Most elementary school classrooms don’t dive into lessons about the amygdala, the small part of the brain that processes emotions; that kind of learning is usually reserved for a college lecture hall.
But at Biomedical Preparatory at UT Southwestern, third grader Parker and his younger sister, Lexi, a pre-K3 student, are already exploring it.
Instead of sitting in a college lecture hall, they are in their elementary school classrooms peering at diagrams, asking thoughtful questions, and discovering how curiosity can spark a lifelong love of learning.
Their parents, Alan and Carmen, say this is exactly why they choose Dallas ISD, adding Biomedical Prep matches or surpasses private-school quality, all within the public school district they trust.
“Our children are gaining exposure to advanced learning in science and technology while also developing strong critical thinking and collaboration skills,” they said. “The teachers and staff exceeded our expectations with their dedication, professionalism, and true passion for education. We feel confident knowing our children are cared for and challenged every day.”
At Biomedical Preparatory, the family experiences firsthand what happens when innovation meets opportunity, proving why families across the city discover the power of Dallas ISD schools.
From dissecting the science of emotions to brainstorming innovations for the future of medicine, students at Biomedical Prep are preparing for college and careers far beyond elementary school.

Gina Maffucci, principal at Biomedical Preparatory, calls the school “a launchpad for curiosity,” emphasizing the partnership with UT Southwestern gives students meaningful, hands-on experiences alongside medical professionals and scientists.
“This early exposure inspires students to see new possibilities for their futures while nurturing their natural curiosity to explore and create — skills that will serve them for a lifetime,” she said. “Dallas ISD leads with innovation and offers unique learning models that ignite curiosity and empower children to pursue their passions.”
Parker and Lexi’s experience at Biomedical Preparatory demonstrates what is possible when innovation meets opportunity.
Their experiences reflect a broader story unfolding across Dallas ISD: a district that’s raising the bar for every student.

“Dallas ISD leads with innovation and offers unique learning models that ignite curiosity and empower children to pursue their passions.”
Gina Maffucci, principal at Dallas ISD’s Biomedical Preparatory
The district’s commitment to educating all students for success and providing high-quality academics is paying off. According to the latest State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness, or STAAR, results, the district earned a B rating.
The number of A-rated schools in the district doubled, from 30 the previous school year to 60. The number of B-rated campuses increased from 71 to 103, and even more remarkable, the number of F-rated schools decreased from 24 to two. Districtwide, Dallas ISD has 228 schools and of those campuses, 163, more than 70%, earned an A or B, and nearly 93% are A, B, or C rated.
Families can learn more about Biomedical Prep and more incredible programs like:
- P-TECH/ECHS
- Montessori
- Project-based learning
- Talented and Gifted
- STEM/STEAM
- Early Learning/pre-K
- Career Institutes
- Dual language
- Visual and Performing Arts
To learn more about Dallas ISD visit, www.dallasisd.org.

