| It's Showcase Week! The Stage Awaits... Booker T. is buzzing with energy as we approach one of the most anticipated events of the year...Showcase! This is a powerful moment to celebrate the incredible dedication, creativity, and growth of our scholar-artists as they present the culmination of their hard work. We invite you to plug in and volunteer (see opportunities listed below) wherever you can to help make this year’s Showcase an unforgettable success. It’s a uniquely inspiring experience you won’t want to miss. To our amazing Seniors, break a leg as you take the stage and shine with brilliance, passion, and pride! The Pegasus Pantry is stocked and bountiful because of your incredible generosity. This is a heartwarming reminder of the indelible BTW community that supports beyond measure. Donations will be open via the Pegasus Pantry Amazon Wishlist through Tuesday, November 18th in preparation for the upcoming Thanksgiving break. The cherished Booker T. Angels Program is gearing up for another wonderful year of bringing joy to families at H.I. Holland Elementary School. Please consider participating in this treasured annual event and peruse the Amazon Wishlists (links below) in consideration of donating requested items. The BTW community continues to amaze and uplift in every way. Thank you for all that you do! PS - Today is the day to expect no fewer than six cringe-worthy moments and at least seven bursts of pure joy. Embrace it all, and enjoy the ride! #BTW67thDayOfSchool (You're welcome!) With gratitude, Leah |
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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 of the articles. Resources | Click on newsletter section titles, graphics, and words in blue font for more helpful information. |
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| SHOWCASE WEEK HAS ARRIVED! Each year, every senior at Booker T. Washington HSPVA graduates, and an impressive 98% continue their journey in higher education. Many of our students discover their ideal next step, whether it’s a college, university, or conservatory, through connections made during our annual College Showcase. For 2025, this exciting event will take place THIS WEEK, November 19–22, with the College Fair scheduled for Friday, November 21. It’s a pivotal week where opportunity meets talent, and our scholar-artists shine on a national stage. SPECIAL NOTE | This is not an open spectator event. Only verified volunteers will be permitted on campus during Showcase Week. |
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SHOWCASE SCHEDULE DANCE EVENTSWednesday, November 19, 8:30 AM - Friday, November 21, 3:30 PM MUSIC EVENTSWednesday, November 19, 8:30 AM - Friday, November 21, 3:30 PM VISUAL ARTS EVENTSThursday, November 20, 8:30 AM - Friday, November 21, 3:30 PM THEATRE EVENTSFriday, November 21, 8:30 AM - Saturday, November 22, 5 PM
COLLEGE FAIR Friday, November 21 | 3:30-5 PM
(Students: Check with your conservatory for the detailed schedule and be sure to arrive on time.) |
| VOLUNTEERS STILL NEEDED FOR SHOWCASE! We’re still looking for volunteers to help make this week’s College Showcase a success! Your support is essential in creating a smooth, welcoming experience for visiting institutions and our scholar-artists. If you’re able to lend a hand, we’d love to have you on board, sign up today and be part of something amazing! Click on a conservatory below to see all volunteer opportunities: DANCE MUSIC VISUAL ARTS THEATER PLEASE NOTE | Parents of seniors are not eligible to volunteer for this event. |
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| ATTENTION ALL SHOWCASE VOLUNTEERS! Showcase Week is here, and we’re counting on YOU to help make it an unforgettable event! To ensure a smooth and secure experience for everyone, all volunteers must have a current DISD background check through VOLY and an official ID badge. ✅ Haven’t completed your VOLY background check? Do it now! ✅ Haven't submitted an ID badge request? Do it now! This helps us prepare enough badges and ensures all parents and community members are properly logged in our Raptor system, a critical step in keeping our students and staff safe while we welcome our guests to campus. Let’s show off the best of Booker T. with pride, professionalism, and plenty of Pegasus spirit! |
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| Adam Mora brings a strong sense of purpose, compassion, and advocacy to his role as the PTSA Class of 2027 Chair. A proud resident of West Dallas and a native of El Paso, Adam was invited to serve by former PTSA President, Patricia Mojica, ahead of the 2024–2025 school year. Now in his final year in the role, he continues to lead with heart and intention, driven by a belief that every student deserves to be seen, heard, and celebrated. For Adam, this work is personal. His family’s connection to Booker T. is substantial: his eldest, Laurel (BTW Class of 2020), is a two-time YoungArts winner in playwriting and a graduate of Fordham University’s prestigious playwriting program, with four NYC productions to their name. Laurel's journey at Booker T., made possible in part by the mentorship of Ms. Price and the school’s nurturing environment, left a lasting imprint on the Mora family. When Adam's son, Alexander, chose to follow his own artistic path in the Theatre Conservatory, Adam knew it was time to give back. |
