TO HOST OFFICIAL SOUTH OAK CLIFF HIGH SCHOOL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP PARADE & CELEBRATION
Honoring the 2025 Texas UIL 5A Division II State Champions and a Historic Legacy of Excellence
Dallas, TX – The Next Generation Action Network (NGAN), in proud partnership with the Dallas Independent School District (Dallas ISD), announces the Official South Oak Cliff High School Football State Championship Parade & Celebration, taking place on January 10, 2026.
This historic celebration honors the South Oak Cliff High School Golden Bears, the 2025 Texas UIL 5A Division II State Football Champions, and one of the most remarkable dynasties in Texas high school football history.
South Oak Cliff High School has achieved five consecutive UIL State Championship appearances, winning three state titles in 2021, 2022, and 2025, a feat that places the Golden Bears among the elite programs in the state. Under the leadership of Head Football Coach Jason Todd, the program reached an unprecedented milestone as Coach Todd became the first African-American head football coach in Texas history to win three UIL state football championships.
Yet, this moment is about far more than football.
The story of South Oak Cliff High School is one rooted in resilience. Located in a community that has faced longstanding socioeconomic challenges, the school’s journey has not been easy. However, under the leadership of Principal Dr. Willie Fred Johnson, South Oak Cliff High School has experienced historic growth not only athletically, but academically and culturally—demonstrating what is possible when leadership, educators, students, families, and community members refuse to allow their school to fail.
“This third state championship is bigger than football, it’s about pride and the excellence that’s home-grown right here in South Oak Cliff,” said Byron Sanders, Dallas ISD School Board Trustee for District 5. “Coach Todd and this team did what people thought couldn’t be done. When you invest in communities, the impossible becomes possible. As we prepare to celebrate, I want to thank the Next Generation Action Network for always helping ensure we celebrate these boys and this community. I couldn’t be more proud for the privilege to serve as trustee for these 3x champions here in The Mecca.”
The championship parade reflects a broader celebration of public education, community investment, and the power of belief. Excitement for this year’s parade has drawn attention from across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, with participation from marching bands across the Dallas ISD, entertainment groups, alumni, and community partners.
“This moment is about more than a trophy; it’s about what South Oak Cliff represents in the long arc of public education and social justice,” said Minister Dominique Alexander, President and Founder of the Next Generation Action Network. “For generations, schools like South Oak Cliff have been underestimated, underfunded, and overlooked. Yet time and time again, this community has proven that when our young people are supported, when educators are empowered, and when a community stands together, excellence follows. This parade is a celebration of resilience, cultural pride, and the undeniable truth that greatness is born right here in South Oak Cliff.”
PARADE GRAND MARSHALS
NGAN is proud to announce this year’s Parade Grand Marshals:
● Dale Petroskey, President & CEO (Outgoing), Dallas Regional Chamber – In recognition of his leadership, partnership, and steadfast support of South Oak Cliff High School and the broader South Oak Cliff community. This parade serves as a final community thank-you for his service and commitment.
● Coach James Mays, legendary former South Oak Cliff High School basketball coach and athletic director, is honored for decades of leadership, mentorship, and impact on generations of students.
EVENT DETAILS:
● Parade Lineup: 9:00 AM
● Parade Start: 10:15 AM
● Football Field Program: 12:00 PM
● Date: January 10, 2026
The entire parade and celebration will be live-streamed on all Next Generation Action Network social media platforms (@NextGenAction).
This year’s official program will be hosted by:
● Jazze Goodspeed, 97.9 The Beat
● Steven Dial, FOX 4 News
● Tashara Parker, Emmy Award-Winning Journalist & Community Storyteller
MEDIA AVAILABILITY
The Next Generation Action Network is available for press interviews, as are the Parade Grand Marshals, student leaders, and community representatives. Members of the media are encouraged to reach out to coordinate coverage.
This celebration stands as a testament to what is possible when a community believes in its children, invests in its schools, and honors excellence in all its forms.
South Oak Cliff has once again made history, and the entire city is invited to celebrate.
