Ignite Community School - Fort Worth

Today, our campus came together to celebrate Principal Appreciation Day in a powerful way.

Led by the Phoenix Press, students and staff shared one word to describe our principal, Mrs. Smith—capturing the impact she makes across our school community each day.

This video was made possible through the collaboration of the Phoenix Press team—Maya, Keith, Ian, Carter, and J’maya—with support from Mrs. Robinson and Mrs. Bradford.

Be sure to share what Mrs. Smith means to you in the comments.

We’ll also be adding additional video responses there from those who had even more to say—because one word wasn’t always enough.

Phoenix Press
East Berry and Beyond

Even after STAAR, learning continues to grow at Ignite Fort Worth.

Mrs. Bradford created a cross-grade collaboration by having her middle school scholars read to third grade students, strengthening both literacy and student leadership.

Following the reading, third graders brought the stories to life through artwork — turning what they heard into creative expression and deeper understanding.

This experience highlights how learning continues with purpose beyond testing.

This work was supported through Coach K’s Fridays with Coach K: Phoenix Reading Leaders initiative, expanding literacy opportunities across grade levels.

Word of the Day: Motivation

Motivation (noun) — the reason or reasons one has for acting or behaving in a particular way
— Merriam-Webster

What does motivation look like across Ignite Fort Worth?

The Phoenix Press explored that question around campus, with Keith Daniels speaking to Nurse Miller, Ms. Maltez, and Mrs. Redmond about what keeps them motivated each day.

Each perspective was different, but the message was clear—stay driven and keep moving forward.

Featuring Maya Evans as part of the Phoenix Press team.

🎤 Interviews by Keith Daniels
🎙️ Featuring Maya Evans
🎥 Covered by the Phoenix Press

📍 Ignite Community School Fort Worth

Sometimes the right question is what makes the moment.

During a Phoenix Press interview with Autumn Cannon, Keith Daniels brought up a familiar quote:

“If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”

That question led to a deeper conversation about consistency, trust, and knowing when something is already working.

🎤 Question by Keith Daniels
🎥 Camera: Christina Hinojos
🎥 Covered by the Phoenix Press

📍 Ignite Community School Fort Worth

Phoenix Press: Word of the Day 🎤

The Phoenix Press team connected with Mr. Franklin for the next feature in the student-led Word of the Day series.

Word: Accountability
Definition (Merriam-Webster): the quality or state of being accountable, especially an obligation or willingness to accept responsibility for one’s actions.

Mr. Franklin shares his perspective in today’s feature, emphasizing the importance of taking ownership and following through—both in and out of the classroom.

🎥 Captured by the Phoenix Press team:
Keith Daniels, Maya Evans, and Christina Hinojos

East Berry and Beyond.

Phoenix Press: Word of the Day 🎤

The Phoenix Press team connected with Mr. Brock for another feature in the student-led Word of the Day series.

Word: Fluctuate
Definition (Merriam-Webster): to shift back and forth uncertainly; to rise and fall in or as if in waves.

Mr. Brock connects the word to the idea of waves—reminding students that progress isn’t always steady, but growth still happens through the ups and downs.

🎥 Captured by the Phoenix Press team:
Keith Daniels, Maya Evans, and Christina Hinojos

East Berry and Beyond.

Phoenix Press: Word of the Day 🎤

The Phoenix Press team connected with Ms. Maltez, Ignite Fort Worth’s Teacher of the Year, for the next feature in the student-led Word of the Day series.

Word: Success
Definition (Merriam-Webster): a favorable or desired outcome; the attainment of wealth, favor, or eminence.

Ms. Maltez shares her perspective in today’s feature, reinforcing a message she lives by: it’s a great day to have a great day. With that mindset, she believes success is within reach for everyone—from scholars to staff across the campus.

🎥 Captured by the Phoenix Press team:
Keith Daniels, Maya Evans, and Christina Hinojos

East Berry and Beyond.