Celebrating the 2026 Athletic Hall of Fame class
The 2026 Dallas ISD Athletic Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place recently to honor former student athletes and coaches whose achievements have left a lasting impact on Dallas ISD athletics.
The evening celebrated individuals who made history on the field and continued to inspire others through leadership, excellence and service beyond athletics. Their accomplishments have paved the way for future generations while setting new standards of achievement.
“It is important that we are honoring tonight’s inductees,” said Superintendent Stephanie S. Elizalde. “I want you to know how proud we are that you will always be associated with Dallas ISD. Let their success be a beacon to everyone that you can achieve anything and know that success goes through Dallas ISD.”
Since 2018, the Hall recognizes former student athletes, coaches and community leaders who exemplify the highest standards of sportsmanship, ethical conduct, and moral character. Inductees are selected based on their athletic accomplishments, leadership, and lasting contributions to athletics.
This year’s class included eight inductees:
Charletta Gaines—A 1986 graduate of South Oak Cliff High School, Gaines is a three-time UIL state championship track and field coach at James Madison High School. She also previously coached at South Oak Cliff and has served Dallas ISD for many years as a campus counselor.
Abner Haynes—A 1956 Lincoln High School graduate, Haynes emerged as a pioneering football star and became one of the earliest standouts of the American Football League after being drafted by the Dallas Texans.
Chris Holt—A 1990 graduate of Skyline High School, Holt went on to professional baseball success after being drafted by the Houston Astros in 1992. He made his Major League debut in 1996 and was a part of three National League Central Division championships.
Goree Johnson—Head boys’ basketball at Justin F. Kimball High School from 1990 to 1998, Johnson led the Knights to back-to-back UIL state championships in 1996 and 1997 and was named the 1998 National Coach of the Year.
Leonard Jones—A 1965 graduate of Dr. L.G. Pinkston Sr. High School, Jones became a PGA professional golfer and devoted educator and mentor who championed minority participation in golf.
Percy Penn—A 1945 graduate of Crozier Tech High School, Penn was a multi-sport athlete who dedicated 35 years to Dallas ISD as a coach, teacher, and assistant principal at Sunset High School and Justin F. Kimball High School, while working as a football official.
Jonathan Scott—From David. W. Carter High School’s Class of 2001 to the national stage, Scott helped lead the University of Texas to a national championship. He went on to play nine professional seasons in the NFL, playing with the Detroit Lions, Buffalo Bills, Pittsburgh Steelers, Chicago Bears, and Atlanta Falcons.
Jason Smith—Rising from W.T. White High School’s Class of 2004 to national prominence, Smith earned All-America honors at Baylor University, played in the NFL with the St. Louis Rams, New York Jets, and New Orleans Saints before becoming a collegiate football coach.
Each inductee received a Hall of Fame jacket, ring and commemorative crystal award.
