| Momentum in Motion Huge thank you to everyone who supported Voices and Sounds | The Pulse. It was a vibrant evening celebrating talent, culture, and history and we are grateful for everyone who participated. Thank you to Class of 2028 for filling the Commons with food, drinks, dessert and fun community engagement. Please join us on March 5th for the Library Salon Series, featuring alum Josh Hickman in conversation with school psychologist Jennifer Toombs. This thoughtful discussion will explore the journey many families navigate when supporting a loved one diagnosed with dementia. More details are included below. Active slating is in full swing so if you’re interested in serving in a PTSA leadership role or Committee Chair role next year, we’d love to hear from you. This is a wonderful opportunity to get involved. Looking forward to tomorrow's general meeting and be sure to mark your calendars for upcoming events! 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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| Sharon Holland Modabberi Cornell is a proud Dallasite, born and raised in the city and educated in Dallas ISD schools. A graduate of Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, she completed her conservatory studies in dance before earning a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Communications from the University of Texas at Arlington. For the past 31 years, she has served as the Magnet Coordinator and Public Relations Specialist at BTWHSPVA, where she oversees media communications, manages the audition and application process, writes the Junior League of Dallas grant for the College Showcase, and directs the school’s annual College Showcase. She also sponsors the Communications Committee and serves as the school’s graduation coordinator. |
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With more than three decades of experience in public relations, Cornell has been invited to speak at events across the United States, the United Kingdom, and Bermuda. Her commitment to arts education and community engagement extends far beyond campus. She currently serves on the TITAS/DANCE UNBOUND Board of Trustees, is a member of the Trinity Chapter (TX) of The Links, Incorporated, and is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Her previous board and committee service includes The Dallas Post Tribune Advisory Board, The Living Opera Board of Directors, the Dallas Black Dance Theatre Education Committee, and the African Arts Museum Long Range Marketing Committee. She has also presented for the Arts School Network and served as the 1997 Baccalaureate Speaker for BTWHSPVA. Cornell’s dedication to education is deeply rooted in her family’s legacy. Her great‑uncle, L.V. Williams, served as principal of Booker T. in 1936, and her grandfather began his teaching career at the school before becoming principal of Lincoln High School and other Dallas ISD campuses. A DISD school, H.I. Holland Elementary at Lisbon, bears his name. Continuing that legacy, all three of her children and two stepchildren are graduates of BTWHSPVA. She is married, a proud mother, and a joyful “GiGi” who treasures time with her grandchildren above all else. Her contributions have been recognized with numerous honors, including the 2022 Revolutionary Award from the BTWHSPVA Advisory Board, an Honorary Lifetime Membership Award from the Washington Lincoln Alumni Association, and a Dallas ISD 30 Years of Service Award. Among the many programs she supports at Booker T., the College Showcase remains her favorite, as it highlights student talent and is made possible through the invaluable partnership of the Junior League of Dallas. |
Sharon Cornell is deeply appreciated for her extraordinary service, unwavering dedication, and decades‑long commitment to the students, families, and legacy of Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. Her leadership as Magnet Coordinator and Public Relations Specialist has shaped generations of artists, strengthened vital community partnerships, and upheld the school’s tradition of excellence with grace, passion, and heart. Sharon’s work extends far beyond her official roles, as she is a mentor, a historian, a connector, and a champion for every student who walks through the doors of BTWHSPVA. Her 31 years of service reflect not only professional excellence but a profound love for the school and its mission. The PTSA is grateful for her vision, her tireless advocacy, and the countless ways she continues to elevate and celebrate the spirit of Booker T! |
