| Riding the Coattails of Shrek Magic into October! Our BTW community has so much to celebrate! Thanks to your incredible generosity, North Texas Giving Day soared past every expectation. Your donations directly support PTSA programs and summer scholarships for our talented scholar artists, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who gave, shared, and championed this important effort. Your enthusiasm made a real impact! And the good news keeps coming. Early auditing of the All-School Musical income from tickets, merchandise, and concessions shows that we reached a record breaking milestone! This is an extraordinary achievement for our students and our school community. I am truly grateful for every single person who supported this production. Thank you for showing up, lifting up, and cheering on our scholar artists. THANK YOU! And now, we are racing toward an important membership award deadline and need your help within the next 3 days!Join the Booker T. Washington PTSA by September 30 and help us qualify for the Texas PTA Early Bird Membership Award. Every membership strengthens our school community and demonstrates the incredible support behind our students, teachers, and programs. If you haven't joined yet, now is the perfect time. Let's reach this milestone together and show Texas what Booker T. pride looks like! There's a special perk for joining between now and September 30. Keep reading the newsletter for details! Finally, after such a wonderfully magical All-School Musical, we invite you to keep the momentum going at the next all-school production, the Sol a Sol Hispanic Heritage Festival on October 14. Join us for an evening of student-led performances, original artwork, cultural celebration, and community connection, plus a silent auction and festive treats hosted by the Class of 2028. Supporters can purchase program ads to celebrate the talent of our scholar artists performing during the celebration. Additionally, we are looking for student artwork submissions to be featured on the cover of the festival program! Keep reading the newsletter for more details. We hope you'll come celebrate the talent, diversity, and spirit that make BTW legendary! PS - Reflections submissions are due October 30! With shared purpose and (an immense level of) gratitude, Jennifer Wheeler Hall |
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Newsletter Archive | Visit the PTSA Membership Toolkit to access last week's newsletter and archive. View Entire Newsletter | Click on 'View Entire Message' at the bottom of your email to access all of the articles. Tips | Click on newsletter section titles, graphics, and words in blue font for more helpful information. |
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| A big, bright, beautiful world indeed! Congratulations to the remarkable students who brought Shrek the Musical to life! Watching this production was an absolute delight, and it was evident in every scene how much dedication, talent, and teamwork went into creating such an entertaining and heartwarming show. Whether you were under the spotlight, in the wings of the theater, or behind the curtain, your contributions made the performance magical. Thank you for sharing your gifts with our community and for delivering a production that was as fun to watch as it was impressive. We are incredibly proud of all you accomplished! DOWNLOAD THE PLAYBILL |
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| THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! Behind every memorable performance is a remarkable team of people whose dedication, talent, and countless hours make the magic possible. To our volunteers, directors, production staff, designers, and student crew members, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your creativity, leadership, hard work, and unwavering commitment transformed Shrek the Musical from an idea into an unforgettable experience for our entire community. Whether you were building sets, designing costumes, managing lights and sound, coordinating logistics, guiding students, or working tirelessly behind the scenes, your contributions were invaluable. Much of your work happened out of the spotlight, yet it was essential to every moment that unfolded on stage. Thank you for sharing your time, talents, and passion so generously. Your efforts created opportunities for our students to grow, shine, and tell an incredible story together. We are deeply grateful for all you have done and for the love, support, and excellence you brought to this production. Congratulations on a truly extraordinary show! |
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| A Very Special Thank-You to our ASM Director, Lisa Lawrence The PTSA is immensely grateful to Lisa Lawrence, our 2026 All‑School Musical Director, for her vision, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our students. Lisa, you poured your heart into this production, guiding our scholar artists with patience, creativity, and passion. The magic on stage was a direct reflection of your leadership and the countless hours you invested to make this musical extraordinary. Thank you for inspiring our students, uplifting our community, and reminding us all of the power of the arts. Very sincerely, BTWHSPVA PTSA |
