Katherine Johnson Technology Magnet Academy Scholars Achieve Third Consecutive Title at 2026 Heritage Bowl Classic
DeSoto Independent School District (ISD) proudly celebrates the outstanding achievement of scholars from Katherine Johnson Technology Magnet Academy (KJTMA) who set an all-time record by earning first place in the middle school division at the 2026 Heritage Bowl Classic, hosted by the W. M. Dulaney Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) – Dallas/Fort Worth in partnership with the African American Museum of Dallas.
Held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, the competition marked KJTMA’s third consecutive championship (2024, 2025, and 2026)—a historic achievement representing the most consecutive wins in the event’s history. Due to last-minute withdrawals by other participating schools, two KJTMA teams advanced and competed against each other, underscoring the depth of academic talent and preparation among DeSoto ISD scholars.
The winning team competed as part of the North Star University Scholars Program, an after-school academic enrichment initiative sponsored and operated by the Ellis County African American Hall of Fame Museum and Library (ECAAHFML). The program is designed to provide students with rigorous, culturally relevant learning experiences that strengthen academic performance, historical knowledge, and leadership development.
About the Program & Preparation
The North Star University Scholars Program began at KJTMA during the 2023–24 school year, initially offering museum-based instruction before transitioning to on-campus after-school sessions with parent permission. Participation has always been voluntary, driven by student interest and supported by dedicated volunteer educators. Since its inception, the program has successfully served more than 80 scholars, ranging from third through eighth grade, with many now continuing their academic journeys in high school.
The program was initiated under the leadership and coaching of Dr. Jamal R. A. Rasheed, Founder, President, and CEO of ECAAHFML. Mr. Clydric Gales, middle school Social Studies Teacher at KJTMA and team coach, devoted extensive time to studying both the North Star curriculum and the Heritage Bowl competition guide to support scholars’ preparation and achievement in this effort. Their preparation reflected a commitment to academic excellence, teamwork, and historical scholarship.
Celebrating Academic Excellence & Cultural Literacy
The Heritage Bowl Classic is designed to foster greater knowledge and appreciation of African American culture and history, while inspiring students to explore the profound contributions of Africans and African Americans to the United States and the world. The competition also serves as a platform to recognize, elevate, and celebrate the intellectual achievement of students across the Dallas–Fort Worth region.
The 2026 KJTMA team included one seventh-grade scholar and five eighth-grade scholars, each demonstrating exceptional knowledge, focus, and academic discipline throughout the competition.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Educational Experiences
Building upon this success, participating students will have the opportunity to engage in a “Freedom Summer” educational tour, tentatively scheduled for Summer 2026, with planned visits to Selma, Birmingham, and Montgomery, Alabama. The tour will provide an immersive educational, cultural, and historical experience, funded through community sponsorship, designed to deepen students’ understanding of civil rights history and leadership.
District Pride & Leadership
“This accomplishment reflects the power of high expectations, intentional enrichment, and community partnership,” said Yolanda Hanspard, Principal of Katherine Johnson Technology Magnet Academy. “Our scholars continue to show what is possible when curiosity, commitment, and opportunity come together.”
DeSoto ISD commends the students, families, educators, and community partners whose collaboration and dedication made this historic achievement possible.