For questions or to get involved, please complete a PTSA Inquiry Form. To become a sponsor or donate, please click the link below. |
| A NOTE FROM THE CLASS OF 2028 CHAIR Greetings BTW Community, On Friday, February 27th, 2026, the Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts community gathered for something truly special - the First Annual Voices & Sounds Festival: The Pulse. From the very first note to the final applause, the energy in the room was undeniable. This was more than an event, it was a celebration of talent, identity, artistry, and unity. Our students delivered powerful, collaborative performances across dance, music, theatre, visual arts, and academics. Their passion, preparation, and professionalism shined brightly. They gave so much of themselves, and we were blessed to witness their talent. But what filled my heart most was the level of collaboration. Different components came together beautifully throughout the school and in the Commons … performances, decor, food, conversation, laughter. It truly felt like we were all at home together in the living room… hanging out, celebrating our children, and breaking bread as a community. And for that, this will be one of my most meaningful memories at Booker T. Washington HSPVA. I am forever grateful for the outpouring of support we received to make Voices & Sounds a success. To our incredible staff, faculty, administration, parents, PTA, volunteers, food vendors, and donors … thank you. Your time, generosity, flexibility, and even your ideas when we needed to pivot or improve made all the difference. Because of you, this festival is not just a moment… It's a movement. Our goal is to continue strengthening this annual tradition so our community grows stronger and our future generations of artists have the support they need to thrive. If you would like to contribute or continue the conversation about what’s next and how we can grow from here, I welcome you to reach out. Together, we felt the pulse. Together, we celebrated excellence. And together, we move forward stronger and united. In appreciation, Gogo LaTrice Jones btwhspva2028@gmail.com |
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The energy, creativity, and joy of Voices & Sounds: The Pulse Festival were felt in every corner of the event. These moments captured the heart of our students, the dedication of our volunteers, and the incredible support of our community. Here are a few highlights that reflect the spirit of the day and the people who helped make it unforgettable. |
THANK YOU The PTSA and the Class of 2028 extend heartfelt thanks to: Our Founding Sponsors whose early support made Voices & Sounds: The Pulse Festival possible: Kristen Shear, Tori Sears, Maria Lamprecht, Sarah Everett, Dana Le, Edwin Bruce, Donnice Michel, Sheryl Collins, Emily Gardner, the Padgett Family, Daniel Youngblood, Nathan Cortez, Jessica McGuinness, Faith McManus, Leslie A. LeBlanc, Rebecca Currie, Bethany Grubb, Venton Jones, Julie Griffith, Michelle Deal, Andrew Diederich, Crystal Harlow, Rachel Warner, Cathy Mirek, Niki Peters, Laura L. Capps, Suzanne Youngblood, Sydni Kahle, Camille Knight, Rebecca Haynes, Elizabeth A. Ruzicka, Sarah Hale, Nikola Tesla, LaDonna Colon, Becky Wade, Rodney Kyle, Tricia Walker, Monette DeBaun Stransom, and Elliott Madison. We are deeply grateful to all Volunteers, including everyone from the MSTK list and those recognized in the festival program, whose time, energy, and care helped every part of the event run smoothly. We also thank our generous Donors: Michelle Deal, Leslie Englosh, Angel Harris, Kenosha Combs, Zuri Tyler, Charmain Woodard, Michelle Carter, Krystle Thomas, Andrew Diederich, Kimberly Harris, Meco Harris, Traci Miller, Andrea Wallace, Andrea Diggs, Jaime Sternes, Jamall Brunson, Kyra Howard McCoy, Cheniece Arthur, Kadence Graham, Edward Tyler, Constance Thomas, Adan Mora, Atsuko Daly, Guinea Bennett Price, Ammber McClure, Darryl Wilson, Mersedeh Saless, Brenda Jaramillo, Patricia Wiley, Kylee Jones, Ines Harris, Wilhemina Tyler, Tiffani McCombs, Abigail Ruiz, Zachary Martin, Gina Stevenson, Ricardo Johnson II, Tiffanie Turner, Elyjah Kodua, Leonard Grandison, Johnnae Cortez, Termayne Willie, Stephanie Simon, Renee Jones, Thomas Baughman, Cadence Diggs, Jeremy Hurd, Tamara Dumas, Aulbani Hoard, Cynthia Wilson, Jennifer Wheeler Hall, Kristy Randall, Valeria Lomeli, Lourenco Alexander Jr., Garry W., Vonda Klimaszewski, Brooklyn Jones, Mia Randall, Abeni Williams, Tearra