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Professionally, Adam is an intensivist at UT Southwestern, where he leads a team of fellows and residents in the intensive care unit. He specializes in managing life-threatening illnesses, performing complex procedures, and guiding families through the most sacred transitions when medicine reaches its limits. His work is rooted in equity and empathy, values that also guide his leadership at Booker T. Adam’s advocacy extends beyond the hospital. He is a member of the Society of Critical Care Medicine’s Fundamental Critical Care Support: Obstetrics program, and serves on the Health Equity Taskforce and LGBTQ+ Interest Group for the American College of Chest Physicians (CHEST). Locally, he sits on the boards of the Dallas Chamber Symphony Orchestra, Dallas Children’s Theater, and the Booker T. Theatre Guild. Outside of work, Adam enjoys connecting with friends, whether revisiting favorite local spots or discovering new bars and restaurants around Dallas. He’s an avid traveler, a devoted fan of live theater and concerts, and never misses a chance to catch a great film on the big screen. When the outdoors call, Adam loves hiking scenic trails, and when relaxing at home, he’s often watching TV or playing logic-based games on his phone. His TikTok feed? A joyful mix of puppies, babies, and (his guilty pleasure) videos of people hilariously falling. Beyond his personal interests, Adam dedicates time to mentoring young physicians, guiding them through research, career development, and interview preparation. But above all, his greatest joy comes from being a proud fan of his children, Laurel and Alexander Mora. Adam’s favorite Booker T. tradition is the All-School Musical, which he sees as the perfect embodiment of collaboration and artistic excellence. He’s continually inspired by how students come together across disciplines: singing, acting, dancing, designing, managing, all to create something extraordinary. His second favorite program is the College Showcase, where senior students have the opportunity to present their talents on a national stage and take bold steps toward their futures. Fun Fact: Adam has facial blindness, which has led to more than a few awkward encounters, but also plenty of laughs and heartfelt apologies. |
Adam Mora brings energy, insight, and a collaborative spirit to his role as the 2025-26 PTSA Junior Class Chair. With a clear vision and an unparalleled commitment to the Booker T. community, Adam is helping shape a memorable year for the Class of 2027, one thoughtful detail at a time. Whether he’s organizing class events, coordinating with parents and staff, or keeping the planning process on track, Adam leads with intention and care. His approach is grounded in inclusivity and creativity, ensuring that every student feels seen, celebrated, and supported. Adam’s leadership style is both strategic and spirited. He knows how to balance the big picture with the behind-the-scenes work that makes everything run smoothly. His ability to listen, adapt, and bring people together has already made a lasting impression on our campus. We’re lucky to have Adam guiding the Class of 2027. His contributions may not always be in the spotlight, but their impact is felt in every celebration, every moment of connection, and every step forward. Thank you, Adam, for showing up with heart and helping make this year unforgettable! |
To become a donor or for general questions, please donate by clicking the link below or contact us at btwhspvaptsa@gmail.com. |
| THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING THE PEGASUS PANTRY! Your kindness continues to make a powerful impact. Thanks to your generous donations through our Amazon Wishlist and drop-off locations, we’ve been able to provide essential support to students and families who need it most. Your compassion and commitment truly reflect the heart of Pegasus pride. But our work isn’t done yet. The need is still great, and our shelves have room to grow. With your continued support, we can reach even more students and ensure they have access to the care and resources they deserve. Let’s keep the momentum going! Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference. Ways to Donate: 📦 Drop-Off Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM 📍 Locations: Main entrance near the front desk, or outside the Clinic near Nurse Wiley’s office 🛒 Amazon Wishlist: Donations can also be made online through the Pegasus Pantry Amazon Wishlistthrough tomorrow, November 18th. Thank you for showing up with heart, generosity, and a spirit of community. Together, we’re creating a stronger, more supportive environment for every student. |
