Dear Colleagues:

Christmas and New Year’s have always been days to look to the future -- both as a promise of something better to come and a chance to begin again. This year
that idea has more meaning as we reflect on the events of last Friday in Newtown, Connecticut. Our prayers
and our thoughts remain with all of the families affected by this tragedy.

And, at the same time, we redouble our efforts to
support the dreams of the students whose lives we
shape every day.

I recently had one of my most gratifying experiences since becoming superintendent. I got to the Choices Expo just as it was opening Friday night, December 7. There was a steady stream of people flowing into the Wilkerson-Greines Activity Center. They were on a mission – to find the Gold Seal Program of Choice or Gold Seal School of Choice that was the best fit for their child and the most efficient pathway to college and career success.

The parents’ level of interest was wonderful to see. They had great questions and checked out all the booths. But I was especially impressed by the students. Almost every student we talked to – Mr. Sorum, Mrs. Breed and I talked to dozens of them – either had a clear idea about what they wanted in the future or said they were carefully studying their best options and opportunities.

We asked what they were interested in and what they wanted to become. They had ready answers:

A veterinarian
A forensic scientist
A firefighter
An airplane designer

… and our favorite answer from an 8th grader: either a civil engineer or an aerospace engineer. And he told us the difference between the two.

And that future airplane designer?

When asked if he knew what he would have to study to fulfill his dream, he didn’t hesitate. “I know that I have to study physics, math and engineering,” he said.

We have the privilege of helping young people make their dreams come true.

Focus on that this season. Let that knowledge give us something to hold onto, as we celebrate the holidays with family and friends.

Sincerely,
Walter Dansby
Fort Worth ISD Superintendent