Thomas, Samantha Everett, Shelia Williams, Amber Baker, Rhonda Reese, Andrea H. Allen Allen Filer, Chevondolyn Williams, Monette Stransom, Gabriela Pasillas, Amy Buehler, Andrea Fuquay, Sharyn Brewer, Elizabeth Cortez, Miriam Rodriguez, Christy Brown, Eric Walker, Kimberly Ballard‑Madison, Kimberly Mackey, Damituris Mack, and Jennifer Martin. Every name on this list represents someone who believed in our students, supported their artistry, and helped create a festival filled with joy, creativity, and community. Your impact was felt in every performance, every moment, and every smile. Thank you for lifting up our young artists and for being part of something truly special! |
| A CELEBRATION IN YOUR HONOR You’re invited to celebrate with us! All Voices and Sounds donors and volunteers: Your generosity and hard work helped make Voices & Sounds unforgettable. Join us on Saturday, March 7 at 5:30pm for a special thank‑you event. Please RSVP by Tuesday so we can plan a wonderful evening in your honor! |
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Mock Trial Team Wins District Championship! The Booker T. Washington HSPVA Mock Trial Team brought home an impressive victory last week, earning the District Championship after competing against strong finalists from Townview TAG, Townview Law, and Skyline. Their outstanding performance secured them a well‑deserved spot in the State Competition this Month. This year’s team showcased exceptional preparation, poise, and teamwork. Representing multiple conservatories, these students demonstrated the power of interdisciplinary talent at Booker T. |
From left to right | Sierra Brant (9–Visual), Grayson McFerrin‑Hogan (9–Theatre), Jihyeon Park (9–Theatre), Lincoln Guild (10–Theatre), Reese Elder (10–Theatre), Youenn Calvez (9–Theatre), Sritha Lingardi (10–Theatre), Edie Harwood (10–Visual), Cadence Diggs (11–Theatre), Gabriella Norris (11–Theatre), and Courtroom Artist Emma Ruzicka (10–Visual). Not pictured | Coaches Ms. Fulton and Ms. Abby, whose guidance and dedication were instrumental in the team’s success. This achievement reflects countless hours of practice, critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. We are incredibly proud of these students and wish them the very best as they prepare for State! |
BTWHSPVA & PTSA PRESENTS: THE LIBRARY SALON SERIES |
| BTWHSPVA, in partnership with the PTSA, is pleased to welcome you to our upcoming Library Salon Series featuring alum, journalist, artist, and author Josh Hickman this Thursday March 5, 2026, from 6–7 PM in the BTWHSPVA Library. Josh will discuss his book Forgetting: The Trials & Triumphs of Caregiving for a Difficult Parent with Dementia, offering insight into the emotional, personal, and universal challenges of caregiving. His work has garnered significant attention, as he has been featured on Good Morning Texas, invited to speak at several local public libraries, and highlighted on community podcasts in support of this powerful book. This conversation may be especially meaningful for members of our BTWHSPVA community who are navigating similar experiences with their own loved ones. Our own school psychologist, Jennifer Toombs, will serve as moderator for the conversation. Limited copies of the book will be available for $15, with book signings offered by the author. Immediately following the Salon Series, please join us for the Music Spring Classics Concert at 7 PM in the MAT. (Ticket purchase required.) We hope you’ll be part of this meaningful evening that blends literature, dialogue, and music into a truly enriching experience. Light refreshments served. REQUIRED |RSVP(RSVP window will close at 11:59 PM tomorrow, March 3rd.) VOLUNTEER MUSIC SPRING CLASSICS TICKETS |
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| HEALTHY LIFESTYLES | MAT EXERCISE CLASSES We’re excited to invite our Booker T community, including students, parents, faculty, and staff, to two upcoming Healthy Lifestyles Mat Exercise Classes, led by Health and Exercise expert, Kai Aza (daughter of our very own PTSA 1st VP, Beverly Cox). It's the perfect mid‑week reset designed to help you stretch, strengthen, and recharge. Mark your calendars for: - Friday, March 13 | 12-1:40 PM
- Friday, April 10 | 12:45-1:35 PM (modified lunch schedule)
These sessions are open to all skill levels and offer a fun, low‑pressure way to care for your body and mind. Whether you’re looking to improve flexibility, build core strength, or simply enjoy a calming break in your day, these classes are a great way to invest in your well‑being. Just bring a mat, comfortable clothing, and a willingness to move. We’ll take care of the rest. Let’s make wellness a community effort. We hope to see you there! (Exact location TBA.) |
