| Things Are Moving Fast — Busy Times Ahead! The first Lunch Talk! of the new year is happening tomorrow, February 3rd, in the library. Come hear important updates and fresh insights from Mr. Williams — a perfect way to stay connected, informed, and involved as we kick off the spring semester. On February 13th, help us spread some Valentine cheer by donating sweet treats for our annual faculty and staff appreciation celebration. Whether homemade or store‑bought, every goodie is appreciated. You’ll find the volunteer and donation signup link below. That evening, the BTW Music Guild invites you to its casino‑themed Pink Heart Soirée, a night of cocktails, live music, and casino‑style fun, all supporting arts education at Booker T. Full details are listed below. Then on February 15th, get ready for Booker T LIVE x Jambaloo at The Granada Theater. This family‑friendly, FREE event brings together current students and BTWHSPVA Legends for an unforgettable afternoon of music and celebration. An RSVP is required, see details below. And be sure to mark your calendars for Voices and Sounds | The Pulse in Celebration of a People on February 27th. More information and volunteer opportunities will be shared soon. February is packed with community, creativity, and celebration. We hope to see you there! 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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| PTSA VOLUNTEER HOURS & HOW IT WORKS Have you ever wondered why the volunteer hours you’ve completed at your student’s school aren’t showing up on your PTSA volunteer report? In many cases, it’s because those hours were completed for your student’s conservatory or guild—both of which operate separately from the PTSA. While those contributions are incredibly valuable, they do not count toward PTSA volunteer hours, since each group serves a different purpose within the Booker T. community. |
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Each year, the PTSA requires a minimum of 20 volunteer hours per family for students to be eligible for the PTSA Summer Scholarship Program. We know this can be confusing, especially with the many volunteer opportunities offered by other BTWHSPVA organizations. To clarify: only hours completed through the PTSA count toward the PTSA scholarship requirement. Volunteer work for the Guild, Conservatories, or any other groups does not apply to the PTSA total. Because the Summer Scholarship Application Window opens in March, families who plan to apply must have all 20 PTSA hours completed before the window opens. Hours earned after that point cannot be counted toward eligibility. While the PTSA works hard to provide volunteer opportunities throughout the year, most of them occur during the first semester, with fewer available in the spring. If you still need hours, please keep an eye out—we will offer at least two additional PTSA volunteer events before the application window begins. Thank you for your continued support and involvement. Your time truly makes a difference for our students. To confirm your PTSA volunteer hour totals: Login to your Membership Toolkit account and view volunteer hours reported. For any discrepancies or concerns, contact PTSA 3rd VP | Comms, Jennifer Wheeler Hall or complete a PTSA Inquiry Form. |
Principal Williams is hosting a Lunch Talk! TOMORROW, February 3rd at 12:30 pm in the BTWHSPVA Library. This is a wonderful chance for families to hear updates straight from campus leadership, ask questions, and engage in meaningful dialogue about what’s happening at Booker T. Principal Williams will share current campus highlights, upcoming initiatives, and ways our community can stay connected and involved as we move through the spring semester. Whether you’re a returning parent or brand‑new to BTWHSPVA, this informal gathering is a friendly, open space to learn, connect, and be part of the conversation. To help us plan seating and refreshments, please RSVP if you’re able to attend. We look forward to seeing you there and continuing to build a strong, informed, and engaged school community. |
The next PTSA meeting is TOMORROW, February 3rd at 6pm in The Commons, and you won’t want to miss it. We’re excited to welcome guest speaker Leea Thompson Fudge, along with representatives from the American Heart Association, who will kick off Heart Health Month with new programs and resources for our community. Join us for an inspiring and informative evening as we learn how to support heart‑healthy habits for our students, families, and staff. |
INTRODUCING THE CLASS OF 2027 SENIOR CLASS DUES 30/30/30 CAMPAIGN |
| To help secure the 2027 Senior Class Dues and ease the financial pressures that often come with senior year — because we are committed to ensuring NO senior is left out — we’re thrilled to announce that the Class of 2027 Senior Class Dues 30/30/30 Campaign is officially OPEN! Throughout the month of February, families can log into their Membership Toolkit account and choose to pay the $90 Senior Class Dues* in three convenient monthly installments from February through April.
CLICK HERE TO PARTICIPATE |
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You can also choose to pay Class of 2027 $90 Senior Class Dues early in one lump sum!CLICK HERE TO PAY THE FULL AMOUNT(Be sure to select "Class of 2027 Senior Year Dues".) These early‑payment options serve two important purposes: - Lightening the financial load in August | Senior year comes with a long list of expenses — guild dues, yearbook, cap and gown, college application fees, audition costs, and more. Spreading out the class dues now helps ease that annual crunch.
