Garland ISD’s School Board Trustees are responsible for 58,000 students, 7,300 employees, 72 campuses and an annual budget of $383 million. While Trustees dedicate countless hours as advisors, decision makers, problem solvers and supporters of the district, they receive no compensation for their work to ensure excellence in education. That is why GISD has designated February as School Board Appreciation Month.
“It’s more important than ever before that we show support for public education,” said Gary Reeves, interim superintendent. “Board members face critical challenges in their roles as advocates, but they continue to stand strong and guard against anything that threatens to undermine the success of our public schools.”
GISD Trustees include President Linda Griffin, Vice President Larry Glick, Secretary Cindy Castaneda, Assistant Secretary Rick Lambert and members Scott Luna and Steve Knagg. Combined, the group has 36 years of experience.
“Our district benefits from the contributions of these local citizens who truly care about our kids,” Reeves said. “We applaud their willingness to serve.”
Serving as a crucial link between the community and classrooms, school board members are elected by their constituents and generously give of themselves to ensure that decisions directly affecting local schools are made by district stakeholders. Their job is to establish a vision for GISD, design a structure to achieve that vision, craft policies, hire quality staff members, and recognize outstanding programs. Trustees are also deeply involved in community and school activities, promoting a shared vision of student achievement.
In recognition of this service, Garland ISD honored its school board at the Feb. 12 during a work session in the Harris Hill Administration Building.
State leaders are also recognizing GISD Trustees. Governor Rick Perry declared January as National School Board Recognition Month, and House of Representatives member Jeb Hensarling issued a statement saying, “I would like to extend my most sincere thanks to all Garland school board members for their continued dedication and hard work. Their contribution to the education of our children is truly helping to shape the future of our communities and our Nation.”