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| SLATING FOR THE 2026-27 BTWHSPVA PTSA BOARD TIME SENSITIVE | We’re hoping to lock in nominations for all board positions before our April 7 PTSA meeting, because that’s when we’ll vote and make everything official, and we’d love to introduce the brand‑new Board and Chairs at I Am Booker T Day on April 11. So if you’re thinking about it, even a little… just jump in! It’s fun, it’s meaningful, and it’s absolutely worth every second - ask any current board member! TAKE THE PLUNGE |LET US KNOW YOUR INTEREST! Of personal note from a current board member who works full‑time and lives in what feels like a shoe full of children: "The best part of being on the BTWHSPVA PTSA Board is teaming up with a lively, passionate, all‑in crew that shows up for one reason (our kids!) and somehow makes even the wildest, busiest days feel fun and energizing. There’s real joy in working with people who care this deeply, celebrating every student win, dreaming big together, and pouring heart into a school we all adore. Serving on the PTSA Board isn’t just meaningful… it’s a blast, and it fills you up in all the best ways! If you're on the fence, I can assure that you won't regret it, and the minimal time needed appears out of nowhere - just do it!" |
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We’re gearing up for another incredible year at Booker T, and that means it’s time to begin slating the PTSA Board for next school year. This is your chance to help shape the programs, support systems, and community experiences that make our school so special. Serving on the PTSA Board is one of the most rewarding ways to stay connected to the Booker T. community. It’s a chance to collaborate with fellow parents, support our incredible students, and help shape the experiences that define their day‑to‑day life. It’s also an ideal way for new Booker T. families to plug in and quickly feel at home. We are currently seeking nominations for the following roles (click each Executive Board position to view the position description): Executive Board* We will be voting on next year's slate at the April PTSA board meeting, so if you’re interested, or even just curious, let us know ASAP! *Any current executive board member who wishes to continue for a second (and final) term in the same role should alert the current president and will still need to be voted in again. All nominees must be a member of this PTSA within 30 days of the start of the membership year in which they serve or become a member within 30 days of their election or appointment if taking office after the start of the membership year. |
Committee & Class Chairs** - Active Lifestyles Education (Leea Thompson Fudge appointed & accepted 1st term)
- Documentarian (Jackie Cooper appointed & accepted 2nd term)
- Hospitality
- Summer Scholarship
- Social Media
- Angel Tree (Aaron Moore appointed & accepted 2nd term)
- Alumni (open to Class of 2017 or older)
- Class of 2027 (Maggie Lopez appointed & accepted 1st term)
- Class of 2028
- Class of 2029 (Andrew Snow appointed & accepted 2nd term)
- Class of 2030
**Appointed by the president subject to the executive board's approval, but please let us know if you are interested in serving as a committee or class chair! All appointees must be a member of this PTSA within 30 days of the start of the membership year in which they serve or become a member within 30 days of their appointment if taking office after the start of the membership year.) |
Whether you’re a seasoned volunteer or stepping in for the first time, your voice and leadership matter. Every role contributes to the vibrant, supportive, and creative community our students thrive in. Let’s build an amazing year together! |
| We Need a Monthly Financial Reviewer | Starting Now! The PTSA is looking for a PTSA member who can step in immediately to serve as our Monthly Financial Reviewer for the remainder of the school year. This role is essential to keeping our financial processes transparent, accurate, and running smoothly — and we could really use your help. If you enjoy detail‑oriented tasks, appreciate good record‑keeping, or simply want to support the PTSA in a meaningful behind‑the‑scenes way, this is a fantastic opportunity. It’s not a heavy lift, but it is an important one. Your involvement would make a real difference, and we’d be grateful to have someone jump in as soon as possible. Interested? Let us know — we’d love to have you on board! |
