12 Nov 2009
Shirley Ison-Newsome is the Executive Director for the Southeast Elementary Learning Community
DALLAS–Dallas Independent School District Executive Director for the Southeast Elementary Learning Community, Shirley Ison-Newsome, has been selected as a recipient of the National Alliance of Black School Educators (NABSE) Phenomenal Women's Award.
The Phenomenal Women's Awards Program recognizes "phenomenal" women in their communities and fields of study. The NABSE Phenomenal Women's Awards are open to all female members of NABSE who have made significant contributions to education. The awards will be presented on Thursday, Nov. 19, at the NABSE opening night reception in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Ison-Newsome has served in Dallas ISD for 34 years. She was the district's first Chief of Staff. During her early years in the education field, Ison-Newsome was principal at the former Harry Stone Middle School, now Harry Stone Montessori Academy, and David W. Carter High School. She was also the district's first Dean of Instruction while working at Lincoln High School, and later served as Dean of Instruction at W. E. Greiner Exploratory Arts Academy. Ison-Newsome has served in other central administration positions in the district.
"Dallas ISD principals and their teachers are no longer focusing on teaching to the test but rather creating academically challenging assignments that will better prepare students for college and the world of work. Dallas ISD has become an exemplar for urban schools as an effort based district that focuses on high achievement for all students."
-Institute for Learning
University of Pittsburgh
June 2009