| The Pace is Picking Up Thank you to everyone who attended the first Lunch Talk! of the new year. This is a great way to stay connected, informed, and involved. We’re excited to share that the American Heart Association’s American Heart Challenge Program launches next week! Our Healthy Lifestyles Chair, Leea Thompson Fudge, will be stationed outside Nurse Wiley’s office (near the library) from 12–2 pm each day to share program details. Please encourage your student to stop by the display tables to learn more — it’s a meaningful, informative initiative that also offers service‑hour opportunities. Volunteer shifts are available in the sign‑up below. A huge thank‑you to everyone who has committed to donating sweet treats or volunteering for our Valentine Faculty & Staff Appreciation event. Whether homemade or store‑bought, every treat helps us spread a little extra love to the incredible people who support our students every day. The BTW Music Guild invites you to the casino‑themed Pink Heart Soirée on February 13 — an evening of cocktails, live music, and casino‑style fun benefiting arts education at Booker T. Details are listed below. Then, on February 15, don’t miss Booker T LIVE x Jambaloo at The Granada Theater — a family‑friendly, FREE celebration featuring current students and BTWHSPVA Legends. An RSVP is required; see below for more information. And mark your calendars for Voices and Sounds | The Pulse in Celebration of a People on February 27. Rehearsals are underway, and volunteer opportunities are linked below. More details coming soon! February is full of energy and events — 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 a few additional PTSA volunteer events before the application window begins. See below for all current opportunities. 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. |
CURRENT PTSA VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES *See below for additional information on each event. |
CLASS OF 2027 POPCORN FUNDRAISER & GRAND MARSHAL INFORMATION |
 ATTENTION CLASS OF 2027 PARENTS Please take a moment to read the Class of 2027 newsletter, which includes step‑by‑step instructions for setting up your individual popcorn fundraiser popup stores. All other BTWHSPVA classes | We’d love your support! Please consider purchasing popcorn from any Class of 2027 student — especially the one you want to help become the Class of 2027 Grand Marshal. You can expect to see plenty of links shared across social media, texts, and emails as students promote their personal popup stores. Thank you for helping lift up the Class of 2027 and supporting their fundraiser. Questions? | Email the 2027 Class Chair, Adam Mora, or PTSA Fundraising VP, Maggie Lopez |
|  CLASS OF 2027 GRAND MARSHALL Every year, the Senior Class kicks off the school year with a special Welcome Week celebration. On the first day of school, seniors gather for the traditional welcome party on the lawn by the Senior Entrance before heading to class — a moment filled with excitement, pride, and the start of a memorable final year. This year, the Class of 2027 is adding an extra layer of fun. The top seller in the popcorn fundraiser will be named the Class of 2027 Grand Marshal. This Pegasus will have the honor of cutting the ribbon at the Senior Entrance, becoming the first official Senior of 2027 to walk through the exclusive senior doors, and leading the entire class into what promises to be an exciting, exhilarating, and emotional senior year. It’s a tradition made even more special — and a race worth winning! |
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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! 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! Come support our incredible student musicians as they take the stage alongside BTWHSPVA alumni and legends: Our Philosophy Lillian Hagen, June Bull, Blythe Gannon, Reese Danielson, Jaden Sze, James Hayes, Danny Bridgeford, Bella Williams, Emma Nava, Julianna Henry Jug Band Lucas Guerra, Lourenco Alexander, Aaron Tejeda, Reese Danielson, Blythe Gannon, Ori Birk, Yaira Sanchez, Bella Williams Bullet Train to Madrid Jaxon Cole, Rocco Peña, James Hayes RJ and Friends Lourenco Alexander, Meiko Ibane, Caleb Lee, Camden Anthony, Ketcher Lee, Ben Shelton Alumni BandsTFIN (@tfin.official_) Beck Holland, Laesio Littlejohn, Adarian Robert, Donovan Taylor, Terrion Hayes, Camden Anthony, Ashton Dixon All Gen Jam Not a traditional band, but an exciting, unpredictable jam session led by some true legends. More names are being added, but here are a few of the artists involved and the incredible musicians they’ve worked with: - Geno Young (BTWHSPVA faculty; Erykah Badu, others)
- RC Williams (RC & the Gritz; Erykah Badu, Mos Def, Snoop Dogg, Roy Hargrove)
- Robert “Sput” Searight (Snarky Puppy, Ghost Note, Snoop Dogg, Justin Timberlake, God’s Property)
- McCampbell Brothers (Funky Knuckles, Beyoncé, Roy Hargrove)
This lineup promises an unforgettable afternoon of music, collaboration, and Booker T. magic. RSVP today to secure your free tickets and come celebrate the talent and legacy of our community. 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. |
VOICES AND SOUNDS: THE PULSE IN CELEBRATION OF A PEOPLE |
| 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, along with creative opportunities for attendees, food & drink, and an exciting raffle! 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 witness powerful work brought to the stage — work that moves, inspires, and reflects the vibrant artistic community of BTWHSPVA. Mark your calendar for February 27th! |
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Volunteer With Us for Voices and Sounds: The Pulse in Celebration of a People We’d love for you to be part of this powerful and inspiring community event. Voices and Sounds: The Pulse in Celebration of a People depends on the support of volunteers who help create a welcoming, seamless experience for our students, families, and guests. If you’re able to lend your time, energy, or helping hands, please consider signing up to volunteer. Every role, big or small, helps bring this celebration to life, and your participation truly makes a difference. Thank you for supporting the arts, our students, and this meaningful celebration of culture and community. QUESTIONS? | Contact Gogo Lubaiya, Class of 2028 Chair |
