciting future! .

Please note the event will follow the���ǿմ�ý Clear Bag Policy��.

Back to School Kickoff 2024

No event kicks off��a new��school year like the �ǿմ�ý Back to School Kickoff. ��

That’s why the district continues to bring it back year after year, this year marking its��10th anniversary. ��

“I was here on year one��ten years ago and it’s grown so much,” said former Dallas Cowboy great Tony Casillas. ��

Over 10,000 students and families gathered at this past Saturday for a morning full of back-to-school preparation.��

“It’s all about community coming together to support our kids,” said �ǿմ�ý superintendent Dr. Matt Smith. “The opportunity to make sure thousands of students feel excited and confident going into the new school year just blows me away. It’s amazing.” ��

With free backpacks filled with school supplies waiting for students, many �ǿմ�ý kiddos are now set and ready for day one – August 14!��

Free dental services and vision screenings were also provided for students by and with the help of students from the P-TECH at Bowie High School. ��

But that’s not all. High school seniors from the district’s cosmetology program at the Dan Dipert Career and Technical Center also brought back their expertise to provide free haircuts, too!��

“It’s awesome,” Casillas said. “To be able to come out here and get prepared with so many free services and backpacks – I can’t think of any other city that does it like this.”��

Fourth grader George Trevino felt the same way about his brand-new camouflage backpack. ��

“I’ve never seen one like this before,” he said.��

In fact, that’s what brought Trevino and his mom Selina Perez back for their second Back to School Kickoff. ��

“My kids love the backpacks,” Perez said. “They’ve lasted us almost two years, so this year we wanted to get new ones. This event is pretty amazing. It saves me a lot of money that I don’t have. It’s so helpful for so many parents out here and we just love it so much.”��

But the Kickoff was also about having some summer fun. Nearly 100 vendors provided helpful information along with sweet treats and goodies. was also at the Kickoff, making sure everyone knew about healthy eating habits. �ǿմ�ý made their way to the outside football field for some football games and drills or inside the stadium to snap a picture with their��favorite Disney characters. There was also a DJ playing tunes outside throughout the day. ��

“My favorite part is seeing the Arlington community unite and collaborate to support our students and families to have a great start to the school year,” said Aaron Perales, executive director of family engagement, equity and access.��

With over 800 volunteers to help make the event possible, that’s exactly what they did. ��

“It’s been heartwarming,” said Kickoff volunteer and Starrett Elementary assistant principal Tamara Harrell.��“The families are so excited, the kids are so excited, it makes us feel so happy to be here. It’s been so amazing to see different parts of the community coming together for such a good cause.”��

In the summer of 2014, the Dallas Cowboys reached out to Perales about getting involved in �ǿմ�ý’s back to school festivities. That’s when several organizations came together to collaborate with the Cowboys to put on the Back to School Kickoff. Thanks to the following founding partners, �ǿմ�ý’s Back to School Kickoff has been one of the most anticipated events for the last 10 years.��

• ��

• ��

• ��

• The Churches of Arlington��

• ��

View all the photos from the 2024 Back to School Kickoff . ��

Lamar P-TECH's Breakfast with the Boss

What do you get when you mix a room full of eager students, a delicious breakfast and top-notch industry leaders? P-TECH at Lamar High School’s Breakfast with the Boss, of course!��

Now in its third year, students had the opportunity to get a head start in networking with over 30 business and cybersecurity leaders at Lamar High School last week. ��

“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said junior and P-TECH student marketing director Eunique Ramirez. “You don’t get this every day.” ��

From mortgage professionals, banking professionals, Arlington mayor and more, the breakfast was all about exposure.����

“Having people who are a part of different businesses that these kids might not even know exist is so important,” said assistant principal of P-TECH at Lamar Teri Williams. “This provides the kids with exposure that they may not otherwise have access to. That’s what makes this event so special.”��

As leaders of the P-TECH program themselves, Ramirez and student body president Fred Threats Jr. both shared their thoughts.��

“This opportunity re-enforces the nature of this program,” Threats��said. “I’m so grateful to have this opportunity and I’m grateful that generations to come will have this opportunity, too.”��

For Ramirez, the best��part of Breakfast with the Boss was��getting to know leaders on a more personal level. ��

