Staff News

The spring semester can get busy for school district employees, and with many responsibilities comes stress. But while stress affects almost everyone, it doesn’t have to affect your life. And sometimes, it can be a good thing because it can give us the energy we need to meet challenges. How can you tell if the stress in your life is becoming a problem?

The common symptoms of stress include difficulty sleeping, headaches, neck and back aches, stomach pain, irritability, depression, and mood swings. Some people also may begin to abuse alcohol, illegal drugs, or prescription drugs during periods of extreme stress. You need to get the opinion of a medical professional or counselor if any of these symptoms feel familiar. If you have recently experienced these, you could be under stress.

There are things you can do to help alleviate some of the common causes and symptoms of stress in your daily life. Here are five tips that can help.

Tip number one:

Try to identify the source of your stress and find a practical way to resolve it. If you’re worried that your manager is concerned about your performance, ask them if they have any feedback for you and if there is anything you can do to improve your work. If your to-do list is out of control, you can review it and then block out time to tackle it. Often addressing the source of your stress will minimize the impact it has on your life.

Tip number two:

Accept that some problems and challenges can’t be solved directly. Instead, you may need time to come to terms with them. Some sources of stress—such as caring for an older relative—require us to make an attitude change rather than fix an external problem. Reaching out to a mental health professional will help you gain perspective.

Tip number three:

Stop overscheduling. Feeling constantly stretched is a major stressor. Make a plan for a calm morning and make sleep a priority in the evening. By slowing down, you can tune in to what your body needs and build resilience for the challenges you have to face.

Tip number four:

Take care of yourself. Eating a healthy diet will help you find the energy you need to cope with stress. Exercising regularly can also help keep it under control. This is because exercising for as little as 20 minutes a day can rev up your endorphins, which are natural feel-good chemicals in the brain that help to reduce stress. Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques might help you ease the tension in your life. You can find resources on both by searching the Support and Resources section of the assistance programme website.

Tip number five:
Make time for family and friends. Research shows that having strong ties to others has a positive effect on a person’s ability to cope with stress.

These five tips are drawn from the knowledge and first-hand experience of our well-being experts who are helping clients round the clock every day.

If you need additional support, Dallas ISD team members can take advantage of the Employee Assistance Program by LifeWorks. The confidential, secure platform has countless resources available online for free, including on-call counselors who are available seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Reach out to LifeWorks at (972) 925-4000, or visit www.dallasisd.org/benefits and click on Benefits Resources to access online EAP information. 

Source: LifeWorks

Dallas ISD students who don’t have film programs at their schools are getting the opportunity to become filmmakers through a partnership with their school and a program through Pegasus Media Project, a nonprofit arts organization. 

The program, Youth Portable Film Program, is led by local filmmaker Christopher Sonny Martinez, a Dallas ISD alum. The program currently serves students at H. Grady Spruce High School, Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center, and the Victory Meadows Youth Center, which serves students in the Emmett J. Conrad High School feeder pattern. Martinez has been working with the students since last semester in teaching them film language, film history, and how to create their own stories using film. 

PMP was founded in 2012 by artist-educator Niloo Jalilvand, who was a teacher at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, for 21 years. In 2015, she launched the student-led Pegasus Film Festival to inspire and empower young people to pursue their passion for filmmaking.

The Youth Portable Film Program is funded through grants such as the Texas Commission for the Arts and is free to the schools. At Spruce, Martinez has been working with the students in collaboration with Miriam Sharp, their graphic design teacher. 

“Working with Pegasus has been a fun journey because the students love taking part behind and in-front of the camera,” Sharp said. “It has taught them about themselves and their peers in an atmosphere where they can be themselves,” she said. 

Approximately 12 tenth grade students participate in the program at Spruce. 

Tamitha Curiel, from PMP, who is also a filmmaker and a Booker T. Washington alum, says the goal is to give students ideas for the way stories can be told in the visual medium, as they are already manipulating color and their own designs in their graphic design class. 

