Originally delivered on 4/6/2026 8:03 am

SUBJECT: PTSA News | April 6, 2026

BTWHSPVA PTSA
April 6, 2026
MESSAGE FROM 2025-26 PTSA PRESIDENT LEAH MORA
A Time to Preview the Upcoming School Year

This week we will vote in our leadership team for the 2026-2027 school year during the general membership PTSA meeting tomorrow, Tuesday, April 7th at 6 pm in the Commons. As a reminder, interest forms have been processed through the nominating committee and nominations are welcomed from the floor that evening.   

In keeping with tradition, as we look forward to next year, we are excited to welcome rising Pegasi on April 11th when we host, I Am Booker T. Day. As always, we welcome current parents to join us in welcoming new families to Booker T.  A sign-up for volunteers is below.  

On May 1, the cross-conservatory production, CREATIONS, will close out a very successful and compelling production year.  Our scholar artists have been preparing to display their artistry so be sure to mark your calendars and attend. 

With gratitude,

Leah

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PTSA BUSINESS
SLATING FOR THE 2026-27 BTWHSPVA PTSA BOARD

TIME SENSITIVE - Tomorrow is the day! | We’re aiming to finalize nominations for all board positions before our April 7 PTSA meeting, when we’ll hold the vote and make everything official. Our goal is to introduce the new Board and Chairs at I Am Booker T Day on April 11.

If you’ve been considering getting involved, even just a little, now is the perfect time to jump in! Thank you to everyone who has already committed. We’re close, but still need ONE MORE VOLUNTEER to serve as Class of 2028 Chair.

LET US KNOW YOUR INTERESTbefore the PTSA meeting tomorrow!

Thank you to the following members who have graciously volunteered to serve on the PTSA Executive Board or as a Committee Chair for the 2026-27 school year. 

Those nominated for the Executive Board below will need to be officially voted into their position and confirmed at the April 7 PTSA meeting:

Executive Board

*Parliamentarian will be chosen by the newly confirmed 2026-27 President and voted into the position by the 2026-27 Executive Board.

Those slated below for Committee Chairs will be officially confirmed for the position at the April 7 PTSA meeting:

Committee & Class Chairs*

  • Active Lifestyles Education (Leea Thompson Fudge appointed & accepted 1st term)
  • Documentarian (Jackie Cooper appointed & accepted 2nd term)
  • Hospitality (Rhasheda Boyd appointed & accepted 1st term)
  • Summer Scholarship(Rayshell Wamsley appointed & accepted 1st term)
  • Social Media (Ratisha Smith appointed & accepted 1st term)
  • Angel Tree (Aaron Moore appointed & accepted 2nd term)
  • Alumni (Michelle Carter appointed & accepted 2nd term)
  • Class of 2027 (Maggie Lopez appointed & accepted 1st term)
  • Class of 2028 (LAST CHAIR NEEDED! Attention Class of 2028 Parents: Please let us know ASAP if you would like to chair this position!)
  • Class of 2029 (Andrew Snow appointed & accepted 2nd term)
  • Class of 2030 (Chastity Lopez appointed & accepted 1st term)

*Appointed by the president subject to the executive board's approval & confirmation at the April 7 PTSA meeting. 

All Executive Board nominees & Committee Chair 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.)

PTSA MEETING | TOMORROW!

PTSA SUMMER SCHOLARSHIPS

The PTSA Summer Scholarship Program opened 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 must have a total of at least 20 PTSA-sponsored volunteer hours* logged for the current school year prior to applying. (Parent and Student PTSA volunteer hours both count toward this requirement total.)

*Only PTSA-sponsored volunteer opportunities count toward this requirement; Conservatory/Crew or Guild opportunities do not apply toward eligibility. 

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

NOTE | If you paid into your class dues for this school year, it includes a student membership.

CREATIONS
CREATIONS

Mark your calendars for May 1 as BTWHSPVA PTSA Class of 2029 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.

CREATIONS | PROGRAM ADS

Celebrate your favorite cast, band, or crew member with a special message featured in the show playbill!

Ad Sizes:

  • Full Page | $50
  • Half Page | $30
  • Quarter Page | $15

You can design your own ad or send us your photos and text — we’re happy to create one for you! After purchasing, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a link to upload your completed ad or submit your materials.  Proceeds from ads benefit Class of 2029.

Deadline to purchase and submit ads | April 19.

PURCHASE

BTW SPIRIT

LUNCH TALK! | TOMORROW

I AM BOOKER T DAY | APRIL 11 | THIS SATURDAY!

Current Booker T. families, we need your help spreading the word to our rising Pegasi. Please share this important Save the Date with any newly accepted families you know.

I Am Booker T Day will take place this Saturday, April 11, 2026. This annual orientation event is the official kickoff to the Booker T. experience, and attending is an essential first step for all incoming students and their families.

Families of rising Pegasi can RSVP HERE.

The PTSA needs current parents and students to VOLUNTEER to help during the event!

Thank you for helping us welcome the next generation of artists into our community. The Pegasus spirit grows stronger when we lift each other up!