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| The Countdown Is On! We’re racing toward the Texas PTA September 30 membership award deadline, and we need YOU on our team! Every parent membership brings us one step closer to earning the prestigious Texas PTA Early Bird Membership Award and showing the state the incredible support behind Booker T. Every membership matters. Every family counts. Whether you volunteer regularly or simply want to support our students and school community, joining the PTSA is one of the easiest ways to make a difference. Let's finish strong, reach our goal, and celebrate this achievement together! Anyone who joins between now and September 30 will be automatically entered into a drawing for a free PTSA merchandise item of your choosing! Join today. Make your membership count. Help us cross the finish line before September 30! Click the graphics below to purchase! |
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REMEMBER, when you pay into Class Dues it also includes a PTSA membership for your student! |
| 2026-27 REFLECTIONS | WHAT MY CULTURE MEANS TO ME Students are invited to explore their identity and share their unique perspectives by creating an original work inspired by the 2026–27 Reflections theme “What My Culture Means to Me.” Entries may be submitted in Dance Choreography, Film Production, Literature, Music Composition, Photography, or Visual Arts. This program is a meaningful opportunity for students to express their stories and celebrate the richness of their cultural experiences. Entries are now being accepted and are due by October 30. Be sure to review the FAQs and guidelines to help your creative vision shine. Questions? | Email Kira McCoy, the PTSA Reflections Program Chair. REFLECTIONS ENTRY FORM | DUE OCTOBER 30 Reflections is a National PTA program that enables students to find a creative outlet in dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography, and visual arts. The program began in 1969 and now more than 200,000 students participate annually. |
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¡Prepárate para una noche inolvidable! Join us for the Sol a Sol Hispanic Heritage Festival on October 14, 2026, as we celebrate the beauty, traditions, and creative spirit of Hispanic culture through the extraordinary talents of our Booker T. scholar artists. From captivating performances and stunning visual arts to the rhythms, flavors, and stories that connect generations, every conservatory will come together to honor the rich heritage and lasting contributions of Hispanic and Latino cultures. Save the date and watch for more details about this exciting celebration. Come experience an evening filled with music, art, culture, food, and community as we shine de sol a sol in true Booker T. fashion! |
| SOL A SOL PROGRAM ADS | DEADLINE OCT 6 The PTSA is proud to support the All-School Production featuring student led and written performances celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month. Congratulate your favorite performer or promote your business with a program advertisement! PURCHASE A PROGRAM AD Deadline to purchase and upload completed ads or assets for us to create an ad for you is 11:59 PM on October 6. |
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| SOL A SOL PROGRAM COVER ARTWORK CONTEST Calling all creative visionaries, cultural storytellers, and visual‑arts innovators! It is time to design the official artwork for this year’s All‑School Sol a Sol Hispanic Heritage Festival. All students in every grade from every conservatory at BTWHSPVA are invited to participate in the all‑school festival artwork contest. We are looking for bold, imaginative, and vibrant artwork that celebrates Hispanic heritage and reflects the spirit of Sol a Sol. Whether you draw, paint, collage, illustrate digitally, or create something completely unexpected, we want to see your vision come to life. Your artwork could become the official image featured on the program cover and on posters for the entire school community, representing this year’s festival in a powerful and unforgettable way. SOL A SOL PROGRAM COVER ARTWORK SUBMISSION FORM Deadline is Wednesday, October 7, 2026 at 11:59 PM. |
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| BTWHSPVA Site Based Decision Making Committee Did You Know? Booker T. has a Site Based Decision Making Committee (SBDM), a group that works alongside campus leadership to help shape important decisions about programs, policies, and resources that impact our students and school community. The committee meets on the first Tuesday of each month from 5- 6 PM, just before PTSA meetings. Our SBDM currently has open positions for Secretary and At-Large members, and we invite volunteers to step forward and serve. This is a wonderful opportunity to support Booker T. in a meaningful way while ensuring our students’ voices and needs are represented. For those interested, email Frances McGee, BTW SBDM Chair. |
