Carter Cowboys Volume 1 Issue II by Carter Chronicle

David W. Carter High School

CARTER’S STUDENT

PRINCIPAL MR. TYSON

EDITOR MR. MCKENZIE

NOVEMBER 2025

Student Editors

Destiny Hernandez

Lyric-Li

Thomas

Audrey Ford

Paola

Torres

CARTER COWBOY Newspa

Carter had it’s first Pep Rally of the year!

The excitement was in the air and all of the students at David W. Carter High School entered the gym. Up to this point our football team needed to know that the entire campus supports them and is behind them 100%. We had so much fun at the pep rally said Audrey Ford. Nakira stated that she cannot wait for the next Pep Rally

The band was really amazing. The energy and the sound was really cool. When the band played everyone gave them their attention including the teachers. It was phenomenal.

JROTC Color Guard

The JROTC Color opening up for the first pep rally of the year. They are always so precise with their movements. The team is from left to right, Lyric-Li Thomas, Addison Park-Woods, Christian R, and Maria. They presented the colors where the senior class president sun so great the national anthem , she did an amazing job. Excellent job to all those that were involved in making this peprally a success. We cannot wait for the next pep rally.

VOLUME 1, ISSUE 2 / 2025 20 OCTOBER AND NOVEMBER 2025

THE CARTER NEWSPAPER

A Monthly Newsletter by Destiny Hernandez and Lyric-ly Thomas

INSIDE THIS ISSUE.

Pep Rally

Daivd W. Carter First of the Year Pep Rally

Meet the Football Team

Meet the 2025-2026 David W. Carter Football Team

Meet the Auxillaries

David W. Carter has different programs designed for student interest. Check out some of the extracuricullar programs at Carter.

Meet the Students of DWC

David W. Carter High School provides oportunities for real world appliction. Meet students involved. in a program designed to prepare them for the real world.

DAVID W. CARTER HIGH SCHOOL

David W. Carter is the best school in Dallas, Texas. I am excited to be a student here at Carter and I am also excited to be apart of the Dance Team. I like the energy that we bring to the game and I really like to dance and hang out with my friends.

By Paola Torres

David W Carter Student Newspaper

The Carter “M.O.B” Football team

By Lyric-Li Thomas

With the first win of the season and the start to district, the Carter cowboys seemed to send out a message to their next opposing teams Last Friday, September 23, 2025 the team played against the Wilmer Hutchins Eagles at the Eagles Stadium. The scoreboard struck seven then 10 Leaving the eagles, fans, family, and friends devastated as the Cowboys scored over 7 touchdowns and ran 153 yards. Some players even stated the score 55 was done for a teammate and “brother” who passed in 2024 during the month of February. Keymere McCriston wore 55 during his time on the field and is deeply missed.

Long Live 55

After such a great performance since the season has started we wanted to get some statements from players, head coach, and our first year varsity coach and see how the team felt and where they could improve

For the offense we asked Jayden Lacy, #4 who plays quarterback and wide receiver. The questions for Mr. lacy, How did you feel about transitioning into quarterback after the starting quarterback was injured during second quarter? Lacy said, “ I felt down, I feel more comfortable at wide receiver, but when my teammate went down, I knew I had to replace his role and take the responsibility for my team ”

Our school’s football team did a phenomenal performance against Wilmer Hutch 55-14!

We asked Coach Valentine a couple of questions, as a first year varsity coach. How do you feel about fridays night game? What are the future plans? “My First year at David W Carter High has been a blessing so far. As far as last fridays game, it felt great getting the first win under your belt. I’m looking forward to many more in the near future. It’s impressive when you can score 50+ points on just 28 plays of offense All of the coaching staff was in sync and we are looking forward to carry that over against North Dallas. As far as future plans are concerned, I am most excited about obtaining my Doctorates degree. Soon enough, I will be referred to as Dr. Valentine.”- Coach Valentine

The Carter Football Team

Now, as far as junior varsity, they’re a pretty great team as well. The season has ended and our teams are ready for that next step. That next step is state champions. It is a privilege to play on varsity. Both the JV and the Varsity team had a great season and both will work towards being State Champions next season. Job well done to all graduating seniors. .

