Career & Technical Education

The Charmaine & Robert Price Career Institute South has begun an exciting new chapter with the groundbreaking of its extensive renovations and additions, underscoring Dallas ISD’s commitment to expanding career-focused education.

“Today, we celebrate the official start of renovations and additions that will allow us to better meet the needs of our students and the greater community we serve,” said Adrienne Jones, Founding Director of CI South.

The Career Institute is named after Dr. Charmaine H. and Robert L. Price, a husband and wife duo who have been dedicated educators, mentors, and community leaders in Dallas for nearly 50 years. Dr. Price joined Dallas ISD in 1968 and her last assignment prior to retirement was serving as principal at Harrell Budd Elementary School. Her husband was a member of Dallas ISD Board of Education and served in Place 5 from 1977-1980. Mr. Price recently celebrated his 101st birthday. Their legacy of service is a beacon for the institute's mission.

The vision of the Dallas ISD Career Institutes is to: provide high school students a choice to pursue a Career and Technical Education (CTE) Pathway.

CI South will continue to offer students the opportunity to thrive in Career and Technical Education courses with 18 programs of study. Students will continue to collaborate with industry partners, train on industry-standard equipment, and earn industry-based certifications, all while completing their high school diploma.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, Raven Brock, Abigail Cerna and Sienna Marin served as student ambassadors turning the first sod with gold shovels as well as participating in the program during the pledge of allegiance, and introduction of honorees.

The renovations at CI South are expected to be completed by May 2025, paving the way for future generations to benefit from enhanced educational facilities and career training opportunities.

On May 7th, The Charmaine and Robert Price Career Institute (CI South) hosted its 2nd Annual Signing Day. The celebration continued on May 8th to recognize all 228 seniors. Parents, teachers, and administrators were in attendance to cheer on the 68 senior students as they signed their letters of intent to join the workforce upon graduation alongside their employers.

The first day was significant as CI South, with its active SkillsUSA Texas Chapter 4662, joined in the nationwide celebration of SkillsUSA National Signing Day. It was also a vivid and emotional program as Ernesto Flores from Carter HS, who signed with Mechanical Comfort Systems, spontaneously addressed the audience and whole-heartedly thanked his teacher Mr. Jim Green, an Electrical instructor.

Director Adrienne Jones and counselors corded the seniors who were excited and proud to receive honor regalia for completing the program, earning industry-based certifications, and representing CI South in different CTSOs, including the National Technical Honor Society in Chapter 5067 and HOSA in Chapter 60277. The event was honored by the presence of Dr. Oyinkansola Jinadu from the Honey Drops Foundation, who presented the HOSA award to Christina Wilkins from Molina High School.

The event was further graced by the Honorable Mobolaji Ogunlende, who shared words of wisdom with the students, as well as industry partners including Dallas College, Workforce Solutions Greater Dallas, AECOM, Mechanical Comfort Systems, and Allyson Kennon from the Building Talent Foundation, who addressed the audience on the role of the industry partner.

Parents, community members, school staff, and students recently celebrated the grand opening of Career Institute North with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This newly transformed campus, previously Walnut Hill Elementary, underwent $80 million in renovations and additions to become a state-of-the-art career institute.

The upgraded facilities include skills labs, automotive and aviation labs, new administrative offices, a lecture hall, meeting rooms, and a storm shelter. These enhancements provide Career Institute students with the opportunity to learn from instructors with industry experience and be mentored by successful professionals, preparing them for high-wage, high-skill, high-demand jobs in the Dallas region.

"This is a real game-changer," said a district representative. "Dallas ISD is redefining and reimagining the landscape of urban educational facilities. We are thinking BIG and revitalizing the communities we serve with schools that are bold, innovative, and designed to serve future generations."

The opening of Career Institute North marks a significant step forward in providing students with the resources and education needed to succeed in today's competitive job market.

Career Institute East hosted a special event to celebrate the achievements of its students as they embark on their professional careers. Parents, students, and industry partners gathered to recognize and applaud the 24 students who have already received job offers upon graduation.

The event featured Mr. Jimmie Dale from Baker Brothers as the guest speaker, offering insights and inspiration to the students as they prepare to enter the workforce. Excell Electric emerged as a leader in hiring, extending offers to nine graduating seniors and eight juniors.

