Naaman Forest High School marks historical milestone

(Garland ISD) October 23, 2012 – Opened in 1988 as Garland ISD’s fifth of seven high schools, Naaman Forest recently celebrated a milestone in the campus’ history—25 years. Current and former faculty as well as guests commemorated the anniversary on Oct. 2. Naaman Principal Steve Baker coordinated a ceremony to recognize the school’s past.

“Naaman Forest is a great place with a rich history of academic success,” he said. “I wanted to take a moment to recognize some of the people that were influential in planting the seed that has grown into this vibrant educational institution.”

Twenty-five years ago, NFHS began as a 6-9 campus, serving approximately 800 students. As its original classes aged, the school added a grade level each year to accommodate them.

In 1992, Naaman became the 9-12 campus it is today. George Lyons, director of secondary operations at Garland ISD, helped open the high school as its principal.

“Schools in that area of the district were beginning to overflow with students,” he explained. “Naaman Forest answered the needs of our growing population. We wanted to create a school rich with academic and extracurricular traditions, and we did.”

Now a quarter of a century old, Naaman serves approximately 2,600 students. The school is known for its FFA, horticulture, and building trades programs. It is also the site for GISD’s EMT and Pharmacy Technician Certification programs. Baker has seen NFHS through its growth, starting as an assistant principal in 1988 and succeeding Lyons in 1994.

“Our faculty and staff are dedicated to student success,” he commented. “We continue to explore more meaningful ways to deliver instruction. The goal is to create an instructional arena where all students’ needs for success are being achieved.”

Several of those dedicated staff members have also been present for Naaman’s 25-year history. Dozens attended the anniversary celebration and brought mementos for a time capsule that will represent the school’s honored past and bright future.

“I brought a list, naming the 14 guide dogs that Naaman Forest has sponsored,” explained teacher Leslie Cechan. “I want it to be remembered that NFHS students raise $3,500 for each dog, choose its name, and include a picture in the yearbook. We’re the only school that does this. Naaman started out great 25 years ago, and it continues to become greater and greater.”

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