“It’s scary, but having the opportunity to sit down and talk with them makes you realize that they are people, too,” she said. “Learning from them truly feels so inspiring. You can walk away from this and think wow I really did that.” ��

Welcoming incoming freshmen to the program also made the breakfast a perfect way for students to build connections with their class.����

“It’s been so awesome,” said first-year student Brody Reynolds.��“Everyone here is so welcoming. It feels like a family.”��

Teachers and staff prepared incoming students by providing��questions to help them learn to engage with leadership professionally.��

Building confidence in the professional world is one of the main goals of the Breakfast with the Boss as well as the P-TECH program at Lamar. ��

“The biggest takeaway is the feeling that you can do it,” Threats said. “This shows each student that anything is possible, that they can sit down with CEOs and work towards that same spot. This builds so much confidence in what we can accomplish in the future. It gives us the motivation to strive for excellence.” ����

View all the photos from Breakfast with the Boss . ������

10th annual Back to School Kickoff

The 10^th annual �ǿմ�ý Back to School Kickoff is just over two weeks away and anticipation is building.

The proof is in the numbers as we inch toward Saturday, Aug. 3, at AT&T Stadium.

Every free haircut spot has been claimed. Every free vision screening spot has been claimed. Every free dental checkup spot has been claimed.

And more than 6,000 student spots for free backpacks filled with age-appropriate school supplies have already been grabbed.

But there’s still time to register to get your backpack for the event, which runs from 8 a.m. until noon. You can register to receive a backpack for your �ǿմ�ý student .

Just like every year, the Back to School Kickoff is about more than backpacks. There will be more than 90 resource vendors set up on the west plaza of AT&T Stadium ready to get you prepared for the school year.

The turf field outside will also be used for activities and there will be a DJ and live music. When you’re celebrating the 10^th anniversary and nearing 100,000 backpacks provided, you’ve got to go big.

“It’s hard to believe we’ve been at this for 10 years,” said Aaron Perales, �ǿմ�ý’s executive director of engagement, equity and access. “The event continues to grow because of our sponsors, volunteers and community support. Everyone is here to help our students and families have a great beginning to the school year. The kickoff is a great way to get the year started."��

Even if you don’t have a student needing a backpack, you can still help. More than 600 people have already signed up for a volunteer spot, but we can always use more. You can volunteer .�� ��

We’ll see you Aug. 3!

10th Annual Back to School Kickoff is Near

It’s hard to believe that it’s been 10 years since the district started its annual Back to School Kickoff at AT&T Stadium, but Aug. 3 marks that milestone.

“We’ve helped nearly 100,000 families get ready for the school year, which is an amazing accomplishment that wouldn’t be possible without community volunteers and sponsor support,”said Aaron Perales, �ǿմ�ý executive director of engagement, equity, and access.��

This in-person event offers students the opportunity to receive a free backpack full of school supplies and services in preparation for the 2024-25 school year. You can register for a backpack here.

Sponsored by the��, the event will provide haircuts, dental services, vision screenings, information about community resources and immunization opportunities, as well as the chance for �ǿմ�ý students to receive a backpack full of school supplies.

Volunteers are also needed to help with checking in students and handing out backpacks. To volunteer, please sign up .

See you at the 10th annual Back to School Kickoff!��

Start your summer at Father Fest

You know it’s almost summer because Father Fest is just around the corner.

Kick off the summer right next Saturday, May 18, at Father Fest, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the �ǿմ�ý Athletics Center. ().

for Father FEST!��

The free event is a fun celebration of fatherhood and families hosted by the �ǿմ�ý family and community engagement department. All are invited to enjoy live music, food, prizes, giveaways and fun interactive family activities. �ǿմ�ý will have a great time together and leave empowered and equipped with resources for this summer and everyday life.

Some of the many community partners who will be there with free resources and activities include:

• Metro Sports Fieldhouse
• �ǿմ�ý Early Childhood Department
• �ǿմ�ý Library Services Department
• Arlington-Mansfield Area YMCA Central Branch
• My Health My Resources
• GICE Loves
• Smith Media Company
• Texas Health and Human Services
• The Deyvi Coreas Jr. Foundation
• Janes Academy of Dance Excellence
• Vox Invictus Mentoring
• Academia Tutoring

Learn more about �ǿմ�ý’s fathers and families initiative.

