ConnectEd 2020-21 // Issue I | Page 7

Special announcement for veterans and active duty military Launched in 2019–20, Garland ISD’s VIP pass program celebrates those who built the district’s tri-city community. This year, that celebration will expand to those who help protect the community as well. All veterans and active duty military can now join senior citizens 65+ to get a VIP pass for free admission to athletics and fine arts events. This gold card also grants access to exclusive district communications, making VIPs special insiders. Registration is easy. Simply call 972-494-8580 to schedule an appointment with the GISD Print Shop. During your visit, bring a photo ID and one of the following, if applicable: • Military or Veteran ID Card • Veteran Health Identification Card • DD-214 • Proof of Service Letter Please note that COVID-19 may affect game and performance offerings during the 2020–21 school year. Visit garlandisd.net/VIPpass for more information. Pre-K expansion offers new full-day, half-day options Garland ISD is thrilled to announce that families in Garland, Rowlett and Sachse have access to more opportunities for our youngest learners. Eligible families can still enroll for new full-day and half-day Pre-K options for 2020–21. Expanding from half-day-only classes at 17 elementary schools, GISD’s Pre-K program will debut at 27 campuses as well as two prekindergarten centers this year. Families can choose from full-day, half-day and Spanish or Vietnamese bilingual options. In fact, GISD is North Texas’ only district to offer a Vietnamese Dual Language program. Full-day Pre-K will share the same hours as our elementary schools: 8:10 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Morning Pre-K will run from 8:05 a.m.–11:10 a.m., while afternoon classes will meet from 12:25–3:30 p.m. And as with the previous program, families must provide their own transportation to and from school. To see a list of campuses offering Pre-K, eligibility requirements and more, visit the district website at garlandisd.net/PreK. TJ Nelson Class of 2009 // #TeamGISD “Garland ISD created opportunities that I didn’t think I’d ever get. I learned about various communities by attending their diverse and competitive schools. GISD has some of the hardest-working teachers and leaders, which motivated me to do my best! This work ethic is something that is ingrained in me and something that I aim to instill in the students I encounter daily.” • Attended Walnut Glen Academy for Excellence, Jackson Technology Center for Math & Science and Sachse High School • Dallas Sidekicks Defender • Instructional Coach in Richardson ISD 2020–21 // Issue I 6