Dr. Buddy Dunworth for Denton ISD

Great teachers deserve a great start.

This morning I had the opportunity to attend Denton ISD’s First Year Teacher Academy, where we welcomed educators who are beginning their teaching careers.

There was an incredible energy in the room as these new teachers prepared for the exciting journey ahead.

One of the highlights for me was meeting the mentor teachers who have volunteered to walk alongside them throughout their first year. Having experienced educators ready to encourage, answer questions, and share their wisdom is one of the best investments we can make in our newest teachers.

Teaching is one of the most rewarding and challenging professions there is. Seeing Denton ISD intentionally invest in both our first-year teachers and the mentors supporting them speaks volumes about our commitment to excellence.

To our newest educators: Welcome to Denton ISD! We’re excited you’re here.

And to our mentor teachers: Thank you for helping shape not only great teachers, but the future of our students.

Here’s to a fantastic school year!

There’s something special about seeing a community come together for kids.

Today at the Denton ISD Back-to-School Fair, every backpack handed out, every haircut given, every question answered, and every volunteer serving reminded me that education is about so much more than what happens inside the classroom.

When schools, businesses, nonprofits, churches, and volunteers all come together with one purpose, incredible things happen. We remove barriers, create opportunities, and help students walk into the first day of school with confidence.

Thank you to everyone who donated, volunteered, organized, and supported today’s event. Your efforts will make a real difference for thousands of Denton ISD students and families.

The first bell hasn’t even rung yet, and our community is already showing what it means to put students first.

Here’s to a fantastic 2026–2027 school year!

Denton ISD
Greg Petolick for Denton ISD
Tanya Wright For Denton ISD

What a great way to kick off a new school year!

This morning I had the opportunity to attend the Denton ISD Back-to-School Fair at LaGrone Academy, and the turnout was incredible.

It was amazing to see thousands of students and families connecting with the resources they need to start the school year strong.

A huge thank you to the countless volunteers, community partners, and Denton ISD staff who invested so many hours behind the scenes to make this event possible. From free backpacks and school supplies to haircuts, community resources, and enrollment assistance, so much planning and heart went into serving our families today.

Events like this are a great reminder that preparing students for success takes an entire community working together.

Here’s to an amazing 2026-2027 school year. Let’s make it a great one!

Denton ISD

Tonight, Trustee Greg Petolick and I had the privilege of attending the 2026 North Texas Positive Athlete Awards in Frisco.

It was an inspiring evening celebrating student-athletes who lead with character, integrity, perseverance, and a positive attitude, both on the field and in their communities.

A special congratulations to Olivia Puente of Denton High School, who was recognized as the North Texas Positive Athlete Award Winner for Soccer/Cross Country! Olivia’s accomplishments extend far beyond athletics.

From serving as a team captain and maintaining an outstanding GPA to mentoring younger students, volunteering in the community, and leading by example, she truly embodies what it means to be a Positive Athlete.

As school board trustees, evenings like this are a wonderful reminder that success isn’t measured only by wins and championships. It’s also measured by the character our students demonstrate, the way they encourage others, and the positive impact they make every day.

Congratulations, Olivia! You make Denton High School and all of Denton ISD incredibly proud. Keep representing our district with excellence both on and off the field!

Greg Petolick for Denton ISD
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