Originally delivered on 5/30/2025 6:31 pm

SUBJECT: PTSA News | May 30, 2025

BTWHSPVA PTSA
May 30, 2025

Google Translation | Para traducir en español, utilice el menú desplegable en la parte superior derecha del boletín.

MESSAGE FROM 2024-25 PTSA PRESIDENT PATRICIA MOJICA

Summer Greetings, Booker T. Family, 

Congratulations on completing the 2024-25 school year! 

As this is our last newsletter of the year, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on our collective journey. I am incredibly proud of our accomplishments that created a record year yielding the following milestones.

- A record high membership of 1,160

- A record high in donations exceeding $20,000

- A record high in sponsorships surpassing $40,000

- A record high in campus and faculty enrichment support exceeding $22,000

- A record high in production support surpassing to $79,000

- A record high in student enrichment support of over $32,000

- A record high in student activity grants totaling $4,000 

- A record high in summer scholarships exceeding $30,000 

- A record high in social media followers, with 4.2k+ on Facebook and 1.6k+ on Instagram

- A record high in volunteer support, totaling over 5,000 hours

I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the 2024-25 PTSA officers, chairs, members, sponsors, and donors. In addition, I am grateful for the invaluable support and collaboration from the school administration, faculty, staff, district leadership, and conservatory guilds. Thank you all for your unwavering commitment to enhancing our school community. Your contributions have truly made an everlasting impact.

As I wrap up my term as PTSA President, I want to express how privileged I feel to have served in a leadership role at this beloved arts magnet school. While leadership has its challenges, this experience has been invaluable. I will always feel proud of the work we accomplished and cherish the connections I made along the way.

To my dedicated officers and chairs, I am honored to have served alongside you. I take great pride in the achievements we have made together, the relationships we have built, and the successes that have resulted from our commitment to the mission of the PTSA and our school. Our journey highlights the remarkable potential that emerges when diverse talents work effectively together. Together, we have laid a strong foundation for the incoming board to build upon.

To the 2025-2026 PTSA Board members, I encourage you to embrace collaborative solutions that focus on the greater good. By doing so, you will undoubtedly enhance and support our scholar artists, their families, respected school officials, and the vibrant spirit of BTWHSPVA. I wish you all the best in Booker T’s 103rd year and look forward to seeing what the future holds for this incredible community.

To my family, thank you for believing and supporting my passion for giving back to our community. To my daughter Ava, my pegasus, thank you for enduring the challenges that come with having a mom in a leadership role at your high school. You are my inspiration.

I would like to encourage all members to remain actively engaged in your child's educational journey and to seek opportunities to enhance our school community. Here's a few items to help you get started

I wish you all a summer filled with relaxation and cherished experiences. Sending my warmest farewell wishes to everyone! 

Congratulations, Class of 2025! Best wishes on your future endeavors. "Aim high, fly higher, Pegasi!”

With gratitude,

Patricia Mojica

Newsletter Archive | Visit the PTSA Membership Toolkit to access the latest newsletter and archive.

View Entire Newsletter | Click on 'View Entire Message' at the bottom of your email to access all the articles.

Resources | Click on the newsletter images, graphics, and words in blue font for more helpful information.
ALL SCHOOL MUSICAL

The 2025 All School Musical coming to the Montgomery Arts Theatre of BTWHSPVA: Guys and Dolls! Save the dates: September 10-14, 2025

Set in Damon Runyon's Mythical New York City, Guys and Dolls is an oddball romantic comedy. Gambler, Nathan Detroit, tries to find the cash to set up the biggest craps game in town while the authorities breathe down his neck; meanwhile, his girlfriend and nightclub performer, Adelaide, laments that they've been engaged for fourteen years. Nathan turns to fellow gambler Sky Masterson for the "Benjamins," and Sky ends up chasing the straight-laced missionary, Sarah Brown, as a result.

ATTENTION STUDENTS: Casting has been announced! Click here to view the cast list. Students must reply to the Stage Manager on Remind to accept their role by Wednesday, June 4.

JOIN THE PRODUCTION REMIND: Students must join the production Remind by texting @asmgd25 to 81010. Important announcements will be posted throughout the summer.