In addition to Excell Electric, several other companies showed their commitment to the students' futures by offering employment opportunities. Baker Brothers hired four students, while Canadian Solar and Parkland Hospital each hired two. Baylor Hospital and the Heroes Foundation also joined in, hiring one student each.

Career Institute East is grateful to all its industry partners for their dedication to supporting and nurturing the next generation of professionals. By providing job opportunities directly to graduating students, these companies are helping to bridge the gap between education and employment, setting students up for success in their chosen fields.

Recently, Baylor Scott & White Heart and Vascular Hospital extended a unique opportunity to students, inviting them to participate in an immersive tour of their cutting-edge facility. The experience provided invaluable hands-on learning, offering students a glimpse into the world of healthcare.

Donning their scrubs, students embarked on a journey through the hospital hallways, where they were able to observe various hospital equipment and gain insights into their functions. They also had the chance to engage with nurses and doctors, asking questions and learning about different medical procedures and practices.

A highlight of the tour was the CPR simulations, where students were able to test their skills in a simulated emergency situation. This practical experience not only enhanced their understanding of medical procedures but also gave them a taste of what a career in healthcare entails.

Baylor Scott and White extended a job offer to one deserving students. This real-world outcome underscores the value of experiential learning and the impact it can have on shaping students' future career paths.

As spring ushers in the season for summer job searches, resume updates, and interviews, Career Institute East was abuzz with excitement as several industry partners visited the campus to interview students for jobs upon graduation.

The feedback from all the companies was overwhelmingly positive, with many noting the students' professionalism and strong communication skills. This praise is a testament to the hard work of the teachers, who diligently prepare students for these opportunities.

We look forward to seeing our students thrive in their future careers.

A group of ambitious students experienced a unique and thrilling opportunity at Southern Methodist University (SMU). This event, aimed at bridging the gap between education and the professional world, allowed students to interview with potential employers while getting a taste of college life.

In the weeks leading up to the event, students dedicated themselves to rigorous preparation. They earned "internship ready" badges through a series of intensive workshops and training sessions. These included mock interviews that provided them with realistic practice scenarios and valuable feedback, ensuring they were well-prepared to impress potential employers. Additionally, resume workshops helped them fine-tune their resumes, highlighting their strengths and accomplishments effectively.

The culmination of their hard work was the interview day itself. Dressed in their professional best, students had the chance to sit down with recruiters from various prestigious companies. This face-to-face interaction was not only a chance to make a memorable first impression but also an invaluable learning experience about the dynamics of real-world job interviews.

The event was a resounding success, leaving students feeling more confident and prepared for their future careers. It showcased the dedication and talent of our students, as well as the supportive and resource-rich environment of SMU. By blending professional preparation with the excitement of college life, this event highlighted the pathways from education to employment, providing students with both inspiration and practical skills for their future endeavors.

Hilltop Holdings has partnered with Dallas ISD to enhance financial literacy and entrepreneurship education across the district. This partnership aims to extend vital learning opportunities to all Entrepreneurship I classes, while continuing to support the Career Institutes.

On March 26, 2024, Dallas ISD hosted the "Hilltop Entrepreneurship Challenge" at Fellowship Dallas, an exciting in-person competition for Entrepreneurship I students. This year marked the first time the challenge was expanded district-wide, aiming to promote entrepreneurship and make a significant impact on students across Dallas ISD for the 2023–2024 school year.

The Challenge featured participants from twelve campuses: Bryan Adams High School, Career Institute East, Career Institute North, Career Institute South, Hillcrest High School, Innovation Design Entrepreneurship Academy, Moises E. Molina High School, Seagoville High School, Skyline High School, South Oak Cliff High School, Marvin E. Robinson School of Business and Management at Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center, and Woodrow Wilson High School.

This expansion reflects Hilltop Holdings' commitment to fostering entrepreneurial skills and opportunities for a larger group of students, empowering them with the knowledge and experience to succeed in the business world.

A total of 102 businesses and 135 participating students were recognized and awarded medals onstage at the Gala. Furthermore, 8 businesses and 12 students were announced as winners and presented with trophies and prizes during the Gala celebration.