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| BTW SPIRIT NIGHT | OCT 6 Save the Date for Spirit Night at Shake Shack! Join us at Shake Shack on 2500 N. Pearl Street on Tuesday, October 6 from 10 AM to 11 PM. A percentage of all sales will support the BTW PTSA Programs, and all you have to do is tell them you are with Booker T when you order. Bring your appetite, your school spirit, and your friends. Let’s make this a delicious success for our community! |
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| UPCOMING PTSA MEETING | OCT 6 Join us on Tuesday, October 6 with special guest, School Psychologist Ms. Jennifer Toombs, SSP, LSSP (will present what was planned last month). Virtual attendance to PTSA meetings are now be available via Microsoft Teams: BTW PTSA October General Meeting Tuesday, October 6, 2026 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM OCTOBER 6 | JOIN Join instructions & tips can be found on the PTSA Meetings page on our website. |
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| Born and raised in Southern California, David Hall relocated to Texas to pursue a career opportunity and quickly embraced the Lone Star State as home. He earned a degree in Computer Science from the University of North Texas, building a strong foundation in technology, problem-solving, and systems management that continues to serve him well both professionally and as a volunteer. Today, David works as a Senior Field Technician for Lithia Motors, where he combines technical expertise with a practical, solutions-oriented approach to support operations across the organization. |
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David and his wife, Jennifer, live in East Dallas and have built a busy, active life centered around family, community involvement, and service. Through his marriage, David became the proud father of four children, three of whom are now grown. Their youngest is a senior in the Music Conservatory at Booker T. More recently, David has enthusiastically embraced one of his favorite titles yet: "Doodad" to the family's first grandchild. As Communications VP, David oversees the PTSA's communication strategy, including management of the organization's website, production of the PTSA newsletter, coordination of public relations efforts, dissemination of important information to families, and collaboration with the Social Media Chair to ensure a cohesive and effective messaging presence across all platforms. Whether sharing student achievements, promoting events, supporting fundraising initiatives, or helping families stay informed, David is committed to making information accessible, timely, and engaging. Outside of PTSA, David is deeply involved in community service and volunteer work. He serves in his church's IT ministry, where he helps operate cameras and support production during worship services. David is also an enthusiastic supporter of numerous community organizations, school groups, and volunteer efforts throughout Dallas. He is quick to joke that much of his volunteer schedule comes from supporting the many organizations Jennifer is involved with, "and there are a lot of them." Friends and colleagues know him as a steady partner, willing volunteer, dependable problem solver, and behind-the-scenes supporter who is always ready to lend a hand when needed. When he's not working or volunteering, David enjoys spending time with family, watching professional and collegiate sports, attending live concerts, and managing the chaos created by the household's three dogs, who keep everyone entertained and on their toes. Family remains at the center of everything he does, and he takes particular pride in supporting the educational and artistic journeys of young people. A little-known fact about David is that he holds dual citizenship, courtesy of his Canadian mother and American father. A slightly better-known fact is that he occasionally gives Jennifer ideas that come back to haunt him. After encouraging her to serve as Communications VP last year, David found himself in the role this year. He insists this was carefully orchestrated payback. Jennifer insists it was simply recognizing talent. The truth probably lies somewhere in between. David is also the family's resident photo‑fun specialist, always finding a way to make everyone laugh! |
David is honored to serve the Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts community and looks forward to helping foster meaningful connections through thoughtful communication, collaboration, and a shared commitment to supporting students and the arts. |
As PTSA 3rd Vice President of Communications, David Hall has helped keep the Booker T. community informed, engaged, and connected. Through newsletters, website updates, and coordinated communications, he shares the stories, achievements, and moments that make our school special. Known for his thoughtful approach, technical expertise, and great sense of humor, David brings both clarity and heart to every project. Whether he's promoting an event, celebrating volunteers, or occasionally finding himself featured as one, he helps strengthen the sense of community that defines Booker T. We are grateful for David's dedication, creativity, and willingness to serve. His work behind the scenes keeps our community connected and reminds us that strong communication helps build an even stronger school. PS - David's Spotlight may have been written by his biggest fan and proud wife, PTSA President, Jennifer Wheeler Hall. |