Next, year our players are hungry for more. They not only want to go deep in the playoff buts want to win a state championship. We end the season with inspiration, and dedication to prepare for the next season. This off season, the players will commit to training, lifting weights, and conditioning. Everyone, including the coaches are excited.

BY LYRIC-LI THOMAS

Meet the David W. Carter High School Band

The David W Carter Band continues to perform at high levels. These students continue to shine no matter where they perform.

Thomas Taylor Snare drums Senior 2025

Being in band provides students with the opportunity to grow. First, students can build strong friendships. Having a friend and a group to belong to can be a great outlet for students and creates a close-knit community where students learn to work together and support each other. Next, being in band improves discipline and helps

Learning Through Play and Exploration

Combining

fun and education to help students grow.

with time management These skills are important to the development of each and every last one of us. Being a student here at Carter requires discipline, and time management Interestingly, Thomas Taylor (2025) suggests that being apart of the band also can boosts and improve academic success. Because he’s in band, that is a good incentive to keep his grades up So, don’t just think of the music when you think about band.

BY LYRIC-LI THOMAS

Be sure to think about all of the benefits that being in band can add to the life of each and every student One more point that we want to make Being in band enhances creativity. Playing music encourages self-expression and allows students to be creative in a structured environment. Band also builds confidence and provides performance opportunities and opportunities for growth. If you are looking for a great organization to join while attending school here at Carter - join the CC Marching Band Join the Band

Meet the David W. Carter High School Band

David W Carter High School Band continues to be one of the best high school bands in the area. Great job to Mr. Roussell and his team.

Over the last two months the band has really been busy When we say busy we mean really busy. Think about it. Homecoming was a big success. The band was there and did an outstanding job. The football games - the band was there to provide the spark that sometimes our team needed to win. We all see the band!

What’s Next

Winning is not easy!

But what do the band members do behind the scene. They practice, prepare, and compete Our band has participated in several competitions over the last two months. And here’s the good news! Are your ready for it! No, you are not ready! They won every single event that they participated in The UIL event we scored a 1. The battle of the bands, the CC Marching Band came in 1 place. Not just once but three different times Even though all our band does is win! What we like about the band members, they are all done to Earth along with their sponsors. David W. Carter’s Band has a great thing going and as a campus we appreciate their work and salute them for their dedication.

BY DESTINY HERNANDEZ

So, what’s next? Can you join the band? Would you like to join the band There is a very special spot for you

Trumpets and Flutes Section

Meet the Cheerleaders

The heart of David W Carter High School is the Cheerleaders We have the best cheerleaders in the City of Dallas. The cheerleaders are in intricate part in everything that we do on campus The group is very diverse and each cheerleader brings their own experience and training to the team.

“Cheering

Takes Dedication”

The cheerleaders are taking it to the next level. First, the team has been invited to New York for the Thanksgiving parade Be sure to tune in as our campus Daviid W. Carter High School will be in attendance.

Taking it to the Next Level

Invited to New York

In addition, our cheerleaders, under the direction of Mrs. Taylor-Smith, continue to hit more advanced stunts and pyramids In addition, the team continues to improve jumps, tumbling, and choreography. During the homecoming peprally the cheerleaders were a hit with the crowd The routines are very creative and difficult. Also, the David W. Carter Cheerleaders are demonstrating stronger leadership, teamwork, and school spirit

This semester we can expect for our cheerleaders to compete at higher levels at the regionals, and state. It would be amazing for our cheerleaders to make it to nationals We are excited to travel to New York for Thanksgiving. When the bar rises, our cheerleaders rise even higher. As a school we are pushing higher, flying further, and our cheerleaders are taking it to the next level. Way to go team!

