DREAMING BIG Together! Alumnus underwrites new computer lab at JNB Elementary
I think back to Bryan Elementary as the place that sparked my love of learning… I’m hoping this computer lab is going to help spark that same feeling for students today and that the spark would carry them through middle school, high school, college, and into the professional world.
—Joel Robuck
During the first month of school, United to Learn staff and volunteers helped launch a new computer lab at John Neely Bryan Elementary in Southern Dallas—an investment shaped by strong campus leadership and generous community support.
Now in their second year, Principal Freda Mitchel and Assistant Principal Jerreca Saulsberry have led JNB from a D/F to a B rating. As part of their vision for the 2025–2026 school year, they identified a dedicated computer lab for third through sixth graders as a critical next step—strengthening digital literacy, supporting computer-based STAAR testing, and ensuring students have reliable access to technology.
That vision became reality thanks to Joel Robuck (pictured above), a proud JNB alumnus and long-time United to Learn supporter, who underwrote the project. We invited Joel back to campus to see the finished space and reflect on the school that sparked his love of learning. Below, he shares why giving back to John Neely Bryan Elementary matters so deeply to him.
Here’s what he had to say…
Q: Joel, can you share a little bit more about your background in the neighborhood? What stands out to you from your time as a student at John Neely Bryan Elementary School?
A: I was born and raised in Oak Cliff. I distinctly remember my days here at John Neely Bryan in elementary school, before I went on to Storey Junior High and then South Oak Cliff High School. I have great memories of the programs here and the teachers. I started my basketball career in the gym right down the hall. I have really great memories of the teachers, the students, and the whole ambiance of Bryan Elementary.
Q: Have you seen the basketball gyms recently? When was the last time you stepped foot in that gym?
A: The last time was about a year ago. One of the projects I partnered with United to Learn on was to help John Neely Bryan Elementary fix up the basketball nets in the gym and on the playground. I remembered those days at recess or practicing basketball inside and outside. It was a really great feeling to come back, relive those memories, and recognize that we could make improvements that would enhance the experience for students.
Q: One thing that stands out to me is how fond your childhood memories at this campus are. In education, we often focus on student performance, which is vitally important, but we also need to focus on the student experience. What do you think about that?
A: One of the things that happened to me at John Neely Bryan was that it sparked a desire to learn, to read, and to study. I was never great at math—I managed okay—but I always loved reading, and I still read a lot today. That spark started in elementary school. I’m hoping that what we’ve done here with this computer lab will spark interest for these young people—to get excited about reading, writing, studying, and learning—so that spark will carry them through middle school, high school, college, and into the professional world.
Q: Why do you believe it’s important to invest in public education?
A: The world and our society have changed so much over the years. It’s more important than ever to establish a foundation early in public education so young people can grow academically and develop critical thinking skills. If we don’t get started in elementary school, many students will fall behind and never catch up. That’s not good for our world or our society.
Although I don’t believe all students must go to college, I do want them to graduate high school with a skill they can use in the real world. That begins with the foundation built in elementary school. Those of us who recognize this—and who have the means—need to support public education urgently.
Digital literacy is also crucial. It gives students a skill for their own careers, but also helps society as a whole. Kids today can use technology to explore history, cultures, and places all over the world without leaving the classroom. That exposure sparks curiosity and learning in ways that weren’t available when I was growing up. When I was at Bryan, we didn’t even have calculators—much less computers or air conditioning at school or at home.
I grew up about a mile from here. My parents both went through the public education system and graduated from the University of Texas. We weren’t wealthy, but we had what we needed to be happy and to move forward.
Q: This is not your first transformational gift at John Neely Bryan Elementary. Can you tell us about other projects you’ve supported in partnership with United to Learn?
A: Because of my commitment to and memories of Oak Cliff, I wanted to continue supporting Bryan Elementary and also Trinity Heights Elementary, where I attended for a while. My focus has primarily been on Bryan. I’ve provided funding for teacher resources and supplies, as well as capital funds for the gym and now the computer lab. I want to make a difference for these students because it’s important—and because Bryan Elementary had a tremendous impact on my life.
Q: If you were talking with a peer who didn’t grow up in Dallas ISD, doesn’t have kids in Dallas ISD, and isn’t familiar with the public education landscape here, what would you want them to know?
A: I would want them to know how important K–12 public education is in Oak Cliff, in Dallas, in this country, and in the world. Everyone should recognize that priority, and those who can should devote time and resources to improve student outcomes.
I am very grateful for teachers who devote their lives to educating kids and helping them grow as critical thinkers. It’s important for all of us to try to make a difference in that arena.
In memory of Joel Robuck: This story was originally published in December 2025. Joel passed away on January 20, 2026. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to share his story and celebrate his lifelong connection to Dallas public schools and the Oak Cliff community. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his wife, Linda, and their family, and are deeply grateful for Joel and Linda’s enduring commitment to Dallas students and schools. Joel’s generosity, service, and belief in the potential of young people leave a legacy that will continue to make an impact for years to come.