Langston Hughes’s iconic poem Harlem asks, “what happens to a dream deferred?” Today, I would like to reflect on the opposite, on what happens when dreams and goals are intentionally nurtured with support, opportunity and belief. In Dallas ISD, our students are thriving every day, and dreams are cultivated through strong schools, dedicated educators, engaged families, and students who rise to meet every challenge.
Years later, Hughes’ words continue to challenge us to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed. Across generations, countless trailblazers have shown us that vision and resilience can turn possibility into progress. One pioneer, Mae Jemison, the first Black female astronaut, demonstrated the power of imagination and creativity in shaping new futures when she said “the arts and sciences are avatars of human creativity. It’s our attempt as humans to build an understanding of the world around us…go on and do all you can with it and make the life you want to live.” That same determination is what empowers today’s students to explore and reimagine the world around them.
Apply today: District 6 schools continue to expand opportunities in STEM, the arts, leadership, and extracurricular programs that prepare students for college and career. To ensure your child can be part of this journey, explore our specialty schools or request a transfer to take advantage of the many opportunities available in District 6 legacy schools. Fill out an application at DallasISD.org/Choose by Jan. 31, and continue your education with Dallas ISD.
Joyce Foreman
As a part of our ongoing commitment to innovation and exploration, the district will host the largest STEM EXPO in Texas from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 24 at the Automobile Building at Fair Park. The event will feature more than 100 interactive exhibits across math, science, engineering and technology. Families are invited to experience a day of discovery, critical thinking, and creativity as we engage the next generation of students in STEM fields.
2026 MLK Oratory Competition: Beyond STEM, our students are also developing their voices as civic leaders. Each year, students across the district honor the teachings of Martin Luther King Jr., through the MLK Oratory Competition. Fourth- and fifth-grade students presented original speeches responding to the prompt: “As a student of Dr. King’s life, what message of hope do you think he would have for today?”
Four District 6 students competed in the semifinal round on Dec. 9, 2025 at John Lewis Social Justice Academy. Congratulations to Madison P., (Thomas L. Marsalis Elementary STEAM Academy), Nyla S., (Thomas Tolbert Elementary School), Ximena M., (Barbara Jordan Elementary School) and Lyric D., (Adelle Turner Elementary School) for your bravery on stage and your dedication to sharing King’s legacy of hope and unity.
Through public speaking and social awareness, these students carry forward the dreams of visionaries like King, Jemison, and Hughes by using their voices to imagine new possibilities for their community.
With the new year upon us, I want to thank teachers, administrators, and families for continuing the important work of supporting our students and ensuring that every dream in District 6 has room to grow.