Thank You for Supporting Voices and Sounds: The Pulse of the Celebration of a People We are deeply grateful for our growing circle of supporters whose generosity, spirit, and belief in this celebration helped bring the event to life. Your contributions, whether through time, talent, or resources, made a meaningful impact, and we are honored to recognize each of you: Andrea Diggs, Andrew Diederich, Andy Craigo, Beverly S. Behrens, Bonney Hodges, Brandi N. Cline, Chevondolyn Williams, Clara Mendez, BTW Class of 1985, The Harlow Family, David Care, Elizabeth Ruzicka, Emily Armour, Emma Ruzicka, Gogo (LaTrice Jones), Jenny Diederich, Jessica McGuinness, Kamesha Nelms, Kimberly Ballard‑Madison, Kimberly Harris, Kira McCoy, Kipling Nkrumah, Kristy Randall, Kurt Maerschel, LaDonna Colon, La Shelia Williams, Leonard Grandison, Martin Obianwu, Meco Harris, Michelle Carter, Nancy Caporal, Natalie Provenzale, Rachel Warner, Rebecca, Rebecca Haynes, Rebecca LaVenture, Sehai Aya, Sydni Kahle, Class of 2026, Voices & Sounds Admin, Staff & Students, PTSA Executive Board, and the BTW Guilds: Visual Arts, Theatre, Music & Dance. Thank you for standing with us, celebrating with us, and helping amplify the voices and artistry that make this community so extraordinary. Your support keeps the pulse of this celebration strong. |
| Heart Health Week at BTWHSPVA | THIS WEEK The BTWHSPVA PTSA is excited to partner with the American Heart Association for Heart Health Week! Throughout the week, students will have the opportunity to learn about heart health, hands‑only CPR basics, and the signs and symptoms of stroke. We are seeking a few more volunteers to help students sign up for an app‑based heart‑health program and explain how it works. No prior experience is needed. Volunteers will also help manage the AHA prize wheel, stocked with giveaways provided by the American Heart Association. An AHA liaison will be on campus Monday to help us kick things off, and our PTSA Healthy Lifestyles Chair, Leea Thompson Fudge, will be available throughout the week to support volunteers and answer any tougher questions that arise. Let's make heart health fun! Questions? | Email Leea Thompson Fudge, PTSA Healthy Lifestyles Chair VOLUNTEER SIGN UP |
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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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Between now and the end of May, 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 that begins in May 2026 | 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 2026
- 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! |
Paying class dues 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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| Vonda Klimaszewski is in her third year serving as the Campus Coordinator at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts—a role that beautifully blends her organizational strengths, artistic background, and lifelong connection to the school. A proud alumna of Arts Magnet/Booker T. Washington HSPVA, where she studied in the Theatre Cluster, Vonda brings both institutional knowledge and a deep personal investment to her work on campus. Before returning to Booker T. in a professional capacity, Vonda built an impressive career in the arts. She spent 13 years as a studio manager for an advertising photography studio and has worked as a professional photographer for 17 years. |
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Her relationship with Booker T. was rekindled when her daughters attended the school. What began as photographing Music Conservatory Showcase headshots soon evolved into a nine‑year role as the school’s senior photographer. Through her lens, she witnessed generation after generation of extraordinary young artists, inspiring her to embark on a project that would honor the school’s legacy. That inspiration became Fulfilling the Vision, a book she co‑created with writer Susan Hamm. Published in 2017, the book features portraits and stories of 67 alumni spanning 40 years, capturing how their Arts Magnet education shaped their artistic journeys. A second volume is currently in development and scheduled for release in late 2026, timed to coincide with the Arts Magnet's 50th Anniversary, a milestone that reflects the enduring impact of this remarkable institution. Vonda’s transition into the Campus Coordinator role came at a meaningful moment. After years of chronic back pain and a subsequent surgery, she sought a position that would allow her to continue contributing to the school she loved while reducing physical strain. When the opportunity arose, it felt like a natural next step — a chance to work alongside faculty and staff she deeply admired in a place she simply couldn’t imagine leaving. That leap of faith has become a defining chapter in her professional life. Today, Vonda oversees key areas that keep the school running smoothly and connected. She manages the school calendar, publishes Pegasus Central, oversees social media, maintains the website, and serves as the yearbook sponsor. And, unsurprisingly, she often steps behind the camera whenever the school needs a photographer. A Dallas native, Vonda is married to her husband, David, and is the mother of two daughters, one a Booker T. alum from the Music Conservatory (Class of 2014). She is also a bonus mom to three daughters, including another Booker T. graduate from the Theatre Cluster (Class of 2018). Her educational journey includes studies at Southern Methodist University and the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, culminating in a BFA in Photography from the Rochester Institute of Technology. |
The BTWHSPVA PTSA is thrilled to recognize Vonda Klimaszewski for her outstanding partnership, unwavering support, and exceptional leadership as our Campus Coordinator. Vonda is one of the PTSA’s most trusted collaborators—someone whose insight, dedication, and steady guidance elevate every initiative we take on together. Her commitment to clear communication, seamless coordination, and the overall well‑being of our school community makes her an invaluable ally. Whether supporting events, helping navigate campus needs, or ensuring families stay informed and connected, Vonda consistently goes above and beyond with professionalism, creativity, and heart. The PTSA deeply appreciates the countless ways Vonda strengthens our work and enriches the experience of students, families, and faculty alike. Her partnership is a cornerstone of our success, and we are grateful every day for the care and excellence she brings to Booker T. We couldn't do what we do without you, Vonda — thank you for being such an extraordinary part of the BTWHSPVA community! |
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. Thank you for your support! |
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. |
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 - SOLD OUT, BUT... Check the sponsorship packages to secure VIP access, and MORE! - 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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2025-2026 Approved D.I.S.D. Calendar - February 9-13 (AS) Heart Health Week
- 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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