PTSA VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH | KEN CAPPS

The BTWHSPVA PTSA is proud to recognize Ken Capps, Class of 2028 parent, as our March Volunteer of the Month. Ken’s enthusiasm, reliability, and genuine commitment to supporting our students and staff have made a meaningful impact on our school community.

Whether he’s stepping in to help with events, offering his time behind the scenes, or lending his expertise wherever it’s needed, Ken brings a spirit of generosity and teamwork to everything he does. His willingness to say “yes” and his positive, can‑do attitude embody the very best of what makes our volunteer community so strong.

Please join us in celebrating Ken for his outstanding service and for helping make Booker T. a place where creativity, collaboration, and community thrive. We are grateful for all he contributes.

NEWS YOU CAN USE

FROM DALLAS ISD

Dear Dallas ISD parents/legal guardians!

Thank you to everyone who completed the Spring 2026 Dallas ISD parent survey. Your feedback will be used to improve schools in the district.
 
To those who have not yet completed the survey – this is a friendly reminder that your feedback is very important to us and helps the district understand how to better serve its students and parents. We would love to hear from you!
 
The deadline to complete the survey is this Friday, April 10, 2026. Your responses are confidential and will only be presented as part of a group (not individually).
 
If you have any questions about how your feedback will be used, you may contact the Dallas ISD Office Of Family And Community Engagement at family@dallasisd.org. If you experience technical difficulties with the survey, contact Evaluation and Assessment survey team at surveyresearch@dallasisd.org.

You may begin by clicking the link below. The survey is available in multiple languages.
 
TAKE THE SURVEY.

Thank you very much for your time!

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 certified Health and Exercise expert, Kai Aza (daughter of our very own PTSA 1st VP, Beverly Cox). It's the perfect mid‑day reset designed to help you stretch, strengthen, and recharge.

Mark your calendars for the final class this Friday:

  • 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.)

CONSERVATORY & GUILD NEWS

THEATER

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!

Remaining 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

DANCE

BEST OF SENIOR CHOREOGRAPHY

Best of Senior Choreography will take place tomorrow, April 7 in the MAT at 6:30 PM, featuring an exciting collection of original works created by the senior class. This special performance highlights the culmination of their training and artistic development within the Dance Conservatory.

The 2026 program includes “Black Car” (Teamwork), “Come Little Children” (Character Portrayal), “Alice” (Pairing), and “TMNT” (Storytelling). Each piece reflects a unique choreographic focus, offering audiences a dynamic range of styles and creative approaches.

As the dancers’ final capstone experience, the concert showcases diverse genres and emphasizes collaboration, storytelling, and performance quality. All works are student choreographed and adjudicated as part of the Conservatory’s pre professional training, celebrating the artistry and growth of these emerging performers.

TICKETS

ON STAGE AT THE MAT

BTWHSPVA Dance Conservatory presents its Spring Production, On Stage at the MAT. This dynamic performance features students from all grade levels in a diverse program of faculty and student choreography, showcasing a range of styles from classical to contemporary.

Held at the Montgomery Arts Theater, the concert highlights the dancers’ artistry, technique, and creativity, offering an exciting glimpse into the next generation of performers. Get your tickets now!

  • Wednesday, April 8 | 7 PM
  • Thursday, April 9 | 7 PM
  • Friday, April 10 | 7 PM

TICKETS

MUSIC

CHOIR SPRING SHOW | APRIL 17

You are invited to join us for the final choir concert of the year showcasing the range and vastness of their body of work. Donations are greatly appreciated by accessing the QR code above or in-person upon entry to the concert. We will see you there!

SAVE THE DATE
RJAM SPRING FINALE | APRIL 15-16

Mark your calendars for two spectacular evenings as our RJAM musicians bring the year to a close with the 2026 Spring Finale. Each night will spotlight a different blend of ensembles, filling the MAT with everything from the vibrant energy of Latin and jazz to the soulful power of gospel, the creativity of MIDI, and the fresh sounds of contemporary performance.

On April 15, audiences will experience an exciting showcase featuring Latin, Jazz Singers, Jazz Improv, Jazz Combo, and Jazz Orchestra. The celebration continues on April 16 with an inspiring evening of Gospel, MIDI 1 & 2, and Contemporary performances.

Join us for this unforgettable musical celebration. Two nights, one stage, and an incredible display of RJAM talent!

TICKETS

FLYINGHORSE | APRIL 24: TICKET UPDATE

6 PM Friends & Family performance is now SOLD OUT

If you weren’t able to secure seats for the 6 PM Friends & Family performance, the Advisory Board has released a limited number of single tickets for the 8:30 PM VIP show. The lowest‑priced single ticket is $250, which guarantees a seat.

Occasionally, space becomes available at either show right before curtain, but this is not guaranteed. When it happens, it functions like a ticket rush:

  • Guests may line up for the 6 PM show first, though openings are very rare.
  • If you don’t get into the 6 PM performance, you may queue for the 8:30 PM show at approximately 8:20 PM (pending), any unclaimed seats may be released for $10 each.

We hope this helps more families experience this incredible production!

NOTE | Even though tickets to the Friends & Family performance are sold out, the Advisory Board is still welcoming donations to support BTWHSPVA. 

