Fam Jam returns: Dallas ISD’s community event kicks off on Sept. 14

Fam Jams not only bring together parents from different schools but also bring together the team members who make them happen to offer the community a space for celebration, connection, learning, and resources.

Since 2019, schools from different regions are selected to host. Each Fam Jam involves coordination and collaboration with school team members, including community liaisons and parents, who play a critical role engaging families ensuring the event’s success, said Israel Rivera, executive director for Parent Advocacy and Support Services. The events are meticulously planned in the spring, so that each one is hosted by a school within a specific region, such as the upcoming kick off on Saturday, Sept. 14, at Skyline High School, which will serve the four vertical teams across regions 1 and 2. 

According to data from previous years, more than 1,130 families usually participate in an in-person Fam Jam and engage in discussions on how to support learning at home. They also take advantage of immunizations, health screenings, free breakfast, prizes, and giveaways.

“We work closely with the schools to organize everything from performances to resource fairs,” Rivera said. “Our goal is to involve all the schools in the vertical teams and create an engaging experience for everyone.”

The preparation for these events is extensive. From setting up decorations and organizing tables to coordinating with partners and community organizations, Rivera and his team ensure that every detail is accounted for. They begin their setup early, including the day before, to make sure everything is ready for the event.

“We have bands, balloons, and a variety of decorations to create an inviting atmosphere,” Rivera said. “Our partners and community organizations are crucial to this process, providing valuable resources and support.”

Fam Jams also serve as a platform for team members to connect with families outside the classroom environment. While the focus is on building relationships rather than discussing academic performance, the events offer opportunities for families to learn about district resources and engage with different departments. This year, there’s an added focus on enhancing special education resources at the events.

“We invite team members to join us because it’s a chance to build trust and show families that we are here to support them,” Rivera said. “We want to make sure that all families feel included and have access to the information they need.”

Chelsea Liles, family and community engagement coordinator, finds great fulfillment in working on Fam Jam. 

“One of the most rewarding aspects has been witnessing the growth of our event and the increasing engagement from our families,” said Liles, who is involved in marketing and logistics. “Every Fam Jam provides a unique opportunity to bring our ideas to life, from detailed marketing strategies to on-the-ground execution.”

Liles and her colleague, Ingrid Baylon, start collaborating months in advance, with marketing materials prepared as early as May, and every detail carefully planned with the families’ needs in mind. Their shared passion for these events has cultivated a strong working relationship, essential for managing these large-scale events. For Liles, the highlight is seeing the direct impact on the community and interacting with the diverse individuals who contribute to their success.

“There is no Saturday like a Fam Jam Saturday; there is no other district or any other set of parents I would wake up for on a Saturday at 4 a.m., besides our amazing Dallas ISD families and these incredible Fam Jam events,” Liles said.