Projections indicate that Garland ISD will receive a B rating, with the number of A-rated high schools expected to triple, as three high school campuses are on track to earn A ratings.
Garland, TX (August 15, 2024) – Garland Independent School District is dedicated to providing an unparalleled education experience for every student. In the interest of transparency and accountability, the district is releasing its projected accountability ratings for the 2023-2024 school year. Although a temporary restraining order has delayed the official A-F accountability ratings for Texas public schools, Garland ISD, which is not part of the lawsuit, believes it is crucial to share the internally calculated projections with the community.
“Parents, families, and taxpayers rightfully deserve transparency and accountability. They also deserve to understand the true impact of raising A-F standards without a corresponding increase to the basic allotment or funding evidence-based practices, especially at a time when we’ve faced a 20% cumulative inflation since the passage of HB3. This reality has profound implications for the children of Garland ISD,” said Dr. Ricardo López, Superintendent.
Garland ISD is committed to an A rating and takes pride in the district’s progress and accomplishments, as measured by the A-F accountability system and other indicators. The district remains dedicated to making the necessary adjustments and improvements to ensure sustained progress and excellence.
Garland ISD proudly serves a student population where 72% come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Data indicates that schools with high levels of poverty have been most adversely affected by changes in the accountability system and STAAR assessments. The use of automated technology to score student work has raised significant concerns, as it has contributed to a notable decline in student performance, which is the basis of the latest lawsuit. Despite these concerns, Garland ISD’s focus on student success is stronger than ever.
Projections indicate that Garland ISD will receive a B rating, with the number of A-rated high schools expected to triple, as three high school campuses are on track to earn A ratings. Even with the increase in the threshold for achieving an “A” in College, Career, and Military Readiness (CCMR) from a score of 60 to 88, six of the seven high schools in the district are projected to earn an A in CCMR. Garland ISD has demonstrated impressive growth in several key academic areas. In Algebra I, the district achieved a remarkable 22-point gain, increasing scores from 30% to 52% since 2021, while the state only improved by 4 points. In Biology, scores rose from 55% to 62%, compared to a modest increase of 1% at the state level. Additionally, 63% of students in 4th and 5th grades improved their performance level indicators in Reading Language Arts (RLA) compared to the previous year, showcasing the district’s commitment to student achievement and academic excellence.
The district acknowledges that some schools are struggling and require additional academic support. A targeted support plan is being implemented to support those campuses, which includes providing additional resources, specialized professional development, and tailored interventions. This district-wide approach aims to increase the performance of all schools and ensure every student succeeds.
“I am incredibly proud of our district and teachers who keep pushing forward to help ensure every student thrives despite the changes to the accountability system,” said Robert Selders Jr, GISD Board President. “We’re showing great progress in our projections, but we recognize there is still a lot of work to do. Garland ISD is fully committed to our student’s success, but we need our entire community to stand with us in support of our schools. I am confident we will overcome these challenges and set a new standard of excellence for education.”
This is a call to action to rally behind our schools. The collective effort of educators, parents, community members, and state leaders is essential to overcoming challenges and driving Garland ISD to new heights. Increased funding is urgently needed. The resources required to support students are significant, and the district cannot do this alone.
“We count on our legislators to believe in and invest in our kids as much as our team and Board of Trustees do. Until then, we will continue to put our best foot forward so that each and every Garland ISD student is able to achieve their fullest potential,” said López.
Garland ISD remains dedicated to providing #unmatched education for all students. With the collaborative support of our community and state, the district will continue to strive for excellence and ensure it remains a leader in educational achievement.
Submitted press release by Jose Mata, GISD. Edited for publication in Blue Ribbon News.
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