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Dallas County Schools Superintendent Anthony Sampson delivered the state of the district address at the Dallas County Commission meeting on Feb. 12.

Sampson effectively used his three minutes allowed for an update on the Dallas County Schools System before the entire Commission, Probate Judge Jimmy Nunn, Commissioners Curtis Williams, Jan Justice, Connell Towns and Jan Justice.

Sampson touted how the school system made a six-point jump among statewide schools, going from a 69 to a 75 score. Sampson said that Dallas County Schools was one of six schools to make a big leap from a D to a C grade on the report. Sampson also praised how all three district high schools, Southside, Dallas County High and Keith are not on the failing list.

One area the district did not improve was chronic absenteeism, which Sampson said the administrators are working to improve.

“I want to make sure that I am transparent before I talk to the school board and the Dallas County Commission,” Sampson said. 

Nunn praised Sampson for his hard work and dedication with the schools.

“You’ve shown growth in [the] Dallas County Schools system and we’re always glad to have you on board,” Nunn said.

Williams also complimented Sampson on improving the school board.

“Our Superintendent is doing a great job, he’s doing outstanding work,’’ Williams said. 

Sampson said he appreciated cooperation from Dallas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) and Sheriff Mike Granthum. He added that the district plans to hire three School Resource Officers through a grant valued at $300,000.