| Strong Finish Starts Now This week is Teacher Appreciation week, and we welcome you to share your heartfelt gratitude for the hard-working and dedicated administration, faculty and staff for all that they do for the BTWHSPVA students and community! PTSA and the Guilds have partnered to provide a variety of offerings every day this week to celebrate. I invite you to join us for the last PTSA general membership meeting this school year on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, in the commons when we will feature presentations from students who have benefitted from our student activity grants and as we close out the year in appreciation of all who have helped us progress support to the BTW community. It is a time to laud the fantastic parent volunteers who are championing us ending the year strong! We have several upcoming volunteer and donation opportunities, including AP Testing support. Volunteers are needed May 4–15 for proctoring assistance and hallway monitoring. Additional volunteers are also needed for student laptop collection May 27th. All sign‑up links are included below. This year's monumental Creations show is a wrap and closed out an extraordinary season. A wonderful showcase of past production posters, playbills and artwork were on display in the MAT lobby, dating back to the show’s debut in 1977. Thank you to all who volunteered and who donated items to stock the concession stand with proceeds benefitting the Class of 2029. Just prior to the show, Reflections award winners were recognized and given certificates and medals reflective of their wonderful accomplishments. Bravo to this year's Reflections award winners and congratulations to the students who will be further recognized at the state level May 16th in Austin. It was delightful to see Prom attendees this weekend have a safe, fun, and memorable time! The joyful photos of students dressed for a special night out shined brightness on their moment to relax and create special memories together. 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. Note | Some information may appear more than once in the newsletters, but we’ve kept it included for quick and easy reference. |
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CREATIONS 2026 | A WONDERFUL SHOWCASE OF HOPE & RESILIENCE |
2026 Creations Playbill Artwork Cover by Cristina Vasquez | Poster by Airam Pazos | Back Cover art by Violet Rainey-Ellis | Poster by Tuli Rice |
Congratulations to all of the scholar‑artists who brought this year’s Creations production to life. What an extraordinary achievement! Perhaps more than any other experience at BTWHSPVA, Creations captures the purest expression of our school’s vision and philosophy. It is a production built not simply on talent, but on imagination, curiosity, collaboration, and the courage to create from a place of authenticity. Every moment on that stage reflected students using their skills, ideas, and unique perspectives to shape something entirely their own, while also being inspired and elevated by the distinctive artistry of their peers. This show is, at its core, a celebration of us, our individuality, our collective creativity, and the power that emerges when original thinkers come together to make something new. Each of you contributed to a production that was bold, inventive, and unmistakably BTWHSPVA. |
To every performer, designer, technician, musician, writer, and creative mind involved: congratulations on a job brilliantly done. You embodied the heart of Creations, and you made our community burst with pride! |
REFLECTIONS WINNERS Before the Creations performances began, we had the joy of recognizing our 2025–26 Reflections students for their extraordinary creativity and achievements in this year’s Reflections theme, “I Belong!” These scholar‑artists were honored for their powerful work across multiple categories, each piece reflecting personal voice, imagination, and a deep sense of connection to community. Their accomplishments highlight not only artistic excellence but also the courage to express who they are and where they feel they belong. |
It was a beautiful way to open the evening, celebrating the next generation of storytellers and creators who continue to make BTWHSPVA proud! |
The PTSA and Guilds are coming together to celebrate our incredible faculty and staff with a week of gratitude and treats. Each day features a special offering hosted by one of our guilds, all designed to say thank you for the work our educators do all day, every day! Check out the volunteer opportunity below! |
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| DEADLINE EXTENDED THROUGH MAY 8TH 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, now through May 8th, 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. |
