Made With Pride in Duncanville

Each month, Duncanville ISD recognizes a student, teacher and staff member who exemplify what it means to be “Made with Pride in Duncanville.” All three honorees receive a special gift, surprise visit from district leaders and are featured in a video. They are also invited to attend the Duncanville ISD board meeting where they are recognized before the Board of Trustees.  

This month’s Made with Pride in Duncanville honorees include staff, Vicki Mercado; student, Jairo Chacon; and teacher, Kassundra Tatum.

Jairo Chacon is a third grade student from Acton Elementary. Jairo was nominated by bilingual teacher Dustin Deweerd because his leadership qualities. Jairo is helpful to his classmates and tutors other students who may be struggling on assignments. He demonstrates what it means to be kind, polite and giving. Jairo sometimes brings donuts in the morning to pass out to teachers and staff just because. 

Kassundra Tatum is the math interventionist at Smith Elementary. She was nominated by her principal Brandi McIntosh Lee. Ms. Tatum truly cares about students and their success. She learns the name of every student and what their individual needs are. Outside of school, Ms. Tatum volunteers as a tutor for students. 

Vicki Mercado is the district’s safety coordinator. She was nominated by security coordinator Ricky Thomas. Ms. Mercado’s role requires a high level of organization and attention to detail, which her colleagues say is where she excels. Ms. Mercado has a positive attitude that can motivate anyone to do great things. She makes sure to ask the right questions and communicate to the right people when supporting the safety and security team during special event planning, 911 calls and more.