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| A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Pegasus Pantry Heroes! We are overflowing with gratitude for the incredible individuals and families who have stepped up to support the Pegasus Pantry. Your generosity, time, and care have made a real difference in the lives of our students, and we couldn’t do it without you. Thank you to: - Dottie Bernstein and Family
- Faith McManus
- Kristi
- Sarah M. Hale
- Becky and Corinne Wade
- Sarah Duffy
- Darcy Shepherd
- Eric and Dawn Walker
- Eric L. Walker
- Stephanie Chang
- Elizabeth Reich
- Sandy Duhe
- Joseph Carr Ruzicka
- Monica Mendez
- Neena Watts
- Kendra
- Morning McKibbin
- Chris McRorie
- Benjamin A. Thomas
- Taylor Freeman
- Cindy Thackray
- Annie LeBlanc
- Kendall Purpura
- Andre, CaTrina, and Trinidee Lindsey
- Jennifer Johnson
- The Ruzicka Family
- Michelle Davitt
- Kelly Diaz
- The Craigo Family
And a special shoutout to our amazing student helpers: - Isabella Vasquez
- El Wakefield
- Cat Krankota
Your kindness fills our shelves, and our hearts. Thank you for being the spirit of Pegasus pride in action! |
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Families seeking support through the Pegasus Pantry are encouraged to contact Nurse Patricia Wiley at Booker T. for assistance: pwiley@dallasisd.org or (972) 925-1207. |
| LAST CHANCE TO EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC! Don’t miss your opportunity to witness an extraordinary showcase of movement, artistry, and emotion at the Dance Conservatory’s final performance of Evening of Dance, happening Thursday, November 20th at 7:00 PM in The MAT. This is your final chance to support our talented dancers as they take the stage in a performance that promises to inspire and captivate. From powerful choreography to heartfelt expression, it’s an evening you won’t forget. Let’s fill the theater with energy and applause—we’d love to see you there! TICKETS |
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| BTWHSPVA DANCE CONSERVATORY PRESENTS | PORTRAITS SENIOR SOLO CONCERT - Wednesday, November 19
- 7:00 PM
- The MAT (Montgomery Arts Theater)
Join us for an unforgettable evening of movement, emotion, and storytelling as the Dance Conservatory proudly presents Portraits, a concert celebrating the artistry and individuality of our senior dancers. Through original solos, each performance offers a glimpse into the unique journeys, voices, and visions of the Class of 2026. This annual tradition showcases the culmination of years of training, growth, and creative exploration. From contemporary to classical, each piece is a reflection of the dancer’s personal narrative, capturing the spirit of what it means to be a scholar artist at Booker T. Come celebrate the power of dance and the brilliance of our seniors. Let’s fill the theater with support and applause! TICKETS |
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| SHREDSTOCK 2025 | A SONIC EXPLOSION OF TALENT! Get ready for 90 electrifying minutes of pure musical magic as the Booker T. Washington Music Department presents Shredstock 2025! From soulful blues to face-melting modern shreds, this genre-spanning showcase will feature over 150 student musicians rocking every riff, rhythm, and roar imaginable. Join us in The MAT on Thursday, December 4 at 7:00 PM for a night that celebrates the power of sound, the spirit of creativity, and the unstoppable energy of our talented performers. Don’t miss it - the show is almost sold out! This is one show that’ll leave your ears buzzing and your heart full. Be there, or be square! TICKETS |
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| VOLUNTEER NEEDED | SUPPORT OUR DESTINATION IMAGINATION TEAM! The BTWHSPVA Theatre Conservatory is proud to announce its Destination Imagination team, featuring seven talented scholar-artists: - Tanisha Mitra
- Calder Barfoot
- Madison Garcia
- Summer Watts
- Kade Kuehler
- Ella Rose
- Bailey Long
As they prepare to showcase their creativity at the Regional Destination Imagination Event, we’re seeking a volunteer appraiser to help judge performances on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Skyline High School. Appraisers must also attend a training session on Monday, January 20, from 5:30–8:00 PM, also at Skyline HS. If you're interested in supporting this incredible team as an appraiser, please email Ms. Benzenberg at cbenzenberg@dallasisd.org for instructions. Your time and support will help make this experience unforgettable for our students! |
