For 20 years, the Garland Area Alliance of Black School Educators (GAABSE) has been positively impacting the lives of students and educators in our tri-cities.
The organization was chartered in 2001 by a group of six dedicated educators. GAABSE is one of 15 local affiliates of the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators (TABSE). Its purpose is to unify educators and to provide students with role models by recruiting and promoting African American employees. However, GAABSE membership is not exclusive to African Americans. It is open to any person who desires to make a positive impact on students in GISD and beyond.
The organization has evolved in recent years. It now provides many programs such as cultural diversity training, student mentoring programs, and community and youth development programming. GAABSE also hosts the Golden Apple Awards, which recognizes outstanding educators doing great things at campuses.
“The mission of GAABSE cannot be realized without the explicit efforts of educators and other stakeholders. GAABSE has developed African American professionals such as myself to assume leadership positions in education and influence public policy concerning all students,” said GAABSE President and Rowlett High School Assistant Principal Rhonda Williams. “I am truly honored to serve alongside the GAABSE executive board, a phenomenal group of educators who are passionate about the mission of the organization.”
Over the years, GAABSE has grown to include 187 members. The organization is most proud of the programs that have directly influenced students in the district. Some of these are the Diamonds and Pearls & Gents mentoring program, the Annual Youth Summit and the John W. Washington Leadership Scholarship—which is awarded to one deserving graduating senior at each GISD high school.
If you would like to join and learn more about the Garland Area Alliance of Black School Educators, visit the GAABSE website.
Information and photo provided by Garland ISD.