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DAMOYEE | From Booker T. to Berklee and Beyond |
BTWHSPVA PTSA recently had the pleasure of catching up with alumna Damoyee (Class of 2019) before her performance last week at Stoney’s in Lakewood. Their conversation highlighted the remarkable creative journey she has forged in the six years since graduation, a path defined by artistic versatility, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit. After leaving Booker T., Damoyee attended the Berklee College of Music, completing a four‑year degree in Film Scoring. During her time at Berklee, she performed widely, opening for artists such as Sammy Rae & Friends, Charlotte Day Wilson, and Mac Ayres. She also discovered a passion for digital creativity, launching her TikTok presence in 2020, an endeavor that continues to thrive today. Since graduating from Berklee in 2023, Damoyee has built a dynamic career as a performer, composer, and content creator. She launched here own Loopcore Live, a TikTok Live show where she creates and shares arrangements of original music and covers spanning pop, R&B, and jazz. She hosts a new show three to four times a week and continues to release new music, including several singles leading up to her next studio album, anticipated in 2027. Still proudly based in the Dallas area, she performs at local venues including Deep Ellum stages, The Kessler, and Studio at the Factory, while also taking on freelance composition and film‑scoring projects. Damoyee shared her enthusiasm for returning to Booker T. next school year as the campus celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Arts Magnet. With a major production in the works and alumni from across generations participating, she expressed excitement about being involved and reconnecting with the community that helped shape her artistic foundation. Her story is a testament to creativity, persistence, and the many paths a Booker T. education can open. We look forward to seeing what she creates next, and to welcoming her back for our milestone celebration next year! |
| DAMOYEE is an award‑winning multi‑hyphenate music artist whose talents span composition, performance, songwriting, production, and arranging. She began playing piano and studying music theory at age two and possesses absolute pitch. A versatile vocalist and multi‑instrumentalist, she moves fluidly across classical, pop, R&B/soul, jazz, electronic, and folk, with her work featured internationally in films, festivals, and on major stages and platforms. Her 2019 album The Whole Truth earned international chart recognition and local acclaim, with the Dallas Observer and Central Track naming her “Best Vocalist” and “Best Female Vocalist.” She has built a substantial digital presence, collaborated with artists including DC The Don and Bryson Tiller, and secured brand partnerships with AT&T, Meta, Coca‑Cola, FX Networks x Hulu, Cartoon Network, Bose, Walgreens, and more. Her artistry has been highlighted by NPR, Entertainment Weekly, GRAMMYs, EBONY, Consequence, American Songwriter, FLOOD, PAPER, and other major outlets. |
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50th ANNIVERSARY OF THE ARTS MAGNET | COMING SOON! |
| THEATER STUDENTS TAKE THE STAGE The Theatre Conservatory is celebrating two rising stars this month as Isabella Cedillo (’26) and Alex Mora (’27) took their talents beyond the Booker T. stage and onto the professional comedy scene at Stomping Ground Comedy Theater. The pair performed in the fast‑paced improv comedy show Versus, a high‑energy format that pits performers against each other in a playful battle of wit, timing, and creativity. |
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Their appearance at Stomping Ground highlights not only their individual artistry, but also the strength of the Conservatory’s training, where students learn to think on their feet, take risks, and trust their instincts. Performing improv in a public, professional setting is no small feat, and Isabella and Alex brought confidence, humor, and heart to the stage, earning big laughs and showing the audience exactly why Booker T. students shine wherever they go. |
