Dallas DeWeese implements a holistic approach to education at Hollister Middle School where he teaches social studies and the student council elective class to sixth, seventh and eighth graders. By cultivating a collaborative learning environment for his classes, DeWeese fosters individualized paths to success for each of his students, equipping them with skills that will serve them well beyond their time at Hollister. DeWeese seamlessly integrates English language arts, science and math into his social studies lessons, creating a multifaceted educational experience and reinforcing concepts across the curriculum. Enriching, engaging activities excite and inspire his students. Students are so eager to join DeWeese’s classes that enrollment in the student council nearly quadrupled when he took the helm. Students in this class develop their own student government and civilization, participating in real-world learning activities like the creation of a business plan – complete with a comprehensive proposal, budget, and operations strategy. DeWeese created the Tiger Coffee Shop, giving students valuable skills in customer relations and leadership.
DeWeese’s positive influence extends beyond his classroom and throughout the school where he serves as the leader of the Positive Behavior Intervention and Support (PBIS) committee, spearheading a team that analyzes behavior data and identifies trends to help teachers appropriately address issues and implement positive incentives. As a result, HMS has noticed a significant increase in positive behavior referrals and an overall improvement in positive student and school culture. DeWeese also heads the Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter at the school, coaches basketball and softball, sits with students at lunch, tutors students outside of class, chairs the assembly focus team, and serves as the seventh grade team leader. Dedicated to continued professional development, DeWeese has presented at the Tri Lakes Summit and district continuing education sessions.
DeWeese earned a Bachelor of Science in physical education from College of the Ozarks in 2018 and a Master of Education in curriculum and instruction leadership from Evangel University in 2021.
Press Release: Beloved Hollister Middle School Teacher Dallas DeWeese Surprised with "Oscar of Teaching" — the $25,000 Milken Educator Award