“In any job you could go into, you have the skill to tell the story with the visual,” Curiel said. “They are building on those skills and just taking that to the next level—to a moving image –and giving them tools, because those skills can be utilized in many different areas.”  

She says that even if students don’t become professional filmmakers, those skills will be useful, as there are people such as dentists, lawyers, and other professions who are making films and TikTok videos to promote their businesses. 

Curiel says that so far, students have interviewed each other, edited their own interviews, as well as filmed b-roll, which is footage that supplements main video footage. 

“In the beginning, I don’t think the students really had a good understanding of what the work entailed, but I think they were kind of excited about getting their hands on the equipment,” she said. “One of the students said something about feeling powerful during the editing process.”

The work the students have done to carve out their own stories has also led them to collaborate with other students outside of their class. They recently filmed the Spruce dance team, which performed a piece titled “My Mind.”

Curiel says that future plans include the students working on their own film—but for now they are creating their student profiles through film, highlighting some of the things they like at their school.

All of the classes take place during school hours and Curiel says that PMP wants to continue this collaboration with schools to empower students to tell their stories. 

For more information about the Youth Portable Film Program, visit https://www.pegasusmediaproject.com/about-8.

When Heather Houston, an eighth-grade science and astronomy teacher at Jesús Moroles Expressive Arts Vanguard, found out the solar eclipse was going to happen on a Monday, she suggested to her principal that it become a schoolwide event. 

One of the things that motivated Houston was remembering how she watched partial eclipses when she was a Dallas ISD student and thought it would be an exciting experience for the students. Houston attended Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts and graduated from Sunset High School. 

“I’ve been sitting back watching the kids just take charge,” Houston said. “I’ve seen some kids that were really shy step up, and it’s been really neat to watch them turn into little teachers,” she said.

As Houston was looking for materials for her students, she remembered that one of her students wanted to be a writer, so she asked him if he was up for the challenge. Cash C., her student, wrote a book about how to safely watch the solar eclipse. It included simple facts and illustrations, and students created lesson plans around the book and models that they had created.

Houston’s students took their work outside of their classroom and taught the younger grade levels, pre-K through fifth grade, about how to watch the solar eclipse in a safe way. 

At Moroles, all grade levels will watch the solar eclipse together, with the exception of the ones whose parents signed the opt-out letters that were sent home with the students. 

Going into this, students weren’t sure exactly what to expect and wondered if they would be able to answer all the younger students’ questions or if they would behave– but they did–and the “student” teachers did an excellent job, according to Houston. 

“When students are passionate about science, I love it,” Houston said “And if I have a student that changes their mind about science throughout the year and turns out to like it, that makes my year,” she said.  

You may have already caught Houston and her students on the local news, as they have recently been featured doing this important work. 

Here’s some links to their story that ran in local news stations:

https://www.nbcdfw.com/news/local/dallas-isd-astronomy-students-teach-younger-students-about-upcoming-eclipse/3495057/

https://www.cbsnews.com/texas/news/dallas-isd-school-gets-in-spirit-for-total-solar-eclipse/

https://www.iqmediacorp.com/ClipPlayer?ClipID=6cbcb642-661e-49da-8eac-97733516262d&TE=%7B0%7D

For 16 years, Armina Wrice has been an important member of Dallas ISD, influencing future generations since relocating from the Philippines in 2008 to pursue her passion in education by becoming a teacher. 

In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Wrice participates in other activities and clubs within the district. As a coach of the TMSCA since 2016, she has led Henry W. Longfellow Career Exploration Academy students to consistent success, qualifying in state championships under her guidance. 

“I really like to impart knowledge about math and real life,” Wrice said. 

Wrice lives by the mantra “The only permanent thing in this world is change,” a philosophy that drives her to constantly seek new ways to engage and inspire her students. Recently, Wrice was honored with the Dallas Retired Teachers Association Award, a recognition that came as a surprise. 

“The first time I ever heard of this award was very recently when my principal announced it,” she said. “I saw it as an opportunity to grant my students a new experience.”

Wrice’s inspiration stemmed from a desire to introduce her students to pen tablets, revolutionizing the way they interact with math assignments.

