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Amanda Ashmead has been teaching in �鶹��for over 20 years. She currently teaches Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition, AP Macroeconomics, and AP US Government at the School of Science and Engineering, where she has also served as the department chair for Humanities for the last 10 years. As department chair, Ashmead has initiated or overseen a variety of significant programmatic changes: she redesigned the College Access program and integrated it into academic classes, leading to a dramatic increase in college funding offers received by graduating seniors; she integrated social studies and English into a single department centered on an emphasis of academic writing, including adding the AP Capstone program; and in recent years, she has lead several initiatives designed to help re-establish school culture in the aftermath of pandemic disruptions. Ashmead was a member of the inaugural group of Distinguished Teachers under the Teacher Excellence Initiative; she was recognized as an Exemplary Teacher and has kept that designation since. She is also recognized as a Master Teacher under the Texas Teacher Incentive Allotment. Ashmead has made significant professional contributions beyond �鶹��as well; she has been involved with the College Board in AP Reading for many years and serves as a consultant, and she has presented at a variety of national forums including AP Annual Conference on equity-focused topics such as expanding access to Advanced Placement courses. She has also published two articles in Social Education, the journal of the National Council for the Social Studies. Ashmead earned a Bachelor of Arts in English at the University of Alabama in Huntsville and received a Master of Education from Lamar University.

Cristian Gallardo is an art teacher at Sam Tasby Middle School, where he began his career in education over 18 years ago as a teacher assistant. After several years assisting teachers, Gallardo entered Dallas ISD’s Alternative Certification program and was hired as an eighth-grade science teacher. After five years of engaging his students with creative and innovative science lessons, Gallardo followed his passion and began teaching art to all grade levels at his campus. In addition to Gallardo’s role as a teacher, he has also served his school as a member of the campus leadership team, Language Proficiency Assessment Committee member, testing coordinator, asset management representative, textbook custodian, and mentor to novice teachers. Gallardo holds a Bachelor of Art in Art and Performance from the University of Texas at Dallas.

A teacher at �鶹��since 2002, Chantrelle Lovett-Andrews is an Early Childhood Special Education teacher at Umphrey Lee Elementary School. She currently serves as the Special Education Department Chair, is a member of the campus Curriculum Instructional Leadership Team, and works as a curriculum reviewer of the Amplify reading materials for the Texas Education Agency. Lovett-Andrews is currently in her twenty-seventh year of teaching and has earned both �鶹��Master Teacher and State of Texas Master Teacher designations. Lovett-Andrews believes education, understanding, and acceptance of everyone’s differences are important values. She believes the most effective teachers establish genuine relationships and create dynamic learning environments contributing to student achievement and growth. Lovett-Andrews views teaching as a fulfilling career and provides her with a sense of purpose. Her goal is to prepare students for a life of intellectual discovery, engagement, and purpose while developing the unique talent and potential in each student. She received her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Texas Woman’s University, earned teaching certifications while studying at Louisiana State University, and holds a Master of Education from Grand Canyon University.

A proud product of Dallas ISD, Rosamaria “Rosy” Alvarado Jiménez is a kindergarten Dual Language teacher at F.P. Caillet Elementary. Alvarado Jiménez is the sixth of 10 siblings. His parents emigrated to Dallas from Cedral, San Luis Potosí in Mexico. A graduate of �鶹��and mother of three �鶹��graduates, with another child currently enrolled, Alvarado Jiménez demonstrates a deep dedication and loyalty as a former student, parent, and educator with 26 years of teaching experience with Dallas ISD. Alvarado Jiménez is an “Exemplary” rated teacher through the district’s Teacher Excellence Initiative and Distinguished Teacher Review process. She has also earned a “Master” designation through the Texas Teacher Incentive Allotment. Some of Alvarado Jiménez's leadership roles include TEI Campus Expert, grade-level chair, and current mentor to novice teachers. Alvarado Jiménez is committed to learning and implementing innovative teaching practices as well as helping each student achieve their greatest academic and social potential as they prepare for their future. Alvarado Jiménez holds a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from Southern Methodist University.

Dallas native and proud product of Dallas ISD, Antonio Barnes attended Birdie Alexander Elementary School, W.H. Atwell Middle School, and Skyline High School. Further underscoring his commitment to Dallas ISD, Barnes is in his twelfth year teaching and currently teaches fifth-grade reading at Martin Weiss Elementary School. Barnes earned the honor of “Distinguished Teacher” and excels in his ability to motivate students to go beyond their academic potential. His extensive knowledge of pedagogical best practices and academic content has improved both teacher effectiveness and student achievement in the classroom. Barnes is a firm believer that collaborative collaboration is a critical element in his success, the success of his peers, and colleagues which he exemplifies through sharing ideas, conducting professional development, and modeling best practices. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science degree with a minor in English from Prairie View A&M University.

