Staff News

Now that summer is here and the heat is picking up, Dallas ISD is encouraging all staff and community members to take precautions to stay safe. Jennifer Finley, the executive director of Health Services, shared several quick tips to help everyone out. 

Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water helps keep body temperatures cool, so watch out for yourself and those around you. Learn to recognize the signs of overheating, which include muscle cramps, pale or clammy skin and confusion. Pay close attention to vomiting, as that can be a sign of someone going beyond heat exhaustion into heat stroke. As for what to drink, Finley said “water is best” over sports and energy drinks. 

Get enough sleep. Sleep is important all year round, and Finley recommends aiming for a minimum of six hours and, ideally, eight hours. 

Use sun protection. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can put you at risk for skin cancer, so take advantage of sunscreen, hats and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes. Finley explained that no SPF blocks out 100 percent of UV rays, so the American Academy of Dermatology recommends an SPF of at least 30, which will still block about 97 percent of UV rays. 

Watch out for insects. The Health Services Department has already received messages from Dallas County with West Nile safety tips, so Finley is encouraging everyone to wear some kind of product that protects against mosquito bites, whether it contains DEET, citronella or something similar.

Move your feet. Especially for those who are spending long days in the office, it is important to get up and move around. Finley recommends setting a timer or a reminder on your phone so you do not sit for too long. You can also take a lap around the hall, head up the stairs or walk in an underground parking lot to get out of the sun. In addition to preventing swelling in the ankles and feet, regular movement has great mental health benefits. 

You matter and so does your health and well-being! In Finley’s words, “Take some time to take care of you so you can take care of and give back to others.” 

Summer is finally here, and we are looking forward to all the district opportunities for personal development. The Professional & Digital Learning Department is excited to host a Microsoft Effective Workspace Series, which is available to all staff through June and July at no cost.

If you are looking to get to know Microsoft Planner or Bookings, dive deeper into Excel or learn more about the collaboration, communication and productivity tools available to you in Office 365, these trainings are for you. Registration is available in Cornerstone at bit.ly/MSWSforCS. 

The following sessions are available in June: 

Scheduling: Outlook & Bookings

• June 14, 2022 at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m.
• Want to find an easier way to schedule meetings without back-and-forth emails? Learn how Scheduling Assistant and FindTime in Outlook can help you schedule meetings more efficiently. Bookings gives you a faster alternative to time-consuming and repetitive scheduling tasks, all while optimizing your organizational resources

Communicate in Microsoft Teams

• June 21, 2022 at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m.
• Learn best practices for chat, channel posts and meetings. Take a closer look at notification settings and status updates, as well as how to customize your status messages and set automatic replies for when you are out of the office.

File Sharing: One Drive, Teams, SharePoint

• June 28, 2022 at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m.
• Learn the differences between cloud storage and sharing in Microsoft’s OneDrive, Teams and SharePoint. Learn how to organize, collaborate and share documents, as well as how to navigate document libraries.

The following sessions are available in July: 

Microsoft Excel 101

• July 12, 2022 at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m.
• This is an introduction to Excel. Learn basic navigation, cell formatting, general formatting, printing and basic formulas. 

Collaborate in Teams:

• July 19, 2022 at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m.
• Learn how to collaborate more efficiently using the tools built into Microsoft Teams. OneNote is your shared digital binder for your notes, plans and research. Use Whiteboard for brainstorming using ready-made templates.

Diving Deeper into Excel

• July 26, 2022 at 10 a.m. or 1 p.m.
• Take a deeper look at formulas, functions and other features in Excel. Learn how to analyze data quickly using built-in tools and how to protect your data in Excel.

Contact Dina Perez at DIPEREZ@dallasisd.org with any questions, and don’t forget to register in Cornerstone at bit.ly/MSWSforCS. 

SMART goals are used to show progress on the job, but did you know they can be equally beneficial in your personal life? Setting specific, measurable, action-oriented, realistic and time-limited objectives can help individuals determine where they are headed and how to get there, which is why they are a useful tool in breaking bad habits and creating healthier outcomes that can lead to better mental and emotional health.