BY DESTINY HERNANDEZ

A Warm Welcoming from the Carter Calicos

If we could put music into words we would to introduce the David W. Carter Calicos. These dancers are dynamic, exciting, and this squad represents dedication, athleticism, and school pride

BY DESTINY HERNANDEZ

A’sanaDerough Calicodancer Junior-2027

Let’s Go Carter Cowboys

Combining fun and dance to help students achieve new heights!

The calicos bring intensity to every performance and pride to every single game Whether they’re hitting new student sequences, leading the crowd or helping to set the the tone for game day. The calicos elevate every moment. Keep performing and moving forward and job well done. Meet the Calicos

The Calicos are a team built on spirit, strength, and standout energy Even though the Calicos may sound like the title of a cheer team introduction, or a hype slogan it’s far from that. The Calicos are know for sharp motions, clean stunts, and unstoppable teamwork

CARTER

Special Shout Out

Homecoming Week Homecoming Week

Homecoming at David W Carter High School is very special The students really show their school spirit This week is a very special week for David W Carter High School Serenity says what makes this week so special are the traditions that

each student holds near and dear to their hearts Carter is a school whose roots go way back to the 60s and it is second nature to show school pride during homecoming week In addition to all of the festivities, the students really enjoy

being able to dress up and show off their invididual style Each student represents homecoming in their own unique way Melvin states that homecoming remnds him of how fast time flies. He states that this is his senior year

He is very excited to spend this homecoming week with all of his friends and those that have made his high school experience amazing and great. We are encouraging all students and staff members to participate in homecoming week This week is a great time to show off your school spirit and of course get of of dress code. Check out some of the pictures taken during homecoming week. These are just some of the pictures taken. We took a lot of pictures so if your picture is not in the newspaper please reach out to a member of our news team for your photo By Destiny Hernandez

Photos by Destiny Hernandez and Mr. McKenzie

David W. Carter

Special

Education Work-Study Program

The work study program is a school-based initiative designed to provide students with real-world job experiences while still being a student at school. In addition, students are able to connect with a mentor and work towards their own personal long term goals. This year, David W Carter High School, under the Direction of Mr Johnson has started the Special Education Work-Study program which provides students with the opportunity to receive real-world job training and experience

Mr. Johnson states that every student has the right to an education and the right to succeed in life. He believes that the work study program will provide students with the opportunity to explore career options and learn hands on skills that will be necessary for life beyond high school.

Work Study Program Sponsored by the Special Education Department

Ensuring everyone has a chance to succeed!

Specifically, this work study program is designed to provide opportunities for all students that are served on our campus Students are taught different employable skills that will foster a sense of belonging and are designed to help students become a contributing member of society in whatever capacity they so decide. This program allows students to spend part of their day here at Carter learning skills that go above and beyond the classroom. Many of these skills can lead to employment upon graduation.

We say congratulations to Mr Johnson, the special education department and all those that are apart of the work study program. We solute you and congratulate all of the students that are apart of the work study program “ We will continue thriving for the best. ” - Ms. Taylor

By Lyric-Li Thomas

Assistant Principal Mr. Johnson

David W. Carter Special Education Work-Study Program

Lyric-Li took the initiative to speak with Mr. Johnson’s coworker, Ms. Taylor, to gain a deeper understanding of the Work-Study Program. She asked thoughtful, detailed questions about its purpose and impact on students. Ms. Taylor explained that the program provides hands-on job experience while helping students build responsibility, confidence, time-management, and communication skills. Through this conversation, Lyric-Li gained meaningful insight into how the program truly benefits and prepares students for future success.

Ms. Taylor explains that Assistant Principal Mr Johnson has been an extremely valuable asset to the school program According to her, what truly sets Mr. Johnson apart is his ability to build meaningful connections with the scholars He ensures that each student feels seen, supported, and a genuine sense of belonging By fostering trust and encouragement, he motivates them to work diligently and take pride in their growth Ms Taylor emphasizes that he consistently teaches students the importance of developing strong, employable skills that will benefit them long after they leave the program.

Work Study Program Sponsored by the Special Education Department

Increasing the civil society!