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2025-26 PTSA SUMMER SCHOLARSHIP QUALIFYING VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES To qualify for a PTSA Summer Scholarship, your family must have completed a minimum of 20 PTSA‑sponsored volunteer hours. Only hours earned through the following PTSA‑approved events and programs count toward eligibility: - Pegasus Pick Up
- Senior Welcome Week
- Back-to-School Faculty Lunch
- Laptop Distribution
- All-School Musical
- Sounds & Voices
- BTW Advisory Board Brunch
- Faculty/Staff Halloween Breakfast
- College Showcase* (lunch volunteers only)
- CUE Day*
- Booker T Angels
- Holiday Teacher Appreciation
- Doug Bryan College Presentation
- February Faculty Appreciation
- Voices & Sounds
- Heart Health Week
- Arts & Culture Festival*
- Library Salon Series
Any volunteer hours completed through events or programs not listed above were not PTSA‑sponsored and therefore cannot be applied toward the required minimum for PTSA Summer Scholarship eligibility. *These events and programs may also have included volunteer opportunities offered through individual conservatories or guilds. Please ensure that the hours you are submitting were completed specifically for the PTSA, as only PTSA‑sponsored hours qualify toward Summer Scholarship eligibility. |
Booker T. Jazz Combo and Jazz Orchestra delivered outstanding performances at the Legacy Jazz Festival at Braswell High School in Aubrey, Texas on April 29. The Jazz Combo earned 1st place in the Combo Division, and the Jazz Orchestra secured 2nd place in the Big Band Division, showcasing the depth and versatility of our jazz program. |
The Jazz Combo also received a special commendation from guest clinician Summer Camargo, an acclaimed NYC‑based musician, who praised their musicianship and artistry. In addition, RJ Alexander was honored with the Outstanding Rhythm Section Award, a testament to his exceptional skill and dedication. |
These accomplishments reflect the hard work, discipline, and creativity of our students under the leadership of Mr. Terence Hobdy (Combo) and Mr. Art Ruangtip (Big Band). Congratulations to both ensembles for representing Booker T. with excellence and artistry. |
2026-27 PTSA MEMBERSHIPS & CLASS DUES | GET AHEAD OF THE NEW YEAR! |
| Welcome, Rising Pegasi! New and returning families of students attending BTWHSPVA for the 2026–27 school year can now purchase PTSA memberships and pay class dues for the upcoming year. Class dues* are collected annually and contribute to each grade’s Senior Fund, which supports senior‑year activities, celebrations, and traditions once students reach 12th grade. Paying dues each year helps build a strong foundation for an unforgettable senior experience. Early PTSA membership and class‑dues payment ensure a smooth start to the school year and allow our PTSA to begin planning with the resources needed to support our newest Pegasus families. We’re excited to welcome all Rising Pegasi into the BTWHSPVA community and look forward to an amazing year ahead. Click the graphics below to purchase! |
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*Includes student membership! Do NOT purchase a student membership in addition to paying class dues. |
| Want to Catch Up on 2025-26 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! Each class still needs donations toward their senior fund, including our current seniors. 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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| AP TESTING | MAY 4 - 15 BTWHSPVA is seeking parent volunteers to support AP Testing from May 4 through May 15. Your help is essential to creating a smooth, quiet, and well‑supervised testing environment for our students. We need volunteers to serve as hall monitors and proctors. Most days include two volunteer shifts, and we need 3–4 volunteers per shift. Volunteering during AP Testing is a great way to support our students during an important academic milestone. No prior experience is required, and all instructions will be provided on site. If you’re available, please consider signing up for one or more shifts. Your time truly makes a difference for our students’ success. Thank you for supporting our AP scholars and the entire BTW community. |
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| FACULTY APPRECIATION WEEK | VA & PTSA DAY: MAY 8 Help us celebrate the incredible teachers and staff who support our scholar‑artists every day. We’re looking for volunteers to assist with setup, serving breakfast and coffee, greeting faculty, and light cleanup. Your time makes a big difference. If you’re available, we’d love to have you join us and help make the morning special for our faculty. VOLUNTEER |
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| 2025-26 YEARBOOK DISTRIBUTION | MAY 12-20 BTWHSPVA is looking for STUDENT VOLUNTEERS to help with yearbook distribution May 12–20. Tasks include handing out books, managing lines, and keeping everything organized during this busy time. It’s a fun way to get involved and earn service hours while supporting your school community. If you’re available, we’d love to have your help. VOLUNTEER NOTE | All SignUpGenius volunteer time will be credited to your PTSA volunteer account once the SUG closes. |
