ConnectEd 2020-21 // Issue I | Page 2

Garland ISD returns to learn remotely Aug. 10 As the world continues to navigate COVID-19, Garland ISD has released its school reopening plans for 2020–21. The district’s Board of Trustees approved a new school year calendar, which includes brand-new intersession weeks. GISD is the first district in North Texas to introduce these exciting educational opportunities. Intersession weeks allow students who need targeted instructional help, as well as those who need enrichment and acceleration, to receive that support in real time. “Our visionary board’s commitment to fostering success for all students, no matter their background, home language or zip code, is changing lives,” said Superintendent Dr. Ricardo López. “By approving a calendar with innovative, forward-thinking concepts, our Trustees are brazenly marking the path to equity, access and transcendence right here in #GarlandUSA.” GISD’s new school calendar includes a new start date and new school hours as well. The first day of school is Aug. 10, and school hours are: AM prekindergarten .......................... 8:05–11:10 a.m. PM prekindergarten ..........................12:25–3:30 p.m. Full-day prekindergarten ...................8:10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Elementary school .........................8:10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Middle school .............................8:50 a.m.–4:10 p.m. High school ...............................7:30 a.m.–2:50 p.m. To see a full list of key dates and printable 2020–21 calendars in English, Spanish and Vietnamese, please visit garlandisd.net/schoolcalendar. GISD also posted an Instructional Guidebook on the district website to detail remote learning, face-to-face learning, safety protocols, training and more. Visit garlandisd.net/gisdreopens for important school reopening information and frequently asked questions. 1 connected