James Madison High

SOUTH DALLAS LEADERS URGE MAVERICKS TO STAY DOWNTOWN

Elected officials, pastors, and business leaders gathered at City Hall Thursday, calling on the team to remain in the urban core and strengthen Dallas’ broader economic future.

https://dallasexpress.com/city/south-dallas-community-leaders-urge-mavericks-to-reconsider-proposed-move-to-far-north-dallas/

🌟 Hall of Fame Highlight 🌟
Established to honor excellence and leadership, the African American Education Archives and History Program’s Hall of Fame celebrates individuals who have shaped African American education in Dallas County since 1902. Join us in the weeks ahead as we highlight their contributions and enduring influence on our community.

✨2005 Inductee | Dr. Joseph L. Atkins

An inductee into the African American Education Archives and History Program Hall of Fame in 2005, Joseph Atkins, a Dallas native, became a catalyst for change whose courage helped open the doors of higher education to thousands of Black students who followed in his footsteps.

After graduating from Lincoln High School in June 1954, Atkins applied for admission to the University of North Texas but was denied entry because of segregation. His determination to challenge this injustice sparked a landmark civil rights lawsuit that led a federal court to order the university to end its segregationist policies. As a result of his efforts, the University of North Texas became one of the first colleges and universities in the South to desegregate.

Unable to attend UNT at the time, Atkins earned a bachelor’s degree in English and journalism from the University of Texas at El Paso. In 1967, he returned to the University of North Texas to earn a Master of Education degree.

In December 2004, the University of North Texas concluded its yearlong celebration of the 50th anniversary of desegregation by honoring Atkins as a “barrier-breaking alumnus” and awarding him an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree.

Atkins’ trailblazing legacy extended far beyond higher education. From 1963 to 1974, he taught at James Madison High School and North Dallas High School, where he inspired generations of students to become engaged, well-rounded citizens and helped prepare many for college and future success. His commitment to education, equality, and opportunity continues to leave a lasting impact on the Dallas community and beyond.

📍 Come visit the Educators Hall of Fame exhibit at the African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave., Dallas — open Tuesday–Saturday.

🎷 Volunteer Call — Join the volunteer team for the 9th Riverfront Jazz Festival!

📅 September 4–6, 2026
📍 Historic Fair Park

Apply online today: tbaalriverfrontjazzfestival.org or scan the QR code to sign up!

📖 ️ Intern at one of Washington, D.C.'s most exciting museums!

Our museum provides a dynamic learning environment and access to supportive supervisors who help interns reach their educational and professional goals. Interns can gain practical museum skills and program development experience in various traditional and non-traditional museum careers.

"I’ve been very grateful for opportunities to explore my interest related to museum work including curation, collecting and museum education." - Jamie M., 2025

Learn more and apply before June 15: https://s.si.edu/434KJ4x

🌟 Hall of Fame Highlight 🌟
Established to honor excellence and leadership, the African American Education Archives and History Program’s Hall of Fame celebrates individuals who have shaped African American education in Dallas County since 1902. Join us in the weeks ahead as we highlight their contributions and enduring influence on our community.

✨2006 Inductee | Dr. Billy E. Dade

An African American Education Archives and History Program Hall of Fame recipient (2006), Dr. Dade was born in 1913 in the farming community of Mount Vernon, Texas. He completed his bachelor’s degree at Bishop College in Marshall, Texas, followed by a master’s degree from Prairie View A&M University, and later earned his Doctor of Education from the University of North Texas in Denton.

Dr. Dade was a defining figure in education within the Dallas Independent School District (DISD), dedicating more than 50 years of service. His career began in a one-room school in Marshall, Texas, where he served as the sole teacher. He later taught mathematics at Julia C. Frazier Elementary School and both mathematics and Latin at Booker T. Washington High School in Dallas.

Throughout his career, Dr. Dade advanced into multiple leadership roles in DISD, serving as principal of Frederick Douglass, Paul L. Dunbar, John Henry Brown, and C.F. Carr Elementary Schools, as well as Pearl C. Anderson Middle School. Alongside his work in K–12 education, he also contributed to higher education as an adjunct instructor at El Centro College, Bishop College, Prairie View A&M University, and Paul Quinn College.

Recognized widely for his impact, Dr. Dade received numerous honors over his lifetime. He is remembered by thousands of former students, colleagues, and community members as an exceptional educator and enduring source of inspiration. In tribute to his legacy, the Dallas Independent School District named Billy Earl Dade Middle School in his honor.

Learn more about his impact: https://vimeo.com/866582025

📍 Come visit the Educators Hall of Fame exhibit at the African American Museum, 3536 Grand Ave., Dallas — open Tuesday–Saturday.

🚨 We’re Hiring! 🚨

Dallas Water Utilities is hosting a Hiring Event on Tuesday, May 20 from 9AM–2PM at 8915 Adlora Lane, Dallas, TX 75238.

📣 We have CDL and non-CDL job openings including:
✅ Crew Leaders
✅ Equipment Operators
✅ Utility Inspectors
✅ Technicians & Supervisors

Enjoy great benefits, good pay, and career growth with the City of Dallas!

📲 Apply in 4 easy steps:

Visit: http://dallascityhall.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/CODCareers

Select “Refine Your Search”

Enter “Wastewater Collection”

Apply "Complete Your Application(s)"

Our next Women’s History Month spotlight shines on none other than the Honorable Diane Ragsdale whose impact on South Dallas and District 7 continues to be felt today.

From 1984 to 1991, Ms. Ragsdale served as a Dallas City Councilmember and Deputy Mayor Pro Tem, where she fought relentlessly for economic justice, equitable housing, healthcare access, and civil rights. During her tenure, she led efforts to eliminate food deserts, improve public safety, and increase investment in underserved neighborhoods. Her leadership played a pivotal role in advancing policies that prioritized marginalized communities and laid the foundation for lasting change in South Dallas.

Beyond her time in office, Ms. Ragsdale has remained a steadfast advocate for progress. As the driving force behind the South Dallas Fair Park ICDC she has transformed neighborhoods by creating affordable homeownership opportunities, supporting small business growth, and fostering community revitalization efforts. Through her vision and dedication, South Dallas has seen new housing developments, business expansion, and increased resources for residents.

Her tireless work ensures that the voices of South Dallas residents are heard and that the community continues to receive the investment and opportunities it deserves. Ms. Ragsdale’s legacy is one of leadership, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to justice.

We honor her today and always!