To become a donor or for general questions, donate by clicking the link below or contact us at btwhspvaptsa@gmail.com. |
Chester & Grace is based on the true life trial of Chester Gillette for the murder of his girlfriend Grace Brown in 1906. The basis for the novel An American Tragedy which became the movie A Place in the Sun. When you come to see the show, enter Booker T. Washington using the main door on Routh Street located at the Circle Drive. The Brierley Experimental Theatre (Black Box Theatre) is on the second floor in the historic building. If you need an elevator, there is one located in the main lobby on your right side as you enter from the Circle Drive. The cast of Chester and Grace by Glenn Allen Smith will feature BTW students Armando Nava as Chester, Cat Krankota as Mrs. Gillette, Ruby Eckian as Lucille, David Andre Harris‑Tafoya as Ward, Caroline Cooper as Corie, Hope Medrano as Corenne, and Malakai Nance as Cora. Corinne Wade will take on the role of Grace, with Abigail Smith as Mrs. Brown, Grimsley Hunter as MacIlravy, Zander Moore as Mills, Seamus Slaughter as Klock, Max Munson as Guard, and Stefan Brock‑Utne as Hughes. Understudies include Ashleigh Currie, Lincoln Guild, Zola Ross, Ellie Manders, Seamus Slaughter, and Max Munson, covering various roles. Remaining shows: Oct 1-2, 2026 | 7 pm | The Montgomery Arts Theater TICKETS |
Jazz Combo Ensemble Takes the Stage at the Iconic Balcony Club! Eight of our talented Jazz Combo Ensemble students were invited to perform last night at Dallas’ historic Balcony Club, and they delivered an unforgettable evening of music. For two full hours, these young musicians showcased their dedication, artistry, and love of jazz, filling the room with beloved standards and the vibrant energy that defines Booker T’s jazz program. |
This performance is just the beginning of something truly special, as ensembles from our jazz studies program will rotate performances at Dallas’ historic Balcony Club on the last Sunday of each month, offering the community an intimate evening filled with the timeless charm of live jazz. We are incredibly proud of these musical artists, which include seniors Daniel Bridgeford, Andrew Crecelius, Lorenco "RJ" Alexander, Oscar Milner, Sabrina Daly, and Bella Williams; junior Cullen Taylor; and sophomore Ketcher Lee. We are so grateful for the chance to celebrate their talent in such a legendary venue. Bravo to our Jazz Combo Ensemble! We warmly invite everyone to join us, support our young musicians, and make it a night to remember. Bring a friend, bring a date, and enjoy a romantic evening of swing, soul, and the magic of jazz as we gather together to celebrate our students and share their music with Dallas in the most unforgettable way. |
Contemporary Ensemble is bringing the energy to the Green Room on Friday, October 2 from 12:45 PM to 1:30 PM. This midday performance will showcase the ensemble’s latest repertoire and create a vibrant moment of music and community right in the heart of campus. It is the perfect chance to enjoy incredible student talent and kick off the afternoon with something truly special. Parents and guardians are invited to attend. Please check in at the visitor desk at the Routh Street entrance and pick up a visitor sticker. We recommend allowing a little extra time for registration so you can settle in and enjoy every minute of the performance. Get ready for an unforgettable Lunch Jam that celebrates creativity, artistry, and the spirit of Booker T. |
| BTW MUSIC GUILD STUDENT & PARENT SOCIAL | OCT 3 This Saturday, October 3 the Music Guild invites all Music Conservatory parents and students for a fun evening out, whether you can stay the whole time or just part of it. We’ll meet at 7 PM at Peticolas Brewing (1301 Pace St, Dallas, TX 75207), then walk together to Stomping Ground Comedy for the 9 PM show Broadway‑ish. Tickets for the show can be purchased here, and parking is available at Stomping Ground (1350 Manufacturing St #109, Dallas, TX 75207). Stomping Ground Comedy Theater was co‑founded by PTSA’s own 4th VP of Membership and Class of 2030 parent, Lindsay Goldapp. Lindsay is the Co‑Founder and Executive/Artistic Director of Stomping Ground, a graduate of Chicago’s Second City Improv Conservatory, and holds a B.S. in Acting/Directing from East Texas A&M University. With over 25 years of experience performing and teaching comedy and theatre across the U.S. and U.K., she has dedicated her life to sharing the arts and their benefits for mental health and wellness. Lindsay also teaches improv to our BTW students, inspiring the next generation of performers. Let’s show up in support of our one of our own! |
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RJAM Premier Ensemble Concert | Two-Night Event! |
