Statement released by Garland ISD:
In conjunction with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Garland ISD has self-reported and is cooperating with federal authorities regarding an investigation of the district’s H-1B Visa Work Program.
School district employees involved with the H-1B Visa Work Program contacted district administration in September 2013 with concerns of potential wrongdoing. An internal investigation was immediately launched. During the course of that investigation, it was determined the district seek outside legal counsel for independent inquiry as GISD employees were involved. That outside investigation identified three individuals—Mr. Victor Leos, Mr. Paul Ruediger and Dr. Gary Reeves. Leos retired in January. Ruediger and Dr. Reeves are on administrative leave.
Acting upon recommendations of third-party legal counsel, the district felt obligated to self-report the information yesterday, Feb. 12, to federal authorities. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has opened an investigation. Garland ISD is in direct contact and cooperating fully with Homeland Security.
Since being made aware of the concerns, the district has remained in contact with all employees affected by the H1-B Visa program to ensure they remain informed.
