Dallas ISD News: Dallas ISD News Briefing: Dec. 19

NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release: Dec. 19, 2025

DALLAS - Superintendent Stephanie S. Elizalde, Ed.D., shares a holiday message celebrating the dedication of Dallas ISD teachers, staff, students, and families. This season invites us to appreciate the accomplishments we've made, uplift one another, and move into the new year with gratitude and purpose while reflecting on the collective efforts that make a lasting difference in our schools and community.

Click the image below to watch a special message from Superintendent Elizalde:

For Spanish, click here.

The Golden Bears make a historic fifth consecutive state appearance
South Oak Cliff High School's Golden Bears are making history as the one of only eight football teams in Texas to reach the state championship game for five consecutive seasons. The team will head to Arlington this afternoon ahead of the UIL 5A Division II State Championship, where they face Richmond Randle High School. The game starts at 11 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 20, at AT&T Stadium.

The 85th Dr Pepper holiday invitational prepares for tip off
Dallas ISD will host the 85th annual Dr Pepper Holiday Invitational from Dec. 29-31, featuring 154 teams competing across high school and middle school divisions. New this year is a 12-team Platinum Division for both girls and boys, in addition to the traditional Gold and Silver brackets. Games will be played at 10 district venues, with all championship matchups set for Dec. 31 at Ellis Davis Field House. For more details and to purchase tournament passes, click here.