Get ready for an incredible two‑night musical experience as our RJAM Premier Ensembles take the stage in the Black Box Theater on Thursday, Oct 15 and Friday, Oct 16 at 7 PM. Each evening will feature a completely unique performance, giving you two opportunities to enjoy the remarkable talent, creativity, and artistry of our students. These concerts shine a spotlight on the hard work and passion that define the RJAM program, and they promise to be unforgettable nights of music. TICKETSgo on sale at 12 PM this Thursday, Oct 1! We hope you will join us for this special celebration of our students and their extraordinary sound. It is going to be an amazing pair of performances! |
Be sure to join your Guild and subscribe to their newsletter so you never miss a beat. It is the best way to stay in the loop on upcoming shows, important announcements, special opportunities, and all the exciting moments happening within your Conservatory community. Click on your Guild graphic below to stay connected, stay informed, and stay inspired! |
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR 2026-27 SUSTAINING SPONSORS |
- September 25-October 2 (T) Play | Chester and Grace
- October 2 (AS, M) Lunch Jam
- October 6 (AS) BTW Spirit Night | Shake Shack
- October 6 (AS) PTSA Meeting | 6 PM | The Commons
- October 8-12 (AS) Fall Break
- October 14 (AS, S) All-School and Senior Panorama Photo
- October 14 (AS) Sol a Sol Hispanic Heritage Festival
- October 15-16 (M) RJAM Premier Ensemble Concert
- October 22-29 (T) Play | Hamlet ESP
- November 4 (AS) How to Pay for College Workshop
- November 16-19 (AS) Custodial & Cafeteria Appreciation Pie Drive
- November 18-20 (S) Senior College Showcase Week
- November 21-29 (AS) Thanksgiving Break
- December 2-3 (M) Fall Classics
- December 8 (AS) Magnet Open House
- December 9-10 (M) Winter Grand Concert
- December 9-11 (VA) Art Market
- December 19-January 5 (AS) Winter Break
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 2026-27 Approved D.I.S.D. Calendar |
Information in this section has been shared before, but we are keeping it here so you have easy access to important details and helpful links. |
| ARTS MAGNET 50TH ANNIVERSARY EVENT SITE The Arts Magnet 50th Anniversary Event Site is officially live, and we invite our entire community to join us throughout the year as we celebrate five decades of creativity, excellence, and innovation. The site will highlight special events, showcase milestone moments, and introduce you to stories spanning all 50 years of the school’s history. It is the central hub for staying connected, discovering upcoming celebrations, and engaging with the remarkable legacy that continues to shape Arts Magnet today. We hope you will visit often and be part of this historic year. |
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| STUDENT PROGRAM ACTIVITY GRANTS The PTSA is proud to support the students and official student organizations/clubs of BTWHSPVA with Student Program Activity Grants. Faculty and student club leaders are encouraged to apply for funding of up to $500 to help meet specific club needs that enhance the student experience and support their creative endeavors. Applications are now open. Submissions received by the 30th of each month will be considered for the following month’s award cycle. APPLICATION LINK |
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| PTSA GOOGLE DRIVE PHOTO FOLDER Parents, upload your photos to the new PTSA Google Drive Photo Folder and help us capture the magic happening all year at Booker T. Parents always take the best pictures, and we would love to showcase moments from every event. Bookmark the Photo folder and start sharing your favorite snapshots! Instructions to upload photos | Once in the folder, click the "+ New" tab on the left, then click "File upload". Or hold down the Alt and c keys, then click U. NOTE | Please name each photo before uploading noting what/who is depicted in the photo. Ex: "Senior WW David Hall". Thank you! |
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| PTSA CREATIVE COLLECTIVE Students are invited to submit any creative pieces they have made, written, produced, or performed. Whether it is artwork, choreography, music, film, photography, or creative writing, we would love to highlight the incredible talent of our scholar artists within the weekly PTSA Newsletter, the PTSA website, and on social media. Parents & Faculty, please encourage students to share their work and help us celebrate the creativity that makes Booker T so special! CREATIVE COLLECTIVE SUBMISSION FORM |
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| CLASS DONATIONS Missed contributing to class dues in previous years, or have family members who want to join in? It’s never too late to support your class! Every contribution helps fund the senior year activities and celebrations that make this milestone unforgettable. Click your class year below to give in any amount and help keep the tradition strong. |
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| The PTSA Weekly Newsletter is produced and published by 2026-27 BTWHSPVA PTSA 3rd VP of Communications, David Hall. For questions or issues, please complete the PTSA Inquiry Form. Thank you for your engagement & support! |
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