- Allowing the Senior Committee to plan ahead | Receiving dues early enables the committee to finalize the budget before major planning begins this summer. This ensures we can prepare meaningful experiences for the Class of 2027, including:
- An early Senior Surprise during the last week of school in May
- A second surprise at Pegasus Pickup
- Fully planned and funded first‑week‑of‑school activities
Your early participation in paying your 2027 Senior Class Dues helps us start senior year strong and deliver the memorable experiences our students deserve. Thank you for supporting the Class of 2027 as they prepare for their milestone year! |
*Includes student membership! Do NOT purchase a student membership in addition to class dues. |
PLEASE NOTE These contributions help ensure that we can plan a full range of memorable experiences for ALL students in the Class of 2027. From milestone celebrations to meaningful traditions and special senior year moments, these dues help create the kind of year students look forward to their entire high school career. If you’re able, we welcome any additional support to help cover the gap so that we can plan the type of high‑quality experiences every student expects their senior year. Every contribution helps us deliver a senior year filled with opportunities, connection, and truly unforgettable memories. SPONSOR A CLASS OF 2027 SENIOR (Make sure to select "Sponsor a Class of 2027 Senior".) |
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 2025-26 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? Missed contributing to class dues in the past, or have family members who’d like to help? No worries — it’s never too late to support your class! Click on your class year below to make a contribution in any amount and help fund the senior year activities and celebrations that make this milestone unforgettable. |
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| Michelle Carter brings heart, dedication, and a lifelong love for community to her role as the BTWHSPVA PTSA Alumni Chair. A proud Oak Cliff native now living in Duncanville, Michelle balances a vibrant professional and volunteer life. She works full‑time as a nanny and serves as a Floor Supervisor at the Dallas Cowboys Stadium, where her leadership and reliability shine. She also contributes her talents to major national events as a team member for the NFL Super Bowl Experience. Deeply rooted in her faith community, Michelle is the Praise Dance Coordinator for the National Baptist Youth Convention and the newly elected President of her church’s Safety and Security Team. She previously served as the Youth Praise Dance Director, continuing her lifelong passion for dance and mentorship. |
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Outside of her many commitments, Michelle enjoys unwinding with instrumental jazz, watching movies, and spending meaningful time with her family and friends. She is the proud mother of three sons, ages 37, 34, and 28, and the joyful grandmother of five grandchildren, with a sixth on the way. Michelle graduated from Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in the Class of 1985, where she was part of the Dance Cluster. Dance remains one of her fondest memories, especially the moments when she and her classmates felt like stars, dancing on the tables during lunchtime and embracing the creative spirit that defines Booker T. |
Her decision to serve as Alumni Chair comes from a genuine love for people and a deep appreciation for the connections that shape us. Michelle is committed to strengthening the alumni community, keeping graduates engaged, connected, and proud of their shared roots. She believes in building lasting relationships and fostering a strong, supportive network that honors the school’s legacy while continuing to grow and evolve. Though she may seem shy at first, Michelle is fun‑loving, warm, and happiest when she’s bringing joy to others. This is her first year as Alumni Chair, and she looks forward to many more years of service, connection, and celebration of the Booker T. family. |
The BTWHSPVA PTSA is honored to celebrate Michelle Carter, our dedicated Alumni Chair, whose passion for people and deep love for Booker T. shine through everything she does. Michelle brings a unique blend of warmth, leadership, and lived experience as a proud Class of 1985 Dance Cluster alum—qualities that make her an extraordinary advocate for our alumni community. Michelle works tirelessly to strengthen the connection between past and present Booker T. generations. Her commitment to keeping alumni engaged, informed, and proud of their roots has helped build a stronger, more vibrant network. With her thoughtful, genuine care, and natural ability to bring people together, Michelle ensures that the spirit of Booker T. continues long after graduation. As we gear up for the Arts Magnet’s 50th Anniversary next year, Michelle’s work is invaluable in helping the PTSA reach more alumni, rekindle old connections, and celebrate the legacy that has touched generations. Her outreach, enthusiasm, and dedication are helping lay the foundation for a milestone celebration worthy of the school’s history. Her dedication enriches the PTSA and reinforces the legacy that makes BTWHSPVA so special. We are deeply grateful for Michelle’s enthusiasm, her vision, and the joy she brings to her role. Our alumni community is stronger because of her. Thank you, Michelle, for everything you do for our alumni and the PTSA! |