SUMMER INTENSIVE: The all school musical two-week summer intensive will be held on campus July 28-31 and August 4- 8 from 10 am - 3 pm. Students must bring their lunch and beverages. More information will be shared in the coming weeks through Remind.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES - The generous contributions from our Booker T. families, alums, community leaders, and business owners support unique school wide opportunities such as the All-School Musical and student-led productions. Please support our scholar artists by becoming a sponsor today. Check out the new sponsorship level starting at $500! Thank you in advance for your support!

Please note: The sponsorship levels coincide with the membership year (July 1- June 30). The deadline to secure a sponsorship as a Headliner, Director, Producer, or Manager is August 10. Logos/names must be submitted by August 11 to be featured on the production t-shirt worn by the cast, band, and crew.

ALL SCHOOL PRODUCTION

The final all-school student-led production of the year was performed to a packed house! Students proudly showcased their artistry on stage. We extend our gratitude and appreciation to Scott Davison, faculty, director and creator of this annual show. In addition, we would like to thank Leah Hernandez, Visual Arts Freshman, for providing the original artwork for the production program and posters. A special thank you to Vonda Klimaszewki for capturing the show in photos. Click on this link to access the photos. 

Many thanks to the PTSA VP of Fundraising, Leah Mora, the hosting Class of 2028 Committee Chair, Gogo Lubaiya and the committee members for providing hospitality during the production.Thank you to everyone who contributed to the Class of 2028 fundraising initiatives including our sponsors, donors, production partners and volunteers.

Volunteers: Emily Armour, Denise Camarillo, Nancy Caporal, David Care, Leonel    Diaz, Sanita Garrett, Blanca Gonzalez, Meco Harris, Bonney Hodges, Rebecca    LaVenture, Gogo Lubaiya,  Kurt Maerschel, Adam Mora, Leah Mora, Clara Mendez, Kamesha Nelms, Kipling Nkrumah, Martin Obianwu, Marsha Peters, Natalie Provenzale, Elizabeth Ruzicka, Emma Ruzicka, Rachel Warner, Allyson Williams, LaShelia Williams

Production Partners:

LIFE MEMBERS

The Texas PTA Honorary Life Membership Award recognizes outstanding volunteers, teachers, and staff for their contributions to our students and school community. Congratulations to the 2024-25 Honorary Life Membership award recipients and thank you for your exceptional service to our school community.

Michael Bell

"Mr. Bell is the lifeblood of Booker T. There isn't a parent, faculty member, or student who doesn't know him or hasn't benefitted from his help. Not only does he maintain and clean the school, he is consistently available to help, whether it's finding tables or chairs, setting up and breaking down events, unloading cars, carrying heavy items or just a 'how are you doing, need anything?' Despite his work schedule and constant workload, he is never impatient, rude or dismissive. Those of us who rely on him joke that there really must be three of him because he seems to be always available and always ready to help. To me, he represents the generosity and gratitude we should all aspire to." 

Nedra P. James

"After dedicating 28 years to education, Nedra P. James returned to our school community two years ago as the Fine Arts Coordinator, where she champions the arts. In an environment that can often feel overwhelmingly demanding, she stands out as a beacon of warmth and light. Her support for cross-conservatory productions and programs inspires students to reach their full potential. The love and appreciation that both students and alumni show her are a testament to her remarkable ability to teach, guide, and inspire. Few possess the power to unite students, and Ms. James is truly a one-in-a-million inspiration! Thank you for your 30+ years of education at BTWHSPVA, Nedra P. James!"

Patricia Mojica

"Building upon years of prior service within PTSA, Patricia Mojica has served as President of the Booker T. PTSA for two consecutive years. Patricia’s disciplined, thoughtful leadership has transformed the Booker T. PTSA into a provider of effective, process driven programs which support a wide swath of students and faculty across all artistic and academic conservatories.Under her authentic leadership, PTSA membership has grown andparticipation increased. Patricia’s dedication to the Booker T. students, faculty and community is remarkable. No doubt, future Booker T. PTSA boards and memberships will benefit from her vision of building an inclusive and welcoming association."

Rhonda Thompson

 "Rhonda Thompson is an exceptional advocate for our students, faculty, and school community. Her steadfast commitment to fostering a positive and nurturing environment is evident in the various leadership roles she has held at Booker T. Washington High School, including the PTSA as First VP and Secretary, Theatre Guild President, Site-Based Decision Making President, and serving in a committee for the Advisory Board. Over the years, she has actively sought sponsorships, donations, and grants to support student enrichment initiatives.This year alone, she raised over $10,000 through the North Texas Giving Day fund to support the PTSA's summer scholarship program. Additionally, she successfully applied for a $750 grant for the Mock Trial Team. Rhonda's support and influence inspire and uplift us all. The world could use more volunteers like Rhonda!"

