Dallas ISD students are stepping beyond traditional classroom roles to document and promote the district’s massive school renovation projects as summer bond marketing interns.
These student ambassadors craft social media campaigns, plan events, and conduct interviews with stakeholders while helping to preserve the historical significance of campuses undergoing modernization through the district’s bond program.
“They help bridge the past and future by supporting messaging that honors the legacy of historic campuses while promoting the modern upgrades made possible through the bond program,” said Adam Bennett, bond marketing director.
The students document renovation stories at historically significant schools, preserving institutional memory while celebrating new opportunities.
The internship program serves a dual purpose: providing real-world marketing experience while strengthening community connections.
“Their work enhances transparency and engagement—critical components in ensuring community support for ongoing investment in public education,” Bennett explained.
Sage D., a rising senior at W.T. White High School, discovered the program offered more than construction basics.
“When I thought about bond, I thought, ‘Oh, it’s going to be like construction and trying to find contractors,’ and I was partly correct,” he said.
Sage and fellow interns manage multiple campaigns for bond projects, including an annual report covering eight new district schools. The creative aspects particularly appeal to him, from designing flyers to developing outreach materials.
But relationships matter most to Sage.
“It was an instant bond. They genuinely care, and the energy they release can be felt,” he said about his supervisors.
“This internship provides valuable real-world experience in marketing, communications, public relations, and civic engagement,” Bennett noted. Students develop skills in project management, content creation, and community storytelling applicable to various career paths.
The work yields tangible results that motivate both interns and staff.
“Whether it’s seeing a new school open its doors for the first time or hearing a student talk about how a modern lab space has changed their learning experience, interns get to see the results of their contributions reflected in real community transformation,” Bennett added.
Plans include partnering with industry professionals for mentorship and creating presentation opportunities with district leaders.
“Ultimately, we want every intern to leave with the skills, confidence, and inspiration to continue using their voice to uplift their community, inside and beyond the classroom,” Bennett said.