Foster Elementary opened in 1973

In the early 1970s, big changes were happening in Arlington. Residents were thrilled to see the opening of the old, popular . The Texas Rangers had just to the city from Washington D.C. And flying in and out of the area became easier with the building of the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport.

But for some people, nothing was more impactful than when �ǿմ�ý opened the doors of Foster Elementary School – located on the city’s southwest side – in 1973. This was evident last week as the school celebrated its 50^th anniversary, which brought droves of former students, teachers and principals to the campus where they shared many fond memories.

Despite the rain, many flocked to the school and packed its small cafeteria. There, former Foster Falcons reminisced about their time at Foster and recognized past teachers and principals for their service.

The five-decade-old institution was named in honor of Tom Foster and his sister Maude Foster. A local businessman, Tom served on the �ǿմ�ý school board for 13 years before retiring in 1973. Maude was a teacher in Arlington for more than 40 years.

Tom’s daughter, Becca Foster-Johnson, who along with her husband made the trip from Austin to attend the event, couldn’t have been happier.

“It was wonderful. It was really great,” Foster-Johnson said, admitting she hadn’t been fully aware of the school’s impact on the community. “I didn’t know it until tonight.”

��A haven to all

On hand for the festivities were new �ǿմ�ý superintendent Dr. Matt Smith, school board vice president Justin Chapa, and board members Dr. Aaron Reich, David Wilbanks and Leanne Haynes. While it is customary to see board members attend such special school celebrations, they were also there to support a close colleague. Sarah McMurrough, current secretary for the school board and board member since 2021, was one of the guest speakers because of the impact that Foster made on her childhood.

McMurrough shared how in 1996, her mother – a newly single mom at the time – moved her and her brother from Florida into the school’s neighborhood. The staff and the school’s wide variety of activities eased McMurrough’s worries during her only year – the sixth grade – at Foster. ��

“When we registered, I was a little bit disheartened and nervous,” McMurrough said, referring to the fact that sixth grade was in an elementary building versus a junior high setting.

McMurrough said it ended up being “the best year yet.” She eventually became an education major in college and returned to Foster in 2007 to complete her student teaching there.

“I handpicked this school because I love it so much,” said McMurrough, who taught fourth grade in �ǿմ�ý for 12 years – including at Hale Elementary, where she was honored “Teacher of the Year.”

McMurrough was excited to reunite with her old schoolmates, brothers Sam and Sharif Sayed, the event’s keynote speakers. Today, Sam Sayed holds a master’s degree in biomedical sciences and professional studies from Drexel University in Pennsylvania and is a medical student at the Burnell School of Medicine at Texas Christian University. He will soon become an emergency medicine physician for the Mayo Clinic.

Back in the 1990s, however, Sayed admitted that he spent a lot of time in the principal’s office due to poor behavior. Some of his struggles were due to the passing of their mom when he was young.

“While the loss of a mother’s love and guidance can never be replaced, Foster Elementary was always there to fill our hearts with joy that a child deserves to have,” he said.

Sam largely attributed his turnaround to longtime former P.E. teacher Arlious Jackson, who was also in attendance. Jackson gave him honest, tough love while serving as his baseball coach. He coached the entire Sayed clan – a family of seven – in various activities, including bowling and chess.

Jackson was the “most influential educator that I ever had,” Sam said.

Sharif Sayed echoed his brother’s sentiments about Foster, particularly about Jackson. He also spent years getting in trouble at Foster yet went on to study at the University of Texas at Arlington. Sharif co-founded Dayna’s Footprints, a nonprofit organization dedicated to addressing educational inequities and social injustices. With 13 years of experience as a corporate executive, he currently owns a consulting firm and e-commerce brand.

��“Thank you for believing in two snotty-nosed kids that perhaps didn’t believe in themselves as much as you guys did,” Sam said.��

A labor of love

During the presentation, the event’s committee members acknowledged all of the school’s past principals: James Starrett, Barbara Syptak, Charleen Brinkley, Richard Longgrear, Arthur Benton, Jeanne Paull, Dr. Josh Garcia and Jacquelyn McClendon.

