Dalhart finishes summer school for 2026

Dalhart ISD had students participating in different summer school programs at the elementary and the high school from June 1-June 25. Those programs have now concluded, and students and teachers who participated will have a little over a month off before school starts again in August. Dalhart students who participated in the programs A Bright Beginnings (ABB) & Project SMART concluded their summer instruction. Educators for A Bright Beginnings promoted the love of reading, fostered oral language skills and developed writing skills for children who are threefour years old. Project SMART teachers focused on math and literacy for students in kindergarten through eighth grade.

250 years of American Independence Special section in this edition

This Saturday, July 4, 2026, will mark the 250th anniversary of American independence from England. A special section in today’s edition of the Dalhart Texan features a number of articles about this anniversary, including some interesting facts about different people and places, and different ways to celebrate this important moment.

WT President announces retirement

By Chip Chandler Special to the Dalhart Texan

CANYON, Texas — After a decade of innovative leadership and service to West Texas A&M University, President Walter V. Wendler has announced his retirement, effective Sept. 1. 

That comes 10 years to the day after he was appointed to the presidency at WT, where he would go on to be tied for the third-longestserving president in University history. 

“Universities earn confidence the right way, through clarity of mission, responsible stewardship and service to the public good,” Wendler said. “I am grateful to the faculty, staff, students, alumni and community partners who make WT what it is: The Panhandle’s University. WT’s future is bright thanks to the character of its people and the strength of its purpose.”