| A Festival to Remember and So Much More to Come! Congratulations to the students, parent volunteers, faculty, staff, and supporters who made this year's Sol a Sol Hispanic Heritage Festival such a memorable celebration of culture, creativity, and community. A special thank you to the Class of 2028 and Dance Conservatory Director, Kate Walker, for their outstanding leadership and months of hard work in bringing the event to life. From inspiring performances and artistic showcases to the successful Silent Auction, the evening highlighted the incredible talent and spirit of the Booker T. community. Thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered, donated, and supported this wonderful event. ¡Felicidades a todos por un trabajo excepcional! The next few weeks are packed with exciting opportunities to experience the incredible talent of our scholar artists and connect with the Booker T. community! From outstanding Theatre and Music Conservatory performances to the Theatre Guild's Fright Night & Boo Bash, a valuable Parent College Workshop hosted by the Class of 2028, and the highly anticipated All-School Dance, there's something for everyone. Be sure to mark your calendars and read on for all the details. As you plan ahead, please don't forget that Reflections submissions are due October 30, 2026. We still need more entries and encourage every student to participate in this nationally recognized PTA arts program. Thank you for your continued support, enthusiasm, and engagement. Your encouragement helps our scholar artists dream bigger, reach higher, and soar as high as Pegasi! With shared purpose and 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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Sol a Sol Shines Bright! The Sol a Sol Hispanic Heritage Festival lit up our campus last week with electrifying performances, powerful storytelling, and the unmistakable spirit of our BTW community. Our deepest gratitude goes to the incredible volunteers whose enthusiasm, dedication, and behind‑the‑scenes magic made the entire event shine from start to finish. Congratulations to every one of our talented performers and visionary student directors whose artistry and leadership transformed Sol a Sol into an unforgettable celebration of culture and creativity. We are also thrilled to celebrate the tremendous success of the Class of 2028 fundraiser, including the silent auction, which thrived thanks to the hard work of students, families, and volunteers. Your support added even more excitement and community spirit to an already spectacular day. Thank you to everyone who poured their heart into Sol a Sol. You created a joyful, meaningful, and truly memorable celebration of heritage, creativity, and student excellence. |
| 2026-27 REFLECTIONS | ONLY TWO WEEKS LEFT! The deadline for the PTA Reflections Program is quickly approaching, and we urgently need student submissions! The 2026–27 Reflections theme is “What My Culture Means to Me.” Reflections is a wonderful opportunity for Booker T. scholar artists to showcase their creativity and be recognized for their work in dance choreography, film production, literature, music composition, photography, and visual arts. If your student has been considering entering, now is the time to act. Don't miss the chance to represent Booker T. and advance to the next level of this prestigious national arts program. Submit your entry today! 🎨🎭🎶📸✍️ 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 |
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ALL-SCHOOL DANCE | NOV. 7 |
Student Tickets: Click on this form to purchase tickets for BTW students. These pre-sale tickets can be purchased online through October 30 for $25. Students can also buy tickets at the door for $35. Guest Tickets:Click on this form to purchase guest tickets. A limited number of tickets will be available for students to bring a guest that does not attend BTWHSPVA. Guests must complete a guest approval form and have it signed by their school administration and the BTW Administration: Principal Williams, Dean Countryman, or Dr. Barrett, before they can purchase a ticket for their non-BTW guest. The form must be uploaded to their guest ticket purchase in order to proceed to check out. Guest Tickets are $25 each. The deadline to purchase is October 30. IMPORTANT FOR ALL STUDENTS (BTW & GUEST): - ID REQUIRED | Students and guests must bring their student ID to check in at the dance. (They do not need to wear their ID.)
- DRESS CODE | Semi-Formal / Dress to Impress attire is recommended. Dress code will be enforced.
