January is officially School Board Recognition Month, a time to celebrate the tireless work and dedication of school board members who play a crucial role in shaping the future of local education. Often the unsung heroes of the educational system, school board members work relentlessly to ensure school districts run smoothly and provide leadership in the best interests of students.
Although school board members make decisions with students’ welfare in mind, this month’s meeting saw students express their appreciation to the board. Several students showed their gratitude for the board’s unwavering support and the positive impact their decisions have had on their education and school experience.
Students prepared food and performed in a special celebration Tuesday night to honor the board members. Before the meeting, Trustees were treated to a dinner prepared by Duncanville High School culinary students. Under the leadership of Chef Rasheed Gillis, several students presented a four-course meal that kicked off a night of appreciation.
After the opening remarks and the Superintendent’s report, the DHS Sax Quartet, a group of 11th graders performed a medley from La La Land. These students are under the tutelage of band Director Mark Teal. The students have been playing since sixth grade. Fine Arts Director Paul Doucet, a staunch advocate before the board for fine arts programs, expressed his pride in watching his students use their gifts to show appreciation. "As I watched our high school band students perform for the Duncanville ISD Board of Trustees, I was overwhelmed with pride. Their wonderful performance showcased the incredible talent nurtured in our Fine Arts programs. It was a beautiful way to honor and thank our school board for their unwavering support of the arts and our students."
Following the Quartet's performance, the youngest performers took center stage. A small group from Central Elementary’s Ballet Folklorico performed, 2nd graders Elena Vidana, Kaisyn West, Juan Marin-Ledezma, Caroline Yanez, Manuel Lopez, Regina Gonzalez, and Nashel Perales. This group has from 2nd through 4th grade dancing and dancing to traditional Spanish folklore music. “The Central Ballet Folklorico group was established during the 2021-2022 school year, marking our third year as a performing ensemble,” said advisor Paola Nuno.
While the food, music, and dancing were all for the Trustees, it also served as a reminder of the fruits of their labor—the students and programs they continue to support. The evening highlighted the vibrant and diverse talent within the Duncanville ISD community, a community made stronger by the school board’s continued commitment.