This opportunity also reflects the Conservatory’s commitment to real‑world experiences that help students grow as performers and collaborators. Whether on a mainstage production, in a classroom scene study, or in a comedy showdown, Isabella and Alex continue to represent the Theatre Conservatory with talent, courage, and joy. Congratulations to Isabella & Alex... We can’t wait to see where your creativity takes you next! |
| The PTSA Summer Scholarship Program opens for applications on March 15th, offering students the chance to receive up to $500 toward tuition for an academic, performing, or visual arts summer enrichment program. This is a meaningful opportunity for students to grow their skills, explore new interests, and deepen their artistic or academic experience. To be eligible, students* and at least one parent must be a current PTSA member and have a family total of at least 20 PTSA volunteer hours logged by March 15th. Scholarships are awarded on a first‑come, first‑served basis from March 15th through April 30th, or until funds are depleted, so early applications are highly encouraged! APPLY (SAVE THE LINK! Application link will go live on the PTSA website beginning March 15th.) *If you paid into your class dues for this school year, it includes a student membership. |
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| SPRING CLASSICS CONCERT | MARCH 4-5 | 7 PM | THE MAT Join us for two unforgettable evenings of music as BTWHSPVA presents the Spring Classics Concert, with a different performance each night! March 4 | Orchestra & Piano March 5 | Band & Guitar Come support our talented musicians and enjoy a beautiful showcase of artistry and skill. You won’t want to miss it. TICKETS |
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| VOCAL WEEK | MARCH 10-12 | 6:30 PM | THE MAT Get ready for Vocal Week, a three‑night celebration of BTWHSPVA’s incredible vocal talent! Join us in the MAT at 6:30 PM each evening for a fun, high‑energy showcase where vocal students take the big stage to perform solos and more. Here’s what to expect: - March 10 | Freshmen & Sophomores take the spotlight
- March 11 | Juniors & Seniors step up to shine
- March 12 |All Things Classical & Opera, featuring vocalists from every grade
It’s one of the most joyful, entertaining events of the year, and a fantastic way to support our singers as they share their artistry. Mark your calendars now. Vocal Week is always a crowd favorite! TICKETS |
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| SCRAP METAL REQUEST The BTWHSPVA Visual Arts Department is in need of all types of scrap metal — car brake drums, hammers, shovels, tools, sheet metal, or similar objects. If it’s metal, they can use it! |
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Donations may be dropped off in Mr. Gillespie’s room (#74) or contact Mr. Gillespie to schedule a drop off for larger items. Thank you for your support! |
| BTWHSPVA Theatre Presents: The One Act Play Festival Get ready for an incredible showcase of student talent! Theatre’s One Act Plays are almost here! This year’s festival will be presented in three performance blocks, with four unique plays featured each night. You’ll need to attend three nights, if you want to catch them all. The detailed schedule will be revealed closer to opening night! |
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Week 1 Performances | March 31, April 1 & April 2 Week 2 Performances | April 7, 8 & 9 This festival marks the final capstone project for the 12 seniors in the Directing Class, each of whom has selected a published one‑act play to bring to life. In true BTWHSPVA fashion, these productions are cast with actors from multiple grade levels, giving underclassmen another exciting opportunity to perform and collaborate. The festival also highlights the incredible work of our Stage Management, Costume Design, Lighting Design, and Sound Design students, who will be showcasing their technical and creative talents across this multi‑day event. Mark your calendar and join us for two weeks of creativity, storytelling, and standout performances from our amazing theatre students. It’s one of the most exciting traditions of the year, and you won’t want to miss a single night. TICKETS (save the link - ticketing options will be available soon!) |
| Paul Baker New Works Festival | March 9–12 | Playbill Ads The deadline to purchase ad space in the Paul Baker Playbill is March 2. Student Recognition ads are a great way to celebrate a CAST or CREW member. |
