Living the Core 4
Dallas ISD’s Core 4—focused, fast, flexible, and friendly—comes to life every day in the front office of Jesús Moroles Expressive Arts Vanguard through the work of data controller Lucila Ortega. Nominated by Assistant Principal Zachary Goatley for exemplifying these four pillars, Ortega quietly ensures that systems run smoothly so students and families can thrive.
Ortega manages a high volume of student data and magnet applications, all while juggling multiple critical responsibilities. She said her work underpins everything from classroom placement to report cards, forming a backbone for student achievement.
“As the data controller, I am responsible for master scheduling, student placement, grading, and collecting grade books,” she explained. “I also assist our office manager with payroll and work alongside the registrar. Ultimately, my core role consists of grading, master scheduling, and student registration.”
Ortega admits that staying focused amid constant deadlines is essential, as her work can be intense. During peak seasons, especially, she often extends her day to honor families’ needs.
“There have been times when I’ve stayed late several days a week to stay focused on those applications, because I know families are waiting on a decision before they can make their own,” she said.
The fast and flexible dimensions of Core 4 show up in how she responds to parents and adapts to the constant flow of needs on campus. She prioritizes serving families immediately when they walk through the door.
“If a parent comes in need of assistance, I try to help right then and there rather than prolonging it; I want them to feel that people truly care,” she said.
That flexibility extends to her colleagues as well. Often going beyond her duties, Ortega helps wherever she is needed.
“I like to help others because I know that whenever I need a helping hand, I can count on people to be there for me too,” she said. “Whenever my colleagues ask for a little help, I always try to make the time to assist. Sometimes you don’t realize you’re doing it, but you find a way to make time for others.”
What truly defines Ortega, though, is the friendly tenet. After 24 years at the same campus, she has become a trusted constant for generations of families. Her secret is simple: make every person feel seen. She greets parents by name and makes sure they feel welcomed and cared for, no matter the situation.
“I have former students who are now parents themselves with kids in the school,” she said. “They’ll come back and say, ‘Lucy, you’re still here! I’m so glad you are—it makes me feel so comfortable.’”
But for Ortega, the Core 4 isn’t a checklist; it’s a way of showing up—for students, for families, for colleagues—every single day.
“Being friendly doesn’t take anything at all. Everyone can do it; it just needs to come from the heart,” she said.
