Teacher assistant celebrates two decades in Dallas ISD

For 20 years, Bobbie Murkledove has supported students receiving special education services as a teacher assistant at Martin Weiss Elementary School. 

Through her commitment to meeting students’ individual learning needs and her belief in their potential, she champions their success by helping provide a consistent and supportive learning environment. 

“As a TA, it’s really important to get to know the students, build a good rapport with parents and have a strong relationship with the teacher we are assisting,” Murkledove said. “I communicate with our parents almost daily and help organize and prepare the class for learning. I’m there to step in and keep the routine going. Our kids need a lot of repetition and not too many changes.” 

This year, Martin Weiss earned an A-rating from the Texas Education Agency for the third consecutive year. Throughout the school, team members embrace a shared responsibility to prepare students for the future. The campus focuses on instilling positive character traits while helping students excel academically.  

Murkledove’s contributions to the mission earned her recognition as Martin Weiss’ 2025-2026 Aspire Award winner. The district honor recognizes her outstanding leadership and impact as a campus support team member.  

“We work really hard to make sure that our kids get the best education possible,” she said. “We teach the same subjects as all other classes, making sure to teach it in a way that makes learning adaptable to the student. We work hard to make sure that they comprehend and have a good understanding of the subjects. It is empowering to know that our class contributes to our school’s A-rating.” 

Murkledove’s loved ones know her as someone who supports others and offers thoughtful advice. Although her career took a different path from her goal of becoming a counselor, she carried those qualities into the classroom as a TA.

“I find this role very rewarding, and each day I feel uplifted knowing that I helped bring out the best in our students,” Murkledove said. “Where so many people see our students for their disabilities, I see them for their many abilities. Our students have a lot to offer and I always have high expectations. It's a joy to have helped them along the way in their growth as they go through life.”