August 15, 2025

Dallas Schools Prepare for Significant Changes This Year

News Summary

The Dallas Independent School District (DISD) is set to implement major changes for the upcoming school year, starting with an emphasis on improved learning environments and updated policies. A back-to-school kickoff event will help families with registration, and the district is experiencing near-zero teacher vacancies. New facilities, including the John Lewis Social Justice Academy and renovations at existing schools, are aimed at enhancing education. Additionally, new legislative policies regarding device use and classroom displays will take effect, further shaping the educational landscape for students and families in Dallas.

Dallas – The Dallas Independent School District (DISD) is making major changes for the upcoming school year, starting the first day of classes on Tuesday, August 12. Families are urged to prepare for these changes as the district aims to enhance the educational experience through new facilities, updated policies, and an improved learning environment.

On August 2, DISD hosted a Back-to-School Kickoff event at Ellis Davis Field House, designed to assist families with registration, connect them with teachers, and provide necessary school supplies. This event is part of DISD’s efforts to engage the community and facilitate a smooth transition into the school year.

One significant improvement for the coming year is the reduction in teacher vacancies across the district. DISD is experiencing historically low teacher openings, with fewer than 100 vacancies, a notable decrease compared to previous years, indicating a more stable workforce as schools prepare to welcome students.

In terms of facilities, several new schools and renovations are set to open. The $80 million John Lewis Social Justice Academy will serve seventh and eighth graders at O.W. Holmes, providing a dedicated curriculum focused on social justice. Another addition is the newly rebuilt Henry Longfellow Career Exploration Academy, costing $63 million, which replaces the original structure that was demolished. Also newly unveiled is the Albert C. Black STEAM Academy, and renovations are underway at Casa View and H.I. Holland Elementary Schools to modernize learning environments in line with growing student populations.

Dallas ISD is also implementing critical policy changes mandated by recent legislation. House Bill 1481, effective from September 18, prohibits the use of personal communication devices, including smartphones and tablets, during school hours. Schools must develop written policies detailing how devices will be managed, with elementary students having their devices collected in homerooms and secondary students required to store them in magnetic locking pouches. Accumulated retrieval fees will be instituted for repeated offenses.

In addition, Senate Bill 10 requires that a framed copy of the Ten Commandments is displayed in every classroom starting September 1. Meanwhile, Senate Bill 12 has been enacted to prohibit Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs that recognize LGBTQ+ identities in public schools, reflecting broader legislative changes affecting educational policies.

These changes are not limited to DISD. Fort Worth ISD is adopting similar device restrictions and extending the academic year for 15 campuses into late June, adding 25 instructional days. Arlington ISD is also planning to implement a similar display of the Ten Commandments and a cellphone policy, while Mesquite ISD has established strict protocols for device collection. Furthermore, Lancaster ISD has introduced a “Let’s Talk” communication system aimed at helping families adapt to these new legislative frameworks.

In addition to these changes, Governor Greg Abbott has announced plans for a special legislative session, focusing on potential elimination of the STAAR test requirement, which could affect educational assessments in the state.

Health also remains a priority, with Dallas County offering vaccination clinics to fulfill health requirements for students as the school year approaches. Enrollment numbers for DISD are anticipated to hold steady at approximately 140,000, reflecting a slight increase from the previous year, marking the first uptick in years.

Finally, academic performance metrics for the district show improvements, with more than 93% of schools receiving A, B, or C ratings in the last academic year, underscoring ongoing efforts to elevate educational standards. With the introduction of these new policies and the enhancement of learning facilities, the upcoming school year represents a significant shift in the educational landscape for students and teachers within DISD.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Texas Schools Receive A-F Accountability Ratings
Dallas Schools Implement Cellphone Ban Amid Safety Concerns
Texas Schools Receive A-F Accountability Ratings
Texas Businesses Boost Revenue with AI Technology
Louisville Celebrates Texas Roadhouse Investment
Mass Protests Scheduled in North Texas Against Trump Administration
Top Private K-12 Schools in the Dallas Metro Area
Dallas Reveals Top-Ranked Private K-12 Schools
Next Level Innovates to Tackle Rising Healthcare Costs in Texas
St. Edward’s University Rugby Team Concludes Season with Loss

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER

DALLAS STAFF WRITER The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER

Stay Connected

More Updates

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Submit