(Dallas, TX) —The Dallas Education Foundation (DEF) proudly joined Dallas ISD in celebrating a powerful milestone for a group of outstanding young men at the annual Call Me MISTER Jacketing Ceremony—a moment that symbolizes their commitment to becoming future educators and leaders in their communities.
A Milestone Rooted in Mentorship
The Call Me MISTER (Mentors Instructing Students Toward Effective Role Models) program is designed to increase the number of diverse educators by providing mentorship, guidance, and pathways into the teaching profession.
At the heart of the program is a simple but powerful idea: when students are supported, encouraged, and invested in, they rise—and they return that investment to their communities.
The jacketing ceremony represents a defining step in that journey. As each student received their jacket, they were recognized not only for their achievements, but for their commitment to serve as future role models in the classroom.
A Community Effort to Build the Next Generation
The evening was a testament to the collective effort behind each student’s success.
The Dallas ISD Human Capital Management Team continues to play a critical role in mentoring and guiding these young men, ensuring they are equipped not only for college, but for careers that will shape the lives of future students.
Support from community partners also made the celebration possible. Truist Financial Corporation stepped in to ensure students could fully participate in the program—demonstrating their commitment to building stronger communities through education.
A Message That Resonated
The ceremony featured a keynote address from Marvin, whose story reflected the life-changing impact of mentorship and education. Speaking alongside his family, he shared a powerful reminder that when educators and mentors invest in students, the return is immeasurable—not only for the individual, but for entire communities.
More Than a Ceremony
For DEF, programs like Call Me MISTER represent more than a single moment of celebration—they are part of a broader commitment to expanding opportunity and building a stronger, more representative educator pipeline within Dallas ISD.
Each jacket placed on a student’s shoulders symbolizes belief: belief in their potential, their leadership, and their ability to shape the future of education.
As these young men continue their journey, they carry with them the support of a community that is deeply invested in their success.
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.