Bad habits take many forms. Perhaps you struggle to get enough exercise or sleep, or maybe you have a hard time following a budget. Whatever you are facing, defining realistic goals and committing to them will support you in forming positive habits. Having a clear and manageable plan can often relieve some of the pressures that cause stress and other disruptions to our mental well-being.

Setting a SMART goal to break a bad habit may sound something like this: 

• Every day this week, I will put my phone away 10 minutes before bed. 
• Starting now, I will park my car farther away from my home and office to walk an additional five minutes a day. 
• Tonight, I will spend an hour examining my budget to determine my strengths and growth areas. 

Remember to write down all of your goals, actions, measurements and time frames, and regularly read over them to assess your progress. Whenever you are setting a new goal, consider your past experiences to identify the objectives or practices that are most likely to motivate you. If a past goal did not work, what can you change this time to stay on track? 

Changing bad habits takes time and effort, so do not be discouraged if you fall behind your goals at times. The following tips will help you make sustainable adjustments and stick to them even when life gets busy: 

• When a SMART goal begins to feel easy or natural, create a new one or edit your original objective to challenge yourself. 
• Use preexisting healthy habits to make new goals easier to follow. For example, take advantage of your lunch break by going on a walk. 
• Predict obstacles. Examine the roadblocks you have faced in the past and consider how you will overcome them when they appear this time. You will never have all the answers, but you can still be prepared. 
• Set goals that empower you. If your goals are too ambitious, you are far more likely to get discouraged and quit. Your short- and long-term objectives must be achievable—not by those around you, but by you. 
• When working toward a long-term goal, define smaller milestones so you can get started right away. The shortest step is still progress.

Rome was not built in a day, and neither are healthy habits. Take time to define your SMART goals and get started now. You will be amazed to see how much progress you can make when your actions are specific, measurable, and realistic. 

If you are feeling stuck or overwhelmed, Dallas ISD’s confidential, secure Employee Assistance Program by LifeWorks offers 24/7 counseling as well as CareNow training programs that focus on topics like substance abuse, work-life balance and achieving financial well-being. All Dallas ISD employees can access the EAP, no contribution required. 

Learn more by reaching 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 

Following feedback from campus administrators, staff and parents/guardians, Dallas ISD has finalized the school hours for the 2022-2023 school year. 

The schedule will be:

8 a.m.–3:15 p.m.: Elementary schools, Solar Preparatory School for Girls, Solar Preparatory School for Boys, Biomedical Preparatory at UT Southwestern, Jesus Moroles Expressive Arts Vanguard, and Eduardo Mata Montessori School

8:35 a.m.–3:55 p.m.: Middle schools, vanguards, Dallas Hybrid Preparatory at Stephen J. Hay, George Bannerman Dealey Montessori Academy, William B. Travis Academy/Vanguard for the Academically Talented and Gifted, Harry Stone Montessori Academy, Sudie L. Williams Talented and Gifted Academy

9:10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.: High schools, magnet schools

Exceptions

8 a.m.–3:40 p.m.: Kathlyn Joy Gilliam Collegiate Academy, Trinity “Trini” Garza Early College High School, North Lake Early College High School

8 a.m.–3:55 p.m.: Ignite Middle School, D.A. Hulcy STEAM Middle School, West Dallas STEM School, Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III Global Preparatory Academy at Paul Quinn College

8:50 a.m.–4:35 p.m.: Barack Obama Male Leadership School

9 a.m.–4:50 p.m.: Dr. Wright L. Lassiter Jr. Early College High School

Mental Health Services is sharing a learning opportunity for educators offered by the North Texas Behavioral Health Authority this summer so they can better help youth who may be experiencing a mental health challenge or are in crisis.

The Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) Educator classes introduce participants to the unique risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems in adolescents, builds understanding of the importance of early intervention, and most importantly – teaches individuals how to help a youth in crisis or experiencing a mental health or substance use challenge.

These classes tend to fill up each year and we hope we see the same great response this year, as well!  The links are not searchable. Educators can use the links below to register for educator-only or community classes.  Class size is limited, so please reserve your spot today.

