District, Campus
Teachers
of the Year
announced
As the backbone of Garland ISD, teachers are
the frontrunners who encourage student success
and academic excellence. Although most gladly
dedicate countless hours and spare time to students,
their hard work and devotion does not go unnoticed.
Every year, each school selects one outstanding educator to receive its
coveted Campus Teacher of the Year title. This designation not only allows
for bragging rights, it also comes with a commemorative gift and two Texas
Rangers tickets to GISD Night at Globe Life Park.
Two of the lucky 71 are then chosen to represent the district. Selected by a
committee, Weaver Elementary School’s Jessica Benitez and O’Banion Middle
School’s Chris Meek were named 2015-16 Elementary and Secondary District
Teachers of the Year.
Benitez, a second-grade teacher with two years experience, always knew
she belonged in the classroom. After experiencing motherhood and raising
a family while her husband served in Iraq, she began her journey in teaching.
Her ingenious lessons and enthusiasm inspire colleagues and students.
Meek’s drive in life is to help others. The 12-year educator is fulfilling that
passion as a special education teacher—a role that has led to numerous
accomplishments and titles. Like a true leader, Meek not only helps students
in his classroom. He also sponsors math tutorials, a uniform drive and a
mentor program.
Benitez and Meek are now in the running for Region 10 Teacher of the Year.
A list of all 71 campus winners can be viewed on the district website at
bit.ly/gisdteachers2016.
Graduation 2016
Garland ISD seniors will soon cross the stage at
commencement ceremonies for the district’s eight
high schools. They are scheduled from June 2-4 in
the Curtis Culwell Center. Scan the QR code for
times and helpful tips.
Professional 3
School
Based
Mentoring
Program
changes
lives
Partnering with world-renowned
teacher and speaker Adolph Brown,
GISD launched a Professional
School Based Mentoring Program
at 14 schools this year. It pairs
district staff—trained by
Brown—with students needing
extra support. Together, they
enhance academic performance
and positive behavior. Special visits
by Brown also encourage healthy
family relationships and dreaming
for the future. A student at Bussey
Middle School feels the program
has already changed his life.
This program
helped me be a
better me,
a better me than
I was yesterd