Long before she helped lead one of the largest school districts in Texas, Dr. Elizabeth Casas was a student finding her footing in its classrooms.
Dr. Elizabeth Casas, Dallas ISD
A proud graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School, Dr. Casas began her journey in Dallas ISD classrooms as a young student learning English and receiving speech services. Today, nearly three decades later, she serves as Deputy Chief of School Leadership and Special Services for the district.
Her story is an example of the incredible impact that educators can have on a student’s life and the numerous opportunities available to Dallas students today.
“I started school as a second language learner and received speech services,” Dr. Casas says. “The teachers believed in me, supported me, and pushed me to be successful. That foundation changed my life.”
After graduating, Dr. Casas returned to Dallas ISD as a bilingual teacher at the same elementary school she attended, Stephen C. Foster. From there, she moved through leadership roles including assistant principal, principal, executive director of the bilingual program, and assistant superintendent before stepping into her current role.
As she looks back on her journey, she credits Dallas ISD educators for creating a strong academic foundation and a feeling of connection that influenced the direction of her life.
Today, she’s helping lead a district that continues to grow opportunities for the next generation of students.
Dallas ISD
A District Focused on Excellence for All
Dallas ISD has experienced steady academic growth in recent years and is now a B-rated district with 163 A- and B-rated campuses.
According to Dr. Casas, the district’s goal is to continue expanding access to high-quality programs so that every student, regardless of zip code, has access to meaningful opportunities.
“Dallas students deserve world-class opportunities,” Dr. Casas says. “Our focus is making sure every campus has the resources, training, and support needed so students can succeed.”
In Dallas ISD classrooms, language learning is woven into the way students experience school each day. The district’s dual language program, the largest in Texas, begins as early as elementary school and continues through middle and high school, giving students the opportunity to graduate with the Seal of Biliteracy on their diploma.
Along the way, the impact shows up in more than conversation skills. Students in Dallas ISD’s two-way dual language program consistently outperform their peers, scoring about 16 percent higher in reading and 20 percent higher in math.
Alongside its dual language program, the district provides a range of specialized learning pathways that help students explore interests early and prepare for future careers.
“Our goal is not simply to improve, we want excellence across the district,” she says. “And when we say all, we mean all. All means all in Dallas ISD.”
Dallas ISD
Opening Doors Through Early College and Career Programs
Many families are surprised to learn just how many opportunities and academic pathways are available within Dallas ISD.
The district offers STEM academies, engineering programs, International Baccalaureate campuses, and specialized high schools focused on areas like cybersecurity, aviation, robotics, and gaming technology.
Students can also earn college credit through Early College and P-TECH programs, allowing them to graduate high school with an associate degree or workforce certification.
In fact, Dallas ISD students have collectively earned more than 114,000 college credit hours while still in high school, representing approximately $9 million in tuition savings for families.
“There are so many different opportunities available,” Dr. Casas says. “Students don’t have to wait until college to explore careers or earn college credit.”
Inside Dallas ISD’s More Choice Expo
To help families learn more about the district’s programs, Dallas ISD is hosting the More Choice Expo on April 11 at Fair Park.
Families attending the free event can meet school leaders, explore specialized campuses, and learn more about academic programs across the district. Interactive activities and campus representatives will offer a hands-on way for parents and students to explore the many pathways available within Dallas ISD.
“We want families to see all the choices that exist,” Dr. Casas says. “Sometimes parents don’t realize the opportunities that are available right here in Dallas ISD.”
What’s Possible Starts Here in Dallas ISD
Dallas ISD’s mission holds a special meaning for Dr. Casas.
Her journey began as a young Dallas ISD student receiving language and speech support and eventually led to her becoming a district leader with a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and doctorate. She hopes her story reflects what every Dallas ISD student can achieve.
“When I talk to students, I want them to know that if I could do it, so can they,” Dr. Casas says. “It all starts with the dream and believing that anything is possible.”
Dallas families exploring school options will find that opportunity is already within reach.
Families interested in learning more about Dallas ISD programs can attend the More Choice Expo on April 11 at Fair Park or visit dallasisd.org to explore available schools and academic pathways.
DFWContent Studio for Dallas ISD