Dr. Buddy Dunworth for Denton ISD

It was a beautiful day for the 36th Annual United Way of Denton County People Helping People Golf Tournament!

I had the opportunity to spend the morning volunteering, meeting some incredible people, and watching our community come together to support an organization that does so much good across Denton County. From checking in golfers to visiting with sponsors and volunteers, it was another reminder that when people work together, amazing things happen.

As a Denton ISD Trustee, I see every month how the success of our students is connected to the strength of our community. Many of the families we serve rely on the programs and partnerships that United Way helps make possible.

Supporting United Way is another way we can invest in children, families, veterans, mental health initiatives, and neighbors who need a helping hand.

And yes…while there were plenty of golfers and great conversations, the unofficial MVP of the day may have been the friendly cat hanging around the putting green welcoming everyone!

Grateful to serve in both capacities and proud to be part of a county that believes in taking care of one another.

Six graduations. Six different campuses. Thousands of proud moments.

As a first year school board member, getting to attend each Denton ISD graduation ceremony was truly special. Every campus had its own personality, traditions, and energy, but the one thing they all shared was an overwhelming sense of pride and hope for the future.

Watching students cross the stage while families, teachers, administrators, and staff celebrated around them was a powerful reminder of how much good is happening across Denton ISD every single day.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026. Your community is proud of you and excited for what comes next.

645 students. Dozens of careers. Endless possibilities.

Friday’s McMath Middle School Career Expo was a fantastic reminder of the power of connecting students with real people and real career experiences.

Students had the opportunity to visit booths, ask questions, participate in hands-on activities, and learn from professionals representing a wide variety of career paths.

I enjoyed being there as part of NTX Training Institute and sharing information about healthcare careers and phlebotomy.

A huge thank you to the counselors, staff, volunteers, and community partners who helped bring this event together.

Experiences like this help students connect classroom learning to future goals and remind them there are many paths to success.

The Denton Public School Foundation has always believed in the power of teachers and what they bring to the classroom. In 1995-1996, we awarded our first grants to teachers for a total of $3995, and over the next 30 years, we have awarded $2,128,088 in Grants to Teachers and Staff Scholarships!
Last night, the DPSF Board of Directors voted to add a new program, with initial funding of $15,000, to support those entering the teaching profession for the first time, with an automatic $150 grant.
The DPSF Directors also voted to continue our New Hire Grant Program, allocating proceeds from Lucky Lou's Denton Taco Fest and adding additional funds to create a pool of $15,000. This is an application-based grant program for those hired by Denton ISD over the summer who miss our full grant program in the spring.

This morning I had the honor of attending the dedication ceremony for the newly named Jeannene Abney Fine Arts Center at Ryan High School.

For decades, Mrs. Abney has impacted countless students, staff, and families through her passion for theatre, fine arts, and education.

Her influence reaches far beyond the stage, helping students build confidence, find their voice, and express themselves through the arts.

The morning was filled with heartfelt speeches, special performances, memories, laughter, and more than a few emotional moments.

You could truly feel the respect and admiration so many people have for her and the incredible impact she has had on Denton ISD and the Ryan High community.

What an incredibly deserving honor for an extraordinary educator.

Congratulations, Mrs. Abney, on a legacy that will continue inspiring students for generations to come. 

🎭❤️💙❤️💙🎭
Denton ISD

Last night I had the opportunity to attend the McMath Middle School Dance Showcase, and what a fun evening it was!

The students did an outstanding job showcasing everything they’ve learned this year through the middle school dance program. It was exciting to see the confidence, energy, teamwork, and talent on display throughout the performances.

A huge thank you to Miss Stevener for the passion and dedication she pours into this program. What started at McMath Middle School has now expanded to two additional middle schools, a testament to the impact and success of the program.

Also, a big thank you to the Denton High Fillies for coming out to perform and support the students. The connection and teamwork between these schools is truly special and such a great example of Denton ISD supporting students across all grade levels.

Great job to everyone involved for an entertaining and memorable evening!
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Denton ISD
McMath Middle School

Yesterday I had the chance to attend one of my favorite events of the year at McMath Middle School, The Flaming Tiger Cook-Out!

This incredible tradition is led by the AVLS students, Miss Tutt, and her amazing team, who plan the event, prep the food, cook, serve, and clean up while treating the McMath staff to lunch during Teacher Appreciation Week.

What I love most about this event is seeing students shine through service, teamwork, responsibility, and pride in what they accomplish together. The students worked incredibly hard and did an amazing job.

Events like this are a reminder that great schools are built through relationships, opportunities, and a whole lot of heart.
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Denton ISD
McMath Middle School

Yesterday I had the opportunity to attend the Ryan High School Walk of Champions Awards Ceremony.

It was an incredible celebration recognizing students for their hard work, leadership, accomplishments, and dedication both inside and outside the classroom. Events like this are a great reminder of the talent, character, and future leadership we have right here in Denton ISD.

Congratulations to all of the students who were recognized, along with the teachers, sponsors, coaches, families, and staff members who helped support them along the way. Raider Nation has a lot to be proud of!

A special shoutout to my nephew, Cayden Skaggs, who was honored twice during the ceremony! Proud uncle moment for sure.

💙❤️💙❤️

Denton ISD

One of my favorite ways to start the day is joining the Wrangler Fist Bump crew at Sam Houston Elementary!

These dads show up each month to welcome students with smiles, encouragement, high fives, fist bumps, and positive energy as they start their school day. It always brings me joy to be part of it whenever I can.

It was also great having the Denton High cheerleaders there helping bring even more excitement and school spirit to the morning!

One moment that really stuck with me was hearing a parent tell another parent how much they appreciated the energy we give the kids in the morning. Sometimes the smallest moments, a smile, greeting, or fist bump, can make a big difference in a child’s day.

Always great seeing familiar faces from the staff, students, and parents at Sam Houston!

Denton ISD
Sam Houston Elementary, Denton ISD

Tonight was a special evening celebrating the incredible Denton ISD retirees as they begin their next great adventure.

After years of serving students, families, coworkers, and our community, these dedicated individuals are beginning a well-earned new chapter.

As a retired Denton ISD educator myself, this event always means a little extra to me. I know the heart, sacrifice, and commitment that come with serving in public education.

Congratulations to all of our retirees, and thank you for the difference you made in the lives of so many students and families.

Your legacy will continue long after the final bell.