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HOW TO SUBMIT | Email your artwork (photo or clipart) and text to Playbill Chair Adam Mora. You may also design your own ad: Please send it as a JPEG and note the ad size you’re purchasing or claiming through your membership benefits. Please be sure you receive a confirmation email within 48 hours and approve your proof before it goes to print. AD PRICING | PER PLAYBILL: - Full page (5" x 8") | $75
- Half page vertical (2.5" x 8") | $50
- Half page horizontal (5" x 4") | $50
- Quarter page (2.5" x 4") | $25
TO PURCHASE* & GET MORE INFO | All Playbill details and purchase information can be found on the Theater Guild Playbill Information Website. *If you are a Copper‑level member or above, you may use your membership benefits to purchase an ad. If you plan to use a membership benefit, please indicate this when you email your materials. |
| ARTS & CULTURE | MARCH 12 Mark your calendars for a vibrant, daytime celebration of creativity at Booker T. Washington HSPVA. On March 12, our campus will come alive with the Arts & Culture Showcase, an all student‑led event featuring an exciting mix of performances, installations, and presentations across every conservatory. This year’s showcase will highlight a wide range of artistic expression that promises to be a standout moment. More details are coming soon, but for now, save the date and sign up to volunteer! A remarkable student‑driven experience is on the horizon! IMPORTANT TO NOTE | This is the final volunteer opportunity that counts toward the PTSA Summer Scholarship 20‑hour family minimum, making it an ideal chance for parents to support the event while completing their required hours. |
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| FLYINGHORSE | APRIL 24 Join us on Friday, April 24th for FLYINGHORSE, the annual performing arts fundraiser benefiting Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, right in the heart of the Dallas Arts District. This unforgettable evening brings together the full force of Arts Magnet talent in a production that’s equal parts mind‑blowing and heart‑melting. Expect a dazzling showcase of student performances, creativity, and the electric energy that makes Booker T. truly one‑of‑a‑kind. Save the date! You won’t want to miss this celebration of artistry, passion, and the spirit of our incredible school. |
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| CREATIONS | MAY 1 Mark your calendars for May 1 as BTWHSPVA presents CREATIONS, our final all‑school, student‑led production of the year. This signature event brings together original works crafted through collaboration across every conservatory — Dance, Music, Theatre, and Visual Arts. Creations is an evening dedicated to fresh ideas, bold experimentation, and the unique artistic voices of our students. Every piece is conceived, developed, and brought to life by students working together across disciplines, making this one of the most innovative and inspiring events of the year. Join us on campus for a night that celebrates imagination, collaboration, and the creative spirit that defines Booker T. More details to come! |
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| BTWHSPVA SENIOR CELEBRATION LINEUP Get ready, Seniors — your moment is just around the corner! We’re kicking off a full slate of events designed to honor your hard work, your artistry, and everything you’ve accomplished. Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable finish to your senior year. |
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- Senior Scream | May 8 | 4:30 PM | Kick off the celebration with the tradition everyone looks forward to, Senior Scream! Let it all out and mark the beginning of your final festivities.
- Senior Week | May 11–14 | 10 AM–12 PM (Mon–Thurs) | A week packed with fun, community, and celebration. (Seniors must be on campus for attendance.)
- Senior vs. Faculty Volleyball Game | May 12 | 5:00 PM | Get ready for bragging rights and big laughs!
- Senior Breakfast | May 15 | 8:30 AM | A morning to celebrate together with good food, good friends, and all the senior vibes.
- Senior Sign-out | May 15 | 10 AM - 12:30 PM | Make it official. Wrap up your final steps and get ready for graduation week.
- Senior Awards | May 26 | 6:00–7:30 PM | An evening dedicated to recognizing excellence, achievement, and the unique talents of the Class of 2026.
- Baccalaureate | May 30 | 11 AM–1 PM | A meaningful tradition honoring your journey and the path ahead.
- Graduation | May 31 | 8–10 PM | The moment you’ve been working toward. Caps, gowns, and a celebration of everything you’ve accomplished at BTWHSPVA.