Mental Health Services is scheduling classes now for the 2022-2023 school year, so be on the lookout for additional opportunities to sign up later this summer.

Educator only classes:

June 28 • 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Youth MHFA Virtual Class

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/youth-mental-health-first-aid-free-to-texas-educators-tickets-339696129267

 July 14 • 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Youth MHFA Virtual Class

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/youth-mental-health-first-aid-free-to-texas-educators-tickets-339702468227

Classes for the general public:

June 11 • Youth MHFA • 9 a.m.–2 p.m.  SATURDAY CLASS

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/youth-mental-health-first-aid-free-to-texas-residents-tickets-322795509057

 June 14 • 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Youth MHFA (for adults that work with youth) Virtual Class

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/youth-mental-health-first-aid-free-to-texas-residents-tickets-322769651717

 July 20 • 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. 

Youth MHFA (for adults that work with youth) Virtual Class

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/youth-mental-health-first-aid-free-to-texas-residents-tickets-329884612757

Energy contributes to our happiness, health and overall productivity, but we often find ourselves with far too little of it. For those who endlessly rely on caffeine or simply feel exhausted all the time, learning to monitor energy levels and mindfully care for daily needs can be a game changer. 

Start by taking your energy “temperature” at several points throughout the day. Notice when you have the lowest and highest amounts of energy, and identify the interactions or events that affect you the most. Next, set a realistic goal to manage an area that regularly drains your energy. For example, if your to-do list is a constant source of stress and distraction, aim to cross off one task that feels manageable. When that is finished, take a break if needed and then start on a new goal. It helps to plan your goals around your internal clock. Pay attention to when you tend to have the most energy and take advantage of those moments. 

You can also use the following five tips to increase your energy and live a happier, healthier life. 

• Care for your body. This means eating healthy foods, prioritizing sleep and getting regular exercise. A balanced diet of protein, fruits and vegetables, dairy and whole grains is just as essential to reaching optimal energy levels as getting at least seven or eight hours of sleep. Meanwhile, frequent exercise will relieve stress, boost your endurance and fight off feelings of sluggishness. 
• Focus on what means the most. Take a moment to remember what fills you with passion and joy. Make time every day to pursue that hobby or get involved with your community, and bring meaning into your routine. It can be as simple as trying a new recipe or spending time in nature.
• Surround yourself with good people. Have you ever noticed the way some interactions drain you while others energize you? Maximize the time you spend with people you actually enjoy. Individuals who focus on positivity and authenticity or who share common interests with you will recharge you. Be selective when it comes to the relationships you prioritize.
• Avoid burning out on bad news. Keeping up to date on current events is important, but too much can leave you with a negative perspective on the world. If you begin to dwell on your worst fears or recognize other signs that the news is affecting your mental health, set boundaries. You can stay informed while still controlling your intake. The goal is not to lose sight of the goodness around you.
• Spread kindness. Having compassion for others is a great way to connect with the world and feel energized. The simple act of smiling at a stranger and wishing them well can help you focus on the positive and avoid judging yourself or others. You can take this even further by performing small acts of kindness to build up your community. 

By committing to these healthy habits, you can build up your energy and happiness at the same time. If you start sliding back into sluggishness and exhaustion, step back and take your energy temperature again. While you may never be perfect, you can always grow and develop. Best of all, you can get started right now by putting these tips into practice!  

If you find yourself needing additional support, help is available. Dallas ISD’s confidential, secure Employee Assistance Program by LifeWorks has countless health and wellness resources available online and requires no contributions. From on-call counselors to practical tips on subjects like depression, communication and relationships, employees can find what they need, when they need it. 

Contact LifeWorks at (972) 925-4000 or visit www.dallasisd.org/benefits and click on Benefits Resources to access online EAP information.

Source: Mayo Clinic Health System 

Our pets never fail to bring us joy, especially when they are celebrating spring with us! Get to know some of our cutest Dallas ISD co-workers below, and consider setting up your own adorable springtime photo shoot.

Dallas ISD teachers can now apply for the SMU Simmons Scholars program, which was established in the Simmons School of Education to provide full tuition for a master’s degree program. 