The Hilltop Gala produced regional finalist who then competed at the NFTE regionals. The top five from the regional competition moved on to the state level competition. Notably, three of the top five finalists are from Dallas ISD and have advanced to nationals in New York during the fall semester of 2024.

Congratulations to:

• 2nd Place: Angel Alvarez from Price Career Institute South in Dallas with his business idea, UniDesign, an affordable yet premium quality branding and design business.
• Runner-Up: Peyton Bernstein from Hillcrest High School in Dallas with his business idea, Peyton’s Pastries, offering a variety of baked goods including cookies, cakes, and cupcakes.
• Runner-Up: Brihana Herrera and Danamari Martinez Reyes from Career Institute North in Dallas with their business idea, Bra Physics, a business dedicated to helping women feel confident and empowered by finding their ideal bra size.

As the school year draws to a close, we took a moment to celebrate our new Career and Technical Education (CTE) teachers who have successfully navigated their first year in a CTE classroom. This group of dedicated educators has shown incredible resilience, adaptability, and passion for their craft, and we are proud to honor their achievements.

To commemorate this milestone, the CTE department host the annual end-of-year celebration to honor our new CTE teachers. This event was an opportunity to reflect on the challenges and triumphs of the past year, celebrate the growth and achievements of our teachers, and look ahead to the future of CTE education.

A special thanks to the Culinary Arts program at Conrad High School, led by Chef Harris, for providing an amazing dinner. The dessert was delightful, and the candy bar was emptied! Your culinary skills added an extra layer of celebration to the event, and we are grateful for your contribution.

To Mrs. Megan Johnson-Burns and Mrs. Dee Coyle, your steadfast leadership year after year is deeply appreciated. Guiding CTE teachers through every challenge, your insight, selflessness, and dedication does not go unnoticed. Thank you for everything you do!

One student shared, "Working in the food truck has been an incredible experience. I've learned so much about teamwork, time management, and customer service."

Bryan Adams is just the beginning; Skyline and Molina launched, with more planned for fall 2024. We are thrilled for our students to have this hands-on learning opportunity as it not only enhances their culinary skills but also provides them with real-world experience in running a business and serving customers.This practical experience will undoubtedly prepare them for success in the culinary industry and beyond.

Approximately 90 NAF Academy students embarked on a Worksite Tour to Verizon in Richardson. The visit was packed with enriching activities aimed at enhancing their professional development and career readiness.

During the tour, students had the opportunity to interview for 40 summer internship positions, providing them with valuable real-world interview experience. Additionally, they attended a workshop focused on LinkedIn, where they learned how to create a profile, explore opportunities on the platform, and understand how employers utilize it for recruitment. A professional photographer was also on hand to capture their professional headshots, which can enhance their online presence and LinkedIn profiles.

One of the highlights of the tour was a panel discussion featuring recent hires who shared their experiences transitioning from high school to college and eventually to their careers. This session provided invaluable insights and advice to the students as they prepare for their own career journeys.

The tour concluded with a panel of executives who emphasized the value of internships and the importance of gaining practical work experience. Their words of wisdom and encouragement resonated with the students, inspiring them to strive for excellence in their academic and professional pursuits.

Overall, the Worksite Tour to Verizon was a resounding success, providing NAF Academy students with a comprehensive and immersive learning experience that will undoubtedly shape their future career paths.

Click to Watch!

In the recent U.S. News annual Best High Schools rankings, Dallas ISD has shown its excellence with five schools ranking in the top 10 in the metro area. Among these, The School of the Talented and Gifted achieved an impressive #6 national ranking.

We are incredibly proud of all the schools and students who have contributed to this remarkable achievement.

List of Dallas ISD schools edging out the top 20 in the state:

• #1 The School for the Talented and Gifted (TAG)
• #2 Irma Lerma Rangel Young Women's Leadership School
• #3 Science and Engineering Magnet School (SEM)
• #5 Judge Barefoot Sanders Law Magnet
• #9 School of Health Professions
• #13 School of Business and Management
• #18 Rosie Sorrells Education and Social Services High School
• # 21 Barack Obama Male Leadership Academy

Link to article.

