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Principal

Longfellow Longhorns,
Welcome to the 2025–2026 school year at Longfellow Career Exploration Academy—a year unlike any other in our school’s proud history!
This year, we boldly Dare to Dream as we open the doors to our brand-new, purpose-built campus, designed from the ground up to support the incredible programs and potential of Longfellow students. After decades of learning in our historic building, we now move into a space that reflects who we are and who we’re becoming: a community of curious, capable, and confident young scholars preparing for the world ahead.
Longfellow continues to offer the most robust middle school experience in Dallas ISD. In addition to our core academic acceleration and gifted instruction, students will explore college and career pathways through our growing list of signature programs:
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Engineering
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Visual & Performing Arts
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Business & Informational Technology
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Voice & Vision (Law, Debate, Mock Trial)
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Arts, Audio/Visual Technology & Communication (AAVTC)
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And now—our brand-new Culinary Arts Program!
We’re also thrilled to welcome new and returning faces in exciting roles across our faculty and staff. These talented professionals are here because they believe in what Longfellow stands for: academic excellence, career exploration, and a commitment to building a strong, supportive community.
Longfellow is a hidden gem—but not for long. With our A-rating, dynamic staff, and the deep support of families and business partners across Dallas, we’re ready to dream bigger than ever before. Whether you’re new to our school or returning for another year of growth, I invite you to dive in, stay connected, and take full advantage of everything Longfellow has to offer.
This is our year to Dare to Dream—and we can’t wait to share it with you.
With pride,
M. Scott Tatum, Ph.D. - Principal
Contact:
Email: mitatum@dallasisd.org
Phone: 972-749-5400
Education:
BFA Theatre Studies ('04)
MA Curriculum & Instruction ('13)
w/Certificate in Arts and Cultural Management and Entrepreneurship
The University of Texas at Austin
PhD Educational Leadership & Policy ('25)
Texas Tech University
Certification:
Principal (EC-12)
All-Level Theatre Arts (PK-12)