MEMBERSHIP + CLASS DUES

RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP - The new PTSA membership year begins July 1! Join or renew your membership today. Together, we can make every child’s potential a reality—but we need more believers like YOU. Click here to see the benefits of becoming a member.

Adult Membership $15

Faculty Membership $10

Student Membership + Class Dues

Alumni Membership $5

CLASS DUES - Every year, the PTSA collaborates with the student class councils to create memorable experiences. Class dues are collected each year: $35 for 9th to 11th grades and $90 for 12th grade. These funds are vital to support the senior year traditions including a class t-shirt, daily activities for welcome week, prom, a senior party, a senior-faculty volleyball game, national signing day, a special senior breakfast, Baccalaureate ceremony, and many delightful surprises. Your contributions directly supports these cherished events, ensuring your student has the chance to enjoy their senior traditions. Click on your grade below to pay your class dues. Remember, when you pay class dues, the $5 PTSA membership for students is included!

Seniors - Class of 2026 - $90

Juniors - Class of 2027 - $35

Sophomores - Class of 2028 - $35

Freshmen - Class of 2029 - $35

CLASS OF 2025

A Special Thank You:

To our speakers: 

Garry Williams, Principal, Booker T. Washington HSPVA

Arlo Eisenberg, CEO and Creative Director of Eisenberg Creative, BTWHSPVA Class of 1991

Rev. Elizabeth Moseley, First United Methodist Church

Callie Woodchek, Senior Class President

Cate Tabor, Communications Committee President


To our talented Booker T. Washington HSPVA student performers and participating faculty:

Dr. Michael Jacko, Music Conservatory Director

Lunden Heneden, Olivia Knutson, Kaira Rasa, Hayden Coats, and the BTWHSPVA Music Conservatory Chamber Strings


To our wonderful venue host: 

First United Methodist Church, Dallas


To the Class of 2025 Supporters: 

The Parent Teacher Student Association of Booker T. Washington HSPVA 

Altar flowers donated by Ann and Bryon Romine

Senior rosed donated by Rhonda and David Thompson

Program front cover art, Abigail Romine, Visual Arts Class of 2025

Congratulations on becoming alumni, Class of 2025! After graduation, the senior page on the membership toolkit serves as an archive for alumni, showcasing the memorable traditions celebrated by each class that was hosted by the PTSA. A link to download photos from National Signing Day is included. This page is accessible only to PTSA members, who must be logged in to view it.  

Final Transcript Request System - Your final transcript will be available by mid to late June. Follow the steps on this flyer to request your transcript through SCOIR. Contact the ASP College Advisors if you have any questions.

CLASS OF 2026

Attention RISING Seniors, Class of 2026: The PTSA is thrilled to kick off the start of Senior traditions with the t-shirt design contest! All senior students receive a free Class of 2026 t-shirt during the first week of school.

Would you like to design the senior t-shirt? Click here to submit your t-shirt design by June 4 (extended deadline). After all submissions are received and approved by the BTWHSPVA administration, senior students will be able to vote for their favorite design. The design with the most votes will be featured on the Class of 2026 merch! The design must be original artwork.

What’s your t-shirt size? Complete this form by June 16 to receive your free shirt in your preferred size. Students who do not submit a t-shirt size will not be guaranteed a t-shirt that fits them.

Senior portraits for the Class of 2026 will take place on campus from July 29 to August 1, 2025, with photographer Angela P. Navarette! Click here to schedule your session.

Stay connected! Get a head start on your senior year by staying connected with the PTSA Class of 2026 committee! Review the summer checklist below:

Want to join the Class of 2026 committee?Click here to fill out an interest form.

REFLECTIONS

Students are invited to unleash their creativity and share their perspectives by submitting an original work of art inspired by the 2025-26 Reflections theme "I Belong." You can express yourself in various categories, including Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition, Photography, and Visual Arts. Don't miss this opportunity to showcase your talent; submissions will be accepted in the fall. Start preparing your masterpiece this summer by reading the FAQs and guidelines to ensure your artistic vision shines!