Longgrear appreciated his opportunity to lead Foster while McMurrough and the Sayed brothers attended the school. He largely credits his staff at that time for the success he obtained during what was his first principal job.

“There were so many exceptional people, from the teachers to the secretary to the counselors to the coaches. It was a great learning experience,” Longgrear said. “To see so many people show up tonight, it was great.”

Dawn Mitchell, who taught many students, including Shariff Sayed, during her 30-year tenure at Foster, was thrilled to serve on the event’s committee. The current counselor called it a “family reunion,” relishing the fact that former staff members – even substitute teachers, she said – returned for the celebration.

Attendees were encouraged to walk around the building to view new renovations and the new playgrounds as well as a 70s-themed hallway display of student work projects featuring glow-in-the-dark disco balls, lava lamps and roller skates. Inside the library, attendees were treated to light refreshments and numerous scrapbooks and photo albums where they looked for familiar faces. Framed school spirit T-shirts from years gone by were also displayed.

Former Foster student, 16-year-old Marco Woodard, even kept the crowd grooving while serving as the DJ. He said staff members always inspired him to be successful.

“If you’re not on the right track, they’ll get you on the right track,” he said. ��

Looking to the future

Foster’s choir also took guests back in time by singing the school song, composed by Peggy Hardagree, many years ago. Afterward, the choir joined the school’s orchestra in premiering a new song composed by current music teacher Andy Diaz. The students also revealed Foster’s sleek new logo onstage.

Jacquelyn Burden, Foster’s principal for the past eight years, is excited about the future of the school. A former administrator for Dallas ISD, Burden believed she found a jewel in Foster after moving to Arlington and finding a home not far from the school.

“There is not another group of educators that have a heart for teaching and for children like this collaborative group of people,” Burden said. “I’ve been on many campuses. But this culture is unmatched. They care for each other, the students and their families.”

Twenty-five years ago, Christopher Wilson began his teaching career as an adjunct music professor at TCU and as an elementary music instructor in Austin ISD. After those brief stints, he began teaching fourth grade at Foster and hasn’t looked back.

“I love the students, their families, my co-workers and my mentors and administrators,” he said. “Never once have I even considered leaving Foster – it’s my second home!”

Wilson was overwhelmed by reuniting with a number of his former co-workers and former students.

“It was a blast!” Wilson said. “The school had never turned 50 before! It far exceeded my expectations and was surprisingly emotional for me.” ��

Event coincides with Read Across America Day

The annual Reading Rocks event at Crouch Elementary last Friday featured a little bit of everything.

Of course, there were plenty of books. After all, the event coincides with . There were snacks to make sure all the guest readers were fueled up before heading to classes.

And of course, there were guest readers from all across the Arlington area. New superintendent Dr. Matt Smith was there. So was �ǿմ�ý Board of Trustees member Justin Chapa. Grand Prairie police chief Daniel Scesney also stopped by. And so did staff members from all across the �ǿմ�ý.

Crouch librarian Jo Ann Cottrell has turned the event into one of the places to be every year.

“This promotes a shared love of a reading experience for everyone in the school,” Cottrell said. “That’s what happens when you share that love.”

Smith’s first stop in sharing that love was first-grade teacher Zulema Quezada’s class. That’s where he read “Grumpy Monkey Party Time!” a book about managing social anxiety in the toughest of all settings – at a party with dancing. Smith then headed to a fifth-grade class to read “Flat Cat.”

Down the hall, Chapa was finishing “The Cool Bean” in Tsedenya Haile’s fourth-grade class. When the book was done, the real fun started. Once Chapa told the class he was a lawyer and asked if they had any questions, the questions did not stop.

“Have you met Judge Judy?” The answer was no, and then Chapa said what happens behind the scenes on a show like that.

“Have you been to the White House?” Yes, twice in fact.

“Do you get paid in thousands of dollars?” Yes, but not all lawyers make a lot of money.

And so on, and so on. And Chapa loved the interaction with the students.

“They had great questions,” he said.

It was that kind of day as the students learned a lot more than just what they heard in the books from the guests.

“We know education is the way for students to get what they want later in life,” Crouch principal Jaime Stephens told the group of readers before they ventured to their assignments. “Reading is a fundamental way to get them on that path. That’s what makes an event like this so special.”

