(Dallas, TX) — Dallas ISD and the Dallas Education Foundation (DEF) unveiled the district’s first Career Exploration Mobile Lab—a mobile classroom designed to bring hands-on career discovery directly to middle school campuses across Dallas ISD.
The lab is a cornerstone of Dallas ISD’s Career Connected Learning approach, building career awareness and readiness from elementary through high school—so students can explore what’s possible long before they choose a pathway.
A mobile classroom where students can “see, touch, and experience” future pathways
Inside the lab, students rotate through interactive learning stations that introduce real-world career fields and the skills behind them—helping them discover interests and potential futures.
“Dallas ISD is committed to preparing all students for life after graduation,” Superintendent Stephanie S. Elizalde, Ed.D. said. “The Career Exploration Mobile Lab allows our students to see, touch, and experience the many paths available to them, aligning their interests with meaningful careers, college readiness, and lifelong success.”
By bringing career exploration directly to campuses, the Mobile Lab expands access to experiences students might not otherwise encounter until later—making career discovery more accessible and exciting at a pivotal age.
“By bringing career exploration directly to our campuses, we’re helping middle school students visualize what’s possible for their future,” said Mita Havlick, executive director of the Dallas Education Foundation. “This lab is more than a trailer; it’s a catalyst for opportunity, connection, and inspiration.”
Powered by partnership: education + philanthropy + community
The Career Exploration Mobile Lab was made possible through the generous support of The Addy Foundation, Atmos Energy, Jacobs, and the Hoblitzelle Foundation.
DEF also extended gratitude to The Moody Foundation for supporting the Mobile Lab truck and the second Mobile Lab, which will launch this year.
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About the Dallas Education Foundation
The Dallas Education Foundation (DEF) is a registered 501(c)(3) organization and serves as the direct and designated philanthropic partner of Dallas ISD. With a mission to inspire community investment to accelerate student success, DEF focuses on economic mobility by supporting early learning, advancing literacy, driving postsecondary success, and championing educators. Learn more at dallasedfound.org and follow @dallasedfound on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, Threads, and YouTube.
About Dallas Independent School District
The Dallas Independent School District is continually preparing its students for college or a career. The district offers a competitive mix of innovative programs, choice programs, and instructional initiatives that support the increased academic achievement and the social and emotional development of its students. To learn more, visit www.dallasisd.org.