In addition to serving students at David W. Carter High School, the Work-Study Program has an offcampus location that offers more practical experiences Ms Taylor responded that many of the participating teachers are from the Special Education Department and have a strong passion for what they do when asked why staff members still support and contribute to the program She revealed that the pupils always remind them of the reasons for their career choice. Staff members remain motivated when they are able to assist students in obtaining and succeeding in occupations like dishwashing, dry cleaning, and facility cleaning since they can plainly observe the advantages and greater independence these experiences develop.

I truly admire the work Mr. Johnson, Ms. Taylor, and the Special Education team are doing for the students. Their dedication creates meaningful opportunities that help every student build confidence and career skills. This program prepares them for life after high school and allows them to see a bigger world where they can succeed independently.

Assistant Principal Mr. Johnson

CARTER COWBOYS Newspaper

Teacher of the Year

The “Teacher of the Year” is a very prestigious award given to a teacher that goes above and beyond the duty of a teacher. That duty is to ensure that students learn at a high level, and have a major impact of teachers, staff and community. But, like we mentioned earlier the teacher of the year award goes beyond that.

Dr. Taylor-Mallard, a recent graduate of her doctorate degree, has received the esteemed title of “Teacher of the Year” for the 2025-2026 school year.

Dr. Taylor-Mallard is honored to have received this award and states that she will continue to impact students, faculty, staff, and community is a positive way.

Congratulations Dr. Mallard and keep up the great and outstanding work.

By Paola Torres

CARTER COWBOYS Newspaper

New Teacher Teacher of the Year

Professor Powell, a Social Studies Teacher, at David W. Carter High School is recognized as the “New Teacher” Teacher of the Year recipient for the 2025-2026 school year. Mr. Powell has a lot of experience coming from the military into education. He really loves his students and works tirelessly ensuring that each student meets the expectations on the US History STAAR Test.

Mr. Powell states that he is most humbled by the recognition and will make a commitment to continue to strive for a pursue excellence.

On behalf of the staff we say congratulations to Mr. Powell and keep up the amazing work.

By Destiny Hernandez

CARTER COWBOYS Newspaper

Staff Member of the Year

If we could post a picture of what the staff member of the year would like - you would see a picture of Mrs. Johnson. Mrs. Johnson is dynamic, helpful, organized, has school spirit, and she loves David W. Carter High School - the staff and the students.

Congratulations to Mrs. Johnson for obtaining the prestigious staff of the year of award for the 2025-2026 school year.

Mrs. Johnson’s influence goes beyond the front office. She motivates and encourages everyone to hold themselves accountable and to take the necessary steps to reach the next level.

Also, if you know anything about Mrs. Johnson, she is a big fan of the Carter Cowboys Basketball Team. You will hear her on the announcements inviting the faculty and staff to games and celebrating victories and wins.

We say congratulations Mrs. Johnson and job well done.

By Audrey Ford

CARTER COWBOYS Newspaper

Connecting Our Staff With Community

Mrs. Knighten is considered to be the encourager, connector, and motivator for the staff. She has been apart of the staff for years and have served in many different roles but this year, in addition to teacher, one of her roles include connecting the staff with the community.

This is a new role designed to get the staff members more involved in the community and to help teachers better connect with parents, grandparents, and stake holders that are all involved in the success of our awesome campus.

Mrs Knighten works tirelessly keeping the teachers and community connected and often schedule events and partners with the PTA and other on campus organizations to increase participation both on the faculty side and community side

Mrs. Knighten thank you for serving in this capacity.

By Lyric-Li Thomas

CARTER COWBOYS Newspaper

“Call Me Mister Youth Program”

The band was really amazing. The energy and the sound was really cool. When the band played everyone gave them their attention including the teachers. It was phenomenal.

College Bound

The JROTC Color opening up for the first pep rally of the year. They are always so precise with their movements. The team is from left to right, Lyric-Li Thomas, Addison Park-Woods, Christian R, and Maria. They presented the colors where the senior class president sun so great the national anthem , she did an amazing job. Excellent job to all those that were involved in making this pep-rally a success. We cannot wait for the next pep rally.

By Benjamin Oriedo