This school year, students and staff at Ted Polk Preparatory Academy are walking the halls with more than a new name. They are part of a comprehensive effort by Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD to give students and teachers the support, resources and high expectations they need to succeed.

Formerly Ted Polk Middle School, the campus is undergoing a comprehensive, forward-looking transformation designed to strengthen instruction, attract and retain talented educators, build a unified school culture and expand access to high-quality learning opportunities, while building on the programs and traditions that make Polk unique.

During the summer, the district's Board of Trustees unanimously approved a strategic staffing support plan, a standardized dress policy and a new name for the campus. This vision was shaped with input from the people who know it best, including parents, students, teachers and community members who formed part of a stakeholder committee.

For CFBISD, the effort represents more than a change in identity. It is a commitment of resources and personnel necessary to help Polk students succeed.

“Polk has a strong foundation, and we want to continue to build on that,” said Assistant Superintendent of Leadership and Learning Dr. Kim Holcomb. “This innovative plan will help us address challenges with a renewed academic focus.”

The plan includes a two-year tiered stipend structure to attract and retain high-performing educators. It also builds on programs already providing students with opportunities beyond the core classroom, including Polk’s acclaimed fine arts offerings and Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) college-readiness program.

A new administrative team, led by Principal Dr. Jose Ramos, has spent the summer establishing intentional academic support for teachers, strengthening campus-wide systems that support classroom management and student success, and building partnerships with the community.

At the heart of that work takes place in the “Panther’s Den,” a Professional Learning Community space where core subject teachers in STAAR-tested grades collaborate on instruction. Guided by instructional deans Misty Miller and Janelle Jenkins, teachers work together to understand curriculum, anticipate student misconceptions and develop strategies they can take directly into the classroom

“We really put ourselves in the kids’ shoes,” Jenkins said. “We take the assessments, we discuss any possible misconceptions and we figure out where every kid stands.”

The approach reflects a larger vision for the campus: creating an environment where educators have the tools and support to help students meet high expectations.

That vision extends beyond academics. Ramos has identified three focus areas for the school year: academics, attendance and attitude.

“From getting to class on time each period to showing up with the right attitude, we are setting standards high and holding kids accountable to be their best every day,” Ramos said.

The campus is also introducing a uniform dress policy this fall, recommended by the campus committee. The policy is intended to foster campus pride, strengthen a unified school culture and minimize distractions associated with clothing and socioeconomic differences. CFBISD is providing a transition period for families, with financial assistance available through the support of the Michael Finley Foundation and other community partners.

As part of the transition, students will also help design a new school crest that incorporates Polk’s historic panther logo, honoring the campus’s legacy while introducing its new identity.

Ultimately, the transformation is about more than a new name or new policies. It is about creating a school where students are challenged, supported and prepared for what comes next.

“This is more than just a new name on a building,” Ramos said. “This is a promise to our students and families that we are investing every resource available to match their grit with an elite academic experience.”