 “I wanted them to experience the ease of use and creative possibilities,” she said.

Thanks to the award funds, Wrice was able to purchase a class set of 30 pen tablets, which has increased innovation and creativity in her classroom. 

“It’s a dream come true, personally,” she said. “And professionally, it reaffirmed my belief that if there’s anything else I want to pursue for the benefit of the children, there will always be support out there.”

Wrice is thankful for the support of her principal, Michael Tatum, whose encouragement and guidance were essential in her journey to receiving the award. Wrice is so pleased with what she has been able to do with the award, she encourages her fellow educators to apply for grants. 

“Anyone else who would like to make some of their dreams come true should consider applying for awards like this,” she said. “The delight in the eyes of a child when they see how we make things more interesting and equitable for them is priceless.”

Assistant Principals are campus leaders who support their principals, teachers, community and other team members to make sure the day-to-day operations are carried out successfully and efficiently.   

Dallas ISD will celebrate National Assistant Principals Week April 8-12 by bringing awareness and celebrating these unsung heroes in our schools. 

“As the second in command, assistant principals play a crucial role in the success of our schools,” said Nancy A. Bernadino, Associate Superintendent. “In Dallas ISD, our assistant principals work closely with students, teachers, and families to improve academic outcomes, strengthen social-emotional learning, and create a positive climate and culture for all. We are grateful to have leaders committed to excellence and equity for all children.” 

Here are a few tips from the National Association of Secondary Principals to thank and celebrate your AP:

• Students, team members, and community members can write a thank you note with specific examples on how their AP made an impact.
• Read testimonies from students, parents, and teachers during school announcements.
• Send them an e-card to let them know they are appreciated.
• Art, music, and theater classes (specials) can do a small group project to honor your AP. 
• Share the activities your school is doing to celebrate your assistant principal via social media.

Dallas ISD team members must be cautious and take steps to protect sensitive data against smishing messages, a mix of “SMS” and “phishing”, which fool consumers into disclosing sensitive information or compromising security. Smishing attacks can be avoided by following these simple tips:

• Be cautious of messages promising prizes, rewards, or offers that seem too good to be true. These could be bait to lure recipients into revealing sensitive information.
• Be suspicious of abrupt requests for immediate action from coworkers/supervisors you rarely communicate with (i.e. principal asking you to buy gift cards).
• Watch out for messages containing shortened URLs or links that appear unusual or lead to unfamiliar websites. These links may redirect to phishing sites designed to steal credentials or deliver malware.
• Don’t trust urgent SMS messages regarding your credit card, bank account, or package delivery.
• Disregard unexpected texts asking you to reset your password due to your account being compromised. Only rely on Dallas ISD technology team members to assist you with password resets and troubleshooting.

This week representatives from Reliant Energy presented Dallas ISD’s Energy and Sustainability Department with a $64,000 check to support the district’s ongoing efforts of energy efficiency. 

Reliant started a program in 2023 called Responsive Economic Dispatch, or RED, and when the ERCOT grid is peaking high, it’s an incentive to reduce energy during peak periods.

“The RED program compensates the district for turning down during peak times, which are the most polluting times,” said Annette Van Brunt, energy consultant to the district. “Not only does it help reduce the strain on the grid, the district is getting an incentive and also reducing carbon emissions in the state of Texas.” 

“The check that was presented today was part of the 2023 RED program and was due to the fact that Dallas ISD reduced in some of our peak periods and they’re one of our largest ISD participants,” said Reliant energy representative Jeff Bettison. When the district is able to reduce, they reduce 20 megawatts, he added. 

“Both Reliant and the district continue to work on different ways to improve these efforts and look forward to working together in the future”, said Bryant Shaw, manager of the Energy and Sustainability Department.

The M/WBE Department recently recognized the top three elementary, middle and high schools that ranked the highest in supporting minority- and women-owned businesses among the district’s vendors. Schools who want to know where they rank can download this document. The top schools by grade level are:

Elementary Schools

First Place | Leslie A. Stemmons 

Second Place | Stephen C. Foster

Third Place | T.G. Terry

Middle Schools

First Place | Dr. Frederick Douglass Todd, Sr.