To become a sponsor or for general questions, please click the link below or contact us at btwhspvaptsa@gmail.com. |
Time is slipping by, and the need has never been more pressing. The PTSA is calling on our community to help secure more Sustaining Sponsors this year so we can keep essential programs strong and ensure our scholar artists continue to receive the support they deserve. If you’ve been thinking about stepping in, now is the time. Your sponsorship fuels creativity, opens doors, and provides real opportunities for students who rely on these resources every single day. We cannot afford to lose momentum. Your commitment today helps protect the programs that make Booker T. extraordinary. Don’t wait, click the link below NOW and join us in pushing our students forward. And please, pass this along to anyone who might be interested in supporting our school. Every sponsor matters, and together we can finish this year with strength and impact. |
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. |
PTSA JANUARY VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH | ANDREA DIGGS |
Congratulations to Andrea Diggs, our January PTSA Volunteer of the Month! As the BTWHSPVA PTSA 5th VP of Community & Programs, Andrea has gone above and beyond in coordinating some of our most impactful initiatives. From organizing Angel Tree and Reflections to managing Student Activity Grants and our Lunch Talk! series, she brings dedication, warmth, and an incredible work ethic to every project she touches. Her thoughtful leadership strengthens our community and ensures our scholar‑artists and families feel supported throughout the year. Andrea’s commitment makes a real difference on our campus, and we are deeply grateful for the time, care, and energy she pours into her role. Please join us in congratulating Andrea and celebrating all she does for the BTWHSPVA community. |
FACULTY APPRECIATION | FEBRUARY 13TH |
Love is in the air at Booker T., and it’s time to shower our incredible faculty with the appreciation they deserve! On Thursday, February 13th, the PTSA will host a Valentine Social from 11:30 am - 1:30 pm(location TBA) to celebrate the teachers and staff who pour their hearts into our scholar artists every single day. We’re planning a festive afternoon filled with sweetness, gratitude, and a little extra sparkle—and we need our amazing families to help make it happen. Calling All Sweethearts | We’re asking parents and guardians to sign up to bring sweet treats, snacks, or Valentine‑themed goodies to help us create a beautiful spread for our faculty. Homemade or store‑bought—everything is welcome and appreciated. (Please note the need for sugar/gluten free options!) Volunteers Needed | If you have time during the day, we would love your help with set up, hosting, or clean up. Even a short shift makes a big difference and helps us show our staff just how much they mean to our community. Sign up to volunteer.(These hours will count toward the minimum 20 PTSA volunteer hours to be eligible for the PTSA Summer Scholarship Program.) Your support helps us create moments of joy and appreciation for the people who make Booker T. such a special place. Thank you for helping us spread the love this Valentine’s season! |
Booker T LIVE x JAMBALOO brings more than half a century of BTWHSPVA’s Arts Magnet creative legacy to the stage with six powerhouse bands featuring both current students and standout alumni. Audiences can look forward to an eclectic mix of genres — rock, country, jazz fusion, and more — along with a special performance by alumni favorites TFIN. Sunday | February 15 | 2 PM (doors) 3 PM (show) The Granada Theater | 3524 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX 75206 FREE | RSVP for a spot! Family-Friendly! BTWHSPVA’s history is filled with legendary artists including Erykah Badu, Norah Jones, Edie Brickell, Roy Hargrove, Marc Rebillet, Jazzmeia Horn, Daniel Jones, and Shaun Martin. Join us to celebrate these legends and experience the next generation of talent so you can say you saw them before the world did. Guaranteed Admission Option | Donate to reserve a guaranteed spot and support BTWHSPVA. Your donation holds a reservation until 90 minutes after doors, then any unclaimed spots will open to general RSVPs based on capacity. 100% of donations go directly to BTWHSPVA, with credit card fees covered through an additional contribution from Mullen & Mullen. |
SAVE THE DATE | VOICES AND SOUNDS | FEBRUARY 27, 2026 |