Virdetra Chappell is a dedicated and passionate educator whose teaching journey reflects a profound commitment to fostering a love for learning and building meaningful connections. With a rich and diverse career spanning 16 years, Chappell has emerged as a seasoned professional in the field of education. Discovering her passion for teaching within the educational landscape, she has become an advocate of positive relationships within the classroom. Chappell’s dedication to cultivating strong connections extends beyond her interactions with students to meaningful engagement with parents. Recognizing the pivotal role parents play in a child's educational journey, she actively involves them in the learning process. At the core of Chappell’s educational philosophy, she believes a safe and enjoyable learning environment is paramount. She understands students thrive when they feel secure and engaged in their surroundings. Actively participating in campus-wide initiatives, Chappell takes on leadership roles in committees that contribute to improving the educational environment. A testament to Chappell’s commitment to community development is her instrumental role in establishing opportunities for parents. Recognizing the importance of their role in education, she has been at the forefront of initiatives enabling parents to pursue GED and ESL certifications. By empowering parents with educational resources, Chappell extends the sphere of influence beyond the classroom, positively impacting the entire community. Chappell earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems and Accounting from Jarvis Christian University and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Texas A&M University-Commerce.

Born to immigrant parents from Léogâne, Haiti, Nehemie Dorce hails from Brooklyn, New York. Dorce joined �鶹��in 2014 and has made her professional home at L.V. Stockard Middle School. She began at Stockard as an eighth-grade science teacher and now serves as the school’s dance teacher. A 10-year veteran, Dorce has served in various leadership roles, including mentoring novice teachers, being Campus Activities Coordinator, and being a regional representative with the district’s Visual and Performing Arts department. Dorce’s mission extends far beyond campus walls, she is working to instill an entrepreneurial mindset in her students' lives and empowering them to overcome limitations. She encourages her students to become agents of change, leaders in their own right, and builders of a stronger community. She actively pursues chances to create access and opportunities for her students so they are career-ready and college-strong. Dorce is a proud graduate of Florida A&M University where she earned a Bachelor of Science, and she is currently pursuing graduate studies at Southern Methodist University in Dallas.

Saraid Driskell is a 5th grade math and science teacher at Solar Preparatory for Boys. She is a first-generation Mexican American whose parents emigrated from Mexico City and is the first in her family to obtain a college degree. Driskell has used her lifetime passion for education to foster a love for learning in her students. A 19-year veteran teacher, she is a Teacher Excellence Initiative designated Exemplary teacher. Driskell serves in various leadership roles like chair of the science department and culture and house system, coordinator of project-based learning, and sponsor of the debate team. Driskell believes in investing and building relationships with students to foster a sense of belonging and community. She embodies Dallas ISD’s values and commitment to equity and excellence. Beyond her campus, Driskell has led professional development for various schools across the nation, helping teachers implement blended learning in an engaging and innovative way. Driskell holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Park University and is currently pursuing graduate studies.

Mykel Estes serves as the eighth-grade Honors Reading/Language Arts teacher at H. W. Longfellow Career Exploration Academy. Estes believes in the inherent potential of every student. His educational philosophy revolves around instilling a love for learning, fostering curiosity, and unlocking the fullest potential in each student. Beyond the classroom, he is recognized for creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere, encouraging students to express themselves, pose questions, and explore the vast world of literature. His commitment extends beyond the school grounds, manifesting in a dedication to ongoing professional development and staying abreast of the latest educational advancements. In 2023, he won a Junior League of Dallas Grant for Innovative Teaching and earned an “Exemplary” rating through Dallas ISD’s Teacher Excellence Initiative and Distinguished Teacher Review process. Mr. Estes is a seasoned educator with an unwavering passion for cultivating a love of learning among his students. A perpetual learner, Estes holds a Bachelor of Arts in Rhetoric and Writing and a Master of Education in Educational Administration from the University of Texas at Austin.

Briana Harry is currently the science instructional lead teacher at Skyline High School. Harry has been an educator for 10 years, all within Dallas ISD. She began her teaching career at Dr. L. G. Pinkston Sr. High School where she served as a Biology teacher, science department chair, AVID Site team member, volleyball assistant, basketball, and track and field coach, as well as head volleyball coach. In 2020, Harry began teaching Biology at Skyline High School and providing instructional support to the Science and Health department. Harry also contributes to the campus through her support of the testing department, helping to ensure a positive and stress-free testing environment. She strongly believes all students deserve the best education, no matter their background or current circumstances; to that end, she delivers innovative lessons to challenge and engage her students. Harry holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Clark Atlanta University and a Master of Education in Kinesiology from Dallas Baptist University.