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Eric Cowan, DISD trustee District 7

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The Dallas Independent School District’s mission is to educate all kids. Simply put, that is what we do. As an education advocate, we must ensure our students are positioned for success when they enter the real world.

Dallas ISD’s Career and Technical Education program is an exceptional opportunity to explore career fields. Not only do students receive high school credit for courses under the CTE umbrella, but they also get valuable, hands-on experience that increases their skills. District 7 is home to many of these unique career pathways.

Culinary arts students.

Culinary arts students.

At Moisés E. Molina High School’s culinary arts program, students are introduced to the world of hospitality, restaurant management, and entrepreneurship, all while learning the basic techniques of cooking. It’s here where some of our students have gone on to lead successful careers in the hospitality industry. But that’s just one of many options provided to Dallas ISD students.

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Floral design student at Skyline.

One of the longest CTE programs offered within Dallas ISD is across town in the floral design center, at Skyline High School. Since 1986, thousands of students have learned the artistry of floral design. Each fall, students can be seen taking orders for homecoming mums and garters, and in February they reach their busiest season creating dozens of rose and carnation arrangements for Valentine’s Day. Because of programs like these, many of our students in CTE walk away with paid internships, while others land full-time jobs before graduating high school.

Sadly, not many people know these career-based programs exist, and that’s why it’s important to tell this story as often as we can. Dallas ISD is committed to preparing students for college and career. CTE helps us do just that.

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Black History Month

The 2016 theme for Black History Month—Hallowed Ground: Sites of African-American Memories—brings to mind the many educators who, because of their contributions to students, parents and this city as a whole, have Dallas ISD schools or facilities named in their honor. Every day, students traverse these hallowed halls and can’t help but absorb some insight into the extraordinary accomplishments of their school’s namesake.

Schools across the district are observing Black History Month with a number of special programs and activities to commemorate this important month. Here’s how some District 7 schools are celebrating:

W.H. Adamson High School, The Learning Curve Black History Month Program

Feb. 25, 8:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Margaret B. Henderson Elementary School, African American History Program

Feb. 25, 9 a.m.

Eric Cowan is president of the Dallas ISD Board of Trustees. He represents District 7, which includes North Central Oak Cliff and parts of West Dallas.