Second Place | Piedmont Global Academy and Barbara Mann

Third Place | Robert T. Hill 

High Schools

First Place | Kathleen Joy Gilliam Collegiate Academy

Second Place | David W. Carter

Third Place | H. Grady Spruce

One of the basics of eating healthier is having a handle on what you are eating, and the best way to do it is learning how to read nutrition labels. The following is a quick guide to reading the Nutrition Facts label.

Step 1: Start with the serving size

Servings per container and serving size information appear in large, bold font. The serving size is not a recommendation of how much to eat.

• Look here for both the serving size (the amount people typically eat at one time) and the number of servings in the package. 
• Compare your portion size (the amount you actually eat) to the serving size listed on the panel. The Nutrition Facts apply to the serving size, so if the serving size is one cup, and you eat two cups, you need to double the calories, fat and other nutrients. 
• Learn more about serving sizes on the Nutrition Facts label.

Step 2: Compare the total calories to your individual needs

• Calories are in large and bold font to make the information easier to find and use.
• Find out how many calories are in a single serving and compare it to your total calorie allowance for the day—2,000 calories per day is used for general nutrition advice, but your individual needs may be higher or lower.
• Learn more about calories on the Nutrition Facts label.

Step 3: Let the percent daily values be a guide

• Use the percent daily values (DV) to help evaluate how a particular food fits into your daily meal plan because these apply to the entire day, not just one meal or snack.
• Daily values are average levels of nutrients based on a person who eats 2,000 calories a day. A food item with a 5% DV of fat provides 5% of the total fat that a person who needs 2,000 calories a day should eat. 
• You may need more or fewer than 2,000 calories per day, which means you may need to adjust the percentage listed on the package for some nutrients. 
• Low is 5% or less. Aim low in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol and sodium.
• High is 20% or more. Aim high in vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber. 

Step 4: Check Out the Nutrition Terms

• Low calorie: 40 calories or less per serving. 
• Low cholesterol: 20 milligrams or less of cholesterol and 2 grams or less of saturated fat per serving. 
• Reduced: At least 25% less of the specified nutrient or calories than the usual product. 
• Good source of: Provides at least 10% to 19% of the daily value of a particular vitamin or nutrient per serving.
• Excellent source of: Provides at least 20% of the daily value of a particular vitamin or nutrient per serving. 
• Calorie-free: Less than five calories per serving. 
• Fat-free/sugar-free: Less than ½ gram of fat or sugar per serving. 
• Low sodium: 140 milligrams or less of sodium per serving. 
• High in: Provides 20% or more of the daily value of a specific nutrient per serving. 

Step 5: Choose low in saturated fat, added sugars and sodium

• Eating less saturated fat, added sugars and sodium may help reduce your risk for chronic disease. 
• Saturated fat and trans fat are linked to an increased risk of heart disease. 
• Eating too much added sugar increases your calorie count and makes it difficult to meet nutrient needs within calorie coals. 
• High levels of sodium can add up to high blood pressure. 
• Remember to aim for low percentages of daily values of these. 

Step 6: Get Enough vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber

• Choose more foods containing dietary fiber, potassium, vitamin D, calcium and iron to maintain good health and help reduce your risk of certain health problems such as osteoporosis and anemia. 
• Choose more fruits and vegetables to get more of these nutrients. 
• Remember to aim high for the percentage daily values of these nutrients on other foods. 

Step 7: Consider the additional nutrients

You know about calories, but it is also important to know about the additional nutrients on the Nutrition Facts label.