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| SENIOR CAP & GOWN PHOTOS | MAY 13 BTWHSPVA would love volunteers who can stay for the full shift on May 13 from 9:30am–12:30pm. Cap and gown distribution gets busy quickly, and having consistent help the whole time makes everything run smoothly for our seniors. There are two volunteer slots available — one for the dresser and one for the check‑in table. Thank you so much for considering it. Your support truly makes a difference for our seniors! VOLUNTEER NOTE | All SignUpGenius volunteer time will be credited to your PTSA volunteer account once the SUG closes. |
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| SENIOR PARTY | MAY 18 SENIOR FAMILIES | We are still in need of contributions for our amazing raffle prizes* that we have planned to give away at the party. Please take a look at our Sign Up Genius and sign up for an item or donation to make Senior Party spectacular! Parents who would like to volunteer at the party, please sign up here. *Students must be present to win. NOTE | All SignUpGenius volunteer time will be credited to your PTSA volunteer account once the SUG closes. |
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| STUDENT LAPTOP COLLECTION | MAY 27 We’re looking for three parent volunteers to help in the book room with student computer collection: Date: May 27 Time: 2:00–5:00 PM Location: BTW Book Room Volunteer tasks include: - Receiving student computers as they’re brought in from classrooms
- Unbagging devices
- Removing chargers from bags and neatly wrapping cords
- Sorting chargers into designated boxes
- Placing MacBooks on the bookshelves
Your help will go a long way in keeping this process smooth and organized. We truly appreciate any support you can offer! Questions? Contact BTW Library Media Specialist, Ms. Ivenskaya. VOLUNTEER |
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| CLASS OF 2027 PARENTS & STUDENTS | MAY 30 We are seeking parent and student volunteers from the Class of 2027 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. |
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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. 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. |
| NEW WORKS RECEPTION | MAY 7 Join us for the New Works Reception, a special exhibition showcasing the creativity and emerging voices of our 9th- and 10th‑grade visual art students. This collection highlights fresh ideas, developing techniques, and the unique perspectives of our youngest artists as they explore new mediums and concepts. The opening reception will be held on Thursday, May 7, from 6–8 p.m. in the Hudson Gallery. Guests will have the opportunity to view the artwork, meet the student artists, and celebrate their accomplishments in a warm, supportive setting. We invite families, friends, and the entire BTWHSPVA community to attend and encourage these talented young creators. |
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| VISUAL ARTS FACULTY AMAZON WISHLIST Support the Visual Arts faculty and students by contributing an item from the Faculty Wish List. Your donation helps provide the tools, materials, and resources that allow students to experiment, create, and grow as artists. Every contribution directly enhances their studio experience and supports the incredible work happening in our Visual Arts classrooms.
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| SCRAP METAL STILL NEEDED The BTWHSPVA Visual Arts Department is still seeking donations of scrap metal of all kinds. Car brake drums, hammers, shovels, tools, sheet metal, and similar metal items are all welcome. If it’s metal, the department can put it to good use in student projects. Donations may be dropped off in Mr. Gillespie’s room (Room 74). For larger items, please contact Mr. Gillespie to arrange a drop‑off time. Thank you for supporting our young artists and their creative work. |
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| SPRING MUSICAL | MAY 14-16 The Booker T. Washington HSPVA Musical Theatre proudly presents Sister Act: The Musical – High School Edition, a high‑energy, feel‑good comedy based on the beloved 1992 film. With a Motown‑inspired score by eight‑time Oscar winner Alan Menken, this show brings big laughs, big voices, and even bigger heart to the MAT stage. When aspiring disco diva Deloris Van Cartier witnesses a crime, she’s placed in protective custody in the last place she ever expected, a convent. Trying to blend into her new quiet life under the watchful eye of Mother Superior, Deloris brings her bold spirit and love of music to the convent choir, transforming it into a joyful, powerhouse ensemble. But as the choir’s fame grows, so does the danger she’s trying to escape. Filled with vibrant gospel numbers, laugh‑out‑loud moments, and a heartfelt message about friendship, faith, and finding your voice, Sister Act is an uplifting celebration that will have audiences clapping along from start to finish. Mark your calendars for May 14–16 and come support our scholar‑artists as they bring this joyful musical to life! TICKETS |
