Harnessing the power of collaboration and community support, the Dallas Education Foundation (DEF) was honored to co-present the 2025 Dallas ISD State of the District: Together We Make It Happen alongside Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson. Held at the iconic Winspear Opera House on May 8, 2025, this year’s State of the District was truly unlike any other, bringing together business, civic, and education leaders to celebrate student success, educator excellence, and district innovation.
Event Highlights: Inspiring Performances & Visionary Leadership
VIP Pre‑Event Reception
Sponsors and special guests started the evening with an exclusive reception, forging new connections and celebrating the spirit of partnership that drives Dallas ISD.Live Student Performances
Our talented Dallas ISD students took the stage, delivering stirring musical and theatrical performances that underscored the district’s commitment to the arts and student expression.Superintendent’s Address
Dr. Stephanie Elizalde, Dallas ISD Superintendent of Schools, shared the district’s strategic vision and highlighted key initiatives—from expanding career readiness programs to strengthening districtwide literacy efforts—that are paving the way for every scholar’s success.
Celebrating Our 2025 Educators of the Year
DEF was thrilled to honor outstanding educators whose passion and innovation elevate learning across Dallas ISD:
Principals of the Year
Stephanie Amaya, W.H. Adamson High School
Beverly Mullins Ford, Anne Frank Elementary School
Channel Hutchinson, New Tech High School at B.F. Darrell
Teachers of the Year
Patricia Cortez, School for the Talented and Gifted in Pleasant Grove
Bernardo Velez Rico, North Dallas High School
Netallia Rush, Ronald Erwin McNair Elementary School
Your unwavering commitment to student achievement and your ability to foster inclusive, engaging classrooms embody the heart of teaching in Dallas ISD.
Our Heartfelt Thanks to Sponsors
This landmark event would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors. We extend our deepest gratitude to:
Presenting Sponsor: Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson
Platinum Sponsor: Thompson & Horton LLP
Gold Sponsor: The Commit Partnership
Silver Sponsors: State Fair of Texas, Texas Instruments, Toyota North America, Big Rock Educational Services, K12 Insight
Blue Sponsors: Cimarron Education, Dallas Mavericks, Dallas College, edmentum, Frost, East Texas A&M University
- Photobooth Sponsor: Curriculum Associates i-Ready
Thank you for investing in Dallas ISD students’ future and making the 2025 State of the District an inspiring showcase of what’s possible when education, business, and community unite.
Looking Ahead: Partnering for Student Success
As we reflect on an evening of celebration and collaboration, the Dallas Education Foundation remains committed to providing innovative grants, programs, and resources that empower students and educators. Together, we will continue to close opportunity gaps, enrich classroom experiences, and prepare every scholar for success beyond the school day.
Join us in this mission. To learn more about DEF’s initiatives or to become a sponsor, visit dallasedfound.org and discover how you can make a lasting impact on our Dallas ISD scholars.