Molina High School's Cliff Smokers team showcased their barbecue skills at the High School BBQ, Inc. State Competition in Round Rock, TX, held at Dell Diamond Stadium. In their inaugural year, the team achieved an impressive 6th place overall out of 98 teams.

Competing against seasoned teams, the Cliff Smokers tackled various categories, including brisket, ribs (8th place), chicken (8th place), beans (6th place), and a dessert of their choice. The early start time of 5 am didn't deter their determination to succeed and represent Molina HS with pride.

Join us in congratulating Alexa Guerrero, a junior in Skyline's Graphic Design Magnet Program! Her entry in the kids teaching kids® Texas Recipe Book, 2024-25 design contest, sponsored by Medical City Children’s Hospital, has been awarded runner-up in the statewide design competition. This marks the third consecutive year that Skyline, representing Dallas ISD, has placed in the top three.

As runner-up, Alexa wins $1,000 for our department. We are incredibly proud of Alexa's achievement and the recognition she has brought to the program. Her talent and hard work are truly commendable, and we look forward to seeing her future successes.

Click to watch video announcement.

Overall, Dallas ISD outperformed this year. The District excelled on all levels of the Kids Teaching Kids Program, and as a result, the following programs have been awarded:

• Annie Webb Blanton Elementary: $1,000
• Conrad HS Culinary Arts Program: $500
• Roosevelt HS Culinary Arts Program: $500
• Skyline HS Graphic Design Program: $1,000
• Skyline HS Education and Training Program: $2,000
• Skyline HS Radio, Television, & Film Program: $2,000

In a historic achievement, Alex Miguel Mendoza has become the first student in over 30 years to pass the FAA General test at Skyline High School. This milestone not only marks a significant accomplishment for Alex but also signals a resurgence of the Aviation program at Skyline.

Mr. Thomas, Alex's aviation teacher, mentioned hearing doubts that such an achievement was attainable, dismissing it as a lost cause. However, Alex's success has proven otherwise, showcasing the determination and hard work of our students and staff.

We anticipate that other seniors will soon follow in Alex's footsteps, further solidifying the program's reputation and garnering increased support from the FAA. We look forward to celebrating more successes in the future as we continue to grow and strengthen our Aviation program.

In a collaborative effort between Skyline High School's Construction Magnet program, led by Mr. Palmer, and the Interior Design Magnet program, led by Mrs. Blackhall, seniors from the construction team partnered with junior students from the Interior Design 2 studio class to create wooden footstools. This project marked a resurrection of a project that has happened together in the past - but marks the second year of collaboration between the two programs under current leadership.

Construction students took on the role of instructors, teaching interior design students how to use tools and equipment in the woodshop. The project involved creating a project flow chart to guide the fabrication process, followed by staining and upholstering the footstools. The interior design students selected their favorite upholstery textiles from a variety of donated fabrics, but while the construction cluster taught them how to fabricate the wood parts - the interior design students learned to stain and upholster the footstools under the guidance of Mrs. Blackhall.

This hands-on project not only taught valuable skills in furniture fabrication and finishing but also provided a real-world experience of collaboration between different trades. The finished footstools will be taken home by the students, with some possibly becoming thoughtful Father's Day gifts.

We are delighted to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Ms. Gantt Lee and her dedicated students for achieving remarkable success during the 2023-24 academic year. Under the guidance of Ms. Gantt-Lee, the Business Career Prep program at Skyline has achieved a significant milestone as seven students have completed the program with a firm commitment to embark on their career journey with FedEx.

We must also acknowledge the invaluable contribution of Ms. Marion Proby, who collaborates closely with Ms. Gantt-Lee in delivering the FedEx curriculum within the Career Prep course. Ms. Proby's support in implementing the six-week Purple Pathway curriculum for two days a week has been instrumental in shaping the students' career trajectories.

In the photo, we celebrate the achievements of Mark Alvarado, Cristofer Arcos, Leo Arellano, Julian Garcia, Amyranique Harrington, Jacob Ortega, and Ignacio Torres. Their dedication and hard work serve as an inspiration to us all.

Once again, congratulations to Ms. Gantt Lee, her students, and the entire team for this outstanding accomplishment. We look forward to witnessing their continued success in the future.