- Seniors—this is your time. Let’s make it unforgettable!
Look for specific details for each event from Senior Class Chair, Kathy Ruff coming soon! |
ADVISORY BOARD SENIOR SCHOLARSHIP The Advisory Board Senior Scholarship Application for 2026 is officially live, and we encourage every eligible senior to apply. With one application, students will be considered for all available scholarships, making the process simple, streamlined, and accessible. Deadline | April 1, 2026 Scholarship recipients announced | Senior Awards Ceremony in May Students with questions or needing guidance can connect with Advisory Board representatives in the Library every Thursday during lunch, or reach out to Tonya Wards. This is a wonderful opportunity for our seniors. Encourage them to apply and take advantage of the support available! ADVISORY BOARD SENIOR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION |
BTWHSPVA ASP | THE VERTEE KYLE MEMORIAL SUCCESS SCHOLARSHIP The Vertee Kyle Memorial Success Scholarship celebrates the extraordinary life and legacy of Mrs. Vertee Kyle, who dedicated more than 40 years to Dallas ISD. For 33 years, she inspired young learners as an elementary teacher, followed by seven years mentoring new educators. She believed deeply in the power of education and in the arts as a transformative force for students. This scholarship will be awarded to Booker T. Washington HSPVA seniors who embody Mrs. Kyle’s commitment to learning, leadership, and future success. It continues her enduring mission to uplift students and support their paths beyond graduation. We are seeking students who demonstrate: - Strong academic achievement
- Meaningful volunteer service in the community
- A thoughtful 10‑year success plan
Questions? | Students can visit the BTWHSPVA ASP office or email a BTWHSPVA College Advisor: Ms. Butler or Ms. Belmonte APPLICATION(Submission instructions and requirements are listed on the application.) |
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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| CLASS OF 2027 | 2026-27 SENIOR CLASS DUES To help secure the 2026–27 Senior Class Dues and ease the financial pressures that come with senior year, because we are committed to ensuring no senior is left out, families can take advantage of an early‑payment option now through the end of May. If you missed the 30/30/30 Campaign, you can still support the fund by paying the full $90 Senior Class Dues early to help keep the momentum going. |
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CLICK HERE TO PAY SENIOR CLASS DUES (Be sure to select "2026-27 Class of 2027 Annual Class Dues") Why Early Participation Matters - Lightens the financial load that hits in May 2026, when senior‑year expenses begin piling up — guild dues, yearbook, cap and gown, college application fees, audition costs, and more.
- Allows the Senior Committee to plan ahead, finalize the budget, and prepare meaningful experiences for the Class of 2027, including:
- A special 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 helps us start senior year strong and deliver the memorable experiences our students deserve. Important Notes - Paying class dues includes student PTSA membership (please do not purchase a separate student membership).
- These contributions ensure we can plan a full range of meaningful senior‑year traditions and celebrations for every student in the Class of 2027.
- If you’re able, additional support is welcome to help close the gap and ensure high‑quality experiences for all: SPOSNOR A CLASS OF 2027 SENIOR
Thank you for supporting the Class of 2027 as they prepare for their milestone 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. |
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- March 3 (AS) Election voting inside building
- March 4 (J, S) SAT for Juniors & Seniors
- March 4-5 (M) Music Spring Classics Concert
- March 5 (AS) Library Salon Series | Alum, Journalist, Artist & Author, Josh Hickman
- March 9-12 (T) Paul Baker New Works Festival
- March 12 (AS) Arts and Culture
- March 13 (AS) Healthy Lifestyles Mat Exercise Class
- March 14-22 (AS) Spring Break
- March 31, April 1-2 (T) One Act Plays
- April 7, 8-9 (T) One Act Plays
- April 10 (AS) Healthy Lifestyles Mat Exercise Class
- April 11 (RS) I Am Booker T Day
- April 15-16 (M) RJAM Spring Concert
- April 24 (AS) Flying Horse
- 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 2025-2026 Approved D.I.S.D. Calendar |
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