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SEE'S CANDIES FUNDRAISER | CLASS OF 2027 |
SUPPORT THE CLASS OF 2027 WITH SEE'S CANDIES YUM-RAISING! This holiday season, the Class of 2027 is partnering with See’s Candies through their festive Yum-Raising platform to raise essential senior year funds — and we need your sweet support! Now through December 5, shop delicious chocolates and candies online through our dedicated See’s storefront. Whether you're looking for stocking stuffers, gifts for coworkers and clients, or a treat for yourself, every purchase helps fund senior activities like prom, graduation, and more. It’s simple: Browse and shop just like any online store See’s ships directly to your door A portion of every sale goes directly to support the Class of 2027
Let’s make this season extra sweet. Thank you for your support! |
PTSA THANKSGIVING PIE DRIVE |
| YOUR PIE DONATION IS THE CHERRY ON TOP—THANK YOU FOR SIGNING UP! We’re so grateful to the parents and families who signed up to donate pies, whether homemade or store-bought, your contributions are helping us share a meaningful token of appreciation with our incredible custodial and cafeteria teams. Pie Distribution Day | Thursday, November 20 Drop off at the front desk between 8 - 9:30 AM on November 20th. (Please deliver pies in individual boxes) Your generosity helps us celebrate the people who keep Booker T. thriving with care, dedication, and heart. Thanks for being part of this special tradition—and for showing up with kindness and community spirit. Let’s make this a Thanksgiving to remember! *Please note the date correction | Pies are to be dropped off on Thursday, November 20th by 9:30 AM (not Friday as previously stated). Thank you! |
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| SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER THROUGH THE BOOKER T. ANGELS PROGRAM! The season of giving is here, and Booker T. Washington HSPVA is proud to carry forward one of our most meaningful traditions, the Booker T. Angels Program. Led by our Student Council, in collaboration with the PTSA and each Conservatory Guild, this initiative brings joy, compassion, and connection to five families from H.I. Holland Elementary School. Each family provides a personalized wish list, including essentials like school uniforms, toys, and holiday decorations. Our school community comes together to fulfill these wishes, collecting items that reflect both care and generosity. The program culminates in a heartwarming celebration at H.I. Holland, where families receive their gifts in a festive, joy-filled setting. It’s more than just a delivery — it’s a moment of shared humanity, where love and gratitude take center stage. Ways You Can Help: - Donate Gifts | Our Amazon Wishlists feature gift cards, clothing, toys, and household essentials to brighten each family’s holiday. The Guilds and PTSA have each taken a family to sponsor: PTSA | Family 1, Dance Guild | Family 2, Music Guild | Family 3, Visual Arts Guild | Family 4, Theater Guild | Family 5.
- Volunteer | Help host the Booker T. Angels Family Holiday Party on December 15th at H.I. Holland Elementary School, a joyful gathering that brings our community together.
If you’d like to participate or have questions, please reach out to Aaron Moore, BTWAngels Chair or Andrea Diggs, VP of Community + Programs. Let’s join forces to bring light and joy to families who could use a little extra support this season. Every act of generosity, whether time, gifts, or kindness, makes a meaningful difference and reminds us of the incredible strength found in compassion and community. Thank you to everyone who helps make this tradition possible. Together, we’re lighting up the season with kindness and community. |
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NOVEMBER PTSA FACULTY MEMBERSHIP WINNER | DR. ZUNO |
| CONGRATULATIONS, DR. ZUNO! We’re thrilled to announce that Dr. Zuno is the winner of our November Faculty Membership Drawing! As a token of appreciation, Dr. Zuno has earned the gift of time—with one class covered by none other than Principal Williams! Thank you, Dr. Zuno, for your PTSA membership and for your incredible dedication to the Booker T. community. We appreciate you, and all our faculty, for the heart, talent, and commitment you bring to our school every day! |
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All faculty members with an active PTSA membership are automatically entered into our monthly prize drawings—just one of the fun perks of being part of the PTSA community! Not a member yet? There’s still time to join and get in on the excitement. Sign up today and you could be our next winner! |
| CALLING ALL FACULTY! Help us win the Texas PTA Golden Apple Award! The Golden Apple Award is presented to all PTSAs that recruit 100% of school faculty* as members and submit their rosters and dues no later than December 19, 2025. If you haven't joined, please join today! (*Texas PTA’s definition of faculty is principals, assistant principals, teachers, counselors, and instructional assistants employed at the campus full-time.) |
