Weekly Newsletter

- GPYP after school

- Robotics Practice & Iowa Parent Meeting

- 2nd Grade Field Trip to Trinity River

As of last week, the district made some changes to the assessment calendar that we want to share with you. These updates will impact the testing schedule for all 3rd-5th grade students. Specifically, students will participate in Mock STAAR and Interim assessments alongside their state TELPAS assessments.

✅ The Mock STAAR assessments will be administered in one day, just like the STAAR test. We will not split the tests across multiple class periods to help students become familiar with the testing format they’ll experience on STAAR day. 🎯

🎓 The Interim assessments will be conducted during one class period. Students may or may not complete the assessment within that time frame, and that’s okay. Please have them submit the test regardless of completion.

📅 Below are the upcoming testing dates for each grade level and subject. Please review the schedule carefully and plan accordingly.

📋 Grade Level and Subject Area Testing Dates:

📨More information about the testing process and logistics will be sent out this week. If you have any questions or need clarification about these updates, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Christa. Thank you for your flexibility and dedication as we work together to support our students during this testing season.

💙 Thank you for your hard work and commitment to our students’ success!

I am excited to continue with our 7 Mindsets unit of being 100% Accountable. Our next lessons are about focusing our own energy where it is important, even when there are distractions. This unit is important in helping students take more ownership of their own learning.

K-2 Slides for Jan. 27-31, 2025

• Materials needed this week: Print one of the “I Spy” pages for each student found on Thursday’s slides. You could project this on your screen, but it will be more fun if each student has their own. This is to give targeted practice on maintaining focus.

3-5 Slides for Jan. 27-31, 2025

• Materials needed this week: 5-8 balls or balloons. They can be of various sizes and types. This is a class game to simulate keeping up with multiple things at once by keeping all of their objects in the air as a team at the same time.

I would love to hear from you how SEL is making an impact with your students, or any suggestions for improvement you have. Email me at any time.

You can always find a link to the SEL landing page on our KAE landing page that includes each week’s P.R.I.D.E. rules.

• If you have completed your 6 hours, please use this link to submit. (Always found on the bottom of our smores!)
• If you have NOT completed your 6 hours, remember that it is due by APRIL 16

Kara Coker is our campus liaison and can help you find trainings and locate certificates!

Adrian was awarded $243.97 to purchase a wireless camera that will enable her to teach from a more centralized location in the classroom.

Rosa received $750 in scholarship money to go toward her schooling!

Christy received $750 in scholarship money to go toward her schooling!

Amaka was recognized in the district for her students' outstanding growth from their BOY to MOY benchmark assessments!!

In Garland ISD, every student has a story worth celebrating, and we want to highlight those who are truly unmatched—students whose unique achievements, resilience, and passions set them apart. Whether it's creating positive change in their communities, showcasing extraordinary talents, or demonstrating inspiring perseverance, we want to share stories that highlight what makes GISD exceptional.

While academic and athletic achievements are certainly worth celebrating, we’re especially interested in stories that go beyond these traditional categories. Maybe it’s a student making a difference through volunteering, pursuing a one-of-a-kind passion, or overcoming significant challenges to reach their goals. These stories remind us of our district's diversity, creativity, and resilience.

If you know a student whose story embodies the #GISDunmatched spirit, we’d love to hear from you! Please share their story by emailing tnbraziel@garlandisd.net and confirm the student has a media release. If selected, the Communications Department will interview the student for a spotlight story on our website and district social media.

Thank you for helping us spotlight the amazing students who make GISD shine!

Attached is the letter and form from PTA in order to claim your $75 classroom enrichment grant.

My Kimberlin Family from Krystal Custard: If I haven't told you lately, please know that I am so proud and blessed to work with each and everyone here at Kimberlin!

Mardi from Fulmer: Thank you so much for turning on my lights and grabbing me heaters this week- you are such a thoughtful neighbor!

Adriana, Melinda, Rachel from Kara: Recently, I was talking about a project that I was working on to Melinda and how to overcome a couple of obstacles to get it done, and the three of these super ladies insisted on taking it over for me! Seriously?! How sweet is that? It's like having 3 magical office fairies! Bippity-boppety-boo!

Becky and Mardi from Kara: Thank you both for helping me out on Wednesday! You are such team players!

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JANUARY

7-24 i-Ready Math (K-5), i-Ready Reading (3-5)

7-31 mCLASS (K-2), 1st grade Dyslexia Screener

17 Multicultural Night

20 MLK Day - NO SCHOOL

24 Amplify Walks

FEBRUARY

10-28 Conference Window

11 College Day (jeans & college shirt)

11 Amplify Visit

14 Valentine Parties

17 District PD Day

18 Evening Parent Conferences

21 Spirit Stick Sales @ Lunches

22 District UIL Competition

27 Student-Led Showcase