SURVEY

Did you know that BTWHSPVA is recognized as a National PTA School of Excellence? This program celebrates and supports the partnerships between PTSAs and schools, aiming to enhance the educational experience and overall well-being of all students. BTWHSPVA has earned this two-year distinction for the 2022-2024 term. As we work to renew our status for the 2025-2027 term, we are asking our community to participate in a survey. This survey will help us identify and implement best practices in family engagement, as well as promote an inclusive and welcoming school community. The survey will be open until May 31. Thank you in advance for your time and input! Click here to complete the survey.

CAMPUS NEWS + RESOURCES

The D.I.S.D. Summer Meal Program provides free meals to children and teens up to age 18, and for enrolled students with disabilities until age 21, at participating Dallas ISD schools. View the map for locations, dates, and times. For more info text “Food” to 304-304, or call 211.

Summer College Advising Workshops are available at BTWHSPVA with ASP College Advisors Ms. Butler & Mr. Mata!

Essay Workshop (flyer), June 3 and 4, Walk-ins 9 am - 12 pm

Want to work on college essays? Need help brainstorming ideas to write about? Have a 1st draft that needs reviewing? It does not matter where you are in the process, your ASP college advisors are ready to help you! Walk-in welcome or select a date on this link.

SAT Workshop (flyer), June 3 and 4, 12 pm - 2 pm

Did you miss out on SAT Prep? Are you taking the SAT on June 7th, and want extra study time? Attend an in-person SAT session on campus! Learn from an SAT expert and instructor, Tom Urquidez. Click here to sign up.

Virtual College Advising, June and July, Zoom

Do you have questions about college? Ask your college advisors! Click here to schedule an appointment!

Click here to view the ASP College Advisor Summer Hours.

Registration for the 2025-2026 school year is now open. All new and returning students must complete registration each year by June 30, 2025. Include your updated contact information to receive school communications over the summer. Login to Smart Choice powered by SchoolMint on this link https://choose.dallasisd.org/login.

Required Documents: Parent ID, BC, SSC, Immunization records, and proof of address (most recent utility bill). 

Tip: Scroll to the bottom of the dashboard until you see two tabs for your student. Select the registration tab and follow the steps. Do not click on 'let's begin application' or 'let's begin registration.' Click here to see the district video for detailed instructions.

Save the Date:Pegasus Pick-up and Flight School will be held on campus over the summer! See the schedule below for specific dates assigned per grade level. Times will be announced over the summer.

  • July 30 - Seniors and Juniors
  • July 31 - Sophomores
  • August 1 - Flight School for new students is held in the morning, Pegasus Pick-up for Freshman is held in the afternoon

What is Pegasus Pick-up? It's Booker T.'s on campus registration day! All students and their parent/guardian pick up schedules, pay for lockers and parking spaces, order yearbooks, take yearbook/ID photos and senior headshots, join the PTSA and guilds, and purchase merchandise. Students must be accompanied by a parent/guardian on their assigned grade-level day. This is not a student drop-off event. There are forms parents must complete. 

What is Flight School? It's Booker T.'s new student orientation. Students are asked to wear their "I Am Booker T" t-shirt during Flight School. Students that did not attend the family orientation event known as "I Am Booker T. Day," can pick up their t-shirt from the PTSA booth at Flight School on Aug 1. Students can change into a different outfit to take their yearbook/ID photo for Pegasus Pick-Up that afternoon. Parents will be able to join their student to attend Pegasus Pick-Up to complete the registration process. Exact times will be announced over the summer. 

UP NEXT

2025-2026 Approved D.I.S.D. Calendar

The calendar is subject to change. Please check the school website to confirm.

Codes: (AS) All School, (A) Academic Conservatory, (D) Dance Conservatory, (J) Juniors, (M) Music Conservatory, (PS) Prospective Students, (RS) Rising Students, (T) Theatre Conservatory, (UPUpperclassman, (UN) Underclassman, (VA) Visual Arts Conservatory, (S) Seniors, (SO) Sophomores, (F) Faculty, (FR) Freshmen

Got news? If you would like to request a school wide announcement to share on the PTSA newsletter fill out this form.

Download the membership toolkit app for easy access to the PTSA and Guilds.

Click: PTSA | DANCEMUSIC | THEATREVISUAL ARTS

SPONSORS

The contribution of the PTSA's Sustaining Sponsors help cultivate the future of the performing and visual arts and enables the PTSA to provide school-wide productions, programs, resources and event support. Thank you to our 2024-25 sponsors.

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