Garland ISD is once again proving why it is unmatched. It has earned the title of 2024 Mega District of the Year for its unwavering support of emergent bilingual students. This prestigious honor, part of Summit K12’s Summies Awards, highlights the district’s innovative approach to closing achievement gaps and accelerating language acquisition.
Competing against over 750 districts and 4,000 schools across Texas, Garland ISD emerged as the standout winner, recognized for its exceptional TELPAS performance, engagement with Summit K12’s educational platforms, and creative implementation strategies for supporting emergent bilingual students.
“This award represents the heart of Garland ISD’s mission—empowering every learner to thrive,” said John Kresky, Founder and CEO of Summit K12. “Garland ISD’s innovative practices and dedication to equity set a benchmark for others across the state.”
The award was presented during the 52nd Annual Texas Association for Bilingual Education (TABE) conference on October 19, 2024, a fitting backdrop for a celebration of excellence in bilingual education. This year’s awards also introduced a new framework that categorized districts based on emergent bilingual student populations, allowing for a fairer comparison among districts with similar demographics. Garland ISD’s leadership shone brightly under this new system.
This recognition reflects the district’s focus on creating opportunities that empower emergent bilingual students to succeed in the classroom and beyond. By embracing innovative tools and fostering an environment where educators and students can excel, Garland ISD continues to prove why its programs are truly unmatched.
Garland ISD’s success in closing achievement gaps highlights the unmatched dedication of its educators and leadership—demonstrating that every student has the tools to thrive.
Information and photo provided by Garland ISD.