Family Expo gets your family ready for summer

Are you ready for an exhilarating experience that combines education with fun?

Look no further than �ǿմ�ý's annual Family Expo, presented by the family and community engagement department in collaboration with and .

This year's expo, on April 13 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Dan Dipert Career and Technical Center, includes over 75 vendors to help families with summer resources.

Snapology: Where Fun and Learning Collide

will take center stage at this year's expo, offering families a chance to dive into fun learning experiences with hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Art and Math) activities. These activities are designed to ignite curiosity, foster teamwork, build confidence and enhance problem-solving skills.

Featured Activities

Animation Studio:

Learn animation fundamentals and create LEGO stop-motion movies. �ǿմ�ý craft a story, build scenes and explore stop-motion filming, editing and effects.

Robotics/Creature Creator:

Build LEGO robotic models inspired by dolphins or gorillas. Discover gear ratios, sensors and programming with block or coding.

Engineering Engagement Room:

• Machines in Art - Spin Art: Build LEGO machines for spin art creation.
• Junior Engineers - Simple Machines: Explore DUPLO models of elevators, amusement park rides and more to learn about simple machines.

Learning at Home Engagement Room:

• Minifigure Me: Design and create 3D LEGO minifigures based on printed outlines.
• Math with LEGOs: Explore math concepts through fun LEGO activities and take-home handouts for continued learning.

Learning Beyond the Expo and Exciting Extras

The expo isn't just a one-time event – it's a gateway to continuous learning at home. �ǿմ�ý can discover resources, tips and activities related to STEAM, literacy, toys and technology and social-emotional learning.

Attendees can look forward to door prizes, gift takeaways and plenty of opportunities to blend education and excitement.

Register today

Register and mark your calendar, gather your family and join us at �ǿմ�ý's Family Expo for a day of educational fun.

Career Exploration Camp registration opens March 18

Parents, if you are looking for a fun way for your incoming seventh, eighth or ninth grade student to spend their summer, the free Career Exploration Camp at the Dan Dipert Career Technical Center is the perfect opportunity.

The �ǿմ�ý career and technical education department (CTE) has partnered with the guidance and counseling team to introduce students to four-year pathways they can take advantage of once they begin high school. With over 12 discussion topics, students will have the opportunity to learn about career paths that focus on robotics, culinary arts, web design, architecture and much more.

“We are excited to offer these hands-on opportunities for students to experience some of our amazing programs," said Sara Mahoney, the coordinator for career and technical education. “Our hope is that this experience will help students choose programs that they are interested in and start them on their path to future career success!”

Registration for the Career Exploration Camp opens on March 18 at 5 p.m., and CTE specialists like Earl Harris are excited to for students to register and take part in the camp. He believes it will spark a curiosity in students that will last a lifetime.

“Empowering young minds with hands-on experiences at our CTE career camp for junior high students isn't just about sparking curiosity; it's about igniting a passion for learning,” Harris said. "We believe that by providing real-world applications, we're not just preparing students for the future – we're sculpting future leaders equipped with 21st-century skills, essential for their post-secondary success.”

You can see the camp flyer here, and be ready when the link to register goes live. Don’t wait to register because there will only be 200 spots available.

Opal Lee spearheaded Juneteenth campaign

Two hours into “Igniting the Change,” Sam Houston High School’s Black History Month program, keynote speaker took the stage.

Judging by the rousing standing ovation, it was worth the wait.

Lee, 97, walked gingerly to a waiting chair, sat, leaned into the microphone and began to talk about life as the catalyst for Juneteenth, the national holiday that commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States.

It was Lee who campaigned for decades to bring Juneteenth to the national stage, promoting the idea during a series of symbolic walks from her Fort Worth home to the U.S. capital, beginning in 2016. She also spearheaded an online petition that drew 1.6 million signatures.

In June 2021, a bill to make Juneteenth a federal holiday was passed by Congress and signed into law by President Joe Biden.

“I was there when President Biden signed the resolution and the bill making it a law,” Texas Congressman Marc Veasey said during one of several video tributes to Lee. “I can’t think of any better person to focus on than Opal Lee, the grandmother of Juneteenth.”