• Protein: A percentage daily value for protein is not required on the label. Eat moderate portions of lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs, low-fat milk, yogurt and cheese, plus beans and peas, nuts, seeds and soy products. 
• Carbohydrates: There are three types of carbohydrates: sugars, starches and fiber. Eat whole-grain breads, cereals, rice and pasta plus fruits and vegetables. 
• Sugars: Simple carbohydrates, or sugars, occur naturally in foods such as fruit (fructose) and milk (lactose) or come from refined sources such as table sugar (sucrose) or corn syrup. Added sugars are included on the updated Nutrition Facts label. The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that foods and beverages with added sugars be avoided by children under the age of 2 and that individuals older than 2 years of age consume no more than 10% of daily calories from added sugars.

Foods with more than one ingredient must have an ingredient list on the label. Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight. Those in the largest amounts are listed first. This information is particularly helpful for people with food sensitivities or allergies, those who need to avoid certain ingredients due to religious reasons, or people who prefer a vegetarian eating style.

Learn more about the Nutrition Facts Label by visiting the FDA website.

Source: EatRight.org 

In the almost 25 years that Christine Martinez has been with Dallas ISD, she has become known for being a resourceful leader who is always willing to help others by leading with kindness. In her latest role as an administrative assistant with Custodial Services, she has become an advocate for the inclusion of custodians’ voices and contributions, making sure that they are honored as vital parts of the Dallas ISD team.

Martinez began her journey in the district as a registrar at Edward H. Cary Middle School, which closed in 2019 after a devastating tornado caused extensive damage to the school. The kindness for which she is known was in evidence at the time as the event turned her school community upside down. Not only did Martinez work at Cary, but she was also a graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School, another school severely damaged by the tornado. 

After the tornado, and working on different campuses—Pancho Medrano Junior High, Ben Franklin International Exploratory Academy, and Thomas Jefferson High School—following the school’s closure, the 2020 pandemic struck. That’s when she saw the opportunity to make a bigger impact in Custodial Services. 

Since she started working there, Martinez has lived by what is this year’s theme for Women’s History Month: “Women who advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion.”

“Our custodial staff is very important to student success,” she said. “They play multiple roles, they help the teachers move their equipment, they clean the floors, they make sure we have access to essential items like paper towels.” 

“They keep students and team members healthy by making sure the buildings are clean and disinfected,” she added. “Especially when we had the pandemic, everyone else got to stay home and they were there at the buildings disinfecting them.” 

On Oct. 2, during National Custodian Day, Martinez makes sure that her fellow team members feel honored and appreciated. For the past three years, she has helped organize the different ways that custodians have been honored, such as ordering t-shirts for every custodian on campus, and giving them other swag items. Martinez has helped with the coordination as well as the creative aspect, such as helping design the t-shirts. 

Although Martinez is no longer working on a campus, she still considers her co-workers from Cary a part of her extended family and stays in contact with them. She said they get together every so often in person and stay in touch through social media for events like weddings, birth announcements, and so on.  

“Cary Middle School was my home. I spent more time there than I actually did where I’m paying my mortgage,” Martinez said. 

Despite the challenges of the school closing because of the tornado, which Martinez described as crushing, she was able to find the silver lining, as it led her to her current position at Custodial Services, which she absolutely loves. In addition to her role at Custodial Services, Martinez works at Alfred J. Loos Sports Complex. After she finishes her regular work day, she works as the acting manager at Loos, where she coordinates everything from games to special events. 

She makes sure that they are staffed for the games, including the ticket sellers and referees, having microphones, etc. She does the paperwork to make sure the referees are paid, and she’s there for the duration of an event, just in case something happens, says Martinez. 

“I meet a lot of different people, not just within the district, but our parents. They come out every week for their events and they get to see you and you run into them at the grocery store and in the community,” Martinez said. 

Like her times at Cary, Martinez continues to build connections with students, families, and community members. Martinez builds those connections everywhere she goes and is often encouraging others to work for the district, where she has met lifelong friends.

“I’m always always encouraging people to get in with the district. I tell them ‘find your home, find your place,’” Martinez said. “Of course, not everybody’s going to find the right match the first time. They can work at a school or in a central office, or anywhere. My advice is to keep trying.” 

“I have just been one of the lucky ones.” she said. “I had found my home at Cary, but I also found my home when I started working here at Custodial Services.”