We are thrilled to share some wonderful news. The TV & Film program at Lincoln Humanities/Communications Magnet achieved one of the highest honors in the television industry. It was just announced that The Draya Experience has won not one, but two Telly Awards!

The Telly Awards recognize excellence in video and television across all screens nationwide. This incredible achievement highlights the outstanding talent and dedication of the students and faculty involved.

Congratulations to everyone who contributed to making The Draya Experience a remarkable success!

Press Release

Both teams from Hector P. Garcia, which previously secured first place at the regional level in February, showcased their exceptional skills once more at the State competition. The Nutrition and Wellness team—comprising Lilianna Bustamante, Benjamin Guerrero, and Aleida Perez—impressed judges with their ability to track food intake and physical activity, setting goals and strategies for improving overall health in areas like nutrition, fitness, and mental wellness.

Similarly, the Sports Nutrition team—consisting of Ethan Lazo-Nava and Julian Ortiz—demonstrated their expertise in Family and Consumer Sciences by developing personalized nutritional plans for competitive student athletes. Their plans, encompassing nutrition, hydration, and exercise strategies, highlighted their holistic approach to sports nutrition.

Both teams achieved remarkable success, securing first place in their respective categories and earning the opportunity to represent Hector P. Garcia at the national level. This accomplishment not only reflects the dedication and talent of the teams but also marks a historic milestone for Dallas ISD.

In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Dronelution360 from Woodrow Wilson High School emerged triumphant at the 2023-2024 Aerial Drone Championship in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Competing against 50 teams from across the United States, Dronelution360 secured the prestigious Excellence Award, a testament to their exceptional performance and dedication to excellence in the field of aerial drone technology.

The team's success was no accident, as they met and exceeded rigorous qualifications throughout the competition:

• Competition Logbook Rankings: Dronelution360 consistently ranked at or near the top of the competition logbook, showcasing their meticulous planning and execution.
• Consideration for Other Judged Awards: The team's excellence extended beyond their flying skills, as they were strong candidates for other judged awards, highlighting their comprehensive approach to the competition.
• High-Quality Team Interview: Dronelution360 impressed judges with their knowledge, professionalism, and passion for aerial drone technology during the team interview.
• Positive Team Conduct: Throughout the competition, Dronelution360 demonstrated exemplary sportsmanship, teamwork, and professionalism, earning the respect of their peers and judges alike.
• Qualification Ranking: The team consistently ranked in the top 50% of qualification ranking at the conclusion of qualifying teamwork matches, showcasing their consistency and skill.
• Skills Rankings: Dronelution360 excelled in autonomous flight and piloting skills matches, consistently ranking in the top 50% and demonstrating their proficiency in flying and maneuvering their drones.

Coach Abesamis expressed immense gratitude for the outstanding students and the unwavering support from parents and the community. Their dedication and commitment were instrumental in Dronelution360's success, serving as the foundation upon which the team's achievements were built.

Dronelution360's victory at the Aerial Drone Championship cements their reputation as one of the top high school drone teams in the nation, making them a source of pride for Woodrow Wilson High School and the entire community.

Skyline High School's DECA program celebrated another successful year at the DECA International Conference. Mekiah Nickerson represented Skyline with exceptional poise as she competed against thousands of students in the Human Resources role play category. Over several days, Mekiah excelled in testing and role plays in front of a panel of judges, advancing through district and state levels. Mekiah's performance was outstanding, and we are incredibly proud of her achievements.

Career Institute East introduced its electrical students to the SkillsUSA competition this year, marking their inaugural participation. Four students enthusiastically accepted the challenge, resulting in a remarkable third place finish. The experience was greatly enjoyed by all, sparking a desire to compete again next year, with aspirations set on clinching the top spot. Adding to the excitement, Excell Electric has generously agreed to sponsor the electrical team for the upcoming year.

Congratulations to Excell Electric and the talented students at Career Institute East!

The results are in from the Business Professionals of America National Leadership Conference in Chicago, Illinois, and we are proud to announce that Erick Lara and Carley Baum from Marvin E. Robinson School of Business and Management at Townview ranked among the top in the nation! Carley, a 10th grader, competed in Fundamental Accounting, and Erick, an 11th grader, competed in Advanced Accounting.

