More Than a Program: How Unified Bulldogs Is Changing What Belonging Looks Like at Wylie
On paper, Unified Bulldogs might sound like just another school program. But in the Board room on Monday night, Dec. 8, it became clear it’s something far deeper — a shift in how students see one another, how names are learned in hallways, and how a campus decides who belongs. What began three years ago with a small group of students has grown into one of the most meaningful examples of Bulldog heart in action, reminding everyone in the room that inclusion isn’t an initiative — it’s a daily choice.
Unified Bulldogs: Being Seen Changes Everything
Mrs. DeeDee Baker told trustees that when Unified Bulldogs first came before the Board three years ago, “nobody really knew what Unified Bulldogs was,” and the group included about 16 students. Today, the program has grown to 38 students, but the most powerful change isn’t measured by numbers.
“It’s just made a difference in the inclusivity of the kids,” Baker said. Across campus, students now recognize and greet Unified Bulldogs athletes by name. “Other kids that are not a part of Unified know them by name now, because they’re seen — and that’s a really big deal.”
That word — seen — was the heartbeat of her remarks. Baker explained that Unified Bulldogs gives students “opportunities that they would normally have,” from athletic competitions to pep rallies to leadership experiences. She thanked the Board for supporting a program that has become part of the district’s larger vision for student belonging.
Then came what Baker jokingly called a moment of “Bulldog bragging,” and it was well deserved. Special Olympics Texas recognizes Unified programs that meet rigorous standards. Last year, Wylie earned a Texas banner. This year, after meeting 10 national criteria, Unified Bulldogs earned a national banner — an honor achieved by only a small number of schools across Texas.
“That’s a pretty big deal,” Baker said. And then, in a line that captured the heart of every educator in the room, she added: “These kids are amazing… it’s the best part of my day.”
A Student’s Perspective: “Not Just Changing a School, But Changing Lives”
Senior Devyn Collum followed Baker with words that turned the room quiet in the best way.
“This is my third year being on the Unified Bulldogs program,” Devyn shared. As a freshman, he said, he “had no clue what Unified Bulldogs was” until a teacher — and Baker — encouraged him to join. What he discovered went far beyond events and activities.
Devyn thanked the Board “for giving us this great opportunity… to be able to not just change ourselves, not just change the school, but to change lives.”
Through Unified Bulldogs, Devyn and his teammates have traveled to Austin to speak at a student-led leadership conference, returned to the Texas Capitol, and shared their story with state leaders. They’ve competed together, celebrated together, and brought joy to crowds through performances and pep rallies.
“Not a single frown in the crowd,” Devyn said. “Just straight smiles.”
It was a reminder that the most meaningful outcomes of education aren’t always found in spreadsheets or reports — they’re found in moments of dignity, confidence, and connection.
Financial Stewardship: Transparency and Smart Planning
Beyond student celebrations, the Board received several important financial updates that underscored the district’s commitment to responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars.
Trustees reviewed the bond statement of activity, which showed approximately $3.4 million in expenditures during November, with just under $135 million remaining in the voter-approved bond program. These updates help ensure the community can track how bond funds are being used to support growing facilities and infrastructure needs.
The Board also heard results from the district’s annual financial audit, which returned with a clean opinion — the highest level of assurance. There were no material weaknesses or significant deficiencies, a strong affirmation of the district’s financial controls and accountability practices.
Stretching Dollars Further: Savings Through Strategy
Several agenda items reflected how careful planning can lead to meaningful savings. Trustees approved rebidding certain roofing projects and combining work in ways that resulted in significant cost reductions, allowing the district to stretch bond dollars further without compromising quality or safety.
These kinds of decisions may not make headlines, but they matter deeply — ensuring resources go where they’re needed most and honoring the trust voters place in the district.
Supporting Growth: New Buses for Students
As enrollment continues to grow, so do transportation needs. The Board approved the purchase of four new school buses, helping maintain reliable and safe transportation for students across the district. The investment supports daily operations while planning ahead for continued growth.
A Night That Reflected Bulldog Values
From students finding their voice, to educators celebrating inclusion, to trustees carefully stewarding community resources, the Dec. 8 Board meeting reflected the values that define Wylie ISD.
It was a night that showed progress isn’t just about projects completed or numbers balanced — it’s about people feeling known, supported, and proud to belong.
And moments like these are exactly why it’s great to be a Wylie Bulldog.
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