ConnectEd 2019-20 // Issue IV | Page 2

Community response to COVID-19 shows resilience, results Throughout a history of more than 100 years, Garland ISD’s community has weathered many ups and downs, with each one revealing the true spirit of our tri-cities. The recent coronavirus pandemic is once again proving that we are better together—supporting one another, meeting needs collectively and celebrating success. Garland ISD would like to say, “Thank you!” to all of its stakeholders. Thank you to our students for your commitment to at-home learning and finishing the 2019-20 school year strong. Thank you to our parents and guardians for your tireless efforts to ensure the very best for your children. And thank you to our staff for your dedication to taking care of all needs—academic, social, emotional, nutrition, technology, and so much more. Also, thank you to everyone who has lent a helping hand, offered words of encouragement or shared important information. GISD has become an example of excellence for others, and it’s because of your support. While we can’t wait to reopen our schools and reunite with students and staff, rest assured that safety and security remain our top priority. We invite all parents and guardians to share their input on summer learning and the 2020-21 school year. Complete an online survey at bit.ly/2VKyhq0. For additional information and resources during Garland ISD’s COVID-19 closure, visit garlandisd.net/coronavirus. There, you will find grading expectations for the remainder of the school year, email contacts for specific questions and community organizations offering assistance. A Family Support Call Center is also open from 4:30–8:30 p.m. Monday-Friday through the end of the school year. Simply call 903-224-5761 and select option 1 for English or option 2 for Spanish. Did you know… • More than 550,000 meals were distributed at 33 curbside pickup locations from March 16–May 1. • More than 18,000 technology devices have been issued to students for at-home learning. • GISD’s Family and Community Engagement staff hosts regular Facebook Live events to discuss hot topics. See archived videos at bit.ly/FACEyoutube. • The district’s at-home learning website has been accessed by more than 97,000 users spanning all 50 states and 63 countries. Despite being apart, we are #GISDAlwaysConnected. 1 connected