Originally delivered on 4/13/2026 8:03 am

SUBJECT: PTSA News | April 13, 2026

BTWHSPVA PTSA
April 13, 2026
MESSAGE FROM 2025-26 PTSA PRESIDENT LEAH MORA
Busy Season & Big Push To Finish Strong

It is official! I am thrilled to announce that the 2026-2027 leadership team is confirmed. Thank you to all who have committed to serving in this capacity next school year. My deepest gratitude to the parent volunteers who have served on the leadership team this year and helped to support the many important initiatives and activities at Booker T. It is our teamwork that achieves shining success! It has been my privilege and honor to serve with you all and I look forward to all that next year's board will accomplish.

We had a wonderful time meeting with and welcoming rising Pegasi and their families on April 11th when we hosted I Am Booker T. Day. There were so many smiling faces, high spirits and students full of enthusiasm for the year ahead. Thank you to all of the many volunteers who helped us make this fun event a triumph.

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
Introducing the newly installed 2026–27 PTSA Leadership Team

The PTSA held a General Meeting on April 7th, during which the membership officially voted in the 2026–27 PTSA Leadership Team. We appreciate everyone who participated and supported this important step in preparing for the year ahead. We look forward to the energy, ideas, and collaboration this new team will bring. Thank you for stepping forward to serve our school community with your time, talent, and leadership!

Join us in celebrating and welcoming the committed leaders who will guide our PTSA this coming year:

As we prepare to close out the school year, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the entire 2025-26 PTSA leadership team for their dedication, countless hours of service, and unwavering commitment to our Booker T. community. This team has worked tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to support our students, partner with our faculty and staff, and strengthen the programs and experiences that make our school so exceptional. Their leadership has helped build community, improve communication, and ensure that families feel connected and informed. Thanks to their dedication, our newly installed leadership team will step into the next school year with a strong foundation and a clear path forward.

While their jobs are not quite done, we want to express our deepest gratitude to the dedicated individuals who serve on our 2025–26 PTSA Leadership Team:

  • Leah Mora, President
  • Beverly Cox, First VP
  • Maggie Lopez, 2nd VP | Fundraising
  • Jennifer Wheeler Hall, 3rd VP | Communications
  • Chevondolyn Williams, 4th VP | Membership
  • Andrea Diggs, 5th VP | Community & Programs
  • Kelly Slaven, Secretary
  • Clara Mendez, Treasurer
  • Christina Hurd, Parliamentarian
  • Leea Thompson Fudge, Healthy Lifestyles Education Chair
  • Jackie Cooper, Documentarian
  • Alondra Barron, Hospitality Chair
  • Angela Medrano, Summer Scholarship Chair
  • Melia Beasley, Social Media Chair
  • Michelle Carter, Alumni Chair
  • Kathy Ruff, Class of 2026 Chair
  • Adam Mora, Class of 2027 Chair
  • Gogo Lubaiya, Class of 2028 Chair
  • Andrew Snow, Class of 2029 Chair

We are truly grateful for their exceptional service and commitment!

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

We are thrilled to announce that Class of 2027 Theater Conservatory student, Cadence Diggs has been named the 2026–27 Youth Poet Laureate for the City of Dallas. Cadence will hold this prestigious title for one year, representing the city through her writing, performances, and community engagement.

On April 8, Cadence was honored at Dallas City Hall by Mayor Eric Johnson, where she was officially recognized as Dallas’ third Youth Poet Laureate. This program, inspired by acclaimed poet Amanda Gorman, celebrates young writers who demonstrate exceptional talent, leadership, and a commitment to artistic and civic expression.

Cadence’s journey as a poet began during her freshman year at BTWHSPVA under the guidance of Mrs. Price. Her passion deepened when Mrs. Holloway encouraged her to participate in the NAACP ACT‑SO Competition, where Cadence earnedGold Medals in Poetry for two consecutive years.

Last year, during Creations, Cadence and her classmates produced a multidisciplinary performance blending poetry, music, and dance. That experience sparked her desire to build a creative writing community on campus, leading to the founding of the Pegasi Poetry Society. The club meets bi‑weekly to explore poets and writing forms, host open‑mic sessions, and create a welcoming space for students to share their voices, always with great conversation and great food. Their mission is to empower students to express themselves through both written and spoken word, enriching the BTW community and beyond.

As Youth Poet Laureate, Cadence will collaborate with the Dallas Arts & Culture Center and the Dallas Public Library over the next year to lead workshops, perform at city events, and continue inspiring young writers across Dallas.

Please join us in congratulating Cadence on this extraordinary achievement. We are so proud of her artistry, leadership, and dedication to uplifting the voices of others.

A heartfelt thank you to every volunteer who helped make I Am Booker T Day such a welcoming, energetic, and successful event. Your time, enthusiasm, and willingness to jump in wherever needed created a truly memorable experience for our rising Pegasi and their families.

From greeting guests and distributing materials, to setting up tables, answering questions, and bringing the spirit of Booker T. to life, your efforts made all the difference. This event simply would not have been possible without your dedication.

We are deeply grateful for your support and for the way you continue to show up for our school community. Thank you for helping us start the next generation of Pegasi on such a positive and inspiring note!

CONSERVATORY & GUILD NEWS

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!

ATTENTION RISING MUSIC GUILD SENIORS & PARENTS

Join us for a virtual Senior "Tea" call on Sunday, May 3rd at 7pm.

This is your chance to hear directly from current senior parents and students about what to expect during senior year—and trust us, there’s a lot. They’ll walk through the key milestones and timelines, including headshots, yearbook photos, Jostens orders, showcase events, college applications and visits, senior dinner, and more.

The Zoom link and details are below—be sure to save it to your calendar now so you don’t miss it!

Topic | BTWHSPVA Senior Tea

Time | May 3, 2026 07:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting

Meeting ID: 864 8013 9079

Passcode: 310081

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

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. 

The Arts Magnet will have a livestream of the show! Be on the lookout for a link to be published the week of!

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR FLYINGHORSE

These are official time windows when volunteers are needed*:

  • 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM | Prep concessions/lobby/last minute set-up
  • 2:00 - 4:00 PM | Feed the Kids (set up/receiving deliveries)
  • 4:00 - 7:00 PM | Lobby-Final rush (control/concessions/rush que assistance)
  • 7:30 - 10:00 PM | Lobby (monitoring/concessions/clearing lobby after show)
  • 9:30 - 11:00 PM | Clean out crew (help strike and load out lobby)

Contact Tonya Perkins at tperkins@artsmagnet.org if you can help out!

*Flexible! You can let Tonya know when you will be coming and going.

(This volunteer opportunity is not affiliated with the PTSA.)

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 12 | 4:30 PM
  • UPDATED! Senior Week | May 13 – 19 | 10 AM - 12 PM (Wed–Tues)
  • UPDATED! Senior vs. Faculty Volleyball Game | May 14 | 5:00 PM
  • NEW! Game Day | May 18 | 10 AM - 12 PM
  • Senior Breakfast | May 19 | 8:30 AM
  • Cap & Gown Check Out | May 19 | 10 AM - 12:00 PM
  • 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
  • Baccalaureate | May 30 | 11 AM–1 PM
  • Graduation | May 31 | 8 PM

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 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
  • May 11 (AS) Rising Senior Meeting
  • May 18 (S/M) Music Senior Dinner
  • May 19 (S/D) Dance Senior Dinner
  • May 20 (S/T) Theater Senior Dinner
  • May 21 (S/VA) Visual Arts Senior Dinner
  • May 26 (S) Senior Awards
  • May 30 (S/J) Baccalaureate
  • May 31 (S) Graduation

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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