Dallas Bright Futures has awarded five high school seniors graduating from Dallas ISD each a $5,000 scholarship.
The Monty J. and Sarah Z. Bennett Dallas ISD Scholarship, offered by Dallas Bright Futures, aims to assist Dallas ISD students in transitioning to higher education. Successful applicants must demonstrate financial need, academic excellence, and active engagement within their community. To demonstrate their exemplary fit, applicants were asked to write essays highlighting their scholastic accomplishments, passion for learning, dedication to community service, and leadership potential.
The selection committee invited semifinalists to interview for the scholarship opportunity in late April.
“It’s truly inspiring to witness the abundance of talent and ambition within our community, and we are honored to play a positive role in supporting these deserving students as they pursue their dreams,” the Bennetts said in a news release.
After the semifinalists were interviewed, five students were chosen who best encapsulated the intent of Dallas Bright Futures.
The recipients hailed from Dallas ISD’s Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts, Irma Lerma Rangel Youth Women’s Leadership School, North Dallas High School, School for the Talented & Gifted at Townview, and Trinidad Garza Early College High School. They boasted accomplishments in academics, sports, robotics, the performing arts, and more.
These gifted scholars have received various accolades throughout their high school journey, including being recognized as academic decathletes, AP scholars, National Honor Society members, and student council members. Recipients include the district champion in girls’ singles tennis, an Outstanding Leadership Class award winner, and a National African American Recognition awardee.
Scholarship winners can use the $5,000 award to help pay for tuition, books, living costs, and other college-related expenses.
“Monty and I hold a deep love for education and our community,” Sarah Z. Bennett said. “Our shared commitment to making a positive difference has always brought us together.”
“Coming from humble beginnings myself, I know the profound impact of academic dedication and discipline. Equally important were the financial opportunities tied to academics that helped me along the way. I was excited to learn about all of our finalists’ passions and dreams, and I am optimistic about the bright futures awaiting each of them,” she said.
According to the Texas Education Agency (TEA) accountability report for the 2021-2022 school year, roughly 85% of Dallas ISD students were designated economically disadvantaged. Of those, some 59% of qualifying high school students were considered college, career, or military-ready.
Such figures show significant overlap between students who are academically prepared to pursue higher education and those who are economically unable to do so. The Bennetts started their scholarship fund with these students in mind.
Disclosure: Monty J. Bennett is the publisher of The Dallas Express. Sarah Zubiate Bennett is on The Dallas Express’ board of directors and host of The Dallas Express Podcast.