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BTWHSPVA CAREER DAY 2026 | NOV. 19-20 |
Help Inspire our Scholar Artists! BTWHSPVA is seeking professionals from a wide range of industries to share their career journeys, experiences, and advice with our talented students. This is a unique opportunity to help our scholar artists explore future possibilities, gain real-world insight, and learn from accomplished professionals who have turned their passions into successful careers. We know our PTSA community is filled with incredible parents and family members whose experiences could make a lasting impact. Whether you work in business, healthcare, technology, law, the arts, engineering, communications, entrepreneurship, or another field, your story could be exactly what inspires a student to pursue their dreams. Step up, share your expertise, and help shape the future of our students. Sign up today! |
Kelly Slaven is a proud Dallas native whose commitment to community involvement was inspired early in life. Growing up, she watched her mother work full time while still serving as PTA president during Kelly’s eighth‑grade year, an example that left a lasting impression and sparked Kelly’s own desire to stay engaged in the schools her family calls home. After moving away for college and young adulthood, Kelly became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and built a meaningful career supporting children and families. She spent more than twenty years as a therapist and in leadership roles at Genesis Women’s Shelter and Support and the Dallas Children’s Advocacy Center, where she championed healing, safety, and empowerment for survivors. In recent years, Kelly and her wife opened The Haven Wellness Center, a private practice dedicated to compassionate, trauma‑informed care. |
Kelly returned to Dallas to raise her family and is the proud parent of two children: her son, now a senior at the University of Oregon, and her daughter Josie, a senior in the Visual Arts Conservatory. Kelly lives in Dallas with Josie, her wife Jessica, and their lively household of three dogs and three cats. With her lifelong talent for organization and detailed note taking, Kelly felt naturally drawn to the role of PTSA Secretary. She is grateful for the opportunity to support the PTSA, the students, and the school community she deeply admires. Her service extends beyond Booker T. as well. Kelly continues to serve on the Alliance Board at Genesis Women’s Shelter and Support, previously served on the Parkland Health Plus Board, and currently sits on the Board of Camp John Marc. Outside of her professional and volunteer commitments, Kelly enjoys traveling and exploring with Jessica, tackling puzzles, knitting, spending time outdoors, and staying active. Kelly’s favorite Booker T. program is Showcase, which she believes beautifully highlights the extraordinary growth, creativity, and artistic evolution of students across all conservatories. Watching Visual Arts Conservatory students transform their craft year after year continues to amaze her. Fun Fact | After a day of supporting clients through life’s toughest challenges, Kelly loves unwinding with trash TV and a copy of Us Weekly. She considers it one of life’s simple joys. |
As BTWHSPVA PTSA Secretary, Kelly Slaven has been an invaluable member of the Executive Board spanning two years in this role, bringing organization, dedication, and attention to detail to every aspect of the PTSA's work. Her commitment behind the scenes helps keep the organization running smoothly, ensuring important decisions, communications, and records are managed with care and accuracy. Kelly's passion for supporting students, families, and educators reflects her deep belief in the power of public education and the importance of a strong school community. Whether coordinating details, documenting key initiatives, or lending a helping hand wherever needed, she consistently approaches her role with professionalism, positivity, and a spirit of service. On behalf of the entire Booker T. community, thank you, Kelly, for your tireless dedication, thoughtful leadership, and unwavering support of our students and programs. Your contributions help strengthen the PTSA's mission and leave a lasting impact on the future of Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. We are truly grateful for all that you do. |
To become a donor or for general questions, donate by clicking the link below or contact us at btwhspvaptsa@gmail.com. |
HAMLET ESP | OCT. 22-23, 28-29 | 7 PM |
Hamlet ESP opens THIS week! Hamlet ESP is a 1974 play by Paul Baker, an adaptation of Shakespeare's Hamlet that focuses on the inner world of the mind, using three actors to play the role of Hamlet to explore his complex thoughts and perceptions. The play emphasizes the internal conflict and imagination, presenting the action as a drama of both external events and the inner psyche. Student preview is October 21 (students only). There will be performances in the MAT on October 22-23 & 28-29. TICKETS ($10 Adult, $5 Student) |