Great job to both of them!

Additionally, students participated in the Healthy Futures Film Contest, focusing on the theme “Teens Speak Out: Mental Health & Sex Education Connection.” Amaryss Escobar's outstanding submission won the staff pick award, earning her a prize of $250.

Congratulations to all the students for their hard work and remarkable achievements!

We proudly celebrate the achievements of our students who have earned various CTE certifications, paving the way for their future careers. Thanks to your dedication and guidance, our students have excelled in numerous areas, earning top certifications for the 2023-24 school year:

1. Entrepreneurship and Small Business
2. NCCER Core
3. Volunteer Income Tax Assistance: Basic
4. Google Analytics
5. Autodesk (all)
6. ServSafe Manager
7. Adobe Photoshop
8. Project Manager
9. QuickBooks
10. MOS Specialist Word

Congratulations to all our certified students, and heartfelt thanks to our exceptional teachers for preparing them for success!

We are thrilled to announce the outstanding achievements of Seagoville High School welding and agricultural mechanics students. Competing against 27 other Texas high schools and over 300 welding students, the team showcased their exceptional skills.

Out of 39 participants from Seagoville, 33 earned the prestigious AWS D9.1 welding certification. Impressively, 13 of these students secured Top-10 positions in their respective categories. In total, students brought home 44 certifications across six categories and two welding processes.

These achievements are the result of countless hours of dedication and hard work put in after school. Seagoville Agriculture continues to demonstrate excellence and strength.

Congratulations to the talented welders and thank you to everyone who supported them along the way!

Senior Chloe Nichols has reached an extraordinary milestone. After taking BIM1 last year and earning several Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certificates, Chloe returned this year and, through her own independent study, passed her seventh MOS exam. She now holds certifications in Word, Word Expert, Excel, Excel Expert, Outlook, PowerPoint, and Access Expert—a first in school's history!

In addition to her impressive achievements, Chloe has been accepted to several colleges and universities and has committed to becoming a Wolverine at the University of Michigan. Congratulations, Chloe!

A significant milestone has been achieved by seniors from Justin F. Kimball, L.G. Pinkston, Moise E. Molina, and David W. Carter High Schools as they have successfully obtained their Non-Commissioned Security Officer licenses following the rigorous certification process for Law Enforcement.

This accomplishment marks a commendable achievement for these campuses, underscoring the dedication and commitment of both our students and faculty. We extend our sincere gratitude to Mr. Mosely (Justin F. Kimball), Ms. Williams (L.G. Pinkston), Mr. Felton (Moise E. Molina), and Mr. Garrett (David W. Carter) for their unwavering support and tireless efforts in guiding our students through this endeavor. Their dedication has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in fostering the growth and development of our future law enforcement professionals.

Congratulations to all involved on this remarkable accomplishment!

Academic Services is excited to announce 2023-2024 Summer Learning! This summer, all Dallas ISD teachers are invited to participate in a two-day professional learning series aimed at equipping them with effective, research-based strategies to deliver engaging instruction tailored to the needs of all Dallas ISD students. By attending summer learning, teachers also gain eligibility for the Flex-Day Initiative.

To register for summer learning, teachers should visit the Professional & Digital Learning website at DallasISD.org/PDL and click on the Summer Learning banner. From there, they will be directed to the Summer Learning website, where they can find information about the Flex-Day Initiative, training dates, and register for sessions. Alternatively, teachers can access the Summer Learning Catalog, also on the website, for a comprehensive listing of all professional learning opportunities available this summer.

For more details on summer learning, the Flex-Day Initiative, and a step-by-step guide on how to register, please watch our brief video by clicking HERE. Let's make this summer a season of growth and development for all Dallas ISD teachers!

We are saddened to announce the passing of Lynn Ardelle Craighead Allen, a cherished business teacher at Samuell High School, on April 18, 2024. Lynn's dedication to education and her passion for teaching profoundly impacted the lives of her students and colleagues. She was known for her cheerful spirit, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to her students' success.

Lynn's career in education spanned many years, during which she served as both a teacher and an administrator, always striving to inspire and guide young minds. Her legacy of kindness, humor, and excellence in education will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Please join us in keeping Lynn's family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Link to obituary.