SENIORS 2026
BTW JUNIOR-SENIOR PROM | MAY 2

Get ready, Prom 2026 Masquerade is almost here and it is going to be unforgettable!

  • Saturday, May 2nd
  • The Loft at Gilley’s Dallas
  • 7 - 10 PM

Step into a night of mystery and elegance with dazzling masks, stunning outfits, and a dance floor full of unforgettable moments. Whether your style is classic, bold, or completely over the top, this is your night to shine

Mark your calendars, gather your friends, and get ready for an incredible evening of music, dancing, and memories you will carry long after graduation

Prom 2026 Masquerade, where the mystery begins and the memories last forever!

TICKETS

(BTW Prom is open to current Juniors AND Seniors!)

BTW ASP Senior Incentive Raffle | Support Needed

This year, as part of our effort to encourage students to complete DISD college‑readiness milestones and graduation requirements, our senior ASP leaders have proposed a Senior Incentive Raffle. Students who complete the required tasks will be entered for a chance to win a selection of college‑themed prizes.

We are hoping to offer three big‑ticket items (such as scooters or a mini‑fridge, typically priced around $70–$80) and three smaller college‑essentials (like shower caddies, extension cords, first‑aid kits, and a custom college T‑shirt donated by a family‑owned business).

We would love to collaborate with our community to help fund or donate these raffle prizes, and we welcome any additional ideas you may have. Our goal is to announce the winners on May 8, so this is a quick turnaround — but we believe it will make a meaningful impact for our seniors.

If you’re interested in contributing or partnering with us on this effort, please reach out to BTW ASP Advisors, Ms. Butler or Ms. Belmonte.

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.

  • Updated! Senior Scream | May 11 | 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.
  • Updated! Senior Week | May 12 – 18 | 10 AM - 12 PM (Tues–Mon) | 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!
  • Updated! Senior Breakfast | May 19 | 8:30 AM | A morning to celebrate together with good food, good friends, and all the senior vibes.
  • Updated! Senior Sign-out | May 19 | 10 AM - 12:30 PM | Make it official. Wrap up your final steps and get ready for graduation week.
  • Conservatory Dinners:

      Music | May 18 | 6:30 PM

      Dance | May 19 | 6:30 PM

      Theatre | May 20 | 6:30 PM

      Visual Arts| May 21 | 6:30 PM

  • 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!

ATTENTION CLASS OF 2027 PARENTS & STUDENTS

We are seeking volunteers to support the Class of 2026 Baccalaureate by assisting with reception set‑up, guiding students, and ushering families throughout the event. It is both the honor and tradition of junior class parents to volunteer for this important milestone, allowing senior families to fully enjoy the ceremony and celebration. Current junior students are also encouraged to serve as ushers. All volunteer shifts are three hours.

Volunteers should arrive at First United Methodist Church in Dallas (1928 Ross Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75201) on May 30th by10:30 a.m. Please enter through the ramped entrance off San Jacinto. The service begins at 11 a.m.

SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER

Additionally, the Class of 2026 is seeking the following items for this event:

  • 1 balloon arch (in conservatory colors)
  • Marquee letters (ex. "BTW 2026", "BTW 26", "2026")
  • Live floral arrangements to flank the podium
  • Cookies: Appx 40 dozen total (Gluten and sugar free options appreciated!) 

If you are able to donate or know anyone who might be able to assist with these needs, please email Senior Class Chair, Kathy Ruff.

SENIOR SCHOLARSHIPS

BTWHSPVA 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 | 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

Application Deadline | April 30, 2026

Questions? | Students can visit the BTWHSPVA ASP office (Room #212) or email a BTWHSPVA College Advisor: Ms. Butler or Ms. Belmonte.

VERTEE KYLE MEMORIAL SUCCESS SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION

(BTWHSPVA PTSA is not affiliated with the ASP Program/Advisory Board  scholarships or any award decisions.)

MEMBERSHIP | CLASS DUES

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.

*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.

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 May 15th. 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.

CLICK HERE TO PAY SENIOR CLASS DUES

Why Early Participation Matters

  1. 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.
  2. 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!

SUSTAINING SPONSORS

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.

CLICK HERE TO BECOME A SUSTAINING SPONSOR TODAY!
UP NEXT
  • April 6 (AS) NO SCHOOL
  • April 7 (AS) Lunch Talk! with Principal Williams
  • April 7 (AS) PTSA Meeting
  • 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 1 (AS) Creations
  • May 2 (J/S) Prom
  • May 4 (AS) NO SCHOOL
  • May 7-9 (M/T) 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, (UPUpperclassman, (UN) Underclassman, (VA) Visual Arts Conservatory, (S) Seniors, (SO) Sophomores, (F) Faculty, (FR) Freshmen

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

RESOURCES

The PTSA Weekly Newsletter is produced and published by 2025-26 BTWHSPVA PTSA 3rd VP of Communications, Jennifer Wheeler Hall. For questions or issues, please complete the PTSA Inquiry Form. Jennifer will respond within 24 hours.

Thank you for your engagement & support!

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

Click: PTSA | DANCEMUSIC | THEATREVISUAL ARTS

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