| SPECIAL EVENT: BOOKER T., BAKER, AND BEYOND | OCT. 23-24 Booker T., Baker and Beyond is sponsored by BTWHSPVA and Robyn Baker Flatt in partnership with Theatre Conservatory and Theatre Guild. The day begins in Brierley Experimental Theater on October 24th at 9 am and runs until 4 pm. CLICK HERE TO VIEW SCHEDULE & PURCHASE TICKETS We hope you’ll join us as we reconnect with multiple generations of Bakerites, celebrate an extraordinary legacy, and look toward what comes next. |
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| FRIGHT NIGHT | OCT. 30 Join us for Fright Night 2026 on October 30th! As you step through Montgomery Arts Theatre Lobby and you bypass the doors to the theatre you begin to realize this is no ordinary night at Booker T. Washington. Descend the stairs to Stargate before you are guided, not to your seats but rather onto the stage. At your first stop on the Haunted House tour, you are welcomed to step way back in time by spectral hosts on the haunted Hamlet stage. Guests who are still with us will proceed on a frightful but entertaining journey as descending to the depths and bowels of the building and mini sets inspired by some of the most iconic horror themes from the past 50 years -- when Booker T. Arts Magnet began. As you emerge from the Haunted House tour, you are welcomed to the Boo Bash, part Halloween party and part Fall Carnival. You won't want to miss it! PURCHASE TICKETS AND/OR SIGN UP TO VOLUNTEER |
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RJAM PREMIER ENSEMBLE CONCERT SERIES |
These wonderful photos were taken by our talented student photographer, Emilio Rubio (12th grade, Music), who also performed during the series. |
The jazz studies students dazzled audiences with an unforgettable showcase of talent, dedication, and artistry, performing repertoire they had been preparing since the summer. Each ensemble brought its own unique voice to the stage, from Jazz Improv and Jazz Singers to Combo I and II, Jazz Orchestra, Latin American, Gospel, MIDI, and Contemporary. Together, they created a rich and diverse musical journey that highlighted the incredible depth of our program. Both evenings overflowed with energy as the Black Box Theatre came alive with infectious rhythms, vibrant harmonies, and bold improvisations. The performances radiated joy and passion, filling the space with a spirit that was both inspiring and exhilarating. Audiences were swept up in the momentum, celebrating not only the hard work of the students but also the vibrant culture of jazz at BTW. It was more than a concert. It was a thrilling celebration of creativity, discipline, and the unmistakable BTW jazz spirit that continues to set our students apart. |
FALL PIANO & CHAMBER RECITAL | OCT. 28-29 |
Join us for two evenings of exceptional student musicianship as the Piano and Chamber Music Ensembles take the stage in the Black Box Theatre on October 28 and 29 at 6:30 PM. These performances will showcase a diverse selection of piano works and chamber music repertoire, highlighting the artistry, technical skill, and collaborative spirit of Booker T.'s talented student musicians. Each evening will feature a different group of performers and repertoire, making every concert a unique experience. Whether you attend one night or both, you’ll enjoy an inspiring celebration of classical music and the remarkable growth of our student artists. We encourage patrons to attend both performances to experience the full breadth of talent and musical excellence on display. Ticket link coming soon! |
THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR 2026-27 SUSTAINING SPONSORS |
- October 19 (AS) Parent/Teacher Conferences (5-8 PM)
- October 22-29 (T) Play | Hamlet ESP
- October 23-24 (T) Booker T., Baker, and Beyond
- October 28-29 (M) Fall Piano & Chamber Recital
- October 30 (T, AS) Fright Night & Boo Bash
- November 4 (AS) How to Pay for College Workshop
- November 7 (M) Jazz and Brass in the Park
- November 7 (AS) All-School Dance
- 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) Arts 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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| PTSA MEMBERSHIPS & CLASS DUES We encourage all new and returning BTW families to purchase PTSA memberships and pay class dues for the 2026–27 school year. Class dues support each grade’s Senior Fund, helping create the celebrations and traditions students enjoy when they reach 12th grade. Contributing now sets the foundation for a strong senior year later. Starting the year with your PTSA membership and class dues ensures smooth planning and gives our PTSA the resources to support all Rising Pegasi from day one. 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! |
| 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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