Lee is highly sought after in February but said that Sam Houston was an intentional choice after hearing good things about its past Black History programs. Indeed, the yearly event has become a district staple with other campuses joining in on the celebration, too, like Martin High School (Davina Obinyan recited her “Black Monologue”), Nichols Junior High (performed its award-winning step routine), Dallas ISD’s fifth grade oratory winner Jzairus Hopkins Swanson (recited his speech) and TCC Northeast (a spirited hip-hop performance).

“When presenting a program that reflects the resilience, creativity and leadership of African Americans who have shaped our nation’s history, who better represents that than Opal Lee?” Sam Houston principal Juan Villarreal said when opening the program.

Black History committee member Billy Wilson said Lee was a good fit for its new theme, “Igniting the Change,” a theme which he didn’t quite understand at first.

“As I got to ponder it a bit more,” he said, “I really got to see it as a call to action. Each of us in our everyday lives has been taught to make decisions about what we will do. We have a mind that lets us make choices of right and wrong.

“Each of us, as we go through the day, we see things going on we need to say something about. Whether it is integration, jail deaths or the homeless, there are a lot of things going on we can say something about. If we each do our part, we can bring a better society. We should be a committee of one to change. If people can be taught to hate, they can be taught to love.”

That was the sentiment for the program, including performances by various Sam Houston choirs, the Jazz Ensemble, the dance group African Sensations, the Color Guard and the oratory group “Young People of Color.”

Committee chair Graylon Roberson, a teacher at Sam Houston, directed a Black music appreciation medley featuring songs from Chuck Berry to Whitney Houston.

“We work on this program starting from the end of the last year’s program,” Roberson said. “The students and staff all come together, including members of the community, other high schools and colleges.”

Last year, the program honored John Lewis and his campaign for civil rights.

“This year, the students said, ‘We want to start something that ignites a change’ and say how it’s bigger than us, more than just us,” Roberson said. “When we found out that we’d have Opal Lee coming, we thought that ‘Igniting the Change’ was perfect, seeing that to start something, all it takes is one small step that can make a difference. That’s what we wanted to hone in on this year.”

During her speech, Lee said she took one step toward making Juneteenth a national holiday and watched as many others followed and kept pace.

“All you have to be is a committee of one,” she said, “to change somebody’s mind, to get people who are not on the same page on the same page. You can change minds if you keep at it. You can change lives. That’s what we did with Juneteenth.”

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4AnyTpZwj6k

Opal Lee will be keynote speaker

Sam Houston High School’s annual Black History Program will be extra special this year. Teacher and activist , “the grandmother of Juneteenth” will be the event’s keynote speaker.

Everyone is invited to the program on Feb. 16, from 6-8 p.m. in Sam Houston’s main auditorium.

"To have Opal Lee as this year's speaker is a treat for us here at Sam,” said Sam Houston High School principal Juan Villarreal. “Her advocacy for the community but also humanity falls right into alignment with the core values here at Sam because we are such a diverse campus. I am proud of the Black History program and all the staff at Sam who work so hard to ensure it is a success year after year. As Sam’s principal, it truly is an honor.”

The Black History program is spear-headed by U.S. history/African American studies teacher Graylon Roberson. He hopes the community will come together to enjoy a night of music, dance and inspiration.

“We are over the moon to have Mrs. Opal Lee as our keynote speaker this year,” Roberson said. “Attendees can witness students, staff, alumni and community members come together in many ways to honor our theme: ‘Igniting the Change: It's Bigger Than Us.’ We’ve worked hard to put on a good show so we can't wait to see everyone there as we celebrate Black history and American history.”

Attendees can expect performances by the SHHS choir, SHHS community jazz band, the TCC Movers Unlimited Dance Troupe, and the poetry group Young People of Color. There will also be special video messages from U.S. Congressmen Marc Veasey and Colin Allred and, of course, the phenomenal keynote speaker, Opal Lee.

Opal Lee will also host a book signing after the program concludes, and light refreshments will be served.

Purchase tickets for the program . Tickets are just $3, and the proceeds go to the Black History Month Scholarship Fund. College scholarships are awarded to Sam Houston seniors who work with the Black History program.

You can donate to directly to the scholarship program .