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RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP | BECOME A MEMBER 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. |
*As we prepare for the monumental 50th year anniversary of the ARTS MAGNET celebration next year, we are seeking to grow our Alumni & Community Membership! Spread the word and show your class spirit! |
| IT'S NOT TOO LATE TO PAY INTO YOUR CLASS DUES! | Every year, the PTSA teams up with student class councils to create memorable senior experiences, from prom and parties to special surprises and traditions that last a lifetime. Your support through class dues helps ensure every student can take part in the celebration. It’s not too late to join in! Select your grade below to contribute and be part of the magic that makes senior year truly special. |
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*Includes student membership! Do NOT purchase a student membership in addition to class dues. |
| Want to Catch Up on Class Dues or Make a Donation? If you’ve missed contributing to your class dues in previous years, or have family members who want to donate—no problem! It’s never too late to support your class. Simply click your class year below to get started and help fund important senior year activities and celebrations. |
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SPREAD THE WORD! The 2026–27 school year marks a truly historic moment: the 50th Anniversary of the Arts Magnet at Booker T. Exciting plans are in motion for a milestone celebration that will pay tribute to our rich legacy, the remarkable accomplishments of our scholar-artists, and the cherished home we’ve built in the heart of the Dallas Arts District. As part of this historic moment, we’re creating a dynamic Alumni Directory and Talent Repository. A living archive that showcases the extraordinary artistry born within our walls and reconnects generations of Pegasi across the decades. This is more than a celebration—it’s a reflection of who we are, where we’ve been, and the creative future we’re shaping together. Let’s make it unforgettable! Alumni & Community Members |Join the PTSA for just $10 to stay in the loop and gain access to exclusive updates as plans unfold. Let’s make this golden anniversary one to remember! Send Photos! | Email any fun alumni photos over the past 50 years to our Alumni Chair, Michelle Carter. Become a member of the Arts Magnet Alumni Facebook page! Questions or Interest | Contact our Alumni Chair, Michelle Carter or PTSA VP of Community & Programs, Andrea Diggs. Spread the word, share the excitement, and help us bring every Pegasus home. |
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The continued generosity of our PTSA Sustaining Sponsors plays a vital role in elevating the performing and visual arts at Booker T. Washington HSPVA. Thanks to their support, the PTSA is able to produce dynamic school-wide events, enrich student experiences, provide essential resources, and create unforgettable moments throughout the year. We are profoundly grateful to our 2025–2026 sponsors for championing our scholar artists and investing in the creative spirit that defines our campus. Your commitment helps turn passion into performance and imagination into impact. Thank you for helping our students dream boldly, create fearlessly, and shine brightly. |
Become a Sustaining Sponsor today and help shape the future of our scholar artists! Your support fuels creativity, opportunity, and growth, giving students the tools to thrive and shine. Don’t wait — click the link below and join us now to be part of the transformation. Every contribution makes a difference. Let’s build something extraordinary together! |
2025-2026 Approved D.I.S.D. Calendar - November 19 (D) Portraits Concert | Senior Solos
- November 19-22 (AS) College Showcase
- November 20 (D) Evening of Dance
- November 21 (AS) Thanksgiving Pie Distribution
- November 24-28 (AS) Thanksgiving Break
- December 2 (AS) PTSA Meeting
- December 4 (M) Shredstock
- December 15 (AS) Booker T. Angels Family Holiday Party
The calendar is subject to change. Please check the school calendar 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, (UP) Upperclassman, (UN) Underclassman, (VA) Visual Arts Conservatory, (S) Seniors, (SO) Sophomores, (F) Faculty, (FR) Freshmen |
PEGASUS CENTRAL | This is BTWHSPVA's new website-based newsletter that is intended to be a one-stop-shop for all the links that parents need every day. Check it out and bookmark it! BOOKER BULLETIN | This is a one-page synopsis with details and links to what is happening "This Week" (each week) on campus. |
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