The scholarship will provide eight educators with full tuition for a two-year, 36-hour master’s degree program with a dual focus on STEM and special education. The combination of these key instructional areas will address the needs of diverse students and provide strong content-focused instruction that encourages students to be critical thinkers and lifelong learners.

Ideal candidates include: 

• Special education teachers who are looking to gain an enhanced understanding of STEM-focused instruction
• STEM teachers who are seeking to better support the needs of their diverse students 
• Teacher leaders who are working to spread high-quality special education techniques and STEM instruction throughout Dallas ISD

“This dual-focused Master of Education program is a signature program at SMU,” said Dr. Amy Gillespie Rouse, an associate professor in the Simmons School of Education. “We have talented faculty with expertise in SPED and STEM who are committed to working together to facilitate teacher learning in ways that allow teachers to not only integrate what they learn in SPED and STEM classes but also to apply what they learn directly to their own teaching.” 

Interested Dallas ISD teachers are invited to participate in an information session on May 31 or June 2 at 5:30 p.m. to learn more about the Simmons Scholars program and other scholarship opportunities. The registration information can be found here. 

All Dallas ISD kindergarten through twelfth grade teachers are invited to apply. The program is an incredible opportunity not only to further develop a teacher’s skills but also to strengthen equity across the district. 

“Ultimately, whether you’re a science teacher who wants to better serve your SPED students or a special education professional who wants to have more content knowledge, it’s about increasing the capacity and efficiency with which we are serving a currently underserved population,” said Michael Ruiz, Dallas ISD’s executive director for STEM. 

Applicants must complete this form—which includes an essay and a video component—by Thursday, June 9, at 5:00 p.m.. If you have any additional questions, please contact Special Services Coordinator Courtney Cummings at cocummings@dallasisd.org.

All human beings have areas where they feel especially insecure about their capabilities or the way they present themselves. Perhaps a presentation at work made them doubt the sound of their voice, or a crisis at home left them feeling like a failure. Whatever the specific stressor may be, these internal struggles can leave people experiencing low self-esteem. 

Low self-esteem has far-reaching effects on every aspect of life, including work, relationships and mental health. According to Mayo Clinic, adjusting your internal dialogue about these incidents can help you build yourself up again. It starts with identifying the events or conditions that draw out your low self-esteem. Some common triggers include major life changes, conflicts with loved ones or important work assignments. 

Once you recognize your triggers, focus on what you tell yourself when you are struggling. Are your thoughts and beliefs positive or negative? Are they based on facts or false beliefs and fear? Lastly, would you talk to a friend the way you are talking to yourself? Keeping these answers in mind, you can begin to challenge the inaccurate, negative thoughts that are adding to your low self-esteem. 

How to challenge negative thoughts: 

• If you find yourself stuck in all-or-nothing thinking, you may tell yourself things like, “I will never be good enough to do this.” Turn those beliefs around by practicing hopeful statements like, “It may be hard, but I will learn from this experience.” 
• If you jump to conclusions too quickly, take a step back by reframing your anxious thoughts. For example, “They responded to my email with a one-word answer, so they must be angry with me,” can become, “They are probably busy right now. What can I do to ease my stress?” 
• If you have a hard time seeing beyond the negatives of a situation, you may tell yourself, “I made one mistake, and now my entire team will know I am a fraud.” Counteract these thoughts by focusing on the positive. Make a list of everything you have learned and all the ways you have grown, and remind yourself that no one expects you to be perfect. 
• If you often deflect praise or discredit your own successes, give encouraging yourself a try. Instead of saying, “I only did well because I had extra time,” experiment with, “I did well because I set myself up for success and worked hard to meet my deadline. Even though I was not perfect, I met my goals.” 

Negative beliefs that lead to low self-esteem are common, but that does not mean they have to rule your mind. Remember to be patient with yourself as you practice challenging your long-term thought patterns. Big changes do not happen overnight. If you find yourself needing additional support, Dallas ISD’s Employee Assistance Program by LifeWorks can help. The secure, confidential service offers a variety of mental health resources as well as on-call counselors, all free of charge.