| BTWHSPVA PTSA Presents VOICES & SOUNDS: The Pulse in Celebration of a People (Formerly known as the African American Heritage Festival) Get ready, Booker T., Voices & Sounds is set to be bigger than ever! This year’s program will feature multiple performances across all conservatories, showcasing the depth, diversity, and brilliance of our scholar artists. This reimagined, expanded celebration honors the legacy of the African Heritage Festival while opening the door for even more creative expression, collaboration, and storytelling. Voices & Sounds is your chance to bring powerful work to the stage — work that moves, inspires, and reflects the vibrant artistic community of BTWHSPVA. Mark your calendar for February 27th & look for volunteer opportunities coming soon, for students and parents! |
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2026-27 MUSICAL THEATER ENSEMBLE AUDITIONS |
MT students interested in continuing in the Musical Theatre program for the 2026–2027 school year must re-audition. The Musical Theatre Department is made up of BTW students from all conservatories who share a love of singing, acting, and dancing. Open to rising juniors and seniors only, the Musical Theatre Ensemble is a fun, dynamic, and selective group of performers. If your child is ready to challenge themselves, grow as an artist, and take the stage again next year, we can’t wait to see them at auditions! Your student may scan the QR code on posters around campus or use this link to sign up for an audition time. Audition Schedule Vocal Music | Wednesday, Feb. 4, 5 p.m. Dance Call | Thursday, Feb. 5, 5 p.m. |
SPRING MUSICAL ANNOUNCEMENT |
| The BTW Musical Theatre Department is thrilled to announce this year’s spring production: SISTER ACT! Performances will take place May 7, 8, and 9 in the Black Box Theatre. Audition Schedule Vocal Music | TBA Call backs and Dance | TBA Auditions will be held during school hours and incorporated into the MT class, so no additional time outside of class is required. |
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For questions about BTW Musical Theatre or ways to help support upcoming productions, please contact Shelley Kirby. |
PINK HEART SOIREE | FEBRUARY 13 |
Join us for a pink‑tinted evening in support of the Booker T. Washington Music Guild. Enjoy cocktails, live music, and casino‑style fun while helping strengthen arts education at one of the nation’s most celebrated performing arts schools. (This event is for adults, and big hearts are warmly welcomed!)
Friday, February 13, 2026 Zounds Sounds 7:00–11:00 PM
We have a LIMITED number of VIP Tickets and General Admission Tickets available for the night so act fast! General Admission Tickets | $40 each - Starter "Booker Bucks"
- Heavy finger foods
VIP Tickets | $75 each - Everything included in GA plus...
- Reserved parking
- Glass of Rose at check-in
- Hour earlier arrival for VIP cocktail and grazing board
- More "Booker Bucks" to start
- Swag bag
- Lounge access
TICKETS Huge thanks to Zounds Sounds for generously donating the venue for The Pink Heart Soirée, our inaugural fundraising celebration. |
| Does your student have an amazing accomplishment to share? Let us know! As we continue celebrating the incredible talent that makes Booker T. Washington HSPVA so extraordinary, we invite all scholar artists to share their creative accomplishments with us. Whether you’ve performed, published, exhibited, composed, designed, or achieved something uniquely your own, we want to highlight your work in future editions of the Creative Collective. Your artistry inspires our entire community, and this space exists to showcase the brilliance happening across every conservatory. Send us your stories, your milestones, and your moments of pride—because Booker T. shines brightest when we lift each other up. Submit your information by completing the PTSA Creative Collective Submission Form. |
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PEGASUS PANTRY | NOW OPEN TO ALL BTW FAMILIES! |
| Don't forget, our School Family Food Pantry, designed to support our entire school community, is now open for all BTW families! Families are invited to pick up items that work best for their home. No sign-up required, just a community resource available to everyone. When | Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (or arrange another time independently) Where | School Nurses Office / Or Main Office Whether you're grabbing a few extra ingredients for meals or exploring what's new on the shelves, we're here to make life a little easier. All families are welcome. Come by and get what you can use. For more information, please contact Nurse Wiley in the clinic: pwiley@dallasisd.org or (972) 925-1207 |
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2025-2026 Approved D.I.S.D. Calendar - February 1 (J) Class of 2027 Senior Class Dues 30/30/30 Campaign Opens
- February 3 (AS) PTSA Meeting/Guild Meetings
- February 4-5 (MT) Musical Theater Ensemble Auditions
- February 13 (M) Pink Heart Soiree
- February 15 (AS) Booker T LIVE x Jambaloo
- February 16 (AS) Presidents Day | NO SCHOOL
- February 27 (AS) Voices & Sounds Festival
- February 28 (J) Last Day to Participate in the Class of 2027 Senior Class Dues 30/30/30 Campaign
- March 14-22 (AS) Spring Break
- April 15-16 (M) RJAM Spring Concert
- May 7-9 (MT) Spring Musical
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 |
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