28 Jul 2009
The Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services Selects District
for Commitment to the Blind or Visually Impaired
DALLAS—The Dallas Independent School District has been chosen as the 2009 Business of the Year by the Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services Division for Blind Services. This marks the second time the district has received the award which recognizes outstanding businesses for their demonstrated commitment and emphasis on employing people who are blind or visually impaired.
"This is a special award, and we take great pride in accepting it," said Superintendent of Schools Michael Hinojosa. "The Dallas Independent School District works closely with the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services to ensure that visually impaired employees are treated fairly and receive the appropriate ADA accommodations. We are honored by this recognition."
Award recipients must demonstrate a welcoming, inclusive attitude toward employees and customers with disabilities and demonstrate positive hiring practices in employing individuals who are blind or visually impaired. The physical environment of the business location or facility should meet or exceed all Texas Accessibility Standards.
Dallas ISD was selected as the large business (more than 100 employees) recipient for the Dallas region which includes all of Dallas County, Collin, Cooke, Grayson, Fannin, Hunt, Rockwall, Kaufman, Denton and Ellis counties.
The award will be presented during a breakfast ceremony beginning at 8 a.m., August 4, on the Sixth Floor in the Flag Room at City Hall, 1500 Marilla.
The Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services works in partnership with Texans with disabilities and families with children who have developmental delays to improve the quality of their lives and to enable their full participation in society.
We believe that every student can perform at or above grade level and graduate college and workforce ready to compete in the global economy" is the first core belief adopted by the Dallas ISD Board of Trustees.
For a complete list of core beliefs, visit the Web site at http://www.dallasisd.org/about/vision.htm.