ConnectEd February 2018 | Page 2

2 W hen it comes to education, Garland ISD offers the best. No other option provides more opportunities and advantages. Some of these include free testing (PSAT, SAT, AP and IB), six language options, a state-of-the-art career and technical education center, selective magnet programs and more. But perhaps the most unique opportunity GISD offers is its true choice of schools. Every campus is open to all district families, which gives them the ability to customize educational experiences based on individual learning styles, interests, neighborhoods and other priorities. Want to know the advantages of choosing GISD? Two district families recently shared their stories. The Patel family attended GISD schools for more than 10 years, and sons Mayur and Ankur both graduated from North Garland High School. They are now working in the medical and dental fields. Their mother, Maya, says this success is credited in part to the district. “The quality of education is excellent, and they had options to do a variety of stuff. The staff is also very caring and helpful. They were blessed with the best teachers! We’re glad we chose GISD over private school.” The Maxey family has a similar story. They moved to Garland in 2001 because of the city’s hometown feel. They continue to stay because of the incredible sense of diversity, as well as educators that care about children’s personal and academic growth. “The educators and administration at GISD have been absolutely amazing! Not only have they aided in preparing our children for success, but we have cultivated lifelong friendships with several members of the GISD staff,” said mother, Denyse. T he Maxey’s tenure with the district includes three children. Their oldest daughter graduated from Lakeview Centennial High School in 2010, and the youngest is connected a sixth-grader at the Classical Center at Brandenburg Middle School. Their son is a junior at South Garland High School and also an athletic standout. “He has been highly recruited by several of the preparatory schools across the nation,” commented Denyse. “He refuses to leave GISD because of the relationships with his peers, coaching staff, educators and administration. He states, ‘It feels good to know you’re surrounded by people who really care.’” That feeling is now bringing the Maxey’s oldest daughter back home as well. She is in the process of purchasing a house so that her children can attend district schools. “The district offers skills that open the door to unlimited career opportunities,” stated Denyse. “Overall, GISD provides a platform for success! The district offers diversity, as well as highly qualified educators and administration, that make us feel we made the right choice for our children and their educational needs.” W ant to share a personal story about the benefits of GISD? Use the hashtag #ChooseGarlandISD on social media. Not yet part of the district family? Enroll now! The 2018-19 Choice of School selection period for students entering grades 1-12 runs Jan. 30-Feb. 28. Additionally, the choice period for students entering prekindergarten and kindergarten runs March 22-April 20. On April 7, the district will host a #ChooseGarlandISD day to walk families through the enrollment process. This event will also feature entertainment and information about district services. It’s been said that GISD is the best-kept secret. Show your pride and let the world know.