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| 2026 FLIGHT FILM FEST | MAY 5 The BTWHSPVA community is invited to celebrate our young filmmakers at the 2026 Flight Film Fest, taking place May 5, 2026, in the MAT. This annual showcase highlights original student films across genres, featuring narrative shorts, documentaries, animation, experimental work, and collaborative projects created throughout the year. Flight Film Fest is a signature event that honors the creativity, technical skill, and artistic voice of our students. Families, friends, and supporters are encouraged to attend and cheer on these talented filmmakers. Tickets sold at the door | $5 for Students, $10 for General Admission. |
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| CLASS OF 2027 RISING SENIORS MEETING | MAY 11 The Class of 2027 is officially stepping into senior year! All rising seniors and their families are invited to the Rising Seniors Meeting on Monday, May 11 at 6:30 PM in the Commons. We’ll cover everything you need to know as you head into this exciting final year—important dates, senior events, fundraising, expectations, and how to stay connected throughout the year. And yes… rising seniors will receive their very first Senior Surprise at this meeting. You won’t want to miss it! Let’s kick off senior year together and make it unforgettable. |
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A night to remember! BTWHSPVA Prom 2026 is officially in the books, and it was truly an unforgettable celebration. From the incredible style to the joyful energy on the dance floor, our students created an evening filled with laughter, friendship, and moments they will carry with them long after the music fades. The night reflected everything that makes our community special: creativity, connection, and the spirit of our scholar artists coming together to celebrate this milestone. |
Thank you to everyone who helped make the event such a success, and congratulations to our students for creating a prom that will be remembered for years to come! |
| 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. |
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| We want as many seniors as possible to join the fun at the Senior Party, so the event has been rescheduled to take place during Senior Week, immediately following Game Day in the Green Room. Grab your friends, hop in a car, and head from BTW to The Sandy Pickle for an afternoon of celebration! We’re excited to honor our seniors, and we know this new timing will make the event even more special for everyone. Please have your Senior RSVP for the Senior Party ASAP!!! |
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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 12 | 4:30 PM (Last Day of Classes)
- Senior Week | May 13 – 19 | 10 AM–12 PM (Wed–Tues)
- Senior vs. Faculty Volleyball Game | May 14 | 5 PM (Downtown YMCA)
- Game Day | May 18 | 10 AM–12 PM (Green Room)
- Rescheduled! Senior Party | May 18 | 1–3 PM (The Sandy Pickle)
- Senior Breakfast | May 19 | 8:30 AM (Sammy's BBQ)
- Cap & Gown Check Out | May 19 | 10 AM–12 PM (The Commons)
- Conservatory Dinners:
Music | May 18 | 6:30 PM Dance | May 19 | 6:30 PM Visual Arts | May 20 | 6:30 PM Theater | May 21 | 6:30 PM - Senior Awards | May 26 | 6–7:30 PM
- Baccalaureate | May 30 | 11 AM–1 PM (First United Methodist Church, Dallas)
- Graduation | May 31 | 8 PM (The Meyerson Symphony Center)
Look for specific details for each event from Senior Class Chair, Kathy Ruff coming soon! |
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As we wrap up another remarkable year, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our 2025–2026 Sustaining Sponsors. Your generosity uplifts our scholar‑artists and fuels the creative spirit that defines our campus. Because of your commitment, passion becomes performance and imagination becomes meaningful impact. We are truly grateful for your partnership. |
- May 4 (AS) No School
- May 5 (AS) PTSA General Meeting
- May 5 (AS) Flight Film Fest
- May 7 (VA) New Works Reception
- May 11 (J) Rising Senior Meeting
- May 14-16 (M/T) Spring Musical
- May 18 (S/M) Music Senior Dinner
- May 19 (S/D) Dance Senior Dinner
- May 20 (S/VA) Visual Arts Senior Dinner
- May 21 (S/T) Theatre 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, (UP) Upperclassman, (UN) Underclassman, (VA) Visual Arts Conservatory, (S) Seniors, (SO) Sophomores, (F) Faculty, (FR) Freshmen 2025-2026 Approved D.I.S.D. Calendar |
| 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. Thank you for your engagement & support! |
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